Psychiatrist: Should I Go?

Nervous · Apr 24, 2011, 10:41 AM

One day recently I realized that there wasn't anything that I wanted to do anymore. This alarmed me, so I made an appointment to see a psychiatrist. Now, I am wondering if I should keep the appointment.

I suppose that if the psychiatrist turns out to be the kind who talks to patients, it might be worthwhile. However, if he is the type who prescribes a lot of medication and sends you on your way, I think that would be a waste of my time and money.

In case it is not evident, this is my first time with psychiatrists.

Anyone have any thoughts on this?

Thanks.

Liam Grey · Apr 24, 2011, 02:19 PM

You mean you want a psychiatrist who is also a therapist? Then you should verify if this doctor you have the appointment with is both, cause at least in my country a pdoc rarely or at least not always is also a T.

If you just want this psychiatrist to be a good, interested person who also cares for you, then only way to know is to go and talk with him. You could always go to somebody else after, if you are not convinced.

In every possible case I think you should go and see somebody (may him a T or a pdoc), if you feel the need to.

onlymedid · Apr 24, 2011, 02:32 PM

I agree that you should confirm with this psych doc that they do therapy, too because mine only gives out meds. I see a therapist, besides the psych doc.

emilyjeanne · Apr 24, 2011, 02:34 PM

I would confirm too. But just so you know. In the US psychiatrists will do therapy. It is very common in NYC. It may also be cheaper. If you need both meds and talk therapy.

I see a Pdoc for both therapy and meds.

PTSDlovemycats · Apr 24, 2011, 02:35 PM

I agree with the aboce posters. My psychiatrist is my therapist and she is the best one I have ever had! Best of luck to you!

nannypat · Apr 24, 2011, 06:48 PM

My pdoc does therapy also and I am very happy with him.

learning1 · Apr 24, 2011, 07:04 PM

For talk therapy, psychologists, social workers and others more often do psychotherapy (aka therapy, talking). Psychologists cost more than social workers (but if you have insurance your copay will probably be the same) and psychologists have more training.

People above are saying psychiatrists do talk therapy, so I guess some must do it, but according to a recent article in the NYTimes, psychiatrists are doing it less and less.

ECHOES · Apr 24, 2011, 07:10 PM

He may offer therapy or may not.

What matters is what you are looking for. If you want a psychiatrist who does therapy, then it would be a good idea to find out ahead of time if he does that.

If you want therapy and you are not interested in having medication prescribed, you could look for a therapist who is not a psychiatrist.

Good luck to you no matter what you decide to do!

WikidPissah · Apr 25, 2011, 07:43 AM

ditto to all the above...
welcome to PC!

Apr 25, 2011, 07:48 AM

If what you are wanting is therapy and are not at all interested in medications, you probably should look for a therapist, not a psychiatrist. Most psychiatrists don't do talk therapy.

Nervous · Apr 25, 2011, 10:06 AM

Thanks for yours responses. I'll call his office today and see if his office staff will give me some idea of what he offers.

In looking for a therapist, what am I looking for? Some sort of PhD in Psychology?

Nervous · Apr 25, 2011, 12:13 PM

Just called. His office staff says he does both therapy (45 mins. sessions) and medication management.

So, I'll guess I'll keep the appointment.

Christina86 · Apr 25, 2011, 12:56 PM

Glad to hear it! Not as many psychiatrists do psychotherapy anymore, because it's not as easy financially for them to make money (you can charge more for a meds appointment and see multiple patients per hour if you're only doing a 15min appt for meds, but a 45min therapy appointment means you only see one client!)

I hope the appt goes well for you.

Nervous · Apr 25, 2011, 12:58 PM

Thanks, Christina.

I have no idea what to expect. I'm a first-timer at this. If my insurance covers it, then I'm game.

Christina86 · Apr 25, 2011, 01:01 PM

Call your insurance company and ask? Better to know ahead of time. But they may also have a sliding scale fee, you won't know unless you ask. I guess I'm fortunate - living in Canada, psychiatrists (since they're doctors) are covered under our provincial healthcare so they're free to see. Regular therapists or psychologists however, are not free. (Might explain why there are longgggggggg wait times for a psychiatrist, even for meds)

Nervous · Apr 25, 2011, 01:04 PM

I called already. They said they cover 100%.

Here's how we play the game in the lower 48: The insurance covers 100% of allowable costs. After you go, and they get the bill, they can decide how much of it is allowable. So, I might only get 100% of 50%. Pretty cool, huh?

emilyjeanne · Apr 25, 2011, 04:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nervous

I called already. They said they cover 100%.

Here's how we play the game in the lower 48: The insurance covers 100% of allowable costs. After you go, and they get the bill, they can decide how much of it is allowable. So, I might only get 100% of 50%. Pretty cool, huh?

If you have a diagnosis that is on their list they will cover it because of the new law.