Struggling to find suitable profesisonal help

[funkyzoom]

First off, I did try to look through the existing forums, but I couldn't find what I was looking for.

I have suffered from anxiety and clinical depression for over 2 decades now, and used to manage my condition with therapy and meds.

Late last year, my regular clinical psychologist went on maternity leave, and I don't know if/when she will be back. Problem is, I am struggling to find a replacement for her. I do have an updated mental healthcare plan from my GP. But no matter who I try to approach, they all say that due to their massive current load, they are booked out for almost a year and are not taking new clients. I have searched extensively on Google and contacted lots of medical centres, but I always get the same answer - that their psychologists are not taking on new clients because they already have plenty.

I am specifically looking for a bulk billed clinical psychologist who works on weekends, or after 4pm on weekdays (since I don't have the luxury of taking time off work). I don't mind whether consultations are in person or telephonic. I am struggling professionally and personally, and am nearly at a breaking point, but I am unable to find the help I need to get through this.

To make matters worse, most of these receptionists at medical centres I call are quite rude and unprofessional with me, behaving as if it is my fault that my previous therapist went on leave and I am seeking a new one.

Any suggestions? I'm quite desperate at this point. I used to have sessions almost once a month, but I have had none for more than 6 months now and I am unable to cope for much longer.

Thank you.

[Sophie_M]

Hi funkyzoom,

Welcome to the forums and thank you for your bravery and openness in sharing here. It’s a really good place to have come to hear from others, many will understand some of what you’re going through. We can hear how difficult the past few years have been, we’re so sorry that’s been going on.

It sounds like you’ve taken some really good steps in getting some support. It’s incredibly difficult when treatment doesn’t have any quick answers, and it can be a really difficult journey. We encourage you to keep your prescribing doctor updated on what’s going on for you.

If you want to talk through what you’re feeling at any time, the Beyond Blue Support Line is here for you 24/7 on 1300 22 4636. The counsellors can be good to talk to right in the midst of finding a new bulk billing psychologist whilst your current psychologist is on leave. You can also reach them via Online Chat here https://www.beyondblue.org.au/support-service/chat

Thanks again for sharing. We’re here to listen and offer support, and you never know how your story might help someone else.

Kind regards,
Sophie M
 

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi funkyzoom,

Thank you for your question and I feel for you in accessing psychologists. The waiting list is a nightmare at the moment.

Unfortunately we can't recommend specific places with availability sorry because I know that would be really helpful.

There are four things I can suggest though:

1) See if your employer has an EAP program. This will be free and funded by them.

2) Search this (specifically): "bulk billing" psychologist book online

I know you've searched on Google but hopefully not that term specifically as I was able to find some with bulk-billing and availability

3) Have a look at other social media platforms such as Reddit, as this is a question often asked and they can recommend specific places.

4) The other option, which is not totally ideal is programs such as MindSpot. They offer online courses completely free for anxiety and depression and as part of your course you get to access a psychologist. So this could be worth exploring as well.

Good luck; I hope you find someone soon.

rt

[Beeee]

Hello funkyzoom,

I'm sorry your search for a psychologist has been so difficult. It seems like you've tried almost everything you can. Sophie and romantic_thi3f have given some great suggestions a few things I might add are:

-asking your GP if they know of anyone available they can refer you to

-having a look at some provisional psychologists instead of registered psychologists, while they do have a little less experience, they work closely under an experienced supervisor and are usually cheaper than a registered psychologists. this might be a good bridge until you get an appointment somewhere else

-like Sophie mentioned, counsellors are also a great in-the-meantime option, many counsellors have extensive experience and could be helpful to talk to

Hope this helps,

Beeee