How to Switch Psychiatrists

Whether you are moving, your old psychiatrist is no longer practicing or you are just generally dissatisfied, sometimes it's necessary to switch psychiatrists. There are several things to consider when doing so, including whether or not they accept your insurance, if they have special knowledge that relates to your mental health (e.g., they specialize in depression, etc.), and whether or not they would be a good fit. Here are a few ways to make that journey less perilous.

Instructions

• 1

  If you are on good terms with your psychiatrist and are not leaving out of dissatisfaction, asking his opinion may be the quickest and most satisfactory way to find a new psychiatrist. Your old psychiatrist knows you fairly well and can recommend another practitioner who can work well with you. It's likely that your present psychiatrist knows other practitioners in the field and is familiar with their expertise.

• 2

  If asking your psychiatrist for a referral is not an option, ask your therapist or medical doctor for a recommendation. Other professionals (especially therapists, social workers and psychologists) often work with psychiatrists and may know who would work well with you.

• 3

  If you have no one to ask for a referral, calling your local hospital for a list of doctors can help you find a psychiatrist. However, it's important to note that, according to the American Psychological Association, if you are struggling with mental health issues, psychotropic medication alone is not nearly as effective as a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Therefore, it may be beneficial to start psychotherapy as well as search for a psychiatrist.

• 4

  Call the psychiatrist's office. Once you have found the names of several psychiatrists, there are several questions you may want to ask. Be sure to write them down before you call. You may want to ask what type of insurance the doctor takes, what she specializes in, what her rates are and if she offers other services.

• 5

  If you are satisfied with the answers you have received, schedule a consultation. If not, keep looking.

• 6

  Once you have set up your first appointment, be sure to have a copy of your records from your previous psychiatrist sent to your new one. You can do this by visiting your former psychiatrist's office, signing a release and having the office fax the information to your new doctor -- or you can go to your new psychiatrist, sign a release and have the new doctor request your records. You may also want to get a release from your therapist or doctor. Providing access to your medical records can help your new psychiatrist get a better idea of your condition, which provides for easier diagnosis and medication management. You can also sign a release allowing your psychiatrist to talk to your doctor or counselor.

• 7

  When seeing your new psychiatrist for the first time, write down your symptoms or bring along a list of topics you want to discuss. Also, be sure to bring your insurance information. This should provide for a smooth transition.