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In my 20's I experienced a psychotic break, and for a short period of time was catatonic.  I have been "a mental patient" for all of my adult life.  I will be 67 shortly.  Several years ago, I started working with a very fine Jungian lay analyst.  She did not accept Medicare.  I paid her fee myself.  And my secondary insurer would not pay because she was not first reimbursed by Medicare.  Finally, I could no longer afford to see her every two weeks for about $100 a visit.

I asked my primary care physicican to help me find a counselor earlier this year.  I was referred to six or seven women.  After initial contacts, only one called me back to let me know she was not accepting patients.  No one else even returned my call.  My primary physician prescribes a maintenance dose of a neuroleptic.  And views me as "depressed."  I check in with my dietitian of some 20 years once a month.  At this time I am very isolated, close to immobile, and dealing with a mild case of hoarding with a monthly day of work with a Native American woman.  I listen to OPB, watch TV and dream.

posted 3 years, 6 months ago
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