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How many of you are seeing a therapist in addition to a psyche for your BP and cycling

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Bipolar Disorder
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Posted 7/1/2009 2:05 PM (GMT 0)
about my second visit to my psyche when I was getting really comfortable with him - I really like him but in our rural area they are few and far between and his partner was out on med leave.  Anyway, h  informed me that he was basically there to Rx the right meds and I needed to see a therapist.   He hasn't said anymore about it and I have been seeing him for almost a year, he just keeps extending the time between visits.  Now I am feeling I do need a therapist.  What do you think of them.  What kind of credentials do you look for??????
Posted 7/1/2009 2:58 PM (GMT 0)
Hi 3blackdogs,

I truly believe having a therapist is a crucial part of bipolar management. I would ask your psych for a recommendation -- he surely knows who the better therapists in your area are. You could just call for this, you don't have to make an appt, unless you have an appt coming up. I would make sure the therapist has a relevant degree, naturally, but most important is how you feel with them. Make an appt with someone and feel them out. Do you feel comfortable? Are they easy to talk to? Do you feel like they are kind and on your side? This person should be your ally, your advocate, you should feel like you trust them. If not, try someone different. A spotty relationship with a therapist can be worse than no relationship at all.

Hope this helps,

serafena
Posted 7/2/2009 12:17 AM (GMT 0)

I went to a therapist for awhile at the suggestion of my psych doc, but mostly because he thought I have a social anxiety disorder in addition to my bipolar.  I told him I don't think I have social anxiey, I just hate crowds (lol).  I don't think they necessarily go together.  Anyway, I think therapy is important for me to sort out my feelings and prioritize which dysfunctional part of me to work on the most.  I'm not going to therapy right now because of health insurance issues, but I'm geetting back into a spirituality class which is sort of therapy for me.

Posted 7/2/2009 4:01 PM (GMT 0)
My husband sees a psychiatrist for his meds and a therapist to actually work on the daily stuff - coping skills, venting, talking about the side effects.

For the most part, there aren't many psychiatrists who treat patients with "talk therapy"; most are purely clincial and only Rx medication. For example, Dr. Melfi from "The Sopranos" was a pdoc who did talk therapy and Rx. Those are VERY far and few between now. Luckily for my husband his pdoc and therapist work in the same facility so when he goes to therapy he will see the pdoc and get the Rx.

Like Serafena said, call your pdoc to get a recommendation for a therapist. Perhaps the pdoc can find one closer to your home. Also, you should look for someone who is licensed and has worked with BP patients. As we all know, it's a complicated condition that not a lot of research has been done on until recently so it would be better if you saw someone who has a great deal of experience and knowledge of working with BP.

Good luck!

BPWife
Posted 7/3/2009 7:26 AM (GMT 0)

I've been seeing a therapist ever since I was diagnosed.  I've learned quite a lot from her.  It has helped me tremendously!  I still see her.  Right now I am seeing her weekly, since I am going through some stressful times.

I would suggest that you give it a try.

Best wishes. blush

Posted 7/5/2009 3:08 AM (GMT 0)
Sukay,

I hope everything is okay? Do you need anything?

(((Hugs)))

serafena
Posted 7/7/2009 1:49 AM (GMT 0)
I see a therapist along with my pdoc and it has been of great help to me. I have major issues from my past as far as abuse, etc. My therapist helped me sort through those hidden emotions which inturn helped my moods. Now we deal with present day stuff. If I need to vent I can and that always helps. I agree with the others. Find a good therapist and go with 'em. Best wishes to you!
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