This sounds like a really hard situation - it is really hard to go to see T's and I too would feel it doubly difficult if I had to get past the "guards" first. I think what you wrote in your post is really interesting and if there was anyway you could share this with T - I think it may be helpful for 2 reasons.

First T may have a better understanding of how hard it is for you and how unhelpful the receptionists are (it is strange that they have lots who do not show up for appointments - hmmm wonder why this is - crabby receptionists to get through maybe?).

Second - I think what you have written says alot about you and your difficulties - "Don't want to be a tell tale" "Don't want to get people into trouble" and I wonder whether there is benefit in working through these with T - There are crabby people anywhere and maybe if we all had practiced ways of dealing with them, certain aspects of life may be easier?

Could you write a letter to the receptionists detailing what your T has said about you being able to prearrange more appointments and show it to your T - maybe your T would put their name to it? Then you could show it to the receptionists every time you need to make an appointment so that they are aware of your T's approval of this.

Good luck - don't let them become a barrier to you going, sound like you have a great T. Soup