Need Good Psychologist recommendation in San Diego - ThinnerTimes

Bypassingme619 · 02-20-2005, 10:48 PM

I am looking for any good recommendations for a WLS friendly Psychiatrist. I know there are still many Psychiatrist who have no clue about WLS. I have found a couple that might be good but need more info about. I want to try Dr. Byrant. Has any been seen by Dr. Byrant for their pre-op evaluation and if so how did it go? Please feel free to e-mail me. I am trying to keep the ball rolling. So whatever advice anyone has I am open to welcome.

Mr AOR · 02-20-2005, 11:02 PM

I don't have a recommendation, but I do have a suggestion based on my own personal experiences. I was experiencing some anxiety and depression the first 6 weeks after surgery, so I went back to the guy who had done my pre-surgery authorization. Nice guy, but here comes my recommendation:

When you're screening candidates, make sure that you check on the session length. I went 3 times, paid a $30 co-pay for each 15 minute session. 15 minutes? I felt kinda robbed, so I got assertive on my 3rd (and final) visit, and asked him about the length of our visits. He was apologetic, saying that because of the business of the practive, he didn't do long sessions anymore.

I felt a little better after a 15 minute session, but I felt like I was barely getting warmed up. I actually brought in notes so that I could focus on the things that I wanted to discuss in such a limited amount of time.

He was very cool about it, and sympathetic to my need for longer sessions. He gave me some referrals, and the more I thought about it, the more I realized that I was feeling better and I'd hold on to the referrals for the future, in case "I needed it." I haven't needed it since, but if I do go back to a therapist, I know I'll ask about length of meetings right up front.

JohnsWife4Life · 02-21-2005, 12:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bypassingme619

I am looking for any good recommendations for a WLS friendly Psychiatrist. I know there are still many Psychiatrist who have no clue about WLS. I have found a couple that might be good but need more info about. I want to try Dr. Byrant. Has any been seen by Dr. Byrant for their pre-op evaluation and if so how did it go? Please feel free to e-mail me. I am trying to keep the ball rolling. So whatever advice anyone has I am open to welcome.

Hi,

I used Dr. Nita Paintal, she was great and is WLS friendly. She wants to make sure you are emotionally ready for the permanent digestive tract alteration. Her number is (619) 667-3380.

Good Luck,

Traci

Bypassingme619 · 02-21-2005, 02:12 AM

Thanks Traci. I am greatful for you taking the time to give me her name and number. Personal question, If you do not mind. Did you pay out of pocket(if so, what was her fee) or did your insurance cover your visit? Dr. Paintal is she private or she in a group like PCSD? Once again thank you.

MaryClipper · 02-21-2005, 10:07 AM

I used Dr. Hudler in Chula Vista 619-498-5454. She was very good and very supportive. Good Luck

Gladitsme · 02-21-2005, 10:14 AM

Do you have to see a psychiatrist for the assessment? Or can it be a psychologist?

Nancy

Christina · 02-21-2005, 10:17 AM

Dr. Nina Paintel is the best. I really liked her. She was informative, and yet really knew about Gastric Bypass. She wrote my letter of recommendation that day and sent it over to Dr. Callery's. That was my last hurdle to get thru before surgery so I was very happy that she dictated so quickly.

Bypassingme619 · 02-21-2005, 02:37 PM

Thank you so much for the recommendations. I will call and see when I can get in and the prices. I am nervouse you guys. I am sure all the pre-op and even pre-op members know exactly what I am talking about. Just scared when I get to the psychiarist I am going to be so freaked out that she might want to admit me to a hospital.. lol.. Just kidding but my nerves are going hay wire. Please pray for me.

Christina · 02-21-2005, 02:52 PM

The psych eval is so easy. Basically if you go in there and explain to them that you know the risks, benefits, and such of the surgery. You are not unrealistic in your expectations (don't intend on being a super model afterwards) and stuff like that they will get you in and out in a jiffy. I was in there probably about 20 minutes total if that. I really thought it was painless. The most painful part was getting there. I get serious anxiety problems when I am lost.. Thank God Tracie was there getting her eval done before me and led me right to the parking lot. I went all the way down to San Diego for this test, and I was in unfamiliar territory.. Tracie I love you girl.. always have.. always will..

HAMPTON5555 · 02-22-2005, 08:34 PM

I used Debra Horsley in Escondido. She is very good and deals with wls patients alot in her practice.

I can give you her # if you are interested.

I use insurance. United Behavioral Health.

Rain