I'm unhappy with my provider and services that I have been using for over 3 years. I alrready know which new mental health clinic I want to switch to but I don't want to sign a release of information for the old clinic to communicate with the new clinic. I just got approved for ssi and they seemed to stress my treatment at old clinic. Is there a chance they could cut my benefits because I switched? I know I'll have to sign one for ssi and new clinic.
Also because of my anxiety (me and the anxiety that old clinic has caused) I'm bringing my best friend/ room mate to the intake. She happens to be a therapist herself so she's going to help me advocate (Old clinic jumped to conclusions a lot and didn't listen to me). Just for moral support as well. My concern there is, I want her to speak with them but only with me in the room and no medical record sharing (I attended this clinic once before at age 17). Can I give verbal consent for communication with me involved or do I have to sign a traditional release granting full access?
I'm new here...please forgive my constant anxiety, I tend to analyze and predict every situation. Advice much appreciated!

[Travelinglady]

Hi, BlindedByTheDark, and welcome to Psych Central! I have moved from one psychiatrist to another with no problem. One time I just said I wanted the new psychiatrist to start from scratch and not get my old records, and she had no problem with that.

Maybe some other folks will know more about the SSI issues and so on.

[Tydi469]

Hi and welcome! I'm somewhat familiar with SSI and they certainly do find the fact that you're being treated for your disability to be relevant in their decision to accept your application. However, where you go and who you see for treatment will have no bearing on SSI as long as you continue receiving treatment. Legally they, ssa cannot require that you use a particular facility or Dr. Hope thats helps you some. Best of luck!

[Gus1234U]

SSI does not require you to attend therapy. for the first few years, they will probably "reassess" you once a year, and you will need a Pdoc to say that you are on meds, or otherwise still disabled. that's all. you are not required to even tell the new clinic that you have been seeing anyone, except a Pdoc, and you don't have to sign a Release of Information form if the new clinic will accept you without it.
good luck~!

[Perna]

I would go to the new clinic and see what they wanted and merely say, like Travelinglady, that you want to start from scratch. I think what the new clinic wants and why might make a difference and maybe, if they want more, they can explain it in a way that will make what they want okay with you. That's great you are taking someone along with you you trust to help.