Eating Disorder Psychiatrist

When standard talk therapy alone is not enough, Psychologists may refer eating disorder patients to an Eating Disorder Psychiatrist. As an Eating Disorder Psychiatrist, you share some of the same duties as a Psychologist, such as administering and evaluating written psychological tests and offering face-to-face therapy sessions, but one important distinction exists. Unlike a Psychologist, an Eating Disorder Psychiatrist can prescribe medication.

Your patients come to you in one of two ways. They either see you for both counseling and medication, or are referred by their primary Psychologist for medication only. The Psychologist will continue to coach the patient through his treatment plan while you handle the medication end of business.

Prescribing medication, as any Doctor knows, is more than filling out a piece of paper. You need to really understand the patient and any risk factors in her situation. If the patient suffers from mood swings that border on bipolar disorder, an antidepressant could worsen the symptoms, not lessen them. Before treating the eating disorder, you search for any other mental or emotional disorders and review the patient’s medical history.

When you’re not counseling patients, you research the latest medications on the market. New pills come out every day, and it’s up to you to stay on top of the latest news about what works and what has potentially harmful side effects. Your knowledge helps others gain control over a disorder that leaves them feeling helpless. Thanks to you, patients can take positive steps toward a brighter future.