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psychiatrists vs psychologists


16 years ago 0 3043 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
hi dumpling, I was followed by a social worker with the studies to be an art therapist. I have since "up graded" to a psychologist who is listening to my pain and helps me by pointing out where the depression inserts faulty logic... and from this she gives me an exercise to pratice till the next monthly visit (I'm a bit slow and need spaced RV to work things out). Soon I will need to be further followed by a psychiatrist to see what medications are helping my progress and at what levels.
16 years ago 0 5195 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Dumpling, I've been seeing a counselor for a year now. She doesn't perscribe medication but deals with enough people on medication to know how they are affected. She also keeps in touch with my family doctor in order to help monitor my progress and if the medication is actually helping. Together they were able to get me on the correct combination of medicine. My counselor doesn't work any program with me. She merely listens to me and provides me with ideas on how to sort everything out. She also gently guides me to where I need to be and encourages me to keep progressing forward. I have to do the work. No one can do it for me. Sometimes I wonder if I'm seeing the right person or not but I think that is just because of my depression and self-doubt. I trust her 90% and she has become like the mother I've always wanted. What matters is that you are with someone who can help you and who understands what you are going through. It seems to take forever to progress, but it does happen.
16 years ago 0 799 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Hi dumpling, Psychologists and psychiatrists do vary in their education, and training and their credentials. As you mentioned in your post, psychiatrists are actual medical doctors, (M.D.) meaning that they can assess, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for mental illness, whereas, psychologists cannot prescribe medications, but can be just as skilled in providing psychotherapy and may likely use a variety of testing tools tools to assess their clients situation. Our online program can be used either with or without being in therapy. I know this response may seem vague, but as moderators, we are not here to advise you which professional may be the most appropriate for you. There is nothing wrong with either approach, it depends on you and your needs. Are you able to speak with your health care provider regarding these concerns? They know you and your situation and should be able to provide you with some further suggestions. Casey ____________________________ The DC Support Team
16 years ago 0 101 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
If you are deciding to try to find a therapist, how do you determine if a psychiatrist or psychologist would work best for you? Other than the lack of an MD, what is the difference their approaches? Do psychologists just do a version of the 16 week self help program except that they talk you through it? How do I find out what I need when i don't feel like I have time to "shop around"?

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