Below are resources for searching for a mental health provider near you. Many providers are providing telehealth virtual service options during this time.
Finding a Mental Health Professional
APA Psychologist Locator – American Psychological Association
Find a Therapist, Psychologist, Counselor
Good Therapy- Find a Therapist
Figure out what type of therapy you could benefit from by doing some research. Many providers will offer some background information in their online profiles that can allow you to get an idea of the work they typically do. It’s important to find a therapist that is a “good fit”, and this many take time and multiple attempts-but keep trying!
What Type of Therapist Should You See?
1.Psychiatrists
These MDs are generally the priciest practitioners to see and the hardest to find, due to a nationwide shortage. Patients may go to a psychiatrist on occasion for prescriptions and another type of provider (one who’s more affordable and accessible) for therapy, though some psychiatrists do offer therapy.
2.Psychologists and Social Workers (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker LICSW, or LCSW)
The former usually have PhDs or PsyDs; the latter have at least a master’s degree. Both are trained to treat specific mental illnesses, such as anxiety and depression, and may use several different forms of therapy, such as CBT.
3. Counselors
Holding at least a master’s, they often guide clients through problems and are focused primarily on overall health and well-being of the client. Counselors often specialize in areas such as children and families, school counseling, marriage counseling, and addiction counseling.
What to Ask a Prospective Therapist?
Ask whether they’ve treated other patients with your particular issues, as well as “how they would go about treating you, whether there’s evidence for that approach, about how long it will take, and how you both will know when you’re done. This would also be a good time to discuss payment options.
Payment:
An Important thing to know before you start: how much the therapist charges and if they take your insurance. Some therapists use an income-based sliding fee scale. While most insurance plans offer some therapy coverage, many therapists don’t participate in any insurance programs. To get coverage for those therapists, you need to have out-of-network benefits; you’ll likely pay up front and then be reimbursed for whatever portion of the fee your plan covers. Many providers will note what insurances they accept on their online profiles (psychologytoday, goodtherapy)
Consider adding the number for these resources to your phone. These are two FREE resources to utilize:
NAMI also has a helpline (800-950-6264), and many local NAMI affiliates have free peer support groups.
If you’re in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255).