Principles of Psychopharmacology for Mental Health Professionals

Principles of Psychopharmacology for Mental Health Professionals addresses the current split model of mental health care, in which physicians provide pharmaco-therapy while non-prescribing practitioners oversee other services such as psychotherapy. Bringing these two areas together, this book familiarizes mental health professionals with the medications used to treat psychiatric disorders. Prepared by world-renowned psychopharmacologists and psychiatrists, this useful resource helps non-prescribing practitioners understand when and why a given medication is appropriate to use, when it is not indicated, and what potential side effects may occur. Also discussed are the appropriate times in therapy when a referral for a medication evaluation is indicated as well as how to broach this issue with the patient. Recognizing that there are almost always a number of medications from which to choose, the authors combine research outcomes with their extensive clinical experience to highlight the important considerations in selecting one medication over another. As an educational tool, the text encourages and supports clinicians who wish to increase patients' understanding of treatment. After an introduction and overview, chapters cover: Basics of psychopharmacology Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder Mood disorders Sleep disorders Schizophrenia Cognitive disorders Anxiety disorders Personality disorders Substance use disorders Traumatic brain injury Eating disorders Side effects Every chapter includes diagnostic considerations, history of medication treatments, and emerging trends for each disease. Principles of Psychopharmacology for Mental Health Professionals lays out what psychotherapists and other mental health practitioners need to know about psychotropic medications, giving them and their patients an invaluable guide to the full array of treatments available.