[SongofDeborah]

I had a therapist, a couple of years ago, who suggested that I apply for SSDI. When the time comes for requesting records, she denies marking the suggestion. Prior to this I'd switched thapist because she was laid off [and apparently rehired sometime afterwards] She was the first to say that I had PTSD. She also recommended that I see a Trauma specialist. The second therapist and i see each other for a year, or so, and then she leaves for a better position.
The SS Administrative Law Judge [ALJ] says that neither person was qualified to make that diagnosis. My insurance won't pay for a psych evaluation, and, since I haven't worked FT since 2008, I cannot pay for the evaluation myself. The judge says that my work history suggests that I am a malingerer.
So. how do I 'prove' that my PTSD prevents me from working? I was assaulted and harassed during my last FT job. I feel like that was it, I can't do this anymore. Hell, I couldn't even talk myself into getting dressed today, let alone leave my apartment.

[aidan1970]

"The judge says that my work history suggests that I am a malingerer."

How does ones work history suggest that they are a malingerer?

[ThisWayOut]

SSA paid for my eval as part of the application process. Is that a possibility? If they are saying that the people who diagnosed you were not qualified, shouldn't they be able to provide an assessment?
Also, I second what aidan said. If anything, my work history proved I'm not faking anything... Can you gather your records from your therapists? The clinic/practice should be able to provide you the records...
Also, some places will offer a free, reduced-fee, or sliding scale psychological assessment. I know my T's office does those. You could look into the community mental health clinic and see if they can offer one... also, if there is a school nearby that had a doctoral psych program, they may be able to offer an assessment and testing. It is done by students, but over-seen by licensed clinicians... I'm not sure if that would fly for SSDI, but it may be worth a shot.

[SongofDeborah]

"[QUOTE=MdngtRain;3187766]SSA paid for my eval as part of the application process. Is that a possibility? If they are saying that the people who diagnosed you were not qualified, shouldn't they be able to provide an assessment?
Also, I second what aidan said. If anything, my work history proved I'm not faking anything... Can you gather your records from your therapists? The clinic/practice should be able to provide you the records... "

Those thoughts echo mine. The ALJ did not accept my therapists records as being relevant, as he didn't recognize their qualifications...and he said he was bothered by the lack of a psychiatric exam... So why didn't they order a Psychiatric exam? And as for my work history, I also think it reflects the difficulties that I've had over the years vs any lack of interest in working.

Well, I received the Appeals Court decision to deny my appeal today. I would have to bring a civil suit to the Federal Court, whatever that entails, I don't know.

[ThisWayOut]

[QUOTE=SongofDeborah;3189905]"

Originally Posted by MdngtRain

SSA paid for my eval as part of the application process. Is that a possibility? If they are saying that the people who diagnosed you were not qualified, shouldn't they be able to provide an assessment?
Also, I second what aidan said. If anything, my work history proved I'm not faking anything... Can you gather your records from your therapists? The clinic/practice should be able to provide you the records... "

Those thoughts echo mine. The ALJ did not accept my therapists records as being relevant, as he didn't recognize their qualifications...and he said he was bothered by the lack of a psychiatric exam... So why didn't they order a Psychiatric exam? And as for my work history, I also think it reflects the difficulties that I've had over the years vs any lack of interest in working.

Well, I received the Appeals Court decision to deny my appeal today. I would have to bring a civil suit to the Federal Court, whatever that entails, I don't know.

that really sucks. are you in the US? could you get a community psychiatrist to get you the assessment? That would help any suit you may end up choosing to go through with...