Medication plus Therapy

Allow me to say a brief word about psychotropic medication or those medicines popularly known as anti-depressant, anti- anxiety, and anti-psychotic medications. Many mental health professionals today, including those of us influenced by psychoanalysis, refer clients when needed, for an evaluation for possible prescription medication. Matter of fact some mental illnesses, including severe depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia may require medication and psychotherapy.  However, all clinicians and patients need to be aware of the risks and side effects associated with psychotropic medications.  There is much research today that reveals these risks and side effects. So yes, SOMETIMES medicine may be needed alongside psychotherapy, but I think the first course of treatment should be always be analytically oriented psychotherapy.