Antipsychotic Medications and the Treatment of Psychotic Disorders Since 10,000 B.C. the presence of psychosis has been recognized and treated, using numerous tormenting practices and inhumane interventions. However, it was not until the early 19th century did society classify psychosis as a mental health disorder, instead of labeling it as a demonic possession and began using Asylums, “The Whirling Chair/Bed,” and Benjamin Rush’s “Tranquilizing Chair,” to treat psychotic patients. As society progressed into the 20th century, more innovative approaches were utilized to treat psychosis, which encompassed (ECT) Electro-Compulsive Therapy, psychotherapy and the use of psychopharmacological treatments (Korn, 2015). Though the development and use of psychotherapy, in conjunction with psychopharmacological treatments, have resulted in countless successful outcomes, the challenges of extrapyramidal effects, ethical concerns and other therapeutic challenges, regarding the refinement of treatment, still remains a constant (Laureate Education, 2012). To further analyze this concept, I will provide an overview of the major development in the treatment of psychosis, regarding the major drug classes, as well as explain three severe side effects of antipsychotics and possible alternative treatments. In addition, I will not only explicate what neurotransmitters are involved and affected by these medications but will also elaborate about the therapeutic and ethical challenges counselors face in
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Lastly, I will give an analogy of an original case presentation that illustrates a client who would benefit from antipsychotic
Lastly, I will give an analogy of an original case presentation that illustrates a client who would benefit from antipsychotic