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Selecting the Correct Antidepressant with Counseling Essay

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When selecting an antidepressant to be involved with counseling many factors that have been considered such: previous medication responses, family history to medication, and the client’s symptoms and comorbidity (Preston, O’Neal, & Talaga, 2013). Clients might choose to discontinue the use of medications when feelings of pessimism and hopelessness occur so selecting an antidepressant with minimal side effects is very crucial (Preston & et al, 2013). During the medication trail make sure to give an adequate amount time before abandoning around four weeks to considered the medication non-sucessful (Preston & et al, 2013). In the case study of Marcus, he is a 31 year old Caucasian law student that reports feelings of being burned and …show more content…

This class of medication works by increasing the amount of Serotonin in the brain to help maintain a balance (Preston & et al, 2013). Escitalopram, Lexapro, advantages would be minimal interactions with other medications have been documented, marginal sedation, and less weight gain (Preston & et al, 2013). A big disadvantage is at the start of taking this medication, anxiety can be caused (Preston & et al, 2013). When Marcus first starts taking the medication, he needs to be aware that if he experiences any worsening depression, extreme worry, panic attack, problems staying asleep, or aggressive behavior to alert his provider (Perry, Alexander, Liskow, & DeVane, 2007). Lexapro normally can take from one to four weeks before the effects are felt and the normal dose is 10 to 20 milligrams (AFHS, 2012). Counselor’s Role The counselor’s role when a combined relationship as occurred between psychiatrist and counselor is to fully prepare and education their client on the medication choices (King & Anderson, 2004). The counselor needs to be the educator and advocate for the client while monitoring the effects of the medication (King & Anderson, 2004). The counselor would need to obtain and signed release from the client to establish a relationship with the psychiatrist and have a continuous relationship built on communication (King & Anderson, 2004). The counselor should be acquainted and able to speak and

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