Unfortunately a year ago my most excellent psychiatrist retired. I had been with him for 15 years since diagnosed Bipolar II. My appointments had always been 1 hour with psycotherapy.
Now I find that no psychiatrists in my area do psychoytherapy, they all do this infamous 15 minute "Med Checks". Can someone tell me how, in 15 minutes, a doctor can tell if my meds are working, if I need an adjustment in meds, or a new med?
The doctor I was referred to actually told me to use what I had learned in the past 15 years to cope. He will not do psychotherapy. In other words - be your own doctor!! Unbelivable!! I have checked for psychologists and none of them work with Bipolar patients.
Haven't seen a psychiatrist since May despite rapid cycling periods of the entire spectrum of Bipolar II. I've been tweaking my current meds of Seroquel, Lexapro, clonazepam and Wellbutrin as needed.
And for me, fortunately, suicide is not an option. 20+ years ago my husband suicided and I will never do that to my family and friends.
Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.