A follow up to this article about my son's depression.
Yesterday, I called the NJ Association of Psychologists to ask about sliding scale fees. They gave me the number for four doctors in our area. I left messages explaining our situation.
Three never called back. One called back and said that his scale was this: If you couldn't afford to pay the 175 dollars a visit, you could pay 150. He said he sypathized with my situation, but really it was the duty of the state to help poor people, and that we should try contacting some sort of state agency. When I explained that the county's mental health outreach program said their soonest appointment was in October, he gave me the names and numbers of some people he thought had cheaper fees than he did. I called and left messages with them - no replies yet.
Today we found someone in the school district who I thought would be helpful. A councelor for the entire district. I explained what the problem was on the phone, and when we came in, we explained again what was going on.
So the guy's this older guy (like sixty or so) with white hair, a 'cool' haircut and t-shirt, and a bunch of earrings in his ear, obviously trying to do the 'I'm -just - like- you -kids' thing. He gets up in my son's face and says "Are you HIGH in school? Are you DRUNK in class?"
I was so angry about that. Like school wouldn't notice, first of all, if you're in there high or drunk. And secondly... it really helps you feel less depressed when some wanna-be-cool counselor thinks you're a drunken druggie because you're having some problems.
Needless to say, it didn't work out. Back to the drawing board. I'm running out of avenues to even try. Very frustrating.
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Comments: 41
In West Virginia, there is help for mental health for low income. A place called Seneca Mental health. I thought that it was a nation wide program but I do know it is in our state
having a caring mom is a big big deal..way to go mom!
Laura good for you for taking this serious.
973-571-4100
At NJMentalHealthCares :
Your call is answered by knowledgeable mental health professionals.
Your call is answered live from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; at other times we'll call you back quickly.
We'll speak to you in the language you prefer or by TTY.
We have the most up-to-date listing of NJ's public mental health providers.
You can request help by telephone or e-mail.
We will follow-up to ensure that you are satisfied with the referral.
We can transfer your call directly to the right service and remain on the line until you are comfortable.
Is there a teen center or support group nearby?
sometimes even an adult support group can be helpful
If not, don't be ashamed to ask family and friends for financial support. This is something that you need to do, and without creating embarrasment for yourself or your son, you can ask for and get help from your family and friends.
Oh, I'm sure you have a very valid opinion- considering you're some random internet troll. I'm really upset here. This is me crying. Not.
Thanks for earning me some more points with your complete stupidity- feel free to comment back any time!
When my kids were young, I found that 75% of school counselors sucked. There were a few good ones, though. I think you should report this guy, but I also think you ought to write him a letter, with a copy going to the schoolboard and tell him that he did more harm than good to your child. He's drawing a paycheck, he's not doing it for free, and he needs to do his job.
Hang in there!
Oh, I just thought of something else. Do you have a YMCA in your area? They may know of resources for kids.
Keep fighting!
A lot of time religious organizations have professionals available free or at reduced charge, but given the lack of choices you have this may be the only route available.
2. check out catholic social services, lutheran social services
3. call your local hospital to see who they have as referrals
4. calll your doctor and see who they refer to
5. call DHS and see who they refer to
6. continue to tell your son you love him, care about him and wanr him in your life
I'm not sure if you got it but I left you some information in the comments where we were chatting the other night. If you didn't get it you might want to back track and check it out. If it won't help your son, at least you'll have the info in case you ever encounter someone that it would be useful to. Hope it helps!
This is for Children's Behavioral Health in your state.
Tell them your child has depression and you would like a Children's Mental Health Case Manager.
http://www.state.nj.us/dcf/behavioral/help/
I am so sorry to hear about your story. I think all Mental Health Services in this country should be free if you can't afford to pay. People are crying out for help, but the medical profession ignores it, because of the almighty dollar. I hope that you have gotten help for your son by now.