Do most of y’all see a psych doctor or a family doctor for your ocd? I see a family doctor and wonder if i should see a psychiatrist instead. Idk. My family doctor is fine but we just don’t go much into detail and all they do is write me a script for my SSRI and benzo I need. I have to wonder though if it’s better to see a doctor that specializes in mental health for meds. What is your opinion?
Hi there! The most effective type of therapist for OCD would be an ERP Specialist. Are you familiar with ERP?
@ I am! I know that therapists can’t prescribe medicine so I was mainly speaking about who to see for meds. A family doctor VS a psychiatrist. I’m familiar with ERP I just have never followed through with it because it is intimidating. I am going to try it though as scary as it sounds because I know it works from everything I’ve researched
@Itsheathersocd - Thank you so much for sharing! I was very nervous to start ERP myself.. I understand that. It's scary to think about facing the fears you generally work hard to avoid. It can do wonders.. Please let me know if you have any questions about it! You should totally give it a try!
I always tell people that you want someone who specializes in OCD- typically this is a psychiatrist and a mental health therapist who practices ERP. Combining the two can be highly effective. I think that once you are stable on medication it is fine to switch to the family doctor-at least that is my non-medical opinion. But this is a decision you should make with your providers. I always say that I wouldn't see any ole doctor if I had cancer, so why would I with my mental health? It is just as important!
@NOCD Therapist - Stacy Q. That was really helpful! Thank you!!
