Is it considered "kosher" for a therapist (a psychologist) to tell a patient that she feels the patient has a specific mental health diagnosis and that she is going to speak to the doctor about a different medication protocol? In this instance, the therapist has a direct connection to the treating psychiatrist.
The patient has been under the care of a psychiatrist for over a year. This particular diagnosis has never been suggested, nor is it likely at ALL. The standing diagnosis is accurate, and the patient has been responding to treatment.
I was just shocked to hear that a therapist came right out and essentially said "I think you have X." Is that something therapists are qualified to do? This suggestion has thrown the patient for a loop and caused increased stress and anxiety, even after reassurance that the therapist is way off. The suggested condition is a very serious one.
I don't know enough about the scope of therapists, but this seems to be way beyond and borderline irresponsible, considering the patients resulting distress. I think if the therapist had concerns she should have brought them to the doctor directly, and let the doctor evaluate for the suspected condition or provide his basis for the diagnosis that exists.
The patient has been under the care of a psychiatrist for over a year. This particular diagnosis has never been suggested, nor is it likely at ALL. The standing diagnosis is accurate, and the patient has been responding to treatment.
I was just shocked to hear that a therapist came right out and essentially said "I think you have X." Is that something therapists are qualified to do? This suggestion has thrown the patient for a loop and caused increased stress and anxiety, even after reassurance that the therapist is way off. The suggested condition is a very serious one.
I don't know enough about the scope of therapists, but this seems to be way beyond and borderline irresponsible, considering the patients resulting distress. I think if the therapist had concerns she should have brought them to the doctor directly, and let the doctor evaluate for the suspected condition or provide his basis for the diagnosis that exists.