[cakemedia]

UK here. Your GP is right about the massive backlog in mental health referrals (2+ years in my area) but wrong about prescription charges & the NHS recognising a diagnosis from a private psychiatrist.

Because of that huge backlog I went for a private diagnosis & prescription and then had that prescription transferred to my local GP under what's known as a 'Shared Care Agreement', so my scrip cost ~£110 per year (buy a Prescription Prepayment Certificate or 'season pass').

I know people who've managed to circumvent the waiting list (and private fees) using 'Right to choose' but I understand that can vary depending on your local health authority. Certainly worth exploring though.

[mobiuscog]

May I ask how you decided where to go for a private diagnosis ?

As another waiting-list referral, I would consider going the same route but have no idea where best to look (and whether they may have shared care agreements or not).

It's really helpful to see all of these replies from the UK.