Coocuring
I work in a clinic with physicians and nurses. My role is to provide Behavioral Health services for patients with chronic medical conditions.
A doctor referred a patient to me who is an active addiction from cocaine and methamphetamine. The patient is 62 years old and has heart disease and diabetes.
Our model of treatment is a brief solution focused model involving one 60 minute initial assessment and 30 minute follow ups once a week or every two weeks.
I want to mention that I am the first mental health professional they’ve had in person, ever. I’m not sure they understand my role.
Long story short, I explained that it’s not best practice to see a patient at the level of care that we can provide. The patient needs in-patient support and detox in a medically appropriate placement.
Doc responded by saying “can’t you just talk to them about grief, the last (telehealth only new to the field) therapist saw anyone I sent them? I answered, no. It’s a liability issue as well. Doc is angry and wants me to give them a presentation about “what is it that I do”. Doc is not my boss by the way.
My question, what should I do next? Give me some advice.