would you see a male psychiatrist vs female?

[Anonymous]

I'm going to counseling for deprssion/anxiety and am trying to pick a Dr. Many of my options are male. I wonder if a male Dr. would be best suited to counsel me as a female? I.e., can he relate, is it important?

[Anonymous]

I have seen a few since I was a teenager for depession. I started with a male pshc. I hated it. It could have been bc I was a teen. But I found him to be arrogant and obnoxious.

However, after that bout I found a female psychiatrist and psychologist. I loved them. I feel they are just a little more compassionate.

I have not seen anyone in a while and off the meds. But if I feel the depression rearing it's ugly head again, I would defintely seek out a female.

[Anonymous]

I'd prefer female. If you are female, I think they can relate to you on many levels. Self-image, body image, women as portrayed in the media, in professional situations, etc.

[Anonymous]

It depends on the individual fit, not on sex. And if you're seeing a psychiatrist, you won't get talk therapy anyway so you're talking about an initial eval and then 15-minute med management visits. It's not going to be as intense as a therapy relationship.

As a psychologist, I recommend finding a good therapist based on fit, not on sex, and asking her or him to recommend a psychiatrist if you need meds.

[Anonymous]

I have seen one male and a couple female psychiatrists/therapists over the years. I, personally, have always done better with the females (I usually like female docs for other sicknesses too). I actually didn't last too long with the male. Nice guy, compassionate, knowledgeable, just not a good fit for me. Very different ideas of what the end goals should be and what I/he thought I needed. I agree with previous poster. Find someone who is a good fit. In my case, this was always someone with compassion but no nonsense (was willing to call me on what I needed). Remember that making the and getting to the appointment is the first step, and kudos to you for working toward that. Extra hint, usually receptionists are very good at helping/giving a bit of info if you know what you want, i.e. "Your office comes highly recommended, but I'm having trouble picking a doc. I'm in need of a doc who is compassionate but no nonsense and can put up with lots of tears. Could you suggest one in your office that might work well with these qualities?"

[Anonymous]

I have not seen a difference. I have a male doctor now, and it is fine.