Knock, Knock

an old piece, never published

When thinking of one of Austin's therapists, I can't help but think of the old saying, "Knock, Knock, anybody home". I've determined that "nobody's home". Do you ever wonder how some people ended up choosing their profession and if they've chosen the right one? In Austin's therapist’s case, he didn't have to be promoted to his level of incompetence, he chose it.

Being open and honest, I tried as tactfully as I could (imagine that) to tell this therapist that he needs to deliver the goods. He needs to prove he is an asset to my team and willing to work with the school system. He needs to contribute. Sitting there and telling me what a good job I'm doing adds no value to my or Austin's life. Is my insurance company paying him to provide compliments? I think not.

Here are just a few of the signs that your therapist needs therapy of their own and that you need to find a new therapist.

·       He doesn't recognize that your child has a disability. It would be wonderful if I could just tell Austin "that's not nice so don't do it" and it would fix everything.

·       It took him three months to find your child's file.

·       You provide more information to him than what he provides to you. Almost as if you are the therapist and he is the patient.

·       When asked to provide input to the school on how to deal with your child's behavior, he writes a two-paragraph letter. The letter merely states that the child went through outpatient therapy and that they were not successful in completing a psychological evaluation. He also notes that the child suffers from Autism and Fragile X Syndrome. Wow, was that ever a revelation! Talk about stating the obvious.

·       After finally finding the child's file during one visit, he requests the parent to review his recommendations from the last three-month's sessions. His notes from one of our sessions indicated, "the parents are to divorce". That was news to me as no such comment was even remotely discussed. I've always thought my husband and I managed very well considering our challenges.

·       On your last appointment, which they scheduled for 1 p.m., they walk into the waiting room and tell you the appointment was for 2 p.m. Then, during the appointment, you explain the need for a medication refill and that you've called their office about previously during the week. He then spends the entire appointment time trying to contact others to get the refill and doesn't even get that accomplished. Next, he promises to take care of it the next day. On the next day, after leaving him three messages, he finally returns your calls after 5 p.m. to tell you he can't get the refill until the next day. Naturally, your existing prescription has run out and you will be left with no medication for the morning.

Well, we all have our breaking points and he's it. I've decided that if I should ever have to visit him again that I'll bring a permanent marker and write "Useless" across his forehead. So, if by chance you're looking for a therapist, check their forehead for my mark.