Kansas City Psychiatry—Psychiatric Help in Kansas City, MO
Last summer, someone broke into Andrew’s house. The intruder punched a hole through the glass window on his back door and then reached in to unlock it. Then, they walked through every room and helped themselves to Andrew’s most valuable items: his 50-inch flat screen TV, his laptop, and an envelope full of emergency cash.
The good news is that Andrew wasn’t home when the break-in happened. But that doesn’t mean that he isn’t traumatized by what happened. He can remember every single detail, from the glass shards that were scattered across the dining room floor to the lopsided smile of the cop who reported to the incident.
Andrew hasn’t felt secure in his home ever since. He often stays up late and then struggles to fall asleep when he does eventually climb into bed. He is always on high alert and he feels anxious, too.
After visiting his son for a weekend, Andrew’s dad convinces Andrew to talk to a professional about what happened to him. He explains that he’s there to help however he can but Andrew needs a professional’s help to heal from the incident. Andrew agrees to schedule an appointment.
Andrew’s psychiatrist diagnoses him with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is commonly seen in people who have trouble recovering from a traumatic event. His psychiatrist explains that therapy will help him face his trauma head-on and heal, while medication can help to improve his harmful symptoms in the meantime.
Psychiatrists are experts who help people like Andrew. They can diagnose and treat PTSD, as well as many other conditions that affect one’s mental and emotional health. If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness or otherwise suffering, consider talking to a psychiatrist. They can help.
If you’re looking for psychiatric care in Kansas City, MO, you’re in the right place. Thriveworks Counseling can set you up with an online psychiatrist right away. Our psychiatrists meet with their clients in telehealth sessions, over the phone and video. This improves access to these services and provides optimal convenience.
Psychiatrists vs. Other Mental Health Professionals
Simply stated, psychiatrists are mental health professionals who have medical degrees. Other mental health professionals, like psychologists, hold doctorate degrees or masters degrees in a mental health-related field like psychology or counseling psychology.
Their medical degree allows psychiatrists to treat their clients with medication. This is important, as many mental health conditions can be alleviated with a prescription medication, such as an anti-anxiety medication, antipsychotic, or antidepressant. It’s important to note that these medications are not used to cure one’s illness. Instead, they help to reduce or alleviate one’s symptoms.
There are several common mental and emotional disorders that can improve with medication, including:
- Major and minor depression
- Postpartum depression
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Substance abuse disorder
Psychiatrists prescribe treatment on a case by case basis. One client might benefit most from therapy, while another might benefit most from a combination of therapy and medication. If you decide to meet with a psychiatrist, you can trust that they will have your best interest in mind and treat you based on your unique needs.
If you are prescribed a medication, you will continue to meet with your psychiatrist (typically on a monthly basis) to discuss your progress. If you are ever interested in altering your prescription, your psychiatrist will be happy to discuss this with you.
Work with a Psychiatrist at Thriveworks in Kansas City, MO
Thriveworks Counseling is committed to our mission of helping people live better. Mental illnesses and other mental health challenges are significant obstacles that stand in the way of this mission. That’s why we connect individuals with a mental health professional who can help people properly address and manage their challenges.
If you are struggling mentally or emotionally, you might benefit from talking to a psychiatrist about what you’re experiencing. They can make a diagnosis when a mental health condition is present and also offer treatment, which often involves therapy and/or medication.
To get started with a psychiatrist at T hriveworks in the Kansas City area, click here or give us a call at (573) 985-6308 for scheduling assistance. Either way, you’ll be able to schedule an appointment with an online psychiatrist who is qualified to treat people in the state of Missouri.
