Basic Psychopharmacology for Mental Health Counselors

Mental health experts are expected to diagnose and treat various conditions while ensuring the best treatment for their individual clients. Research supports that the best treatment plan is often two-fold: psychotherapy and medication. Today, a majority of clients have been, currently are, or will be on some type of prescribed psychotropic medication OR are using substances to self-medicate their symptoms. Therefore, it is essential that all mental health providers have, at the least, a basicunderstanding of psychopharmacology. However, most nonmedical mental health providers have never taken a course on psychopharmacology.

Managed care providers have reduced the time clients spend with psychiatrists and primary care physicians. This means that less time is spent getting a full social and medical history, potentially leading to quick diagnoses. Therefore, it is imperative for nonmedical mental health professionals to expand their knowledge to better understand the biological and neurological needs of their clients.

*2 CE hours provided through the West Virginia Board of Examiners in Counseling

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