I'm Now Looking For A Counsellor And Wondering If This Problem Exists For Them As It Does For Gps.

Question: I've started going to another doctor. Although very competent, and no doubt because of this, my previous doctor's practice turned extremely busy. One day I waited an hour and a half to see her. Talking about it with the person sitting next to me, we discovered that we had the same appointment time to see the same doctor. It wasn't like this in the beginning, she used to treat me as if me and my health were important. However, as the pace picked up this quality was severely compromised. My present doctor is very relaxed, we have a few laughs and I go away feeling better for it. I've heard that in Australia there is a shortage of doctors which makes it hard to fit everyone in comfortably. I'm now looking for a counsellor and wondering if this problem exists for them as it does for GPs. Sarah

Answer (1) Most counselors and particularly psychotherapists, only make a regular appointment time to see clients when they have a spot available for ongoing work. The original consultation may be a one off affair, however, once you and the therapist agree to begin the sessions proper and make a time, this should be set for the duration of the treatment and may be changed only with mutual consent. Good therapy should be a "continuous process," not an irregular, disjointed series of events.

Answer provided by David White, Psychotherapist

Answer (2) I can only speak from my experience, Sarah, but I only make appointments I intend to keep. You will have read there is a growing shortage of GPs per capita of population which tends to make surgeries rather crowded. Practice managers strive to fill every available space, too. As well, what presents as a common malady can turn out to be a far more serious matter under the doctor's examination. Not to mention the unexpected arrival of someone with a medical emergency, these factors conspire to make a timely appointment almost a rarity.

Counsellors are skilled at containing and helping people through emotional crises. If I had to extend a session for the safety of a client, I would of course do so and seek to reschedule any waiting clients. But, in general, I think a counsellor would owe you an apology in the rare event your session was delayed. I would certainly not consider double booking. I hope you find the assistance you are seeking.

Answer provided by John Hunter, Counsellor