Posted by JohnL on April 21, 2001, at 5:16:09
In reply to Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist - Help!!!, posted by Jennifer1 on April 20, 2001, at 20:36:53
Is there some issue that is bothering you? Like maybe career, lover problems, whatever? If so, then seeing a counselor, psychotherapist, or psychologist could be very helpful. A good one can help point out trouble spots and teach you how to deal with them.
On the other hand, if there aren't any real issues to deal with, you might find counseling to be of little help. One of the best things they can teach you however is how to cope. There are lots of neat tricks and strategies to help cope with your illness. I found that the greatest benefit of a counselor was the role of cheerleader. I always had a renewed sense of hope when I left the office. Each visit was like filling up the gas tank for another journey into the world. New tricks to try. Etc. I found it very helpful to have a coach in my corner cheering for me and giving me support, faith and hope to go on.
You can sort of get both a psychologist and psychiatrist in one, by looking for a psychiatrist with a reputation of good bedside manners. You can get the benefits of both a psychologist and a psychiatrist by dealing with a psychiatrist who is also good with other things besides just medicine. Some of them are excellent coaches, cheerleaders, hope providers, whatever. And of course, some of them totally suck with lousy bedside manners and overinflated egos.
No matter what route you take, I think it is very important to deal with someone who you feel you have a good chemistry with. And always remember, who is paying who? Ultimately you are the boss in control and you should insist on being treated the way you want to be treated. As long as you are paying, you are the ultimate boss. You wouldn't hesitate to return an expensive product you purchased if it was broken or if you didn't like it. Same goes with mental health care.
John
poster:JohnL
thread:60631
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010417/msgs/60672.html