Have you ever heard of a therapist turning away a child because their symptoms are stronger than what they orginally thought?

Today, my little brother came out of therapy crying his eyes out because his therapist told him that because his condition is worse than what the orginally thought, then he would have to wait on a two year waiting list for somewhere else. He can't wait that long. I don't know what to do.

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BananaBrown · 41-45, F

That’s terrible. I understand that some therapists may not be qualified to handle specific cases, but if so, they should be able to refer him to someone else much quicker than two years. I’d suggest reaching out to your insurance company’s customer care phone number. Hopefully they’ll be able to help.

ArminArlert · 22-25, M

@BananaBrown Thank you. Yeah, M has two mental health diagnosis's that they knew about, but they said they underestimated the severity of the symptoms. I appreicate their honesty, and the guy seemed genuinely upset because he liked that brother. But leaving him for two years knowing that his case is severe enough, is scary.

SatanBurger · 36-40, F

Find another therapist, there's plenty online even. I would even do specific search terms like search his illness and then type a specific therapy or something. Like for instance if you're a narcissist wanting help (that's actually rare they never seek help haha but just a poor example) I would type in something like "therapists for personality disorders" or something to that extent. You have to find specialists and not just "govt" because govt won't help you, they're often terrible.

And also to side note, I'm awfully sorry the therapist said that. I get them not feeling qualified enough to help your brother but they could have said it differently and they could have tried other resources. It was honestly uncalled for.

ArminArlert · 22-25, M

@SatanBurger Yeah, I know, but they are typically very expensive. But honestly, I don't care. There's no way I'm not having him go to therapy for two years! He was in a mental health hospital for children two weeks ago.
The issue is the two illnesses he has unfortunately. On their own, they are fine, but they seem to be bamboozling therapist together. ERP really stresses him out at the moment. :(

I think it would have been better for them to come to me first , instead of telling M and making him upset.

SatanBurger · 36-40, F

@ArminArlert Hmmm there's got to be something out there but I understand. Maybe if I come across anything affordable I can give you a buzz for just suggestions.

cherokeepatti · 61-69, F

Yes, they will get referral to a psychiatrist if they can’t handle the problem.

ArminArlert · 22-25, M

@cherokeepatti M has already been to a psychiatrist and was diagnosed, so I don't understand. I will try to figure something out. He needs his therapy.

cherokeepatti · 61-69, F

@ArminArlert 2 years is too long

BananaBrown · 41-45, F

There are also county programs to help low income families fine mental health care, if that’s a concern.

SlippingAway

What? There isn't anyone else who can see him? Two years is excessive and cruel

ArminArlert · 22-25, M

@SlippingAway I agree. The kid was just in a mental health hospitsal two weeks ago. :( I'll to find another therapist, but I'm afraid that they will be suspicious and just take my money.

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