Therapy (psychologist vs. psychiatrist)?

there are psychologists (talk doctors) and psyciatrists (psych med doctors).

Looking for some FM about this topic....

If you saw a Psychologist first: - did you see a psychiatrist first and realize you didn't want meds at first but wanted to talk to someone professionally beforehand (without the pressure of meds, just talking and soughting out matters)? Did the psychologist eventually send you to a psychiatrist for meds?

If you saw a psychiatrist first: - did they listen to what you had to say? Or did they just whip out the prescription pad for the newest thing the drug reps are pushing?

I am seeing some advice - please FM if you have some to give :) also if you can recommend your doctor(s) in nassau county.
thanks !

Message edited 6/10/2007 9:00:23 PM.

Re: Therapy (psychologist vs. psychiatrist)?

depends on what you are going for really.. if it's something like anxiety, or depression i would go to the psychiatrist first for meds.. personally, i have never been to a psychologist..only a psychiatrist for meds.. i have however been to a social worker to talk and it didn't work out.

Re: Therapy (psychologist vs. psychiatrist)?

There are a few ways to go about this. This is what I did.

I went to my regular doctor and asked him to recommend a therapist. He did. Someone who he thought I would click with. We certainly clicked and I have been "in therapy" now for 4 years..my choice. Absolutely no pressure from the therapist. I love her.

She and I talked about my anxiety and recommended I talk to my doctor about some anti anxiety medications. I went back to him and he prescribed something which I was on for about 2 years. I am now off the meds but continue to see my therapist 2x a month. Works for me.

I think it's important to include your regular doc in this decision. I don't always agree that a psychiatrist is the way to go.

just a different spin on how to go about it and it works for me.

I hope you feel better soon. Please FM me if you want to talk further. I have some wonderful physicians looking after me and my therapist saved my life.

eta: wanted to add that I see a CSW. I would not be on medications without having a therapist.

Message edited 6/10/2007 10:02:13 PM.

Re: Therapy (psychologist vs. psychiatrist)?

I have has experience with both.

A psychiatrist will listen for a few minutes and write a prescription.

A psychologist will try and help with therapy.

If you need help with issues and want someone to talk to, I would try a therapist or a social worker. I found that to be more helpful.