Like at my hospital there was a patient advocate. There wasn't anyone specifically for mental health advocacy. I worked as an interfaith chaplain and we stepped in and often served as advocates on the Behavioral Health Unit. Not in any religious sense, just helped the patients be heard. We also got things for the patients if they had no family...like bedroom slippers or notebooks and pens. The Chaplaincy office had funds. We could even purchase stuffed animals (plush toys) for patients!


If would really be a cool new role, I think. Like someone who would serve as an advocate and would contact these various care givers...because to ask the client or patient to do this...is really asking too much.

As well, dealing with professionals who act like jerks...which, sadly, was illustrated in the OP's story.

That's the problem, this psychiatrist is who they work and consult with in their office. It's supposed to be a part of the whole integrative care philosophy. So I guess I'll talk to my therapist and see if he thinks I should find a psychiatrist and give me some referrals.