A Personal Perspective: Why Wouldn’t We Take a Taste of Our Own Medicine?

In this first blog, Dr. Howpage offers a personal look at her journey as a psychiatrist. “Therapists are human too,” she shares candidly. It may surprise you to learn that even psychiatrists need support—many have their own therapists, too. After all, psychiatrists are people just like you: human, flawed, sometimes challenged, and always striving to improve.

Many patients see psychiatrists as almost “godlike”—all-knowing, unshakeable figures who sit across from them. But, as Dr. Howpage shares, the reality is different. She, like other mental health professionals, has her own fears, challenges, and occasional blind spots. “There’s nothing more enriching,” she reflects, “than sharing in the patient’s journey, right there in my office.”

The Challenges of Limited Time and Boundless Needs

One of Dr. Howpage’s greatest concerns is not having enough appointment slots to follow up with all her patients as frequently as they may need. “Some patients need nearly weekly support,” she admits, “and it’s frustrating to know that, short of a 25th hour in the day, I simply can’t offer it.”

The layers of work involved are endless:

• Personal history
• Relational issues
• Cultural context (ethnic background)
• Family dynamics
• Professional stress
• Emotional and spiritual needs
• Physical health
• Childhood losses and emotional deprivations
• …and the list goes on.

Navigating Discomfort in the Therapy Room

Therapy isn’t always smooth. “The most challenging part for psychiatrists,” Dr. Howpage explains, “is handling the uncomfortable emotions that can come up—both for the patient and ourselves.” Patients sometimes arrive with high expectations or insist on a specific diagnosis. Some may disclose antisocial behaviors without remorse, while others push for medications that might not be in their best interest.

“These sessions can become defensive,” she admits, “and sometimes our own human reactions emerge, whether that’s frustration, a raised voice, or a tension the patient can feel.” But Dr. Howpage finds that acknowledging her feelings openly—when appropriate—and addressing these complex moments with empathy can transform the experience. Regular peer review meetings at Mind Connections are instrumental in helping psychiatrists navigate these situations with professionalism and compassion.

“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” – Carl Jung

Peer Support: Learning Together

Dr. Howpage and her team at Mind Connections Specialist Health Services engage in regular peer reviews, openly discussing difficult scenarios. These meetings are invaluable for practicing what they preach—self-reflection and emotional regulation. Dr. Howpage notes that when psychiatrists discuss their own challenges, they’re reminded to approach patients with patience, even if they’re asking a question that’s been answered before.

For example, instead of thinking, “How could you ask that again when I just explained it?” peer support encourages the team to respond empathetically, perhaps with, “It makes sense that you’re feeling overwhelmed right now. It’s hard to process everything at once.” These small shifts in language can make a world of difference, fostering understanding and preventing emotional escalation for both patient and psychiatrist.

The Gift of Shared Humanity

“Though these relational challenges can feel daunting, there’s a bonus,” says Dr. Howpage. “Every session is an opportunity to learn, to reflect, and to recalibrate.” When she guides patients to see what’s already working in their lives or to identify areas for growth, she’s reminded of the privileged position she’s in. “No matter who we are—psychiatrist or patient—it’s all about our need to be seen and heard.”

Her final words capture this beautifully: “This is the gift I have to offer to those willing to unveil themselves to another human being—who happens to be a psychiatrist.”