I think it must be a fine line for a Dr. - to understand how hospitalization can help / but also could harm. They could just respond black or white - and put you in a hospital. Perhaps he thinks he has deeper insight into you then you yourself do. It almost seems like you would consider doing it just to prove him wrong... You want to take yourself seriously, so you want him to take you seriously, but in not responding, he in a way, is building you up to stand up to your weaker self. I think you need to start being more honest with him about considering seeing someone else because you are not as sure as he is that you are safe.

In a way you seem like (no offense, I know your a wife, mother, etc) but in a way you seem like you want to be like a child, and have the Dr take over your decision making- I think he may actually be doing a very good job making you face yourself.

You have proven time and again that you are strong enough to overcome those darker days. I think he knows that. And you have real life motivations to get over it. Perhaps it is you who are not crediting your strength well enough.