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The question was submitted 06/07/2008

Subject: how do I find an inexpensive therapist?

Hello, I am a 45 year old male with a wife, 3 kids(ages 11, 3, and 1)and a mortgage. I work as warehouse manager.
I was first diagnosed with clinical dep about 5 years ago, although I suspect it has been a part of me for most of my life. It usually manifests itself as severe fatigue, tiredness, a just "flat" feeling, where I cannot get excited about anything. Sometimes this leads to frustration and anger. I have just had the longest sustained period of this, for the past 7 days. I was seeing a psychologist for the first 2 years, and he put me on prozac, which I am still on. My wife says they haven't been working this week!
I need to see a professional again, but my GP only recommends a few, and that none of them bulkbill. They are all expensive(at $160 a visit)and I can't afford to do this again.
I live near brisbane and work on Brisbane's southside. Without being specific, I want to know if my GP is right, or he being lazy?(I have been with him for 12 years). Are there usually more therapists available and do any bulkbill? How do I go about finding a therapist without going through a GP? How do I find the "right" one? I know i need help from a professional therapist, but I don't know how to get it.

Answer from DepNet

Hello, and thank you for taking the time to write to us regarding your depression symptoms. An important first step in recovery for anyone, is to recognize when they need help; please take a moment to affirm yourself for taking the positive step of seeking further assistance.

From what you say, you feel that your current doctor may not be providing you with the links to the additional care you require. One of the most important parts in recovery from depression or anxiety, is the rapport that exists between a doctor and patient. If you feel your relationship with your GP has become a little stale, and that you are not comfortable relating your concerns, or that your doctor is not providing the care you require for this issue at this time, it may be beneficial to see another GP who is experienced in dealing with mental health issues. On Brisbane’s southside, a useful link may be to contact the General Practice Logan Area Network (their number is 07 3290 3733) and to ask for the numbers of GP’s in that area who have a special interest in mental health. Under Commonwealth and local initiatives, GP’s in this area are able to refer patients to psychologists whose fees are partially or totally covered by Medicare or other grants.

A GP with additional training in mental health issues, will be sympathetic to your concerns, and will almost certainly review your physical health (to exclude ay medical issues that may be contributing to your symptoms) and take an inventory of your mental health symptoms. In addition to any counselling they offer themselves, they are best place to organize a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will almost certainly review the many behavioural and lifestyle issues that contribute to improved mental health (for example healthy sleep and dietary patterns) and may suggest some modification to your current medication. (With respect to the latter, do not attempt to cease or change your medication independently of a GP or psychiatrist.)

All the best.

The answer was published on DepNet 14/07/2008