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Conservative Psychiatric Medication Management in Orange County

Thoughtful, Evidence-Based Mental Health Care in Newport Beach, CA

At Resiliency Mind + Body Medicine in Newport Beach, we believe that less is more when it comes to psychiatric medication. Our approach to conservative medication management is rooted in medical precision, patient collaboration, and integrative wellness. Whether you’re starting psychiatric treatment for the first time or seeking help adjusting an existing regimen, our team provides safe, research-backed guidance tailored to your mental health goals.


We proudly serve patients across Orange County—including Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Huntington Beach, and surrounding communities.

Conservative Medication Management in Orange County

What Is Conservative Medication Management?

Conservative medication management refers to the practice of prescribing the minimum effective dose of psychiatric medications, only when clinically indicated, and always in combination with other therapeutic modalities when appropriate. Unlike one-size-fits-all or high-dosage models of care, this method prioritizes:

  • Accurate diagnosis

  • Low-dose prescribing strategies

  • Minimizing side effects

  • Ongoing reassessment of need

  • Reducing long-term dependence on medications

Our providers evaluate each case holistically, accounting for biological, psychological, social, and lifestyle factors before initiating or modifying medication.

Conditions We Treat with Conservative Medication Management

At Resiliency, our psychiatric providers use conservative prescribing for a wide range of mental health concerns, including:

  • Depression

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

  • Panic Disorder

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

  • Bipolar Spectrum Disorders

  • Sleep disorders

  • Mild cognitive concerns

We are especially experienced in working with individuals who are sensitive to medications, have experienced adverse side effects in the past, or are looking to taper down from long-standing prescriptions.

Our Process: Individualized and Measured

We take the time to understand your full story, not just your symptoms. Our conservative medication approach typically follows this process:

1. Comprehensive Evaluation

Each new patient begins with a 60–90 minute psychiatric intake, during which we review your full medical history, prior treatment experiences, lifestyle factors, and symptom profile.

2. Shared Decision-Making

If medication is warranted, we discuss treatment goals, medication options, expected effects, and risks in detail. The choice to begin medication is always made in collaboration with you.

3. Minimal Effective Dosing

We start with the lowest clinically appropriate dose and adjust only as needed over time, monitoring closely for therapeutic benefit and any unwanted side effects.

4. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments

Follow-up visits are used to assess how you’re responding to the medication, address any concerns, and determine whether the medication remains necessary or can be reduced.

5. Integrated Support

We may recommend therapy, TMS, functional lab testing, or nutritional guidance to support long-term outcomes, ensuring medication is only one piece of your wellness strategy.

Why Choose Resiliency Mind + Body Medicine?

Our practice is designed around integrative psychiatry—blending conventional medical science with holistic wellness approaches for sustainable results.

What sets us apart:

  • Board-Certified Psychiatric Providers
    Led by Dr. Stefani LaFreniere, our team includes licensed clinicians with deep experience in medication management, diagnostics, and collaborative care.

  • Whole-Person Approach
    We consider lifestyle, trauma history, neurobiology, and social context—not just symptom checklists.

  • Careful Tapering Protocols
    For patients looking to reduce or stop medications, we provide structured, safe tapering protocols and support during the process.

  • Insurance Accepted
    We are in-network with most major PPO insurance plans, and our administrative team assists with all eligibility and billing questions.
Dr. LaFrenierre Resiliency Mind + Body (2)

Is Conservative Medication Management Right for You?

You may benefit from this approach if:

  • You’ve had unpleasant side effects from previous psychiatric medications

  • You’re interested in minimizing pharmaceutical exposure

  • You want a measured, evidence-based plan rather than aggressive medication stacking

  • You’re looking to taper off current medications under medical supervision

  • You want your provider to consider non-medication options such as therapy, TMS, or nutrition

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or navigating complex medication histories, our team meets you with compassion and clinical precision.

Serving Orange County with Evidence-Based Mental Health Support

Our Newport Beach clinic is conveniently located near the 55 Freeway and Pacific Coast Highway, welcoming patients from:

  • Newport Beach

  • Costa Mesa

  • Irvine

  • Huntington Beach

  • Laguna Beach

  • Fountain Valley

  • Santa Ana

  • And across greater Orange County

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do you accept insurance for medication management?

Yes. We accept most PPO plans and assist with verification and billing.

Yes. We specialize in developing safe, individualized tapering plans and provide ongoing monitoring throughout the process.

No. We recommend medications only when clinically appropriate and always with your informed consent. Therapy, TMS, and lifestyle interventions are also discussed as part of care planning.

What Our Patients Are Saying

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your health and wellness goals. Our team is here to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your care.