Many mental health problems like chronic depression and bipolar disorder are serious medical conditions that will probably require help from a psychiatrist – a trained medical doctor who specializes in treating the human mind. However, there are important qualities to look for when selecting a psychiatrist that will ensure you get the help you need to get back on the road to recovery. Deciding to seek help from a mental health professional may be one of the most important resolutions in your life. Consider what kind of help you need, and educate yourself on the types of treatment available to you. It is important to remember that a proper diagnosis is essential to getting the help you seek.
A good place to start when looking for a mental health professional is researching the level of education and certification that they possess. While there are many licensing organizations for therapists, only a nationally recognized psychiatrist, licensed by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), has received comprehensive medical training and can write prescriptions for medication. This is important because some underlying health issues, like thyroid conditions, can lead to anxiety attacks and other mental health problems. A psychiatrist can diagnose a broad range of health issues, and has the most tools available to help you get through this rough time in your life.
The relationship you form with your mental health professional, even for a short duration of treatment, will impact many aspects of your work and family life – so you will want to work with someone you feel comfortable with. Try to get referrals for local psychiatrists from people you trust. Call the offices to get information about how the initial consultation is likely to go. Ask how long the individual has been practicing, and if he or she has experience with the kind of issues you are facing. While some studies show that, in general, the more experience a therapist has, the more successful your treatment will be, don’t be afraid to work with someone less experienced if you are more comfortable with that individual. Trust your instincts; if you feel like you can work with someone, don’t be afraid to schedule an initial consultation.
During the first session, you will both be interviewing one another to determine not only what the problem is, but also whether or not you can have a productive therapist/client relationship. This doesn’t mean that everything will go easy. A good counselor will ask the hard questions about your issues, but should inspire confidence that you can be helped. Once you decide on someone, you will need to think about your goals, the duration of the therapy and the various costs involved. If you have health insurance, make sure that the physician you select is covered, and find out if there is a limit on the number of sessions.
Most treatment involves hour-long weekly or bi-monthly meetings. If you need medication, your doctor will provide you with a prescription as soon as the condition is properly diagnosed. Recovering from a mental health problem takes strength and patience. Make sure to get the help you need from a licensed professional.
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Stephen Daniels is an acclaimed NetBiz SEO 2.0 researcher. If you’re looking for a Las Vegas psychiatrist, he highly recommends Dr. Ron Zedek. This professional is nationally recognized and has over 12 years of experience in treating a wide variety of mental health issues, from depression to anxiety disorders.