Too many options for a psychiatrist?

June 7, 2010 7:08 PM

How do you find a psychiatrist when there are so many options? I have PHCS health insurance, but none of my recommendations for psychiatrists (from friends, family, and my primary doctor) are covered by my insurance. However, in each 10 block radius in NYC - there are about 50 doctors that show up - how is this possible? How can I pick a good one? Recommendations appreciated.
posted by tsq to Health & Fitness (4 answers total)

I faced a similar challenge and working through them one by one was the only option I found. Give them a call and speak to them for five or ten minutes (they may call back). Its likely that some won't be taking new patients anyway.

There may be a website or something, but the only way to know if they're good for you is to speak/meet with them directly, and this can take time.
posted by shotsy at 7:36 PM on June 7, 2010

Your GP can also be a good source for a recommendation for a good psychiatrist.
posted by 4ster at 7:52 PM on June 7, 2010

Does your work have an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)? They should be able to confidentially refer you to a couple of good nearby providers that are in your network.
posted by platinum at 2:14 AM on June 8, 2010

None of the good psychiatrists and therapists in NYC take insurance.

Basically.

If you have half decent out of network coverage, go with a recommendation from someone you trust, I bet you'll have to try three or less.

If not, and you need to go under insurance, do what shotsy suggested - and be prepared for a long process of weeding people out.

Depending on your needs of course. If they're urgent and/or fairly simple, just get to the first one that feels half decent and get a starting prescription.
posted by Salamandrous at 5:42 AM on June 8, 2010