KC Psychiatry diagnoses and treats a variety of psychiatric concerns in older adults. Care begins with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and evaluation.
Let’s look at whether medication could be helpful and discuss different options for symptom management. In combination with natural remedies, holistic medicine, psychotherapy, and conservative pharmaceutical interventions, we will develop a person-centered and realistic treatment plan.
New medications are typically prescribed after the second visit, this allows ample time for a detailed assessment including vital signs, labs, and any necessary tests to rule out possible medical conditions underlying the mental health symptoms.
KC Psychiatry can provide maintenance of care, including medication management that may have been started by other providers, whether in the hospital or in another outpatient clinic.
Controlled medications such as benzodiazepines (i.e. Xanax, Ativan, and Clonazepam) are short-term medications, not to exceed one month. Evidence shows that long-term use leads to reduced effectiveness, dependence, withdrawal, and negative effects on cognitive function. A taper off of benzodiazepines will be discussed during initial visits.
- Depression & SAD
- Anxiety, OCD, & Panic
- Trauma & PTSD
- Mood disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Psychotic disorders
- ADD/ADHD
- Grief and loss
- Women’s Mental Health
- Insomnia & Sleep difficulty
Resources are available for clients and family members affected by cognitive impairment and dementia.
The GeneSight Psychotropic test is a pharmacogenetic test that analyzes the client’s DNA to predict how they may respond to certain psychiatric medications. Collection is a simple cheek swab and can be done in office or mailed to a client’s home address. The data can help providers select the most appropriate medications and dosages for each individual, potentially reducing side effects and improving outcomes.
Genetic testing is not always covered by insurance and KC Psychiatry encourages clients to check with insurance directly to see if it is covered.
The client and provider collaborate to decide upon the treatment plan together. With the complimentary use of holistic medicine interventions and psychotherapy, KC Psychiatry endeavors to prescribe the least amount of medication to achieve the desired effect. Risks and benefits are reviewed prior to starting any medication.
The motto in geriatric psychiatry is to “start low and go slow”
So, when it comes to trying new medications to manage psychiatric symptoms, the starting doses are the lowest possible effective dose, often lower -than-standard, with gradual increases and careful monitoring. This helps to reduce poor medication reactions and increases the chances of tolerating the treatment plan.