problem child Posted November 8, 2013 Share Posted November 8, 2013 I posted this in specialties, too, but since there is ONE topic thread there, I am assuming it is not a specialty stampeded by PAs...so, a duplicate here: I am in the running for a job in psych that really appeals to me. It is with an organization which primarily aids women and teens with substance abuse issues and trauma issues, all which I have experience with. I know I will be primarily prescribing meds, but I like the environment and I am really excited about this job. but switching to psych is a big change for me. my former specialty has been surgery. any other PAs here in psych? have your experiences been good, bad, and why? (ps I am leaving surgery bc I just think it's a bad fit. the culture is too intense, too brutal, and I guess I am more at the "humanitarian" (touchy-feely-talky) end of medicine). please let me know your experiences! thanks, pc Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Derbingle Posted November 13, 2013 Share Posted November 13, 2013 An inner city perspective: I once thought working in psych sounded good, however, after working in ER with psych evals, all ages/conditions for initial medical clearance then rounding on them daiy until they discharge, I feel it to be unrewarding and would likely never go into pysch now. Granted I see people in throws of distress but also many people abusing the system, repeat returns (q3days), non compliance. If what you'll be doing is out patient, this could be a much better setting. also a specific population could be a completly differet exerperience. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
problem child Posted November 20, 2013 Author Share Posted November 20, 2013 An inner city perspective: I once thought working in psych sounded good, however, after working in ER with psych evals, all ages/conditions for initial medical clearance then rounding on them daiy until they discharge, I feel it to be unrewarding and would likely never go into pysch now. Granted I see people in throws of distress but also many people abusing the system, repeat returns (q3days), non compliance. If what you'll be doing is out patient, this could be a much better setting. also a specific population could be a completly differet exerperience. thank you for your perspective - helpful Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jbcaringpa Posted November 27, 2013 Share Posted November 27, 2013 Sorry, just saw this.... I am not a PA in psych, but I am a PA in a family practice which is primarily psychiatric-based. I also round at the psych hospital doing h+p's and medical consults. Personally, I hate psych. It is just too sad for me to deal with, especially pediatrics. However, there are many PA's/NP's here who absolutely love their job and they are well at it. Also, the money is pretty good.. I would say try it out and see if u like it. You will know pretty soon. Just don't lose your knowledge in medicine. I find a lot of frustrations in some psychiatrists who just forget everything about medicine, and think EVERY symptom is caused by a psychiatric problem. A lot of times it is, but sometimes its not :) We see a lot of people "abusing the system" here too, of course, especially since I work outside a military base and a lot of immature youngins are saying everything they can to get out of the service. BUT I also see a lot of very, sick, disturbed kids/teens and I applaud anyone who is willing to take them under their care. Good luck! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Paula Posted November 27, 2013 Share Posted November 27, 2013 You can also check out the PA psych society and there should be a link to it on AAPAs website under PA organizations/constituent organizations. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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