How do I get NHS to allow me to keep seeing private therapist alongside whatever they offer?
I was referred for 6 sessions of CBT a year ago, I found a private therapist while waiting. I've now reached the top of the wait list and they say they can offer 6 sessions of CBT or potentially the next step, 20 sessions of CBT or something else - said they'll get back to me...
They say I can't keep seeing private therapist at the same time and I need to choose. I don't want to stop seeing private therapist, I find it pretty vital for stability and emotional support at the moment which I don't think the NHS can replace. I also think it's different enough that it won't be conflicting, it's far longer term exploring deeper stuff than CBT will offer. I'm not hopeful that CBT will help much but I would like to try just incase and it's possible it could help with managing day to day symptoms quicker.
Another mental health professional suggested not disclosing that I'm seeing a private therapist or telling them that I'm stopping when I'm actually not, but I've already mentioned it and worry about being dishonest. They also suggested asking private therapist to change the structure or offering 'support sessions' instead of counselling so I can keep both. I haven't yet had a chance to discuss with private therapist though.
What can I say to the NHS to persuade them that it's complementary rather than conflicting?
Thanks