At New Directions Counseling Services, we believe that while there is not a “magic pill” that can eliminate emotional struggles there are times that  medication can play an important role in helping to alleviate emotional pain and related symptoms for adults, children, and teens.  In fact, medication can be essential in providing a jump start on the path towards recovering your psychological well being.  For this reason, our practice has formed an affiliation with Psych Med Associates, PC, the practice of psychiatrist Dr. Mark Matta.

The following question can help you to decide whether or not a psychiatric evaluation is needed:

Are you or someone close to you experiencing one or more of the following?

• Severe Anxiety
• Panic Attacks
• Obsessive thinking or compulsive behaviors
• Depression
• Irritability and/or agitation
• Angry outbursts
• Mania (abnormally elevated mood and energy level) 
• Suicidal thinking
• Psychosis (loss of contact with reality; delusions or hallucinations)
• ADD or ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder)
• Sleep disturbance
• An Eating Disorder

If you answered yes, then it is very likely that a psychiatric evaluation with a qualified medical professional would be a positive step towards reducing your suffering or the suffering of your loved one.

What can I expect if I schedule an appointment?
When you meet with a member of the Psych Med Associates staff at our practice, you can expect the following:

• A thorough diagnostic evaluation to specify the nature of your symptoms
• An emphasis on treating you- or your loved one- personally, as an individual who is suffering and not just as a group of symptoms or a disorder
• An emphasis on helping you or your loved one to understand the nature of the difficulties you are having
• Prescription of medications in a strategic, compassionate manner that includes explanation of the likely course of treatment and of possible side effects of the medications being prescribed  
• Encouragement and support in making positive changes in your life

Psychiatric medications can be an integral part of care for adults, children, and teenagers who are struggling with painful symptoms.  Some people are able to benefit fairly quickly, and only need medication for a period of 6 to 12 months.  Others may need the long term support of psychiatric medications. Every situation, just like every person, is different and Dr. Matta and his staff take the time necessary to determine the optimal treatment for what you or your loved one is going through.

Please contact our office at 724-934-3905, or via our online Contact Form, for more information or to schedule an appointment.