Damian asked 13 years ago
Hi Ashley. Just about 15 minutes ago I went to a walk-in to get a proper diagnosis on my mental state. On my mothers side of the family, they suffer from depression and I had been diagnosed before, but this time it feels like it has really hit me hard this time. Instead of frantically self diagnosing myself, I really wanted a professional to tell me. But it felt like I couldn’t really communicate my feelings to the doc. He just just sort of rushed through it. He prescribed me with medication and told me I’m just not motivated. I don’t want to use medication from a 5 minute talk from somone who didn’t even look me in the eye. It’s true I’m not motivated though and I feel at a loss. But I also feel like I can’t sustain a true smile. I want someone I can explain my whole situation to with time and true comprehension, not an in and out. I’m wondering what’s the difference between a counsellor and a therapist, what their specialties are, and which one should I go to? Yours at lost, Damian.
Insight Psychological Staff answered 11 years ago
Damian,
I admire your strength and courage in confronting your struggles with depression; particularly since you have struggled with it in the past. It can be challenging to overcome, but it doesn’t sound like you’re ready to give up the fight!
I’m really sorry that your experience with the doctor was not as positive and helpful as you had hoped. Medical doctors have the challenge of gathering information, completing an assessment, and providing a diagnosis and treatment within a short period of time. As a result, appointments can often feel rushed, and patients sometimes leave feeling frustrated, unheard, and unsupported.
I absolutely encourage you to meet with a counsellor or therapist who is trained and qualified to provide psychotherapy treatment services. At Insight Psychological, our therapists are highly educated, trained, and experienced to provide you with the support and collaboration that you are looking for. You have the right to be treated with respect and dignity, and to to be heard and attended to in a way that is comfortable and at your own pace. At Insight Psychological, you will have the opportunity to talk openly and freely about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and therapeutic environment, and an opportunity to explore the option of taking medication in conjunction with therapy, through discussion and education. Our website has information specifically regarding depression if you’d like to take a look.
If you are interested in meeting one of our therapists, have a look at the staff profiles for more information about their training and specialities, and call us at 780-461-1717 to book an appointment.
We look forward to hearing from you soon,
Ashley
