Psychiatric Services

Northland Counseling Center's International Falls office is fortunate to have the expert services of Contract Board Certified Psychiatrist, Jeffery T. Hardwig, M.D., who provides a full range of Psychiatric services. In addition, the Psychiatrist is an active participant in the interdisciplinary team model of service delivery, which includes the weekly Clinical Review discussion of new and complex cases and as needed case consultation at other times. All Psychiatry services are available for children, adolescents, and adults. For children and some adolescents, it is important that a caregiver participate in the sessions. The Psychiatrist is very comfortable with patients and loved ones asking questions about recommended treatments, potential side-effects, and so forth. Appointments may be scheduled specifically for the purpose of discussing the possible benefits of medication, without medications actually being prescribed until the patient has had time to return home and make a decision as to whether or not to proceed with medication. (It should be noted that the psychiatrist has significantly curtailed involvement with pharmaceutical company salespeople, due to research demonstrating that such contacts can affect prescribing patterns.)

For information or to schedule an appointment for Psychiatric Services, contact: Receptionist - (218) 283-3406 Ext. 0

Evaluations
Although new clients are initially provided a Diagnostic Assessment by another Northland Counseling Center clinician, the Psychiatrist provides a comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation during his initial meeting with a patient. The evaluation is for purposes of formulating diagnosis, recommendations, and a treatment plan. During the evaluation, in addition to asking about current problems/symptoms, the Psychiatrist will carefully review the patient's history (including medical and mental health symptoms, family history, current and past medications, etc.). The final component of the Psychiatric Evaluation usually includes recommendations for or against medication designed to treat mental health conditions. Advantages and disadvantages, as well as possible side-effects are an important part of these discussions.

For information or to schedule an appointment for Psychiatric Services, contact: Receptionist - (218) 283-3406 Ext. 0

Medication Management
Once the Psychiatric Evaluation has been complete, some patients will continue to be followed by the psychiatrist, during medication management appointments. The Psychiatrist will monitor responses to medications and any side-effects experienced. Adjustments to the prescriptions will be made accordingly. The Psychiatrist may identify new or previously unreported problems, during these sessions. Advantages and disadvantages to specific medications, are also an important part of these discussions. In addition to medication suggestions, though, the Psychiatrist is a well trained clinician who will provide other therapeutic suggestions, as time permits.

For information or to schedule an appointment for Psychiatric Services, contact: Receptionist - (218) 283-3406 Ext. 0