Do you need to find a psychiatrist? Perhaps you are moving. Perhaps you want a new doctor, or this is the first time you've needed to see a "pdoc." Here are a few suggestions to help.
Difficulty Level: Average Time Required: Varies
Here's How:
- If you have a university within a reasonable driving distance, call their Department of Psychiatry. These psychiatrists are often on the cutting edge of research.
- Contact the local chapter of the Depressive Manic-Depressive Association (NDMDA) for a recommendation.
- If the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) has a branch in your area, get in touch with their offices for a reference. You can also get in touch with their state offices.
- Phone the psychiatric ward of a hospital in your area and ask the head nurse whom she would see if she needed a psychiatrist.
- Review the list of approved mental health care providers from your insurance company.
- Ask your general practitioner and therapist for their recommendations.
- Scan the yellow pages. Look for certifications such as "Board Certified in Psychiatry" or "Board Certified in Pediatric Psychiatry." Those who specialize in Psychopharmacology may be a good choice.
- You may want to contact the information and referral (I&R) services of the United Way in your town - particularly if you are in need of financial assistance.
- Many companies offer employee assistance programs that may be able to provide the names of psychiatrists.
- Ring a few of your family and friends for their advice.
- Telephone the referral service of the hospitals in your city.
- Your pastor or rabbi may be able to suggest the names of appropriate psychiatrists to you.
- Before you start, think about what is important to you. Do you have a strong preference for a male or female doctor? Are the doctor's religious beliefs an issue for you?
- Set up your first visit as a short consultation. This will allow you to meet the psychiatrist and his staff without shelling out a lot of money. Some may offer a free consultation.
Related Features:
- Finding a Therapist - Links
- Choosing a Therapist
- Finding a Therapist - Article
- NAMI State Directory
- NDMDA Chapter Directory
