Why See a Psychiatric Professional vs Primary Care for Psychiatric Medications?

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Unfortunately, most of us pay less attention to our mental health. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD etc are often ignored initially, however, we can only ignore symptoms for so long. Psychiatric medications can play a vital role in treating intrusive symptoms, though you may not know who to see to begin to explore this option. 

Many choose to discuss their mental health concerns with their primary care doctor first. This can be a wise first step, especially if you have a positive relationship with your general practitioner. Some primary care doctors will start patients on psychiatric medications, some prefer to refer to a specialist such as a psychiatrist, psychiatric physician assistant or psychiatric nurse practitioner. While your primary care provider plays a crucial role in your care, psychiatric prescribers are often better equipped to treat behavioral health concerns. 

Benefits to Seeing a Specialist

There are many reasons to seek a specialist when you are experiencing intrusive mental health symptoms. Reasons to see a psychiatric professional can include: 

1. Specialized Training and Advanced Knowledge. Psychiatric professionals specialize in treating mental health conditions. They have extensive training focusing on diagnosing and treating these types of symptoms. Mental health concerns can be complex. If you are experiencing intrusive symptoms you deserve to see a specialist. 
2. Personalized Treatment. When you see a specialist you are focusing on a specialized area of concern. When you have intrusive mental health symptoms it is important that you have a plan developed specifically for your unique needs. Psychiatric prescribers are better able to provide personalized care. 
3. Advanced Experience with Complex Conditions. Some diagnoses, such as Bipolar Disorder, require advanced experience and care. If your symptoms are severe or intense you may require a higher level of knowledge and care to reach remission. Psychiatric professionals also have more comprehensive resources which may be necessary depending on your diagnosis. 
4. Comprehensive Care. Psychiatric professionals are able to provide more than simply medication management. They are able to provide holistic care and explore ways for you to improve your mental health beyond medications. Medication management is often pivotal in recovery, however, a specialist can explore other options with you as well. They are also better able to explore how your mental health can impact your physical health. While psychiatric professionals don’t necessarily provide therapy, they can explore ways that lifestyle changes can make a difference and can help you to find a therapist that is right for you. 

Get Started with a Psychiatric Professional

There are many benefits to seeing a specialist to address your mental health concerns. You deserve specialized care focused on meeting your unique needs. There is no one size fits all approach to psychiatric medication management. It is important that you find the prescriber that is right for you. 

Carolina Counseling Services in Southern Pines contracts with caring, licensed psychiatric professionals. Call today to get started. Online appointments are available making getting the care you need easier than ever before.