Need to see a shrink

[mc]

I am have having some problems in life and I need to sort them out. I figure seeing a psychiatrist might be of help. I just don't know how to go about this. I live in the GTA. Anyone has any suggestions? Do I need to see my family doctor first?

 

[Kin]

I am have having some problems in life and I need to sort them out. I figure seeing a psychiatrist might be of help. I just don't know how to go about this. I live in the GTA. Anyone has any suggestions? Do I need to see my family doctor first?

Yeah, definitely go to see your family doctor first and tell him the situation. If he agrees that a psychiatrist(who's a legit doctor after all) is the way to go vs. a therapist or some other form of counselling then you can get a referral.

Just be forewarned, the mental health system is pretty crowded and it may be quite a while before you get to see someone. I'm not saying that to discourage you, just to emphasize that going to see your family doctor should be the first priority because he may be able to offer some help in the meantime.

 

[Bullfrog]

Just be forewarned, the mental health system is pretty crowded and it may be quite a while before you get to see someone. I'm not saying that to discourage you, just to emphasize that going to see your family doctor should be the first priority because he may be able to offer some help in the meantime.

At fear of stating the obvious, I echo Nik's advice because the sooner you get on the list, the sooner you get in.

If you can afford it out-of-pocket, you can usually get in to see a psychologist (private practice) in a week or so.

 

[mc]

Thanks guys. Will see the family doctor first. Or who knows may be I just need to talk to a therapist. Would I need a referral for that too?

 

[Bullfrog]

If you want it covered by your provincial health plan, yes. If you're willing (and able) to pay it on your own, then no.

 

[Stebro]

I am not sure if this is possible in Canada, but if I want an appointment fast I usually go to the ER. Then they ask me why I come to them, and I tell them that I don't know where to turn since I don't have a family doctor (which is a lie). Then they send papers to a shrink and it usually saves a couple of weeks. But the ER I go to is not really a real type of ER in the sence that they perform open heart surgery etc.

 

[Rick C.]

I'm kinda fairly well versed in the topic, if not just because I have been living it...

Going to emerg will work to see you a psychiatrist on call.  They're basically assessing if you need a couple ativan and wait to see a psychiatrist in a clinic practice, or if you're a harm to yourself or others (in which case they'll hospitalize you).

Keep in mind psychiatrists aren't normally like what you see on TV.  There's no couch where you lie down and spill your life.  Psychiatrists are basically pill pushers.  You're likely needing a pschologist or a social worker.  Most municipalities have some form of mental health services that can guide you.

If you're working, and have EAP benefits - use them, it'll likely be free.

Good luck my friend!

 

[sucka]

psychologytoday.com

I went on this site a while back seeking help.  I created a profile of what I was going through and a therapist in the area got back to me right away and she was available for sessions immediately although I didn't make the appointment.  She was very nice though.

Ms. Rosa Bergman DCTP, MTC, OSP, CAPT
google her and you'll find her Toronto practice.