A-typical aniexty disorder

Dear Never Quit,

I like your screen name, and I am impressed that you chose it even after all you've been through with trying meds unsuccessfully.  Here are my thoughts on how to find a good Psychiatrist:

 

1. Keep your ears open for anyone who talks about their Psychiatrist in a positive way, and then ask them for the name and number. Personal referrals are extremely valuable!

2. Although most Psychiatrists still don't advertise, a rare few do! I found an excellent cutting-edge Psychiatrist for a client of mine who relocated on Psychology Today.  Another potential search source is the Anxiety Disorders Association of America's (ADAA) therapist list. 

3. Be willing to go outside of your insurance.  I can't tell you how many times clients have complained to me about their Psychiatrist and when I suggest making a change they say, "But he/she is on my insurance."  Yes, I know Psychiatrists are expensive, but I've said before a good one is worth their weight in gold.  My favorite Psychiatrist does not take insurance, and I have a number of clients who see him anyway (and no, they are not rich!)

4. Related to number three:  a good Psychiatrist listens to their patients.  This is my clients' number one complaint: that the Psychiatrist does not take the time to listen to them, or even worse, berates them for complaining about/giving up on a medication. Again, my favorite Psychiatrist spends 45 minutes with his patients, listens to them, and gets their input. I can't imagine him ever being short with a patient or putting them down because they are afraid!

5. Go to a therapist first, or just consult with them.  Most of us either know about or have had experience with a large number of Psychiatrists near our geographic location. I give referrals to my clients and can tell them what to expect from a particular Psychiatrist.  Although I believe therapy is an extremely important part of overcoming anxiety disorders, I will take the time to return calls from people who just want a referral to a Psychiatrist.

 

Those are my thoughts.  If anyone else has ideas about how to find a good, experienced Psychiatrist, please post your thoughts!

 

Regards,

Dr. Jennifer Fee

www.thestressmasters.com

www.drjenniferfee.com

Hi Never Quit!

 

I would also encourage you to try working with a counselor or psychologist who is trained in working with the behavioral components of managing anxiety. There are many types of "talk therapy" that can help with anxiety. Also, therapists are trained to consult with other professionals and make referrals as necessary. Studies have shown that the best outcome for anxiety (and depression) is a combination of medication and psychotherapy, but not medication alone. You can contact your state licensing board, insurance company, do internet searches, or ask your friends/family for a good referral.

 

Good luck!

how do you find a good doc or hospital in england, you get what the n.h.s.give you are docs are free so unless you have loads of money to go private your stuffed.i told the last post a srink stopped dead 10mg ativan with me an we have to trust these people if it wasnt for my gp putting me back on a lower dose i would be dead. the only reason i got to 10mg was because i had a 10 week wait to see a hospital doc and had no other meds it was that or drink myself to planet zero.i spent a week in mental hospital an it was like a zoo. outside cig breaks some smoked heroin,and at nightdrank vodka from clear sport drink bottles.also a lot play the mental card to keep from jail, when in trouble run straight to hospital an say i am depressed.so america think yourself lucky.