Hi clj2,

Looks like sabby has answered your question. In the UK it works slightly differently. Your GP (or MD) has to refer you to a psychiatrist and all medical history is forwarded to him or her.

As you may know the healthcare is provided by the government but even if the patient decides to seek psychiatric help privately i.e. they cover all costs (I was quoted £2500 for initial appraisal) the psychiatrist still requires a referral and medical records from the GP as there could be other conditions/meds to consider.

Of course this may not apply as you are in the US but it may help somebody else who's reading this post and UK based.

Best of luck to you, keep us posted.

SD