Are medications effective for psychological problems?

There are different perspectives within the field of psychology on the use of psychotropic medications. Only certain medical practitioners, such as those possessing MD degrees, may dispense prescriptions for psychotropic medicines. Currently, if a psychologist's client meets criteria for treatment with medication, the psychologist must issue a referral to a psychiatrist or other medical professional authorized to write prescriptions. Most clinical psychologists have doctoral degrees, and while they may possess advanced knowledge of psychiatric disorders and psychological treatments, they cannot be issued prescription pads under current law.

Many arguments exist for and against the right of psychologists to prescribe medications. For this Discussion, you first analyze the use of psychotropic medications as a method of treatment for psychological disorders. You then evaluate the role of medical professionals in prescribing psychotropic medications.

Under what circumstances might psychotropic medications be the best treatment choice? What professionals should be allowed to prescribe psychotropic medication? Describe whether general practitioners or other non-psychiatrist medical professionals should prescribe psychotropic medication. Justify your response by referencing ethical standards for the psychology profession.