A Personalized Approach to Psychiatric Medication

Finding the right psychiatric medication can feel overwhelming. Many people experience frustrating trial-and-error, uncomfortable side effects, or medications that simply don’t seem to help.

At Healing Hearts Counseling, we’re committed to providing thoughtful, personalized mental health care. We’re excited to now offer GeneSight® testing through our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Sarah! 

What Is GeneSight Testing?

GeneSight testing is a form of pharmacogenomic testing, which means it looks at how your genes may affect the way your body processes certain psychiatric medications.

Rather than guessing which medications might work best, GeneSight provides information that helps your provider understand:

• How quickly or slowly your body may metabolize certain medications

• Which medications may be more likely to cause side effects

• Which options may be better tolerated based on your genetics

This allows for more informed, personalized medication decisions.

How GeneSight Helps With Mental Health Medication

GeneSight testing can be especially helpful for individuals who:

• Have tried multiple psychiatric medications with little success

• Experience strong or unusual medication side effects

• Feel discouraged by medication “trial and error”

• Want a more personalized approach to mental health care

While GeneSight does not tell you which medication to take, it gives your psychiatric provider valuable information to guide thoughtful treatment decisions. GeneSight testing is not typically covered by insurance, but many people find it helpful in reducing the guesswork and frustration often involved in finding the right medication.

Is GeneSight Testing Right for You?

GeneSight testing may be a helpful option if you are seeking:

• Personalized psychiatric medication management

• A clearer understanding of how your body responds to medications

• More confidence in medication decisions

• Collaborative, informed mental health care

Testing is done with a simple cheek swab and results are reviewed directly with your provider.

Integrated Care at Healing Hearts Counseling

At Healing Hearts Counseling, we believe mental health care works best when therapy and medication management are integrated and collaborative.

Sarah, our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, is trained in GeneSight testing and uses it as one part of a comprehensive treatment approach that considers:

• Emotional and mental health symptoms

• Therapy progress

• Personal history and goals

• Physical and genetic factors

This approach supports whole-person care, not one-size-fits-all solutions.

How to Get Started With GeneSight Testing

GeneSight testing is available through medication management appointments with Sarah at Healing Hearts Counseling.

If you’re curious whether this option might be right for you, we’re happy to answer questions and help you take the next step.

Call or text our office at 225.283.4595 to make an appointment. Email [email protected] for questions.