Seeing a psychiatrist
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Location: Toronto, Canada,
Posts: 1,242
Seeing a psychiatrist
Anyone here ever been to a psychiatrist? From googling I am learning they mostly prescribe meds, and not so much about talk therapy. Is this what I should expect when I make my first visit to them? Any insight?
bona fido dog-lover
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: SF Bay area, CA
Posts: 99,780
My shrink did tests on me to diagnose, then prescribed meds. I see him three times a year now to go over issues and continue the meds that are working so well. 
I am blessed too as he's a really good doctor and a nice guy to boot. I have complete trust in him.
Some doctors do talk therapy tho, as mine does on my visits.
I am blessed too as he's a really good doctor and a nice guy to boot. I have complete trust in him.
Some doctors do talk therapy tho, as mine does on my visits.
Mr
Join Date: Mar 2016
Location: FRANCE
Posts: 5,230
I have been to pretty often especially to a guy who specialises in addictology and alcohol. He also is the founder and runs the area31.fr groups in france where i live. I have tried lots of meds with him yes. I see him less often now but I always love going back to see him from time to time and not just when things are going bad. He is a lovely guy who has dedicated his life to alcoholics and drug addicts.
I think alot depends on you, what you are willing to give and take.
Take care !
I think alot depends on you, what you are willing to give and take.
Take care !
Member
Join Date: May 2012
Posts: 1,981
It depends on how their center works and/or what your insurance covers. Some you will see the psychiatrist for both the therapy and medication if needed.
In my case and often times others, I see a therapist regularly, also a psychiatrist every 3 months to go over things and to get my medications.
In my case and often times others, I see a therapist regularly, also a psychiatrist every 3 months to go over things and to get my medications.
Forum Leader
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Wisconsin, USA
Posts: 16,945
Each one is different. Psychiatrists can prescribe meds, but that doesn't mean they always do. Psychologists cannot prescribe meds. Most clinics have both on staff or a Nurse Practitioner.
What is your specific concern?
What is your specific concern?
Member
Join Date: Dec 2017
Location: Dallas, Texas
Posts: 110
Generally psychiatrists prescribe medication and counselors/social workers/psychologists do therapy. Psychiatrists are medical doctors so they can prescribe while the others cannot. Sometimes (not very often) they do therapy as well.
Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: California
Posts: 13,044
H Whopper,
They can do both. If they do not do talk therapy themselves, they may refer you to a counselor in the same practice. They may also have different classes/workshops you can attend to address any specific areas. I keep telling myself I am going to try some of the meditation classes offered by my insurance.
I am glad you are going, looking forward to hearing about your appointment.
They can do both. If they do not do talk therapy themselves, they may refer you to a counselor in the same practice. They may also have different classes/workshops you can attend to address any specific areas. I keep telling myself I am going to try some of the meditation classes offered by my insurance.
I am glad you are going, looking forward to hearing about your appointment.
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