Unsure about whether it's PPD, just being overwhelmed with two young kids, or ...

[Anonymous]

...finally needing to speak with someone about issues with extended family. I want to make an appointment to speak with someone, but I'm not sure who - a psychologist, a psychiatrist, a therapist, a social worker? Someone else? What is the difference, and where should I start? I don't really want medication, but what if I end up needing it? I wouldn't want to start over having to explain my life story to a second doc if that is the case. How much should I expect to pay? Is it covered by insurance? Any insight?

[Anonymous]

I'm a Ph.D. but I have seen many highly talented master's-level counselors do good work, so the education level and training is less important than a good fit, IMO. A psychiatrist won't do talk therapy so you wouldn't necessarily tell your whole story to someone new anyway. And you shouldn't, again IMO, refer yourself to a psychiatrist. You might want to speak to your ob/gyn (who can prescribe if you need it) and ask for a referral to a therapist. Or ask friends for recommendations.

[Anonymous]

Thank you

[Anonymous]

I'm the 15:04 poster and wanted to add I might be able to give you some good names, depending on the location you're looking for. Cost will vary and your insurance may cover some of it.

[Anonymous]

I live in NW DC near MD border, so I could do downtown, Bethesda, or even Rockville. I would love a starting point. I did get a couple of names from my OB. The first one I called was Dr Hookman.

[Anonymous]

Me again. . . . In the District I highly recommend Dr. Ellen Baker, a psychologist with an office on Washington Circle. 202-429-9829. I have no idea if she has any openings, but it's worth a call. She's terrific; I saw her myself some years ago, when I was in training.

[Anonymous]

I have had good results at The Ross Center. I just started a new med 10 days ago, and I feel like a new person. My baby is 8 months old. I forgot who the old me was!