What It Means to See a Prescribing Psychologist: Compassionate, Integrated Mental Health Care
Choosing to start psychiatric medication is never easy. For many people, it comes at a time of vulnerability, uncertainty, and emotional distress. As a prescribing psychologist Prescribing Psychologist, I understand how difficult this step can be — and I’m here to guide patients through it with care, time, and compassion.
My practice is different from what many people have experienced with traditional medication prescribers. I bring together the depth of psychotherapy with the precision of psychopharmacology — offering truly integrated care.
My Training and Experience
I hold a doctoral degree in psychology, which allows me to provide psychotherapy and psychological testing at the highest levels of clinical care. I’ve spent over 30 years helping people navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and other complex mental health challenges.
In addition to this foundation, I earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychopharmacology, which qualifies me to prescribe psychiatric medications.
This unique combination means I don’t just prescribe — I treat the whole person. I bring a deep understanding of emotional and psychological processes to every decision around medication, and I use therapy to support and enhance each patient’s journey.
Time, Trust, and Thoughtful Care
In my practice, appointments are not rushed. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, we typically spend 45 to 60 minutes together — and sometimes more, if needed. This gives us time to explore not only how a medication is working, but how you’re truly feeling.
Many people come to me with fears about starting medication — concerns about side effects, stigma, or what the medication might mean for their identity. These conversations are not only welcome, they are essential.
I am not afraid to talk about the hard things: your fears, your history, your secrets — and most importantly, I have the time to do so.
I work to create a safe, nurturing space where patients feel seen and supported. This is especially important during the initial stages of medication, which can often be the most difficult. You won’t be alone in that process.
What Medication Management Looks Like in My Practice
Medication is just one part of your mental health journey. I approach it thoughtfully and collaboratively, with a focus on education, safety, and ongoing dialogue.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Psychoeducation – I’ll explain why a medication is being recommended, how it works, and what to expect from it.
- Side Effect Monitoring – We’ll discuss possible side effects, both expected and unexpected, and what to do if they occur.
- Weekly Monitoring – I check in regularly — at least weekly, especially in the early phases — to track how the medication is affecting your mood, functioning, and overall well-being.
- Therapeutic Evaluation – Each visit includes space to explore whether the medication is helping, whether adjustments are needed, or whether it’s creating new challenges.
- Crisis Planning – If needed, I will help coordinate care at higher levels, including hospitalization, and support you or your family through that process.
- Integrated Psychotherapy – Medication management happens within the context of ongoing therapy, not in isolation.
This means you’re not just coming in for a quick prescription refill. You’re coming in to reflect, reassess, and continue growing.
You Don’t Have to Choose Between Therapy and Medication
In my practice, you don’t have to choose between talk therapy and medication — you can have both, under one roof, in a fully integrated way. This approach allows us to move at a pace that feels safe for you, with careful attention to how your mind and body are responding.
Above all, I want my patients to feel safe, heard, and empowered — especially during a time that can feel overwhelming. Starting or changing medication is never just about chemistry; it’s about people, stories, fears, and hopes. I’m honored to walk that road with the people I serve.
Interested in learning more or starting care?
Feel free to contact me to schedule a consultation or ask any questions. Whether you’re exploring medication for the first time or seeking a new kind of support, I’m here to help.
Our clinic is open for you, go and visit us at wegierekpsychology.com
We would like to welcome you at our clinic. Call us at 708-710-8819 to make an appointment, or text your name, phone number and email address so we can send you a virtual intake.
