Going private for mental health services

[Pondweed]

Am struggling to access mental health support for DS and considering getting treatment privately. Problem is no one in the public sector will recommend a service.

I don't even know if I need a psychiatrist or a psychologist or a counsellor. Does anyone have any advice? What qualifications etc should I be looking for?

It depends a lot on what Ds needs help with. If it's emotional support ie counselling then you can search on the BACP or UKCP websites for registered therapists. You can search for therapists that specialise in working with children. Many will offer an initial session free or reduced. If you think there is a neurodiversity and are looking for a diagnosis, then a psychiatrist and/or paediatrician would help. You can usually self refer, although they may want a referral from a GP too. I have personally used the Priory Group, they have a number of hospitals around the country. I'm not sure what the regulatory body for psychiatrists is but I'm sure you could Google it. One word of warning though- if you are looking for a diagnosis for educational purposes ie an EHCP, CAMHS can be very difficult about private reports.

Thanks for this @SameKeyThough it is for emotional support. He already has a diagnosis from the NHS, but it was a long time ago so he's been discharged from their services. Getting back into the system seems to be something that will take months and we need help now. I'll have a look at those websites.