How To Find a Mental Health Provider
“I just need help. It’s all so confusing.”
We hear you. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of the mental health care system and the different types of professionals and treatment options available, take a deep breath. This process may demand time and effort, but it's vital to have someone who will support and champion your well-being. Below, you'll find practical advice to initiate your search.
Insurance Companies
First, check if your insurance covers mental health services. If it does, ask for a list of in-network professionals from your insurance provider.
If you don't have insurance, here are ways to make mental health care more affordable:
Look for professionals with sliding scale fees, which adjust based on your financial situation.
Ask your provider for a superbill, so you can seek reimbursement from your insurance company if they cover out-of-network services.
Some professionals accept payment from Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Healthcare Spending Accounts (HSA).
Depending on your treatment, inquire if they offer financing options like CareCredit.
Understand insurance and payment terms:
In-Network Providers: Insurance companies have special agreements with selected providers, who are part of your plan's network. Visiting these providers often means discounted services. Note: While the practice may be in-network, ensure that your specific provider is as well.
Out-of-Network Providers: Some plans may not cover out-of-network visits at all, while others may provide partial coverage, with a higher cost to you compared to in-network visits.
Superbills: A detailed invoice or itemized list of services provided by a healthcare provider to a patient. Superbills are particularly valuable in situations where healthcare providers do not directly bill insurance companies or when patients need to seek reimbursement from their insurance carriers.
Sliding Scale: A pricing structure used by healthcare professionals to determine the cost of a service or fee based on an individual's income or ability to pay.
FSA and HSA: These savings accounts let you set aside money on a pre-tax basis to pay for qualified medical expenses.
CareCredit: A credit card that offers flexible financing options to help you pay for a wide range of health and wellness costs.
Online Directories
Mental health professionals can be found through online directories. Some popular directories include:
Online Directories: Comprehensive online directories such as Psychology Today, Zencare, and Therapist.com feature profiles of various mental health professionals. You can search by location, specialty, insurance, and more. Profiles often provide details about their approach, fees, and contact information, allowing you to make informed decisions about potential providers.
Personal Websites: Many MHPs have their own websites. You can search online using specific terms, like "Therapist near me" or "Counselor for anxiety in [your city]," to find their websites.
Online Therapy Platforms: Platforms like BetterHelp, Talkspace, or Amwell offer online therapy services and have directories of licensed therapists. These platforms can be a convenient option for accessing mental health support from the comfort of your home.
Personal Recommendations
When searching for a mental health provider, start by seeking recommendations:
Ask People You Trust: Talk to friends, family, or co-workers who may have experience with mental health providers. They can provide valuable insights and referrals based on their own experiences. If you have a friend, family member, or acquaintance who is a mental health professional, you might ask them if they would be willing to help you find a professional.
Graduate Schools: Many graduate schools have students who offer affordable counseling or even free sessions. Keep in mind that these individuals may not yet be fully licensed professionals, but they can still provide valuable support.
Local Nonprofits: Check out local nonprofit organizations like Bernard and Associates, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), or MHA (Mental Health America). They often have resources and recommendations for finding mental health services.
College Campus Counseling Centers: If you're a college student, your campus may have counseling centers that provide free or low-cost services to enrolled students.
State Vocational Rehabilitation Programs: Investigate state programs that offer vocational rehabilitation services, as they may have information on mental health providers.
Employer: Ask your employer about your EAP (Employee Assistance Program) that can provide confidential mental health care.
K-12 Schools: Your school may provide on-site mental health care or refer you to third party organizations such as Thriving Campus for a list of providers.
By seeking recommendations from trusted individuals and exploring these resources, you can find suitable mental health providers to address your needs and preferences.
Advocacy
Regardless of the recommendations you receive, always conduct your own research to ensure you receive the quality of care you deserve. Being your own healthcare advocate empowers you to make informed decisions about your mental well-being.
Download Your Free How-To Guide to Navigate Mental Health Care
For our comprehensive guide to navigating mental health care, we invite you to download our How-To Guide to Navigate Mental Health Care. This guide, written by a diverse group of individuals including first responders, licensed professional counselors, and those who have personally been affected by mental illness, offers valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the complexities of mental health care effectively. Click here to access your copy and empower yourself on your mental health journey.
