To ask for an experienced practitioner?

[mommathatwearspink]

After really struggling with my mental health last year, I finally sought help and I am on the mend with the help of medication. My GP also referred me to a PWP (Psycological Wellbeing Practioner) with the aim of having some 1-2-1 sessions (CBT, etc). I have been on a waiting list for 2 months and after accepting a date, I got my confirmation letter today. It says that my appointment will be with a Trainee PWP. I am all for people being given the chance and would be happy for a trainee to be present but AIBU to ask for someone more experienced as I do feel like I need someone who really understands what it is I need?

Until you meet them you dont know how good the trainee will be and if you will jell. You could try it and see.

You can ask for a fully qualified, experienced person, but you'll likely end up waiting a lot longer.

Don't forget that 'trainee' status can last ages, and someone officially still a trainee could be just 4 hours short of being fully qualified. Trainee also doesn't mean inexperienced.

In my experience of trainees in other roles (trainee GP, trainee practice nurse etc) they have all be superb, as their training is fresh and new in their mind, they are trying hard because they need to qualify, and they are really keen and hardworking and eager to do a fantastic job.

A trainee who's being allowed to conduct solo sessions is one who is a good way through the training. They will start by just observing and then progress gradually up to the time they can conduct solo sessions. They don't just get chucked in fresh on their first day.

In therapy one of the most important aspects which leads to success is the relationship between therapist and client. You could click with this person or you might get some stuffy old man/woman who you hate. Also trainees often have more time and are more up to date in terms of best practice/ strategies/ research etc. The trainees that I know of in this field have all been social workers, occupational therapists, nurses so are usually re-training.

I think you should go ahead. Trainees are fresh and keen to learn.

I don't think you'd be unreasonable to ask, but I doubt you can insist. I also suspect that if your needs can't be met by the trainee they will be able to refer you to someone else.

I agree that trainee does not mean that they are inexperienced.

Give the trainee a chance - we all started from scratch afterall.

If it doesn't work after your first, second session then maybe ask to change?