Kaiser Alan

I began going to Alan Kaiser two years ago for depression and some other issues going in my life. I had never been to a psychologist, therapist or the like in my life. All i knew was that I sunk to rock bottom and needed some assistance. I had no idea what to expect, and was not used to what I called at the beginning, 'touchy feely psycho babble." But as time went on and I began to understand my problems, where they were rooted, and how to move past them, I began to understand where all this 'psycho babble' fits and totally understand it. If someone was to ask for a referral for a therapist in the Portland area, I would refer Alan... I have no idea what the deal was with the other reviewer and their insurance stuff, or bringing in the rest of my family... I've never had any sort of problems in that respect with him. But some issues may require family assistance, who knows. He is very professional and wants to help you feel better about yourself. Pros: Concerned, well informed, helpful Cons: Doesn't know the insurance industry - so what. more

Alan Kaiser is the worst example of a time-wasting provider in my experience. I have been fortunate to work with some excellent therapists and behavioral health experts however Mr. Kaiser is a great reminder that they are not all so competent. A couple of examples: I contacted my health insurance company who confirmed that I required Pre-Authorization for treatment. I provided Mr. Kaiser with the contact #, Group #, and a pdf of my insurance card several days in advance of the 1st appointment. When I arrived, he informed me that he likes his clients to see "what he has to go through". We spent the next 15 minutes of my appointment on the phone with the insurance company, which curiously mirrors my experiences with calling all large institutions. How fascinating! Mr. Kaiser made certain to insert lots of meaningless medical code-babble along with dramatic eye-rolls and note-taking into the conversation. Despite my better judgment, I kept our 2nd appointment. Another lengthy fumble and fuddle through forms - now he can't find a form I'd sent over. I ask - is it really necessary for this particular session? Yes, it is... however after 5 more minutes of email searching, prints off a blank one. Then asks me to resend the completed one when I get home.... ? So, not important, after all? After this frustrating interlude, Mr. Kaiser proceeds to tell me that it will be impossible to complete diagnosis without bringing in my friends/family to join sessions. This is absolutely in contrast with my views on mental health and privacy. Could this have not been brought up initially? Is this your first rodeo, Alan? At this vexatious point I was happy to sever our relationship once and for all. Save yourself the time and see someone who knows what they are doing (other than how to best take your insurance for a ride) Pros: Ambience, Parking Cons: Everything else more