I don’t know if I need help or not!

For most people this will be a judgment call.  The good news is that the most commonly used psychiatric medications are quite safe and have few if any side effects.  Yes, there are arguments against anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medications— they are not ‘natural’.  But there is little in modern life that is 100% natural.  I subscribe to the view that the vast majority of our thoughts occur unconsciously, and that we repress painful memories and thoughts as a normal part of dealing with life.  These repressed thoughts accumulate and can eventually cause mild to moderate symptoms that can interfere with the enjoyment of life— symptoms such as fatigue, worry, insomnia, body aches, sadness… even the inability to be ‘present’ and enjoy our families.  Short-term use of an SSRI can break the cycle of withdrawal and isolation and help us get on track again.  Life is too short to stay miserable. 

During our initial discussion I will encourage you to talk about how you are feeling, and I will get a sense of what options are right for you, based on your personal wishes, your financial and insurance situation, and the nature of your symptoms.  I will share my opinion with you and together we will decide the best path forward.

Can/will you prescribe medication?

Yes., if they are indicated and if you choose that option.  Because of concerns about drug diversion I will not prescribe addictive medications like stimulants, pain pills, or benzodiazepines over the internet.  You won’t miss out on anything, in many cases these medications only worsen symptoms in the long run.

Will insurance cover the cost?

I can submit your bill to your insurance carrier if you wish.  Insurers will usually pay a portion of the bill depending on your deductible, your insurance carrier, and your policy. 

What about psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy can be very helpful for the right person and situation.  Therapy can range from supportive, which could include helping you take a fresh look at a situation or feel less alone, or psychodynamic, in which repressed thoughts are explored and painful memories are discussed.  Psychodynamic therapy is also called ‘insight oriented therapy’, as the goal is to gain insight into one’s unconscious patterns of seeing the world.  Psychodynamic therapy is generally done weekly for about three months, but can continue for longer periods of time if the person continues to find it helpful.