What To Do? I Like The Substitute Psychiatrist Better.

[Seasounds]

Please share any helpful answers or thoughts, after your read my brief description, of my situation.

Situation: I had a big exacerbation at work the first part of August, that is slowly waning. My regular psychiatrist (Dr. A. ) and I both agreed that I needed support, during his month vacation. So I set up appointments, with the psychiatrist (Dr. Z) who is covering, in his absence. I had no complaints about Dr. A., except his practice is so full, that he, only 50 % of the time, can fit me in, if I need an extra appointment, during an exacerbation.

Much to my surprise, I like/respond better to Dr. Z., better. She has more availabilities, when I'm in a crisis. I relax more with Dr. Z., I feel more 'related to' by Dr. Z- understands my emotional perspective better and expresses more empathy. Both Dr. A. and Dr. Z, give helpful suggestions and expand my insights.

Questions:
1. Has this happened to you?
2. How does one discuss this situation with either psychiatrist?
A. With Dr. A., "While you were on vacation, I realized that Dr. Z gives me, somethings that I didn't even
know were missing, from our relationship.)"
B. With Dr. Z., "Would you consider taking me as a patient;
" Would you take me as a patient, even though you only suppose to be the 'substitute' doctor?"
"Does my request, create any problems for me-(working with Dr. Z)?"
"If you accepted me as a patient, does it create problems with Dr. A?"
C. Do you know of psychiatrists, who share clients?
3. How does one make the transition, when both Providers know, and depend on each other?

Thank you,

 

[Nyssa]

Hello,

Answers to your questions :

1. No.

2. I would go with option B. Because you seem more comfortable with Z. If it is not possible for her to be your new therapist, she is not supposed to tell A. That way, it won't be embarrassing to stay in therapy with A if that is what you choose to do.

C. My T. works with another T. but I don't know if any client ever switched. I suppose they wouldn't mind.

3. I imagine it depends on the psychiatrists.

How long have you been in therapy with A? And how many times have you seen Z?

 

[Friday]

Talk with Z, first. That way you can find out practice policies (like if there is an inner office non-compete, so they cannot take on clients of the other unless asked, or if this is a fairly regular thing), and if she's willing to take you on... And the worst thing that may come of it is a compliment...if she is unable or unwilling to take you on... It's still a compliment to be asked.

 

[risingsun]

Would you consider taking me as a patient;

I think if you asked this psychiatrist if she could take you on as a patient, it wouldn't hurt. All you need to say is that you think it is a better fit and/or it meets your scheduling needs better at this current time. As for your current doctor, they are used to patients coming and going I think. You need to do what is best for you and your needs. You come first. You hire them. If this new doctor can take you, you don't even need to discuss or have another appointment with the other psychiatrist. Follow your gut and your instincts. I had a situation where I was switching and trying to tell the therapist and it turned into too many questions as to why, etc. You don't owe anyone explanations. It just causes too much unnecessary angst. Just switch if this doctor will take you. If you are on any medications, ensure that she can continue prescribing what you are on. Best of luck to you! Rising Sun.

 

[shandemonium]

I could not agree more with risingsun (above)! In addition to everything risingsun said, I would add that a person who is really interested in your healing would be happy for you to go wherever you need for that! No explanation needed!

You could also just stop making appointments with Dr. A since he seems to have a hard time scheduling you anyway. If he eventually calls you, just say you found someone who is a better fit for you.

 

[Seasounds]

Thank you for your knowledge, and support. Good-byes are hard for me, especially with people, who have been kind, respectful and helpful. I will go ahead and have the conversation with Dr. Z, if they give me confidentiality, on this one issue. In addition to asking about taking me, I will need ask how long Dr. Z plans to be in practice (Dr. Z is more elderly, than Dr. A.).