Medication Management in Hilliard: What to Expect at Your First Visit

Starting psychiatric medication, or changing a medication you already take, can feel like a big step. Knowing what happens at the first appointment makes it easier. This guide explains what a first medication management visit at Elevate Behavior Health in Hilliard looks like, what to bring, and what usually comes next. It is written for patients and families across Hilliard, Columbus and Central Ohio.

What is medication management?

Medication management is ongoing psychiatric care built around medication. It starts with a full evaluation. If medication is a good fit, your provider works with you on a plan, then follows up to check how it is working, adjust the dose when needed and watch for side effects.

At Elevate, medication management covers:

• a full psychiatric evaluation
• a medication plan based on your diagnosis and health history
• regular check-ins on dose, how well the medication works, and side effects
• coordination with your therapist or primary care provider, if you have one

We see children from age 6, teens, adults and older adults. Read more on our medication management page.

Who will I see?

You will meet with Fardowsa Sheikh, PMHNP, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Fardowsa Sheikh also speaks Somali and Arabic, so you can have your visit in the language you are most comfortable with.

If you are not sure whether you need a psychiatrist, a nurse practitioner or a therapist, our guide Nurse practitioner, psychiatrist or therapist: who should you see? explains the difference.

Before your visit: what to bring

A little preparation helps your provider understand your situation quickly. If you can, bring:

• A list of every medication you take, including the dose. Include over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements.
• Names of psychiatric medications you have tried before, roughly how long you took them, and why you stopped.
• Your insurance card and a photo ID. To check whether we accept your plan, call us before your visit.
• Records from past providers, if you have them. This is helpful, not required.
• Contact details for your therapist or primary care provider, if you would like us to coordinate with them.
• Your questions. Write them down so you do not forget them in the moment.

For a child or teen, a parent or guardian usually attends. School reports or notes from teachers can also help.

What happens during the first visit

The first appointment is mostly a conversation, and it lasts about an hour. Your provider will ask about:

• What brings you in. What you have noticed, when it started, and how it affects sleep, work, school or relationships.
• Your mental health history. Past diagnoses, treatment and hospital stays, if any.
• Your physical health. Medical conditions, allergies and other medications. Some medicines interact, so this matters.
• Family history. Mental health conditions in close relatives can be relevant.
• Daily life. Sleep, appetite, stress, alcohol and other substances. These questions are routine and asked of everyone.
• Safety. Your provider will ask whether you have had thoughts of harming yourself or others. This is a standard part of every psychiatric evaluation.
• Your goals. What you would like to feel or do differently.

You can share as much as you are comfortable with. Honest answers help your provider choose the safest plan for you.

How a medication plan is made

At the end of the evaluation, your provider will explain what they think is going on and talk through your options. Medication may be part of the plan, or it may not be. If it is, you can expect to discuss:

• why a particular medication is being suggested
• how and when to take it
• common side effects and what to do if you notice them
• how long it may take before you notice a change

You decide together. You are always welcome to ask questions or say you would like time to think.

Some medications need lab work before you start or while you take them. Your provider will tell you if that applies to you.

Genetic testing

Elevate may use pharmacogenomic testing, such as GeneSight, in some cases. It looks at genes that affect how your body processes certain medications. The results are one more piece of information for your provider. They do not choose a medication on their own, and they are not needed for everyone. At Elevate, GeneSight is usually offered when several treatments have not worked well enough. It is not covered by insurance, so there is an out-of-pocket cost. Ask us about the cost before you decide.

After the first visit: follow-ups

Follow-up appointments are shorter, about 30 minutes. They are used to check how you feel, how well the medication is working and whether you have side effects. Early on, visits are usually closer together while the dose is adjusted. Later, many patients come in less often.

A few things to know between visits:

• Do not stop or change a medication on your own. Some medications cause problems if they are stopped suddenly. Call us first.
• Tell us about side effects. Many can be managed by adjusting the dose or timing.
• Refills: request them through the patient portal, or call the clinic at 380-236-4272.

Medication often works best alongside therapy. If you would like both, Elevate also offers individual therapy, or we can coordinate with your current therapist.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral?

No. You can book with Elevate directly. You do not need a referral from another provider.

Do you see children?

Yes. Elevate provides medication management for patients aged 6 and older, including teens, adults and older adults. A parent or guardian attends visits with younger patients.

Can I have my visits online?

Yes. Medication management is available by telehealth as well as in person in Hilliard. Telehealth visits are for patients in Ohio. Whether a particular medication can be prescribed through a telehealth visit depends on the medication. Your provider will explain what applies to you.

Will I have to take medication forever?

Not necessarily. It depends on your condition, how you respond and your own goals. Your provider will review your plan with you over time. Any change should be made together, not on your own.

What if the first medication does not work?

That is common. Finding the right medication and dose can take more than one try. Your provider will work with you to adjust the plan.

If you are in crisis, call or text 988. In an emergency, call 911.

Reviewed by Fardowsa Sheikh, PMHNP, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Elevate Behavior Health.