McKell,
These are all thought-provoking questions:
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1) If you were asked if you thought you were receiving the BEST possible care available for your pathology (illness), how would you answer?
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I suffer from depression caused by a combination of genetics and life circumstances. There are also ongoing family issues and illness for which I need support. I think of myself as more than an illness. I don't define myself by my illness. So, I think I have to answer yes. I do believe that I am receiving excellent care that is the best possible for my pathology (depression) and for ME (my SELF)!
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2) What criteria do you think are important to consider when judging the quality of your overall mental health care? (pharmacology and psychotherapy) Look deeper than just whether you like or dislike your therapist-- Is just being licensed, nice, and a good listener enough to all it quality care?
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Again, I think this is a very individual question. As for pharmacology, I take anti-depressants and my p-doc is a psychopharmacologist. It is important for me that I work with someone who has this added credential because I am extremely sensitive to medications of all kind. He is also very experienced treating depression and is an EXCELLENT listener. So, he does not dismiss my experience with a medication and is very responsive. I think it's worth noting here that I think it's a good thing that your doctor asked how you felt about the adderall. He cannot feel what's going on in your body but depends on you to tell him. The experience is yours.
As far as T is concerned, I think his background, experience and training are a good fit for me. There are so many possible permutations and types of psychotherapists. For me, it is important that I work with a man, that I work with someone who has a fair amount of experience and can understand the background I grew up in. His level of empathy, ability to stand still for me, and his overall lived experience is almost more important than his license. However, I would probably not work with someone who didn't have a license. I tend to be suspicious by nature! It is also important to me that I feel like my T is an intellectual match and who is an analyst as well as a therapist. These combinations are important for my well being and my mental health.
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3) Do you have the same quality standards for your personal treatment as you do for others (i.e. your children or other family members)?
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You know, I have to say yes to this one. If nothing else, I have always insisted on the absolute best in healthcare for all of us, including me!
