Posted by paxvox on August 10, 2001, at 12:31:17
In reply to changing psychiatrist, posted by Doo on August 9, 2001, at 15:52:47
Hey Doo,
Yes, that is a frustrating problem, but Pdocs are just like us, in that each has a different perspective on how to treat patients. Some are still using Freudian psychotherapy (which helps many with smaller problems) whereas the "new breed" of Pdoc is really a psychopharmacologist. This type believes all "mental illness" is mostly the result of chemical imbalances in the brain, and only part is from the life-related situations. You have to decide what type you NEED or PREFER. Personally, I have only found psychotherapy to be of short-term benefit, while medical therapy may be a life-long treatment option. Also, there are as many med combinations as there are differences in how people react to them. For some, the SSRIs are great, for others Wellbutrin, some MAOIs etc... You need to have a Pdoc that will listen to you and work with you, however, one that asks a lot of questions may only be trying to figure out the best treatment options to suit your individual needs. Don't be afraid to ask about your treatment, and to tell the Pdoc "no" if you don't like a med's effects. Remember, you are how they make their money, and they also have to satisfy your insurance company with a diagnosis and prognosis. If you have any other questions or concerns, feel free to ask me.
poster:paxvox
thread:9063
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20010807/msgs/9141.html