[thelostone0409]

I want to see a psychologist, will I get prescribed medication at our first appointment or will I have to wait?

[splitimage]

Hi and welcome to Psych Central.

Psychologists can't prescribe medications, only MD's can. However if a psychologist feels that meds may help you, they may refer you to a psychiatrist.

splitimage

[AncientMelody]

Originally Posted by splitimage

Hi and welcome to Psych Central.

Psychologists can't prescribe medications, only MD's can. However if a psychologist feels that meds may help you, they may refer you to a psychiatrist.

splitimage

Just a clarification: Most psychologists cannot prescribe, however there are a select few in certain regions of the United States that have special training/certification to prescribe. Additionally some psychiatrists may have the DO degree rather than MD, and NPs and PAs can usually prescribe.

In response to the initial question, it is true that psychologists don't usually prescribe, however psychiatrists do. I think in general psychiatrists often will prescribe at the first appointment, but I wouldn't guarantee that is the case in all situations. Good luck and I hope the appointment goes well.

[RisuNeko]

Every psychiatrist I've seen has prescribed something on the first visit, except for one who I only saw once and said he couldn't help me and I should see someone else.

But psychologists can't prescribe. Try to get in with a psychiatrist if you are desperate to start medication.