What to Expect When Meeting With Your Psychiatrist

1 in 5 Americans has a form of mental illness that requires the attention of a medical professional. Deciding to meet with a mental health professional is a brave decision and it shows that you are self-aware and you recognize that you may need a little help in certain areas. The task of choosing the best help can be overwhelming and a bit confusing, however, this guide will show there are many great professionals out there that can help during your time of need.

Not all mental health professionals specialize in the same field and it’s important to know the difference for you to choose the best help.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in psychiatry. They can prescribe medications as well as offer psychotherapy and psycho-social interventions.

A clinical psychologist has a doctorate in psychology and can conduct psychological evaluation, testing, and psychotherapy, however, they cannot prescribe medication.

Rehabilitation psychologists, psychiatric social workers, school counselors, and psychiatric nurses usually have a degree in their field of study and they help with mild to moderate psychological conditions.

When deciding on whether to see a professional, you must be comfortable talking to the specialist. They should be knowledgeable in helping you decipher your feelings and they shouldn’t be biased. Confidentiality is also pertinent; they should always keep your information confidential unless they are legally obligated to notify authorities about certain things.

Everyone goes through difficult phases in life and we all deal with stress, and conflict, and have moments of sadness. When it becomes overbearing or overwhelming and limits your ability to function, it is crucial to know when you need a little bit of help and when you need to see a mental health professional who can provide clarity and lend an unbiased ear.

Please reach out to a mental health professional if you are:

1. Feeling a loss of interest in social activities

2. Feeling sad or depressed most of the day

3. Feeling unmotivated to do the things you love and enjoy

4. Having excessive moments of paranoia or anxiety

5. Having extreme changes in sleeping and eating

6. Having thoughts of worthlessness or guilt

7. Struggling with dependence on any substances

8. Suffering from any form of abuse

9. Have experienced a significant life change or loss

10. Having thoughts of suicide and death

To know the best therapy for you, please reach out to a psychiatrist, mental health nurse practitioner, or therapist in Dallas, Houston, or San Antonio, Tx area, we offer both virtual and in-office appointments. Visit and contact us at https://www.lytepsych.com.

References:

10 Signs You Need To Talk To A Mental Health Professional (mine. co)

10 Things You Should Know Before Seeing a Psychiatrist - Cognitive Psychiatry of Chapel Hill (cognitive-psychiatry.com)

Telltale Signs You Need to See a Mental Health Professional - Bakers Field Magazine