Psychiatry hand in hand with Psychology

It can be a scary moment in a therapy session when the word ‘medication’ comes up. If I’m already seeing a therapist, why do I need medication? It’s not always necessary and ideally wouldn’t be. But in some cases, psychiatry can be an excellent ally to the therapeutic process.

Psychology and Psychiatry are not opposing fields, but rather complementary. Psychology sessions help to understand and modify thought patterns and develop strategies for dealing with emotional challenges. Psychiatry, in turn, can intervene in cases where symptoms are too intense, interfering with daily life and hindering the work being done in sessions.

Medication doesn't solve problems on its own, but it can create a space where change becomes possible. Symptoms such as extreme anxiety, deep depression, or severe insomnia can make it difficult to engage in therapy. In these cases, psychiatric support can help alleviate symptoms, allowing the person to gain strength to truly engage in the process.

In situations of great psychological suffering, the brain can be in a permanent state of alert, preventing the assimilation of new learning. Medication can help to regulate this functioning, making the work developed in sessions more effective. In other words, it is not about replacing psychological support, but rather about creating the conditions for it to be more effective.

The decision to resort to medication should be carefully considered and made in conjunction with a mental health professional. If your psychologist suggests psychiatric monitoring, this does not mean that therapy has failed, but rather that there are other tools that can be useful on your journey. Mental health deserves integrated care, and sometimes the best approach involves Psychology and Psychiatry working side by side.