Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Pediatric Psychiatric Nurse.....opinions....differences??

[sheryl]

Psychologist = Therapist, Counselor, no meds

 

Psychiatrist = MD, prescribe meds, may or may not do "some" therapy/counseling

 

Pediatric Psychiatric Nurse = what does this person do?

 

 

If you all remember my dd's struggles with severe behavioral issues, which one would you recommend?

 

She's been to a psychologist AND psychiatrist both. Her psy/MD moved out of state. I'm looking for a closer psychologist, but have not found one yet.

 

Actually, I'd like to not have to run to both the psychologist and psychiatrist. It's expensive and time consuming. Before you say it.....yes, I'll do what it takes to help dd....spending time and money. BUT, IF we don't HAVE to then why would we? I'd like to find a psychiatrist/md for meds who also offers some counsel/therapy like her last psychiatrist that moved out of state.

 

Now, would a Pediatric Psychiatric Nurse meet both of the above except not an md, BUT one who can dispense meds AND offer counsel/therapy?

 

Lastly, my friend told me yesterday that she was told that a neuropsychologist CAN presrcibe meds. Have you heard that? Would this person also offer counsel/therapy? Or only evals?

 

Thanks.

[Dobela]

If the nurse is a nurse practitioner, she can prescribe meds. Honestly, I would be willing to start there because in general I have found they have the most time to spend with me initially and if they cannot help they can send me on to the right person.

 

ETA: I don't have experience in the areas you are asking for help in. Last week however my dd had an appt with a neurology nurse practitioner. It was a good experience. She spent more time with dd than most doctors, was able to write prescriptions, and to make referrals to other doctors and other clinics.

Edited June 22, 2011 by Dobela

[sheryl]

If the nurse is a nurse practitioner, she can prescribe meds. Honestly, I would be willing to start there because in general I have found they have the most time to spend with me initially and if they cannot help they can send me on to the right person.

 

ETA: I don't have experience in the areas you are asking for help in. Last week however my dd had an appt with a neurology nurse practitioner. It was a good experience. She spent more time with dd than most doctors, was able to write prescriptions, and to make referrals to other doctors and other clinics.

 

Yes, thanks! My dd, who has controlled epilepsy, sees a pediatric neurologist on a regular basis. This dr. is suggesting another specialist.

 

There are "pediatric psychiatric nurse" which is a pediatric nurse with training in psychiatric issues....right?

 

There's just not much to choose from, it seems.

[Ottakee]

Yes, thanks! My dd, who has controlled epilepsy, sees a pediatric neurologist on a regular basis. This dr. is suggesting another specialist.

 

There are "pediatric psychiatric nurse" which is a pediatric nurse with training in psychiatric issues....right?

 

There's just not much to choose from, it seems.

 

Honestly, I don't know but I have been VERY pleased with the NP that we have seen for other issues. It might be worth a try--esp. if they have a "higher up" they could consult with as your dd's case is more complex. Often though they spend more time with you than most other doctors do.

[sheryl]

Ottakee, That's good to know. I just can't seem to find a ped psychiatrist (since my dd's moved out of state) that accepts insurance. However, I asked in this thread b/c my dd's former psychiatrist "dr. t" has given the care of her former patients to this pediatric psychiatric nurse who trained under dr. t. Furthermore, this new "nurse" still "communicates" with dr. t when necessary as dr t still has her former patients' records.

 

I believe I'll start with this nurse then. Thanks.

[Tarreymere]

Ottakee, That's good to know. I just can't seem to find a ped psychiatrist (since my dd's moved out of state) that accepts insurance. However, I asked in this thread b/c my dd's former psychiatrist "dr. t" has given the care of her former patients to this pediatric psychiatric nurse who trained under dr. t. Furthermore, this new "nurse" still "communicates" with dr. t when necessary as dr t still has her former patients' records.

 

I believe I'll start with this nurse then. Thanks.

 

She must be a nurse practitioner, and not just an RN who works in pediatric psych and may or may not be certified. She sure sounds like the person to go to in this situation.

[LBS]

The combination that worked best for two situations in my family, was to use a psychologist, who had the time and level of training I wanted, for talk therapy, and made recommendations for meds, teamed with my regular doctor and pediatrician, who was already an expert in the family member's needs. The MD was aware and on board for the prescibing, and overseeing the physical aspect of the drugs, while also keeping tabs on the psychological aspect. The psychologist would write letters to the docs, when needed. This worked really well.

[sheryl]

The combination that worked best for two situations in my family, was to use a psychologist, who had the time and level of training I wanted, for talk therapy, and made recommendations for meds, teamed with my regular doctor and pediatrician, who was already an expert in the family member's needs. The MD was aware and on board for the prescibing, and overseeing the physical aspect of the drugs, while also keeping tabs on the psychological aspect. The psychologist would write letters to the docs, when needed. This worked really well.

 

She must be a nurse practitioner, and not just an RN who works in pediatric psych and may or may not be certified. She sure sounds like the person to go to in this situation.

 

 

Thank you LBS and Rainefox. This little thread has really helped....along with the other responses. I will step out and just go to one, we can always change. Although I don't like the idea of constantly switching and perhaps at the root of me finding the best fit upfront.

 

LBS, that is an interesting take. The psych "recommends" to ped and ped prescribes. That is good and have made a mental note. I may go to the nurse now as she already is in place directly from my dd's former psychiatrist.

 

THANKS everyone!!!