05
For patients
Accepting new patients
Medication
How follow-up visits work, what we track and how to prepare.

Dr. Elena Marsh
Sep 18, 2026 · 6 min read

Fig. 01
Photograph for the Mentora Journal
Why follow-ups matter
Most treatment changes are small and gradual. Follow-ups let us see what is working and adjust before small problems grow.
What we cover
Sleep, mood, energy, side effects and anything that has changed in your life. We review medication and decide together whether to stay the course.
How to prepare
Jot down questions, note any side effects and bring an updated medication list.
Follow-ups are short, but they are where most of the real progress happens.
Small changes, made slowly, are usually the safest changes.
A note before you go
If something feels wrong between visits, you do not have to wait. Send a message through the patient portal and I will reply within one working day.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. If you are struggling, reach out to a clinician you trust.

Written by
Dr. Elena Marsh
Board-certified psychiatrist and mindfulness teacher in Portland, Oregon.


