Hello,

I wonder if anyone can give advice.

I am being pulled between Phsychiatrist and Psychologist. The
Psychiatrist had prescribed medication for Cyclothemia (I think I
am actually Bipolar as I haven't filled them in on everything) but
the meds are working pretty well in general. The Psychologist,
who I have seen twice is convinced that my difficulties can be
helped through therepy only. I am very keen to do CBT because
my behaviour has been so distructive in the past, I am very
willing to commit to working hard and learning as much as I can.

However, this doesn't change the fact that I have been told by
another Dr. that I have a chemical imbalance... and for this CBT
will only go so far because I cannot control the flow of chemicals
in my brain. Yes, I can learn about triggers etc. and subdue
some changes but I came out of the consulting room yesterday
feeling very angry.

I felt that my family life was being blamed for everything. That
isn't
fair, not on my family or me... and it is quite insulting to the
Psychiatrist's diagnosis (his coleague)... Do these people ever
work together?

In the NHS, you as the patient are constantly made to feel that if
you put a foot wrong then you will lose treatment so I am scared
of standing up to the Psychologist and saying that I want the CBT
but to not approach it through past troubles. He started talking
about mood swings... he got it completely wrong.

He is blaming things on my father and I am very angry. My dad is
etcentric but not a bad person. If I say no to the CBT treatment I
will never get it again.

Have others experienced this type of problem?

I am not to see my psychiatrist for 3 months. I don't want to keep
bothering her... none of the Drs ever really listen to me... it is
like
being in a dream/nightmare where you are talking about really
serious things and people don't respond.

I can't afford to go private as I am on benefits.

Thank you.