How Do I Find a Good Psychiatrist in the San Jose, Ca Area That Will Do More Than Just Prescribe Meds?
Question by Renay G: How do I find a good Psychiatrist in the San Jose, Ca area that will do more than just prescribe meds?
I am looking for a psychiatrist in the San Jose, Ca area that will use drugs sparingly and practices psychotherapy or works closely with a therapist. So many doctors out there are just pill pushers and don’t even consider there may be other solutions. This is for a 24 year old who has been diagnosed as being bipolar… but we are still not 100% sure if the diagnosis is correct.
Best answer:
Answer by T K5
Most psychiatrists (who have an M.D. or D.O.) tend to be “pill doctors”. However, I would suggest that you find a “clinic” that includes a psychotherapist (such as a PhD-level, or PsyD-level licensed clinical psychologist), or licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or MFT/MFCC that works within that “clinic” that practices therapy and that is familiar working a wide range of patients with psychiatric conditions, including bipolar disorder.
To get a **thorough** assessment, you would ideally get complete psychological assessment testing, which would be quite extensive–and expensive–and I don’t know if many insurances would cover this. However, for serious symptoms presenting as bipolar disorder, it would be important to being medication treatment first. Also, a full blood blood workup would probably be recommended, too. I would also suggest stating your concerns with your psychiatrist or other medical doctor about not wanting to be on **too many meds**. Also, if you have financial issues, as your medical doctor (psychiatrist, etc.) about sliding scale psychotherapy, check with your insurance, or trying calling (free!) 211 (from a landline) and inquire about free or low-cost counseling services in your area (San Jose).
I hope this information is of help to you.
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