The Catholic and the Psychiatrist

[Nathan]

Seeing a psychiatrist, weekly, makes me feel better about myself. I haven't been seeing one in about a year -- since I found the Church -- but lately I've been thinking that maybe I should talk to my family doctor about getting back into it. I find the process very beneficial -- the chance to "unload" everything that's been on my mind every week is something that gives me an inner peace. It really helps me, as my nature is to internalize my problems and bottle them up, even with family and friends.

So, what does the Church say about Catholics going to a psychiatrist?

Thanks.

[thessalonian]

[quote name='Nathan' date='Nov 16 2005, 11:47 AM']Seeing a psychiatrist, weekly, makes me feel better about myself. I haven't been seeing one in about a year -- since I found the Church -- but lately I've been thinking that maybe I should talk to my family doctor about getting back into it. I find the process very beneficial -- the chance to "unload" everything that's been on my mind every week is something that gives me an inner peace. It really helps me, as my nature is to internalize my problems and bottle them up, even with family and friends.

So, what does the Church say about Catholics going to a psychiatrist?

Thanks.
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I don't know of anything specific myself. Obviously you would want to go to a good one if that is what you choose to do. One preferrably who was Catholic and has that perspective on life. I don't know how you could go to anyone but an orthodox catholic one in light of how intertwined this would be with faith.

Having said that, have you considered more frequent confession or a spiritual director. Both of which I think would do you far more good. I try to hit the confessional bi-weekly. It keeps me sane. Or at least no one has complained about me being Nutz. Though aren't we all.