Smooth, Simple, Expert Medication Management
From initial intake and diagnosis through comprehensive mental health medication management and regular “med check” appointments for refills, our team is well-equipped to guide and support you on your journey to wellness. As one of the leading medication management companies in the area, we ensure a smooth and informed experience.
Navigate Mental Health Medication With Expert Help
The correct psychiatric medication can significantly improve a person’s quality of life. When you work with Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness, you gain access to expert psychiatric medication management services provided by licensed professionals, including psychiatric nurse practitioners. Whether it's routine management or specific needs like ADHD medication management, our team is here to assist.
Understand Your Circumstances
Stay On Track
Move Forward With Confidence
Understand Your Circumstances
Your FMHW provider will take time to listen to your concerns and assess your needs. They will ensure that you fully understand your diagnosis and the medication options available to you. This comprehensive understanding empowers patients to make informed decisions and actively participate in the development of their treatment plan.
Stay On Track
Ongoing, compassionate support from a FMHW provider will help you adhere to your medication regimen.
Move Forward With Confidence
Your FMHW provider will coordinate with other members of your treatment team, monitor your progress and celebrate your successes.
Our Unique Approach to Medication Management
Our comprehensive, holistic approach to mental healthcare is informed by decades of experience. Medication management is one part of our practice, but our goal is always to find the best support systems for you.
A Team of Qualified Experts
FMHW’s team is staffed with highly-qualified and passionate professionals, ready to assist you in achieving your mental health goals. Each with their own areas of specialty and treatment expertise, our providers can address myriad issues with competence and compassion.
Timely Care & Streamlined Systems
We have structures in place to simplify every aspect of care, from appointment scheduling to prescription refills. We’ll keep you updated, on track, and moving in the right direction.
Total Transparency
Whether you’re working on your own mental health or looking out for your child’s well-being, we’ll make sure you understand everything you need—like side effects, outcomes, dosage, and beyond—to make confident choices.
How FMHW Medication Management Works
The journey to finding the right medication isn’t always easy or obvious. We take you through a meticulous step-by-step process for the best results and most direct path to progress.
Screening
Intake
Maintenance
Screening
We ask a series of questions over the phone to ensure we can match you with a provider well-suited to your needs. We’ll also schedule your intake appointment, obtain your insurance info, and collect a deposit.
Intake
We have structures in place to simplify every aspect of care, from appointment scheduling to prescription refills. We’ll keep you updated, on track, and moving in the right direction.
Maintenance
You’ll continue to meet with your provider according to your treatment plan, albeit for shorter “med check” appointments. We recommend scheduling refill appointments at least a month in advance to avoid delays.
-
Do you offer telehealth medication management services?Many appointments can be conducted remotely. However, as of May 11th, 2023, any patient prescribed a controlled substance will need to come into the office at least once a year, in accordance with the Ryan Haight Act, a federal law.
-
Should I see a psychiatrist or a psychiatric nurse practitioner?It all depends on what you’re most comfortable with. Both psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners are highly-trained and experts in their fields. Every patient has different needs and your practitioner will determine if they are the right fit for you.
-
Can a nurse practitioner prescribe medication?Yes, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) can prescribe medication and treat you for your condition just as a psychiatrist would.
-
If I think I know which medication will help me, will you prescribe it?Our providers will prescribe what they believe to be appropriate for our patients. While your feedback is appreciated, it is 100% up to our providers’ discretion to prescribe what they believe is necessary.
-
If I make an appointment, am I guaranteed a prescription?No. Sometimes our medication management providers do not think medication is the appropriate solution for what you are experiencing. Sometimes they will recommend changes in diet, therapy or other solutions.
-
What if I’m traveling? Can I still have my appointment?Only if you are traveling in-state. State law mandates that you are physically in the state where your clinician is licensed during your appointment. For all new patients coming in for medication management and therapy, cancellations will result in forfeiture of your deposit. If you reschedule 24 hours prior to your appointment, your deposit will roll over. For established patients, cancellations within 24 hours of the appointment will result in a charge that is the full rate of the service.
-
What should I do if I experience side effects from my mental health medication?If you experience side effects from your medication, it's important to notify your healthcare provider promptly. Some side effects might be mild and manageable and short term, but others can be more severe and require adjustments to your medication regimen. Your provider can help determine whether the side effects are typical, if they will likely subside over time, or if your medication needs to be changed. Do not stop taking the medication without consulting your provider. Stopping medications without consulting your provider may result in worsening of your symptoms or other unintended challenges.
-
How long does it take for mental health medications to start working?The time it takes for mental health medications to start working can vary widely depending on the type of medication and the individual. For example, antidepressants typically take about four to six weeks to begin showing noticeable benefit, but it can sometimes take longer to experience the full benefits. Medications for other disorders, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, might show some effects sooner, but also usually require time to reach full efficacy. It's important to have ongoing communication and follow up appointments with your healthcare provider during this period to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
-
Is it safe to stop taking mental health medication if I feel better?It is generally not safe to stop taking mental health medication without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you feel better. Many mental health conditions require long-term treatment and stopping medication abruptly can lead to a relapse or withdrawal symptoms. If you feel that you might not need medication anymore, discuss this with your provider. They can assess your situation and, when appropriate, will help you taper off the medication gradually and safely to minimize any potential negative effects. If you have more questions or need personalized advice about managing mental health medications, our team at Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness is here to help. Contact us to learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced mental health professionals. Together, we can find the right approach for your mental wellness journey.
Recognized for Our Leading Care
Shortly after giving birth to her first child, Dr. Shore founded FMHW because she was passionate about providing high-quality psychotherapy and psychological testing to children, adolescents, and adults alike. FMHW was shaped around that passion: an intentional coalition of highly qualified clinical providers who truly care about the health, well-being, and long-term growth of their clients.