What is medication management?

Medication management is a collaborative, ongoing process that ensures psychiatric medications are used safely and effectively to support a child’s or adolescent's mental health. In child and adolescent medication management, this involves careful evaluation, personalized treatment planning, and regular follow-ups to monitor progress, manage side effects, and adjust medications as needed. Our goal is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time, always prioritizing each young person's overall well-being and development. We work closely with families to make informed, thoughtful decisions every step of the way.

Our approach to medication management is thoughtful, conservative, and child-centered. We believe that medications can be a helpful tool—but not the first or only solution—for supporting mental health. For children and adolescents, we prioritize non-medication strategies whenever possible and consider medication only when clinically appropriate and necessary. When medication is used, we start low, go slow, and aim for the minimum effective dose. Regular follow-ups help us ensure safety, monitor progress, and make adjustments as needed. Families are involved in every step of the decision-making process, and our focus remains on supporting long-term growth and well-being.

Why might my child need medication management?

Some children and adolescents experience mental health challenges that significantly affect their daily lives, relationships, or ability to function at home, in school, or in social settings. Conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders may, in some cases, benefit from carefully prescribed medications as part of a broader treatment plan.

Medication management helps ensure that if medication is needed, it is chosen and monitored with great care. It involves evaluating symptoms, weighing risks and benefits, and working closely with families to determine the most appropriate, lowest-risk options. The goal is never to "medicate away" a problem, but rather to reduce distressing symptoms so a young person can more fully engage in therapy, school, family life, and healthy development.

What can I expect from a medication management consultation?

A medication management consultation is a thorough, one-on-one evaluation focused on understanding your child’s emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs. During the appointment, we gather a detailed history, review current concerns, and assess whether psychiatric medication may be helpful as part of a broader treatment plan. This process is thoughtful and collaborative, with plenty of time for questions and discussion.

Not every child or adolescent will meet the criteria for medication or for ongoing care in our clinic. In those cases, we’ll provide guidance and appropriate referrals to ensure your child receives the support that best fits their needs. Our priority is always what’s safest, most effective, and most appropriate for each individual child.

How much does a medication management session cost?

The initial/intake appointment is a flat fee of $375 (60-90 minutes). Follow up appointments are $275 (30 minutes).

What should I do if I am interested in medication management?

Please Contact us for a free consultation to see how we can support your family's needs. We want to ensure that our services are the best fit for you and your family, and we're here to answer any questions you may have. We are currently providing medication management to children and families within the state of Oregon.