Are you sure that you need a good neuro psych ?

My family is dealing with a long waiting list to get my mom, newly dx'd with Parkinson's and dementia, in to see a good neuro psych MD for testing. The neuropsych testing has to be done by someone with some expertise in that area.

For many issues of grieving losses, like our losses in physical abilities and hobbies that we can no longer participate in, or at least not as much as we would like to be able to (the issues that you describe, above)..... most therapists, like a licensed social worker, will be very comfortable and competent dealing with clients with this type of loss.

I want to see a specialist for my RSD. For me, that's my neurologist and the pain clinic.

My RSD may have caused or contributed to my depression, but where the RSD is an uncommon problem, depression is a common problem, so I feel very comfortable with a more common practitioner helping me manage that problem. For me, that means seeing a Clinical Nurse Specialist for meds and a Licensed Social Worker for ongoing counseling.

You've got to choose someone that you feel confident can help you manage the issues. If you feel you need a certain level of expertise, then you should pursue that. If your needs aren't that complex and you can get help quicker and easier from a more local practitioner, then I hope that you'll consider that too.

Thanks for your response finz. I am sure I need a good therapist be it a psychologist or social worker or nurse, etc. I want them to understand my disorders: CRPS, Dystonia, spasticity. I am worried that I might get 'beet up' or misunderstood by someone who is unsympathetic. I have not been to a therapist (marriage counselor many years ago) in a very long time. The experience worries me.

I was evaluated by a neuro psychologist prior to my diagnosis of CRPS. I contacted him a few days ago. He only does patient evaluations; he does not do patient therapy. He suggested that I see psychologist M.D. He gave me a number to a medical practice to call. None are neuro psychologists.

Thank you for your suggestion. I think I will have to go that route. The longer I fret over what type of therapist i need, the more opportunity I have to sulk over my losses.

You might try googling for a "health psychologist." They are people specifically trained for helping people cope with health issues. They can have insight into the specific stresses of chronic health problems that other therapists don't.

Lori