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Who/what type of doctor should I be seeing?


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I will keep this short but I am going through some tough times. I dealt with a breakup with a coworker in October and a few days before I had found out my dad has cancer.

 

Fast forward to now and my dads cancer prognosis is starting to go south. I think it would help to talk to a professional while I'm not feeling depressed, I am feeling confused about my emotions (anger,guilt, etc.) and having thoughts about my ex and obviously what's happening with my dad.

 

I'm wondering what type of doctor should I look for? Is a psychiatrist the best option for me or should I look for a different doctor?

 

Many thanks for the help!

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A psychiatrist is an MD and can make a very pinpoint diagnosis and prescribe medications, if needed. You can also be referred to a psychologist who is a PhD and uses talk therapy to discuss and address issues from the stand point of perception and what actions to take as well as coping strategies and overall management of well-being.

Is a psychiatrist the best option for me or should I look for a different doctor?

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I work in the healthcare field. You should start off by seeing a psychologist for the health of your mental being. You will be evaluated and if medications are mentioned and needed, they can refer you to a psychiatrist.

 

This ^. If you're using an insurance plan, research a PhD, PsyD or MSW in your area within your network. You don't need to go through the hoop jump of a referral from your regular MD unless you want his or her recommendation, but in most cases you can just email or fax his or her office with your list of in-network therapists, and you'll get a call or email back with the Doc's top picks.

 

What I would NOT do is go straight to a general practitioner for a prescription of a psychotropic drug. While a psychologist or MSW cannot prescribe drugs, they are specialists who are suited to assess you and make their findings known to a prescribing MD. Sort of the same way an experienced hygienist can alert your dentist to any problems he or she finds in your mouth while cleaning.

 

My heart goes out to you, and I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad.

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I have dealt with all the different disciplines in my lifetime. Psychologist psychiatrist etc. ex husband was bipolar. I've found a licensed counselor best. Ask around for referrals to find a good one. Also general practioner is always a good ideal. There r drugs that can help in periods of severe stress. They don't have to be for a life time but a short period

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