Legal assistance in case of illness and labor disputes

Questioner

At the end of March I called in sick after everything became too much for me due to various factors. After my sick call I also completely collapsed with depression, anxiety attacks, etc. In the first period my employer did not believe that this was possible and said that it was all in my head. I did not go out on the street, the company doctor saw that it was not good and gave negative advice regarding returning to work. This Up to twice despite pressure from the absenteeism point and employer. The second time the company doctor advised to ask for a second opinion because they did not follow his advice. I myself was already working with a psychologist in my area, but the process takes a long time. I have medication and see a doctor for this. She indicates that I first have to work on myself. Now I have a second opinion on Monday with ......management. I looked at their site and read that they are also starting a process with conversations with their psychologist. I myself find it strange that this is happening because I then have to complete a process with two psychologists. One via my GP and one who has been called in by the absenteeism point. This one is also in Amsterdam while I do not dare to go on the highway in the traffic. Can my employer require me to attend sessions there?

Lawyer

In principle not. It depends on the outcome of the second opinion and the possible cooperation between your employer and the absenteeism point. They must assess whether you are ill under the circumstances and cannot work. You can indicate that you are already being treated by your own psychologist and that you would prefer to remain there. By the way, you could have requested a second opinion from the UWV. There you are free to choose the place of treatment if you are found to be ill. For more information, please feel free to contact me directly. If you do not want to share sensitive information here, you can click on the button next to this answer for personal contact.