Psychiatric Services FAQ's

I think that I am ready to start medication (or would like to continue with my current medication) but do not want counseling at this time. Can I be seen at the Counseling Center for medication only?

Possibly. In some cases, we recommend a course of therapy in addition to taking medication. If you are primarily interested in a psychiatric evaluation, we recommend that you come in for a triage assessment Monday - Friday between 9am - 4pm. The therapist on triage can advise whether the Counseling Center or an off-campus psychiatrist would be a better fit for your needs. 

Can I be prescribed stimulant medication for ADD/ADHD at the Counseling Center?

Psychiatric providers at the Counseling Center do not prescribe stimulant medication. You can call us for a list of off-campus psychiatric provider or you can contact your insurance for names of providers in your plan.

How does the psychiatric provider decide what medication to prescribe for me?

Medication decisions are made based on several criteria, including particular symptoms you are experiencing, other medications you are taking, medical problems you may have, and even information on how your family members have responded to medications. Your psychiatric provider will discuss medication options with you and answer any questions you may have.

How long will I need to take medications?

Response to medication is highly individualized. All medication should be monitored by a medical provider and stopped only under their direction.

Can I be prescribed benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin) for anxiety at the Counseling Center?

The first-line treatment for anxiety is psychotherapy. Under certain circumstances, psychiatric providers at the Counseling Center may prescribe short-term courses of anxiolytic medication. The Counseling Center does not prescribe benzodiazepines on an ongoing basis.

I’m running low on my medication and need to see a psychiatric provider, what should I do?

Our strongest advice is to be proactive in term of your medical care and management of your prescriptions refills, and not wait to access medical care services at the last possible moment.

If you are not a client of the center, you may want to contact your prescribing provider and ask for a bridge prescription while you initiate services with a new provider or use the services of the nearest urgent care center. Additionally, you may use the Center’s triage/brief assessment system to discuss your concern and explore potential options at the center.

If one of our psychiatric providers is currently seeing you, please call the Counseling Center and inform us of your current situation.

Finally, due to demand issues, it may not always be possible for the Counseling Center to write an emergency prescription and we would advise you to visit your local emergency room or urgent care should the refill request be urgent.