When to ditch psychiatrist? - Depression Message Board

Erniegirl · 03-25-2003, 09:23 AM

I love my regular therapist, she's really nice, but she referred me to this psychiatrist to get meds. She totally blew off my concerns about medication (she told me I had antiquated notions of what depression was), she told me that most antidepressants have no side effects once you're used to them and she looked at me like I was an alien when I asked about withdrawal symptoms from Effexor. Also she prescribed Klonopin for me, which, according to the NIH website, is not for long-term use, but she didn't mention that. And I know if I ask her about it she will tell me that it is fine and not to be concerned about it.

Basically I just don't really like her, but apparently she's the only psychiatrist in town. The question is, should I ditch her in the middle of trying to figure out which med is best and go to a GP that my friend recommended (he helped her with her depression and med issues) or stick with her even though I don't particularly trust her opinion and don't feel like I can get an honest answer from her? Anyone have any insight that might help me make up my mind?

BPech · 03-25-2003, 12:12 PM

Hi,
I'm in the same situation as you. I love my therapist, but something is just not clicking with the psychiatrist. I can't really pinpoint it though. Maybe I think she is judging me. Have you discussed your feelings with your therapist? I did and found out that I'm not the only one feeling this way about this Dr. My therapist describes her as very business-like, I describe her as cold. For my own peace of mind I will be confronting her about my feelings on my next visit. Would this be something you would feel comfortable doing? The Dr. is the professional here and should not get angry with you. They are suppose to make you feel safe and able to open up when you are in their office. If the Dr. gets angry ask for a copy of your records and find another Dr.

I'm hoping my Dr. will lighten up a bit when I explain this to her b/c I sure don't want to start over again.

Jennita · 03-25-2003, 12:43 PM

It's the god complex. But they need you for their liveyhood so best they learn some humility.

GP's are not as bad, although sometimes they can be. But a good one listens to his patient's concerns without judgement.

rivergirl301 · 03-25-2003, 02:54 PM

I don't have concrete advice for you; just want you to know you are not alone. There are more bad docs out there than good by far! I was seeing this one doc for depression, I wasn't responding to my meds, and every office visit, he'd say, "Don't be so hard on yourself," and that would be the end of the session. I went to another doc, she added 1 new med to my routine, and I was a new person.

Would it be against your insurance if you saw the psychiatrist *and* meanwhile consulted with the GP? The reason I ask, my ins. doesn't pay mental health benefits unless I see a psychiatrist. When I was seeing my internist for depression, I'd always have to throw something else out there like, "Oh, look, I stubbed my toe," for him to put down as the reason for my visit. I was ill. I needed medical care. He and I both knew it was ludicrous for the ins. not to let him continue helping me just because he wasn't a psychiatrist.

Anyway, it is difficult for you to not have confidence in your psych. I don't think you should put too much stock in about the Klonopin (sp?). My daughter has been on it long term with no ill effects, and doctors often use meds in "off label" ways.

03-26-2003, 11:56 AM

I suggest to everyone get a copy of your records from your "psych" DRs. I found out mind put that I could possibly become addicted to my pain pills cause I tried sometthing 8+ years ago(6 times)and quit on my own. Nothing since. Because of this another DR I had to see because of work comp said I had opiod dependency. You should see what they write about you instead of being so blindly trusting with them.

You can't be open with someone that you don't trust or don't like.