In order to maintain and enhance one’s mental health, seeking the assistance of appropriate mental health professionals is of great importance.  Regardless of the problem, be it anxiety, depression, stress or any other mental health disorder, there is always a qualified person available to help in one of the centers or services.  This article will walk you through the steps of searching for a mental health professional including handy tips and factors to consider.
Appreciating The Different Categories Of Mental Health Experts
In case you need to elect the best-fit mental health expert, it is crucial to know the existing providers first. Every category of professionals managing mental health has its own feature training, knowledge and treatment applied.
1. Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are physicians who treat mental disorders. They can give out drugs as well as provide a variety of treatments. If you need therapy that includes the management of medications, a psychiatrist is very helpful.
2. Psychologists: Psychologists are individuals holding advanced training in psychology (Ph.D. or queer psych). They diagnose and apply mental health interventions on their patients. They do not prescribe any medications but are trained in various psychotherapeutic techniques.
3. Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs): LCSWs hold a degree in master’s social work and are allowed to render therapy. Apart from therapy, they assist in addressing social determinants of health through the provision of social services.
4. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs): LPCs have completed a master’s counseling program in any of the approved areas. They cover individual, couple, and family therapy with the primary aim being the prevention/control maintenance of psychological and emotional wellness.
5. Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs): MFTs focus on family relationships and other kinds of interpersonal relationships. They work with individuals, couples and families to address mental concerns and enhance relationships.
Table 1: Types of Mental Health Professionals and Their Roles
| Professional | Training | Services Provided | Can Prescribe Medication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychiatrist | Medical Doctor (M.D. or D.O.) | Diagnosis, therapy, medication management | Yes |
| Psychologist | Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Psychology | Diagnosis, therapy | No |
| LCSW | Master’s in Social Work | Therapy, social services navigation | No |
| LPC | Master’s in Counseling | Therapy for individuals, couples, families | No |
| MFT | Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy | Therapy for relationships and families | No |
Setting Your Goals and Preparing Requirements
It is appropriate to determine your needs and preferences prior to beginning your hunt for a mental health professional. Think of the items below:
1. Therapy Type: Different therapists practice different types of therapies such as cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic or humanistic therapies. Determine which type of therapy will be more useful with regards to your case.
2. Particular Problems: Examine whether you have some mental health issues which go beyond general practice and require deeper knowledge or experience. For instance, others focus on trauma, eating disorders, or substance abuse.
3. Personal Factors: Male, female, young or older therapists with certain methods or styles, such aspects need to be considered. Safari on the couch is not possible without a strong bond and trust with the doctor.
4. Therapist’s Availability and Location: Assess the therapist’s working hours and place of work. In this consider whether in-person sessions work for you, or it is more appropriate to use teletherapy.
5. Insurance and fees: Find out if the therapist can accept your insurance or whether their charges are affordable to you. Some therapists’ charges adjust to the income level of their patients.
Table 2: Items to Note Before Selecting a Mental Health Therapist
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Type of Therapy | CBT, psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, etc. |
| Specific Issues | Trauma, addiction, eating disorders, etc. |
| Personal Preferences | Gender, age, approach, therapeutic style |
| Availability and Location | In-person vs. teletherapy, office location |
| Insurance and Cost | Insurance coverage, sliding scale fees |
Steps to Retracing the Gaps to Locate the suitable Mental Health Professional
1. Research and gather information: First out try to research for suitable mental health professionals. Use online directories, get recommendations and check on their qualifications and specialty areas.
2. Check credentials: Verification of the professional’s paperwork is also recommended; is he licensed? How is his practice association with the regulatory authority. Find out what their educations, background, and any specializations are that they might have.
3. Arrange for first appointments: Most counselors have an extra first sitting whereby you meet them sometimes physically or online. Take time to explain your situation, ask for clarification and seek to know them.
4. Evaluating the relationship: During the first sitting with the therapist make an observation of how comfortable you feel with them. Therapeutic outcomes are critical and thus a good therapeutic relationship is crucial so go for someone whom you can relax with.
5. Review and influence: Such a plan should be implemented after the first consultations to determine various options based on what the client has been through, the therapist’s experience and specialty in relation to the client’s needs and wants.
6. Follow-Up: Recovery is usually a hard thing because of the challenges that the person had to face in therapy. After a number of sessions, a patient may feel that the therapist is just not what they need.
| Question | Purpose |
|---|---|
| What is your approach to therapy? | Understand their therapeutic style and methods |
| What is your experience with my issue? | Determine their expertise in your specific concern |
| How do you handle confidentiality? | Ensure your privacy and confidentiality are protected |
| What are your fees and payment options? | Clarify cost and insurance coverage |
| What is your availability and scheduling? | Confirm session times and flexibility |
FAQs
How will I know that I have picked the right therapist for me?
A mental health professional is right for you if they tend to your particular issues, are qualified for the job, and with whom you get on. The relationship between the therapist and client has to be good enough for therapy to be efficient.
How do I go about it if my therapist makes me uneasy?
It is important to voice such discomfort to your therapist if you are not at ease with them. If however these same issues do not change with changes in therapists it is best to look for another therapist who may be able to help meet such needs and preferences.
How can I locate mental health providers that will work with my insurance?
Call your insurance company for a directory of covered mental health services providers. Furthermore, you may also call prospective therapists to ask about coverage and what financing options are available.
How does the initial therapy session go?
When you first begin therapy, the therapist is likely to ask about your reasons for therapy, your past circumstances as well as your expectations. In this case, the therapist will most likely ask a few questions to understand the situation and present the treatment plan.
How long does a therapy course last on an average?
Therapy is more of a personalized treatment and hence, the period follows a patient-centered approach. Some patients want only a few sessions as they consider themselves already healed, and others may need the therapy for many years. It will be guided by your therapist as to how long a particular course of treatment is suitable for.