I’m depressed. Is a therapist or psychiatrist best for me?
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is important to seek professional help. Both therapists and psychiatrists can be helpful in treating depression.
Therapists, also known as mental health counselors or psychotherapists, are trained to provide talk therapy to help individuals work through emotional and psychological issues. They may use techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy to help you identify and change negative patterns of thought and behavior that may be contributing to your depression.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of mental health conditions. In addition to providing talk therapy, they are also trained to prescribe medications and may recommend a combination of therapy and medication to treat depression.
It can be helpful to speak with a primary care doctor or a mental health professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs. They can help you determine whether seeing a therapist or a psychiatrist is the right choice for you, or whether a combination of both may be most effective.
Can I see both at the same time?
Yes, it is possible to see both a therapist and a psychiatrist at the same time. In fact, many people with depression find that a combination of therapy and medication is the most effective treatment approach. In fact many studies show that to overcome depression, the most effective treatment is talk therapy and psychiatric treatments at the same time.
Seeing both a therapist and a psychiatrist can provide a more comprehensive approach to treatment, as the therapist can help you work through any emotional and psychological issues you may be facing, while the psychiatrist can help you manage any medical aspects of your treatment, such as prescribing and adjusting medications as needed.
If you are considering seeing both a therapist and a psychiatrist, Open Arms Wellness is a great fit. Our therapists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and psychiatrists can work together to develop a treatment plan that is best suited to your needs and goals.
We're here to help!
If you would like to speak with someone today about these issues for yourself or a loved one, Open Arms Wellness has compassionate therapists ready to help. Call today to schedule an appointment or a free consultation with one of our qualified professionals. We offer individual, couples, and group therapy options; virtual and in-person.
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will listen to your needs and help guide you to the provider who is best for you or your loved one.
