Changing MH professional. Asked to be reallocated to someone new

[Natalie22]

Hi. To end my year I bit the bullet and called and asked if I could see someone different. I was seeing a MH social worker for a few months. Don't get me wrong she was lovely but in that time I had several incidents which made me uncomfortable and I left thinking WTF.

When I mentioned some medication I was taking she told me that I she stop my medication and find new doctors. I felt that I had to defend my team and why I was taking the meds.

She has admitted that she does not really like doctors and has trust issues and this has clearly came through in the sessions.  I have to admit that I am anxious around doctors so I don't think this is a perfect match.

At our last appointment I mentioned an incident at work and she told this terrible story about when she was an early social worker.slightly relevant but...

Then I mentioned how a gp treated me like a drug seeker but finally read my file and she went on about her story about needing drugs and yes she sounded desperate,

Sorry about all my rambling but I am super tired.

Am I being totally unreasonable for leaving her even though she is someone who has got to know me well.

My neurologist wants me to see a psychologist and she keep telling me 'the gp can't do anything to you as long as you see me'. I don't know what that is even supposed to mean.

I have anxiety and I am very stressed.

It has been a lot of misinformation and I don't think very successful.

I have issues at home and she said her role was to support me with that but there has been no strategies for my MH

[geoff]

Hello Natalie, can I ask why you are seeing a neurologist.

Social workers in MH who don't like doctors and tells you to stop taking your medication is not necessarily qualified to do so, it reminds me of my last psychologist who said that I shouldn't be taking any medication as he doesn't take anything at all, however I take it for epilespy, depression, anxiety and OCD and has now controlled all of these to a manageable state.

My neurologist suggested that I see a psychologist after a head injury which I found to be very helpful and your doctor can give you a mental health plan which entitles you to 20 Medicare paid sessions to talk with a psychologist which may be a good option to consider and to help you with your home issues.

Geoff.

Life Member.

[Natalie22]

Hi Geoff. 

I have a history of epilepsy, migraines and now FND (functional neurological disorder).

I am a. Mess lol

I think as off this year the govt has reduced the number of sessions on Mhtp. 

I may be strange but I have avoided it because I have not been keen on sharing my information. 

Thanks 

Angela

[romantic_thi3f]

Hello,

Geoff is absolutely right; it's not the role of your social worker to tell you what you should and shouldn't do with your medication.  That's not part of their role; their role is to work with your healthcare team to support you.  It makes sense that she feels that way because of her experiences, but she needs to realise that it's not helpful to share it with you.  So no, not unreasonable at all!

I wonder if your neurologist meant that while you're seeing them, they're responsible for decisions with your medications and treatment; so your GP would be overstepping?  If you have questions, you can ask- that's what your neurologist is for.

I have a history of health issues too and epilepsy, and was misdiagnosed with fnd, so I know a lot about it. There's a lot of misinformation out there so do ask tons of questions and be your own advocate 🙂

rt

[Junior1962]

Hi there

I agree with Geoff and romantic.  Neither the Social worker nor the psychologist should be telling you what to do with your medication.  I studied to honours level in psychology and can categorically state that it is unethical to do so. Since neither are medical doctors they are going beyond the realms of their knowledge base.

In addition, you have every right to seek help from other practitioners. It is important that you feel comfortable with these people. With mental health in particular, the relationship you have with your therapist is the single most important factor.

[Natalie22]

rt thank you for your reply. 

It can all be quite hard. Especially when no one really likes to tell you anything. 

My care team are quite good though. I just need to speak up more.