Psychiatry & Medication Management

A Collaborative Approach to Medication Management for a Balanced, Healthy Life.

Psychiatry & Medication Management at Nurture and Be

We embrace a compassionate and integrative approach to mental health care that goes beyond treating symptoms—it focuses on healing the whole person. In partnership with a supervising medical provider, we provide medication management services for adolescents, children, and adults.

WHEN MEDICATION CAN HELP

Medication isn't for everyone, and it's not always necessary. But for many people, medication provides crucial support that makes therapy more effective and daily life more manageable.

Understanding Medication Management

Medication management is the process of evaluating, prescribing, and monitoring psychiatric medications to help support your mental health.

Our providers work closely with you—and with your permission, alongside your therapist—to find the right medication and dosage for your unique needs.

Our Approach

Medication management is about thoughtful, personalized support—not quick fixes. It’s a collaborative process where we take time to understand your symptoms, history, and goals, then carefully explore whether medication could help you feel more like yourself again.

Meet Our Providers

Our medication management providers are part of your Circle of Care, working collaboratively with you and your therapists and doctors to provide holistic care. You're not a diagnosis or a prescription — you're a whole person with unique needs, concerns, and goals. The Nurture and Be Medication Management team is ready to handle every detail of your care — from scheduling to follow-up — to lighten your mental load.

Laura Houwers, PMHNP, CNM
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Helping adolescents, prenatal and postpartum women, and adults achieve their mental health goals.

Sara Dover, MSEd, PA-C
Physician Associate and Exercise Physiologist

Utilizing psychiatry and prescribed medicine to support anxiety, depression, OCD, and more.

Get Started On Your Collaborative Treatment Plan

Book a Free Consultation

Connect with a provider who listens, understands your goals, and helps you determine the right next step.

Personalized Treatment Plan

A thoughtful, in-depth evaluation of your history, symptoms, and preferences, paced with care and never rushed.

Ongoing, Supportive Care

Continued follow-up and adjustments designed to support your wellbeing over time, not just manage symptoms.

Our Medication Management Specialties

Depression and Mood Disorders

  • Major Depressive Disorder
  • Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
  • Bipolar I and Bipolar II Disorder
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
  • Postpartum Depression
  • Treatment-Resistant Depression

Anxiety Disorders

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
  • Panic Disorder
  • Social Anxiety Disorder
  • Specific Phobias
  • Health Anxiety
  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety

Trauma and PTSD

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Complex PTSD
  • Acute Stress Disorder
  • Birth Trauma
  • Trauma-related sleep disturbances

Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors
  • Health-related obsessions and compulsions

Attention and Focus

  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Executive function challenges
  • Focus and concentration difficulties
  • Non-stimulant options only

Sleep Disorders

  • Chronic Insomnia
  • Sleep disturbances related to anxiety or depression
  • Nightmare disorder (PTSD-related)

Perinatal Mental Health

  • Perinatal Depression (during pregnancy)
  • Perinatal Anxiety
  • Postpartum Depression
  • Postpartum Anxiety
PERSONALIZED, COLLABORATIVE, COMPREHENSIVE

At Nurture and Be, medication management is never one-size-fits-all.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

Your First Appointment

Comprehensive Evaluation (60-90 minutes)

Your first medication evaluation is thorough. Your provider will want to understand:

  • Your current symptoms and how long you've experienced them
  • Previous mental health treatment (therapy, medication, hospitalizations)
  • Medical history and current medications or supplements
  • Family history of mental health conditions
  • Substance use history
  • Sleep patterns, appetite, energy levels
  • How symptoms affect your work, relationships, and daily life
  • What you've tried so far and what's helped or not helped
  • Your goals for treatment
  • Any concerns or questions about medication

If you're already working with a therapist at Nurture & Be: Your medication provider will have reviewed their notes (with your permission) before your appointment. You don't have to tell your entire story again—they're already up to speed.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

Collaborative Treatment Plan

Based on the evaluation, your provider will:

  • Explain their diagnostic impressions in plain language
  • Discuss whether medication could be helpful for you
  • If medication is appropriate, explain recommended options
  • Review how the medication works, expected timeline, and possible side effects
  • Discuss any alternatives or additional approaches
  • Answer all your questions
  • Create a plan for monitoring and follow-up

You're always part of the decision-making. Nothing gets prescribed without your understanding and agreement.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments

Regular Follow-Up Appointments:

After starting medication, you'll have regular check-ins:

  • First few weeks: More frequent appointments (weekly or biweekly) to monitor initial effects
  • Stabilization phase: Every 2-4 weeks as we find the right medication and dose
  • Maintenance phase: Every 1-3 months once stable

What we monitor:

  • Is the medication helping?
  • Are there side effects?
  • Any challenges taking it as prescribed?
  • Life changes affecting your treatment needs?
  • Medication interactions if you start new medications?
  • Long-term effects and whether medication is still needed?

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WHAT TO EXPECT

Collaboration with Your Therapist

If you're also in therapy at Nurture & Be, here's how coordination works:

Your therapist notices day-to-day changes that you might not report at a monthly medication appointment—like improved energy, better sleep, or emerging side effects. With your permission, they share these observations with your medication provider.

Your medication provider can adjust your prescription based on real-time feedback from your therapist, not just what you remember to mention in a brief check-in.

If your therapist notices you're struggling more, they can quickly loop in your medication provider to consider adjustments before waiting weeks for your next appointment.

