Discussion Post
Client's mother: I just don't like the way it makes him act and feel. He doesn't act like "himself" when he is taking the medications. He isn't sleeping, and it's like he is a stranger when he talks to me. I am worried that the cure is worse than his condition. Isn't there something else we can try?
Counselor: I hear that you are concerned, and you are looking for something else for us to try. I have some options that we could consider...
Often counselors see clients who are concerned that the side effects of the medications are worse than the disorder. Although research supports the incorporation of a number of alternative therapies, many health care professionals are skeptical of alternative therapies. Additionally, some clients might hesitate to choose complementary or alternative therapies because they perceive them as unscientific.
Respond to the following prompts:
a) How can your own preconceived ideas about complementary and alternative therapies affect the options that you suggest to a client?
b) How important is it that counselors be well informed about alternative treatments?
c) How can you expand your awareness of alternative therapies?
The response should include a reference list. One-inch margins, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space and APA style of writing and citations.
Reference
• Sinacola, R. S., Peters-Strickland, T., & Wyner, J. D. (2020). Basic psychopharmacology for mental health professionals (3rd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Pearson.
o Chapter 14, "Treatment of Comorbidity and Other Disorders"
Optional Resources
• Borenstein, J. (2018, April 2). How chronic stress affects neural circuitry [Blog post].
• Docter, P., & del Carmen, R. (Directors). (2015). Inside out [Motion picture]. United States. Pixar Animation Studios
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (2018). Complementary, alternative or integrative health: What's in a name?