At West Ridge Academy, we recognize the issues our clients face are both unique and complex. As a result, we utilize a multifaceted approach to healing. This approach includes the option for medication assessment and management.

Our Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) specializes in adolescent mental health and is qualified to assess for mental illness and provide medication management as needed.  All clients entering the Residential and Day Treatment programs will be seen by our APRN within 30 days of admission. Following an initial assessment, our APRN will provide both client and parents with information regarding any mental health diagnoses, as well as any potential benefits the client could receive from augmenting their treatment with prescription medication. The prescriber’s primary responsibility is to provide information regarding various options- including risks and benefits- as well as answer any questions, while leaving the final decision up to the parents. West Ridge Academy respects the rights of families to determine whether or not medication management is an aspect of treatment they would like to pursue.

If you chose to seek a medication provider outside of West Ridge, our therapists will work with you to ensure on-going collaboration with that provider.

NEW! Recent studies have shown a significant correlation between certain mental illnesses and a genetic mutation on the MTHFR gene. Scientific advances now enable individuals to be tested for possible mutations with a simple, non-invasive test. Similar genetic tests also provide physicians with the ability to see how individuals uniquely metabolize different medications. West Ridge Academy has been using these test results to more clearly direct and individualize a client’s medication regimen, and has seen great results!

To learn more about the benefits of genetic testing, click on the links below: 

Genetic testing for better depression treatment

A genetic mutation that can affect mental and physical health