Still on the waiting list

I was referred to a psychiatrist in August 2008 who said he thought I should see a psychologist. The psychologists appointment was in November 2008, and when I went in the office she told me that she would make an initial assessment, then because of the waiting list, it would be approximately a year before I would be seen again.
I was then allocated to a Care co-ordinator from my local mental health team, who, although is a very nice person, thinks it's ok if I practice breathing excercises until I get my next psychologists appointment.
What planet are these people on?!
Kathann.

Hi Kathann,

I've had a similar problem with my own referral. Despite being near the top of the list, ive been waiting for what seems like a lifetime!
On Friday i made the best decision in a long, long time, and decided to pay privately for counselling.
It's not overly expensive, and has the added benefit of being able to choose who you want to have as your counsellor rather than just accepting whoever you are allocated.

The lady i spoke to on Friday uses a mix of Alderian Therapy and Inner Child work in addition to CBT and other things?
Has anyone else experienced this??

I'm hoping that i can start to benefit from this soon, and will keep you updated.

Steve.