Looking for a psychiatrist
Jul. 20th, 2012 01:50 pm![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png)
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Having some mental health issues that I need to get help addressing. I've looked through the tags, but the most recent post is almost two years old, and I have been trying off and on since I moved here a year and a half ago to find someone.
My experience thusfar is answering machines that ask me to leave a message, then never return my calls. Harvard Vanguard will not see me because my Primary Care is not with them. (My insurance only covers specialists with HV)
I'm at the point of being willing to pay out of pocket for someone that is alternative-lifestyle friendly and will answer their damned phone. I'd really rather not let this go on any longer, and I do not want to go to a clinic that's going to immediately decide I need to be admitted. (Which is, in my experience, what happens if you go in to a walk-in clinic with a psychiatric concern or complaint)
So does anyone have a recommendation? My insurance is with Cigna, for what it's worth. I have a car available, weekend/evening hours a huge plus, as I work within the Boston city limits.
(I have a several-years-old-diagnosis that does indicate that medication is a necessity, so I do need a psychiatrist. I am sure I will receive a further referral to a therapist from that point)
Edited to add: Thank you everyone for all the suggestions and assistance. I have an appointment to see a therapist that's in the same office as my GP. I'm feeling hopeful that this will bear fruit.
My experience thusfar is answering machines that ask me to leave a message, then never return my calls. Harvard Vanguard will not see me because my Primary Care is not with them. (My insurance only covers specialists with HV)
I'm at the point of being willing to pay out of pocket for someone that is alternative-lifestyle friendly and will answer their damned phone. I'd really rather not let this go on any longer, and I do not want to go to a clinic that's going to immediately decide I need to be admitted. (Which is, in my experience, what happens if you go in to a walk-in clinic with a psychiatric concern or complaint)
So does anyone have a recommendation? My insurance is with Cigna, for what it's worth. I have a car available, weekend/evening hours a huge plus, as I work within the Boston city limits.
(I have a several-years-old-diagnosis that does indicate that medication is a necessity, so I do need a psychiatrist. I am sure I will receive a further referral to a therapist from that point)
Edited to add: Thank you everyone for all the suggestions and assistance. I have an appointment to see a therapist that's in the same office as my GP. I'm feeling hopeful that this will bear fruit.
no subject
Date: 2012-07-21 12:19 pm (UTC)That said..... If I may toot my profession's horn, an MSW is a great choice for therapy. It is in our code of ethics to respect all lifestyles. If you feel that you are ready for talk therapy, an MSW ( look for LICSW after the name) can be an excellent choice.
Obviously this is something I am passionate about. Not only because of my profession, but because of my own experience as a person seeking mental health assistance. If you have any questions send me a message.