Kaiser steering psych clients into groups instead of one-on-one therapy

[pilgrim]

I went to my own first session at Kaiser Psychiatry with my D15's first session scheduled for tomorrow.  The therapist told me I can see him once every 3 weeks for a few months, and during that time I can enroll in ongoing groups (anxiety, depression, etc.).  He said Kaiser doesn't offer one on one individual therapy and that I should look outside for that.

I called Kaiser to see if this is true for child psychiatry as well, but couldn't get an answer over the phone.

Does anyone have experience with Kaiser and advice re: negotiating their system?

I'm in Northern CA.

Thanks,

p

[Turkish]

I'm in the same area as you. I am only dealing with me, but your experience mirrors my impression, which is why I don't have much hope for uBPDx getting much help. The HMO seems to only focus on immediate sitations. I was told they won't dX BPD (for an adult, not sure about minors), but will refer a patient for DBT if they suspect BPD. You may have to push this one... .

[pilgrim]

Thanks, I found out today that the child psychologist will see D15 only once per month, and suggested that D15 go to a teen group (which she doesn't want to) weekly.  Only if there's an emergency situation (self harm) will they do weekly therapy (with a different therapist).

Going to have to look outside Kaiser.  So frustrating.