Boston area pyschologist

[Mafrum]

I really need help finding a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in vasculitis or Wegners in the Boston area. My relative needs help and refuses to see anyone who does not know about her condition. Has anyone seen someone in the Boston area who you could recommend?

I would greatly appreciate it.

[annekat]

I would think it would be rare to find one of those who specializes or knows much about vasculitis or Wegs. But I would go for a psychiatrist, since they are medical doctors and would be capable of researching and comprehending what Wegs is all about, plus they'd be able to consult with Wegs or vasculitis specialists, who can be found listed on the Vasculitis Foundation website. There are threads and posts on this forum about that. I'm sure there are some very good psychiatrists in the Boston area but I'm on the west coast so can't help there. Just my two cents worth. Good luck.

Anne

[annekat]

I see there is a vasculitis center at Boston University and specialists there who are listed on the VF site. Maybe they could recommend a psychiatrist suitable for a Wegs patient.

Anne

[renidrag]

Depending on your wegs doctor and his affiliations, Boston Medical Center works with Boston University in the Rheumatology and Pulmonology Departments. Depending on your insurance one or the other will cover you. I see Dr. Monach as a Rheumatologist and he is affiliated with BU and the big guy, Dr. Merkle, I am sure you could get a referral or an appt.
Dale

[Sangye]

You really don't need a psychiatrist who specializes in Wegs (good luck finding one anyway!). Look for one that specializes in chronic illness. They will understand how to work with the non-stop ups and downs, grieving, etc....

Unless she feels she needs medical intervention, it's generally easier to see a psychologist or counselor. I've been seeing a therapist since I was dx'ed and it's made a world of difference.

[drz]

As noted above a medical psychologist or clinical psychologist who deals with chronic illness will be best for counseling issues. If medicine is needed or likely then a psychiatrist is required. As Sangye said it might be easier to get an appointment with a psychologist who can then refer to a competent colleague for the meds if they appear needed.