Psychiatric Medication: What Counsellors and Mental Healthcare Workers Should Know
Written by the ICPS College Academic Team · Reviewed by ICPS College faculty · Last reviewed: September 2026
A significant proportion of people attending counselling or mental-health services take psychiatric medication. Clients may ask questions about side effects, mention changes in dose, or describe how medication affects their feelings and energy. Counsellors and mental-health workers do not prescribe, but a clear conceptual understanding helps them respond safely and communicate well with the wider care team.
Main classes of psychiatric medication
Antidepressants, including SSRIs, SNRIs and older classes.
Anxiolytics and hypnotics, including benzodiazepines and their dependence risks.
Antipsychotics, both first and second generation.
Mood stabilisers used in bipolar disorder.
Stimulant and non-stimulant medications for ADHD.
Side effects and the therapeutic relationship
Side effects such as emotional blunting, weight change, sexual difficulties or sedation can affect a person's sense of self and their engagement in therapy. Understanding these effects helps practitioners distinguish them from psychological changes and supports clients in raising concerns with their prescriber.
Discontinuation and dependence
Stopping some medications abruptly can cause withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and in some cases a return of symptoms. Clients should always be encouraged to discuss any change with their GP or prescriber rather than stopping on their own.
Staying within scope
The practitioner's role is to listen, inform in general terms and encourage collaborative discussion with medical professionals. It is not to advise on starting, stopping or changing medication. Knowing this boundary clearly is itself part of safe practice.
Study pharmacology with ICPS College
The Professional Diploma in Pharmacology for Mental Healthcare Workers is a live-online specialist programme carrying 60 CPD credits. It explores psychopharmacology and psychiatric medication from a conceptual, non-prescriptive perspective.
Related ICPS College courses
Important information
This article is educational content for practitioners and learners. It is not a substitute for professional advice, counselling or therapy.
If you are struggling or in distress in Ireland, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123 or text HELLO to 50808 at any time. In an emergency, call 112 or 999.
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