Taking the First Steps
Because I am just starting this blog, I figured it would be nice to begin with sharing some guidance on how to get started if you are considering treatment for your mental health.
The good news is that there are a lot of different treatments out there- therapy, medication, and many different approaches for each. The not so good news is that this can be very overwhelming for someone who is just starting this journey- especially if you are already anxious, stressed, or depressed.
I am going to try my best to break this down and help this process feel less daunting.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Type of Mental Health Provider for You
Treatment typically falls into two main categories:
Therapy providers include Psychologists (PhD or PsyD), Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC, LPCC), Social Workers (LISW, LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT)
Medication providers include Psychiatrists (MD), Nurse Practitioners (APRN, CNP, PMHNP), and Physician Associates (PA).
**To add to the confusion, some of these names and abbreviations can vary by state- so if you aren’t sure, just ask! **
Another consideration is if in prefer in person or virtual appointments. With the age of telehealth, many providers offer both. Depending on the need and/or type of treatment, you may be required to have some in person appointments.
Step 2: Finding and Connecting with a Mental Health Provider
Word of mouth: If you know anyone receiving treatment for mental health asking them who they see can be a good starting point. Depending on the relationship, that provider may not be able to see you, but there may be others in the practice that can.
Check with Primary Care: Some providers may have a referral list
Utilize online directories: Many allow you to search for a provider by specialty, insurance, and option for in person vs. telehealth. Most also include a short bio about the provider and sometimes a video introduction.
Examples include Psychology Today, ZocDoc, TherapyDen, and Thriving Campus or Welltrack Connect (for college students).
Step 3: Navigating Costs, Billing, and Insurance Options
Verify network status: I always recommend verifying that the provider is in network with your specific plan. Many insurance providers have numerous plans under them (again, as if it needed to be any more complicated!) and the provider may be in network with most but not all.
Understand self- pay and out of network options: Many mental healthcare providers do not accept insurance and there are many reasons for this- a major one being that insurance often limits the type of care that they can provide. If a provider does not accept insurance or is not in network with your plan, they may give you a “super bill” (essentially an itemized receipt) that you can submit to your insurance as an out of network claim. If your plan includes out of network benefits for mental health, you may be reimbursed for all or a portion of what you paid.
Hope that this helped and did not make your head spin! I know that this process can be confusing, so congratulations on taking the first steps! Please leave a comment if you have any questions.