Step by step
How psychiatric medication management works
Care starts with a simple request and moves at your pace.
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Request a visit (or a 15-minute free consultation)
Send a short request or call us. Please share only your contact details.
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Intake
Our intake forms will be emailed to a prospective client so they can begin the intake process.
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Meet Dr. Ochako
Share your symptoms, and together we’ll explore treatment options and discuss your goals.
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Personalized Treatment Approaches
Following your psychiatric evaluation, we develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs. Recommendations may include medication management, psychotherapy, referrals to specialized services, and laboratory testing when clinically indicated. We also incorporate lifestyle and whole-person wellness strategies to support your journey toward lasting mental health.
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Follow up
Follow-up visits check your progress, side effects, and questions. You and your provider set the schedule.
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Psychiatric Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up visits help monitor your progress, evaluate treatment effectiveness, manage medications, address ongoing concerns, and adjust your treatment plan as needed to support continued mental wellness.
May not be the right fit
When another option is better
- You need emergency help right now. Call or text 988, or call 911.
- You want a prescription without an evaluation. We do not prescribe on request.
- You are looking only for talk therapy. Call us to ask what we offer.
- You need care in a hospital or a program with daily support.
In crisis? Call or text 988, or call 911. This website is not for emergencies.
Questions
Questions about psychiatric medication management
What happens at my first medication management visit?
Your first visit is a conversation. Dr. Ochako asks about your symptoms, health, past treatment, and current medicines. Then you talk about your goals and options. If medicine fits, you choose a plan together. Please bring a list of everything you take, including vitamins and supplements.
How often will I have follow-up visits?
You and your provider set the schedule together. Visits are often closer together when you start or change a medicine. Later, they may spread out as you feel steady.
How long does a psychiatric medication take to work?
The National Institute of Mental Health says antidepressants usually take about 4 to 8 weeks to show their full effect. It can also take several tries to find the best fit. Your provider explains what to watch for with your medicine.
Can I stop my medicine if I feel better or have side effects?
Please do not stop or change a medicine on your own. Stopping too soon can cause unpleasant or harmful effects. Call us first, because your provider may lower the dose slowly or switch to another option. If you have a serious reaction, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Do you prescribe controlled medicines, such as ADHD stimulants?
Prescribing is decided case by case after an evaluation. Some medicines are controlled substances, so federal and state rules apply. We do not prescribe on request or without an evaluation.
Can a psychiatric nurse practitioner manage my medicine?
Yes. A psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice nurse who can evaluate symptoms, diagnose, and prescribe. If your needs are complex, you may prefer a physician-led evaluation. We are glad to talk about that.
Keep reading
Related pages
Ready when you are
Ready to take the first step?
Call us to get started. We will answer your questions and explain the next steps. Please keep health details for your visit.