Your psychiatrist should be an expert in prescribing medication. He or she should be up to date on the latest medications and latest medical developments. In addition, he should schedule you for necessary blood work if you're on medications such as Lithium or Tegretol. NOW, while you're well, instead of waiting until you're in the midst of a crisis. Check with group members or your family doctor for a referral.
Referrals are preferable to picking out someone at random from the phone book.
Sometimes it takes patience and diligent trial and error effort to hit upon the right combination of drugs for you. Remember that the medical arsenal has greatly expanded over the years and chances are extremely good that you can be helpeful. Take an active part in learning about your medication. While the doctor is the undisputed expert, it's in your verybest interests to be an informed consumer. Most illnesses have a frightening ring to them.