This coordination happens behind the scenes (always with your permission). You benefit from it without having to manage it.

for the best, balanced you

Customer testimonials

From the very beginning, I felt heard, validated, and never judged.
Brooke helped me work through postpartum anxiety and other challenges in a way that felt manageable and empowering. Sessions gave me practical tools, clarity, and—most importantly—confidence in myself again.
I would highly recommend any of the wonderful staff to anyone for someone to share their experiences with. The offices are beautiful, comfortable and soothing a real place of zen.
Nurture and Be was extremely professional, responsive, and great to work with. They worked with me to get me scheduled quickly at a time that was best, and provided unmatched customer service. Highly recommend!
Her knowledge and ability to counsel those going through the rollercoaster we call life is phenomenal. She’s a young business professional, wife, and mother so it’s easy to relate on a personal level to many. If you are looking for an amazing therapist, look no further, you found her.

Common Questions

Does needing medication mean something is wrong with me?

Not at all. Mental health conditions have biological components, just like physical ones. Taking medication doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken—it means you’re taking care of your brain the same way you would any other part of your body. Choosing support is an act of strength.

Will I become dependent or addicted to psychiatric medication?

Most medications used for depression, anxiety, and mood regulation are not addictive and do not create cravings or dependency. Some short-term anxiety medications can lead to dependence if used daily over time, which is why we prescribe them carefully. Your provider will always consider your history, concerns, and safety when making recommendations.

How long does medication take to work?

It depends on the medication. Some medications work quickly, while others take a few weeks to build effectiveness. Your provider will explain what to expect based on what you’re prescribed and will check in regularly to make sure things are moving in the right direction.

Do I have to be in therapy to receive medication management?

No—but we strongly encourage it. Research shows that therapy and medication together are often more effective than either alone. That said, if therapy isn’t accessible right now, we can still support you with medication management and help you explore options when you’re ready.

What if I want to stop taking medication someday?

That choice is always yours. Some people use medication short-term, others longer-term—it depends on your needs and goals. When you’re ready to stop, your provider will help you taper safely and thoughtfully, with support every step of the way.

Will medication change who I am?

No. The goal of medication is not to change your personality—it’s to reduce the symptoms that are getting in the way of you feeling like yourself. When medication is a good fit, most people say they feel more clear, present, and grounded. If anything feels off or numbing, we adjust together.

What about side effects—should I be worried?

All medications can have side effects, but not everyone experiences them. Some mild effects—like nausea, headaches, or sleep changes—can happen early and often fade within a week or two. If side effects feel disruptive or uncomfortable, we have many options to adjust. You never have to “push through” something that doesn’t feel right.

Can I take psychiatric medication while pregnant or breastfeeding?

In many cases, yes—but it depends on the medication and your individual situation. Some medications are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and untreated mental health symptoms can also carry real risks. Your provider can collaborate with your OB to help you make the safest, most informed choice for you and your baby.

How do I know if medication might be right for me?

Medication may be worth exploring if symptoms are interfering with daily life, therapy alone hasn’t brought enough relief, your therapist has suggested it, or you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed. A medication evaluation doesn’t mean you have to take medication—it’s simply a space to learn, ask questions, and consider your options.

Will my medication provider really listen to me?

Yes. Our providers take time to understand your experience, answer your questions, and collaborate with you on decisions. This isn’t rushed or impersonal care—you’re an active participant in your treatment, and your voice matters.

Still have questions?

Contact our office today.

OUR SERVICES

Therapy Specialties

We offer relationship-centered therapy for individuals, couples, children, and families — supporting anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions with care that feels grounded and human.

Individual Therapy

Support for anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and navigating life's challenges at your own pace with your own goals.

Couples & Relationship Therapy

Help rebuilding trust, improving communication, and restoring emotional connection.

Family Therapy

Care that helps families navigate conflict, transitions, and stress while fostering understanding and healthier dynamics.

EMDR Therapy

An evidence-based approach that helps the brain process distressing experiences and reduce the emotional charge of trauma.

Child & Teen Therapy

Developmentally attuned support that helps young people build emotional awareness, regulation, and confidence.

Perinatal Mental Health

Specialized support for mood changes, identity shifts, and emotional challenges during and after pregnancy..

Men's Mental Health

Supportive therapy that helps men navigate stress, emotional expression, identity, and relational challenges.

Trauma & PTSD

Trauma-informed therapy that prioritizes safety, regulation, and healing without re-traumatization.

Anxiety

Therapy focused on reducing overwhelm, calming the nervous system, and creating a greater sense of steadiness and control.

Depression

Support to address low mood, disconnection, and emotional heaviness while rebuilding energy, meaning, and self-compassion.

Grief & Loss

Gentle care for processing loss, honoring your experience, and finding ways to move forward at your own pace.

Self-Worth & Identity Support

Therapy focused on building self-understanding, confidence, and a stronger sense of personal worth.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

Still Not Sure? We Can Help.

STEP ONE

Book A Free Call

Tells us what you’re looking for, and see if we’re the right fit.

STEP two

Connect

We'll suggest therapists who specialize in your areas of concern

STEP THREE

Easy Scheduling

Schedule an appointment that fits your availability and get started

You Don’t Have To Figure It Out By Yourself

Meet with us to find the care, connection, and clarity that transforms not just your mental health — but your life.