Well, I called to let them know I would not be coming into the program on Monday. One of the clinicians listened, but did not "hear" what I had to say about my health insurance concerns. She also discounted me about the substance abuse part of the program, stating, "Many people have problems with substance abuse."

That's true enough, Melissa, but, we're not TALKING about "many people." We're talking about ME! Why should *I* be humiliated with a pee test when I don't do drugs or have a substance abuse problem? I have anxiety and depression -- THAT'S why I'm here! DUH!

She refused to hear me at all. She then TOLD me what I *really* thought, and HUNG UP ON ME!!!

Yea, she's a GREAT model of DBT!
NOT!

I called my counselor, and I'm going to a different program next week.

A few hours later, a woman from that first program called me, as a result of my letter. She said I should have *never* been told or forced to have had any urine tests. There are two different DBT programs....

She also stated that Melissa, who hung up on me was *completely* unprofessional. (Ya think?)

She absolutely heard my concerns about my health insurance problems, and AGREED with me, that I would have a very difficult time trying to buy insurance with that dual diagnosis on my record.

In short, I was VALIDATED in EVERY concern I had.
Where the clinicians, whose JOB it is to teach the DBT skills to me did nothing but INVALIDATE me at every turn, this woman validated me. She and she alone understood. The others took my concerns as a personal affront! They personalized something that was NOT personal to them at all.... Good grief!!!

So, when she asked me if I wanted to return, I just said, "no." It was not a good experience from the start. And I thanked her for "hearing" me.
I do believe she actually understood that too...

I start next week at a different program. It's a five day program, but, it's full days. And if I need more, I'll be able to stay. When I spoke to the woman about the program I'll be entering, I explained to her what had already happened... I wanted her to be aware. I don't want the same thing to happen again. I don't think it will, by her response.

Thanks for reading, if you are.
I'm still willing to try.

Peace!