This informational page describes general guidelines regarding the treatment of patients referred to the psychiatrists affiliated with the Bay Psychiatric Associates. Scroll down this page for answers to frequently-asked questions. We strongly encourage you to ask the doctor to whom you are referred questions about any other information you need.
Psychopharmacology is the study of drugs which affect psychological functioning.
We try to help patients access psychiatrists to assist in evaluation, treatment, consultation, and information regarding their condition, including educational resources and information about currently available treatments. Many psychiatric conditions can be significantly improved, shortened in duration and intensity, lessened in their impact on functioning, and occasionally even prevented by the use of carefully chosen and supervised medication treatment. The treatment provided by the psychiatrists affiliated with Bay Psychiatric Associates involves being responsive to changes in the need for medication when and if they occur. This is a complex and sensitive process, requiring the integration of medication management with supportive psychotherapy by experienced and knowledgeable professionals in order to provide the greatest benefit for the patient. In situations involving unusual combinations of illnesses or diagnostic dilemmas we can bring together a number of highly experienced clinicians affiliated with the Center in order to review the patient's condition and make additional recommendations regarding treatment.