I started seeing my current psychiatrist in March while hospitalized. I continued seeing him outpatient after I was discharged. He has been helpful with providing me work excuses and approving leaves when necessary. However, he is really hard to get in touch with at times. And I have been struggling with my medication and moods recently, yet he seems to be reluctant to change my medications. Also, it is an hour drive to see him.

I just started a two week leave of absence. And through my company's EAP, I am able to see a counselor for, up to, three sessions free of charge. I have made the first appointment. But the practice the counselor is associated with also has psychiatrists on staff. I thought looking into the psychiatrists there to find someone closer.

I am unsure what to do. I see my current psychiatrist again on Wednesday. But I was hoping to get a general feeling of switching psychiatrists. Or any advice anyone can give.

[faerie_moon_x]

I also use my company's EAP and it's excellent. I'm glad you're offered that benefit. I would say that you see the therapist and if you like the office, then make an appointment to see the psychiatrist there. If you feel that your quality of care isn't up to your standards with your current doctor, then you should find a new one. It's perfectly reasonable and responsible to have a doctor that you feel is on your side and works the way you need them to work with you.

[BlackPup]

You have to feel like you can trust your pdoc. If you are doubting what he is doing with your meds talk to him about it and if you don't get a good enough answer I would consider changing pdoc very seriously.

I spoke with my doctor today, after waiting a half hour past my scheduled appointment time. We discussed my meds and my potentially finding a pdoc closer.

I also met with the EAP counselor at the new office. He already got me an appointment with a therapist for next week. And an appointment to meet one of the pdocs in January. I felt really comfortable there and that they to set a plan in place for my treatment. Something my current pdoc has not done.

I'll see how things go. But with the new office closer to home and the impression I got today, I like the idea of maybe changing things up.

[Seaswept]

That's good news.

Maybe the therapist can recommend a psychiatrist (if your not crazy about the one you meet in January). That is how I found my new Dr. My therapist gave me a list of highly recommended Dr.s. I now see a psychiatric APRN. She listens to me and is really working with me to try and get the right med combo.

My last Dr. just wanted me to do as HE said. Wasn't willing to work WITH me.
When I'm manic they give me meds to bring me down, but a person can not stay at that same dose/meds after the mania dies down, because then ya get too low- as it usually goes- depression follows mania.