I finally did it.... I scheduled a consultation with a local surgeon who is highly recommended. I also told my hubby (we're spearated but friends), Mom and sister. They were all very happy with my decision and told me they would help anyway they could!

I'm now wondering if I should get my psch eval done by my regular psychiatrist or someone else. My dilema is that he and I don't see eye to eye on some things. We have had our differences in opinions about pain meds and more importantly, when I was told that I may have to have back surgery. Believe me I didn't want to have it, but if it was the last resort I would have done it. He is of the opinion I should just tough it out.

When I'm there for a med check for my psych meds, I agree with his recommendations because we are on the same page.

I'm afraid that his report may not be completely free of his bias.

We have talked in the past about how my weight is affecting me, that is always a consideration when a med change has to take place.

I really like him as my psychiatrist but I'm not really comfortable with hime doing the eval.

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

My psych.eval was done by a licensed social worker. She is certified to do Bariatric evaluations and a part of the Bariatric team at the hospital.

Mine was done by the person on staff through my bariatric program. Are you required to find your own or does your program have someone they recommend?

They do have a licensed social worker on staff. I haven't met with her yet, so I'm not sure if I have to have my own yet.

I'm trying to get all my dicks in a row!

Ducks lol ducks.

Ducks lol ducks.

Gotta have the ducks!

I saw you're from Ohio, I'm in Warren close to Youngstown. Where are you from?

Hmm... Mixed emotions. Good to have someone who knows you yet probably preferable from someone who deals with bariatric patients on a more regular basis. If it isn't something he has done before, then I am not sure he will have the right perspective on it. My therapist is wonderful and I am still seeing her on a weekly basis (and will continue to see her probably eventually only once a month for at least 2 years post-op). She only works with bariatric surgery patients so she has invaluable advice and insight into the situation. I think maybe getting referral from your surgeon might be best as they likely have people they work with who are used to what they (and insurance) is really looking for.

Thank you Daisee68! I appreciate your input. I think you're right. I'll ask when I have the consultation to ask if thier social worker can do the eval and if she offers ongoing therapy.

The bariatric team here also has one therapist on staff that they set you up with as part of the "clearance" program they use. They specialize in bariatrics and eating disorders, so they know what to look for, talk to you about, etc.

@@fairee Hi there =) For me, there were only a small number of psychiatrists in my area who were certified to do Bariatric evaluations, so I really didn't have much of a choice. Is your personal psych certified to do the Bariatric evaluation? You might want to find this out first; it could make your decision a lot easier. =)

Good Luck!

@@fairee Hi there =) For me, there were only a small number of psychiatrists in my area who were certified to do Bariatric evaluations, so I really didn't have much of a choice. Is your personal psych certified to do the Bariatric evaluation? You might want to find this out first; it could make your decision a lot easier. =)

Good Luck!

I don't know if he is or not. I'll call later and ask. If he's not, then no harm and I'll have the answer to my dilemma.

Mine was done at the bariatric center of excellence and I didn't have much choice in the matter. He definitely isn't someone I wanted to chat with or would seek help from on purpose. Just didn't mesh well, but it's just a routine thing and not that bad just to make sure you aren't a psychopath who is addicted to drugs or whatever so if you are worried, maybe just ask for a referral to see someone or if your office has an in-house psych, see them even if you never plan to see them ever again.

Mines with a licensed social worker (like myself) at the Bariatric Center. I might look into this as a career move some day. I do assessments now for drug and alcohol related problems at a Rehab.