Seeing a psychologist/ psychiatrist?

[snappydog]

Some of you may have seen my previous posts about a mental issue I have, and many responses told me that I should seek professional help. However, there's one thing I still have no idea about: How do I go about doing that? I don't really want my parents to know, although I accept that they may have to eventually, but I've no idea how I could get in touch with, or see a psychologist or psychoanalyst. I'm 16 years old, so can I even do that?!
Help?

[-ArcAngel-]

Well, depends. I see your location says Exeter. Is that Exeter, Ontario?

If so, you can legally go into your doctor (who would be the one to review you and recommend you to a therapist/psychiatrist) without your parents having to know. Once you reach 16 in Canada (or at least, I know its this way in Ontario), your doctor has to keep your appointments confidential, unless they're in extreme fear for your life and/or others lives.

But be warned now, if it turns out something is wrong, and you need to go on medications, and you go under your parents Health Insurance, they do get a statement monthly saying what has been obtained as far as prescriptions go.

Perhaps you should discuss your issues with your doctor, and if they think anything further should be done, involve your parents. If not, then no need to. Ya know?

[snappydog]

Nope, Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom.
Thanks, though

[BigBL87]

Can't say for sure, don't know how the laws shape up in England. I know in the US your parents would have to be notified if you were under 18, I would guess the age is lower in the UK but I can't be sure. I didn't see your previous post, is there any reason in particular that you don't want your parents to know? Your family knowing could help them to be more supportive of you.

[Frangelina]

hey Chris
As your 16 years old your parents shouldnt have to be told.
I was put on antidepressants when i was just 15 and nobody only my GP knew about it.

hope this helps.
feel free to pm me if you want to talk
x Frangelina x

[ChaseThisLight]

Hey there!
From experience, it's best just to go to your doctor. You can tell him/her what's going on, tell them that you really want to see somebody about it, and they will be able to refer you to all the right people. That's what I did, at any rate!
Good luck and well done for deciding you need that help.

[ForeverChanged]

In the front pages of the phone book there may be crisis line and referral numbers and such. Like in Canada (I think all of Canada, I might be wrong) the number is 211. It's a referral number for like...ANYTHING. It's pretty sweet.

I think you should be fine going to the doctor yourself since you're 16.

Good luck