How to find a psychiatrist or psychologist?

iristony · June 2012

One of my close friends is having a really rough time (married for two years and husband just told her he never wants to have a baby all of the sudden and she is convinced he is cheating on her), she just lost her job of 10 years, she thinks she has an eating disorder (and I think I agree), and basically she just feels like life is falling apart and after endless hours with her on the phone I really want to help her by suggesting someone she goes to talk to. I am thinking psychiatrist vs psychologist because I am pretty certain she needs to be prescribed some anti depressants. Does anyone have an amazing recommendation of someone or advice on how to find someone? She lives on the main line but I am sure she would be willing to drive a little bit for the right person. I just do not know where to begin looking. I guess I can tell her to ask her regular doctor for a rec, but she maybe more willing to go if it was someone she heard good things about I am surre.

MsKellDel · June 2012

I would start with going to my primary, some will prescribe anxiety/anti depressants, and they should be able to recommend someone. Also, definitely get a list from the insurance company of who accepts your plan unless she is willing to pay out of pocket.

babe2331 · June 2012

I agree with Kel- the primary doctor should be able to help with a referral and maybe even medications for the time being. If your friend has an HMO, the primary would have to write the referral anyway in order for it to be covered under your friend's insurance and it would have to be an in-network provider. Most family doctors are pretty familiar with who is in the network. You should def check on what the limit for "mental health" is under the insurance, as many insurances have a per calendar year limit on the number of visits.

erbur78 · June 2012

http://www.lifecounseling.org/office_locations.html

If you need assistance in determining which office is most convenient and would best serve your needs, please call us at 800-882-2799.

They have multiple locations, three on the main line.They offer a myriad of services, including psychiatry, focus on eating disorders, etc.

I would have her talk with a therapist first and then get a recommendation for a psychiatrist from the therapist based upon her needs. The problem with medicine is that it is not a one-size-fits-all remedy. It can take many months of trial and error to find the right drug(s) and it can be incredibly frustrating. She will want to have a strong foundation of counseling to rely on, meds or no meds.

Good luck to your friend.

How to find a psychiatrist or psychologist?

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