A long time ago I wanted to start seeing a therapist, but it wasn't that easy. First I didn't have the time, then I didn't have insurance for mental health care, and then I was busy with my job where seeking help was mandatory. When I finally had the opportunity to choose a therapist, I was intimidated by the thought of potential problems while talking to a stranger on the phone.
I'm not alone with this. Many people who need mental health care do not seek it for a variety of reasons, including fear of judgment from others, believing it is unnecessary, or because of the high cost. In the United States, the mental health care system is not always accessible: many people live in areas without health services or insurance, and only one-third of people get the care they need for mental health disorders. Tightening laws to improve access to care can help in the long run, but change does not happen overnight.
If you're thinking about getting care for your mental health, just getting started can seem like a daunting task, and payment terms, providers, and your progress can seem like a minefield. It's especially difficult to get started if you're embarking on this journey when you're at your lowest point.
I speak from experience: I did have a tearful conversation that I dreaded. But it turned out to be clarifying rather than humiliating, and the therapist on the other end of the wire was a keeper.
I'm not alone with this. Many people who need mental health care do not seek it for a variety of reasons, including fear of judgment from others, believing it is unnecessary, or because of the high cost. In the United States, the mental health care system is not always accessible: many people live in areas without health services or insurance, and only one-third of people get the care they need for mental health disorders. Tightening laws to improve access to care can help in the long run, but change does not happen overnight.
If you're thinking about getting care for your mental health, just getting started can seem like a daunting task, and payment terms, providers, and your progress can seem like a minefield. It's especially difficult to get started if you're embarking on this journey when you're at your lowest point.
I speak from experience: I did have a tearful conversation that I dreaded. But it turned out to be clarifying rather than humiliating, and the therapist on the other end of the wire was a keeper.
People face a number of common obstacles when seeking mental health care. Here's how to navigate some of them.
I don't know what's happening to me. Where do I go?
People with different health conditions seek mental health care at different times in their lives, and there is considerable diversity in their motivations, reports Megan Rochford, who manages the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) national help line. No matter what your situation, it's important to realize that you don't necessarily need to have a clear idea of what you need to start getting medical help.
If feelings of shame prevent you from seeking mental health help, remember that you are not alone and support is always available, Rochford said. She noted that calls to trusted phone numbers like NAMI and the care provided by licensed professionals are confidential and aimed at helping you become a stronger, more confident person. What's more, getting mental health support may not look like what you think: modern approaches to psychiatry include not only therapists' offices and medications, but also alternative methods, such as in-home support (including self-help groups and help from peers), which may be appealing to some people.
While the professionals you seek help from may be experts in the resources available, you are ultimately the expert in your own experience and determine for yourself what is right for you, says Nia McCray-Brown, a community relations specialist at Mental Health America (MHA), an educational nonprofit organization.
People with different health conditions seek mental health care at different times in their lives, and there is considerable diversity in their motivations, reports Megan Rochford, who manages the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) national help line. No matter what your situation, it's important to realize that you don't necessarily need to have a clear idea of what you need to start getting medical help.
If feelings of shame prevent you from seeking mental health help, remember that you are not alone and support is always available, Rochford said. She noted that calls to trusted phone numbers like NAMI and the care provided by licensed professionals are confidential and aimed at helping you become a stronger, more confident person. What's more, getting mental health support may not look like what you think: modern approaches to psychiatry include not only therapists' offices and medications, but also alternative methods, such as in-home support (including self-help groups and help from peers), which may be appealing to some people.
While the professionals you seek help from may be experts in the resources available, you are ultimately the expert in your own experience and determine for yourself what is right for you, says Nia McCray-Brown, a community relations specialist at Mental Health America (MHA), an educational nonprofit organization.
In a moment of crisis, some people seek psychiatric help when they lose control of their daily functions, endanger themselves or others. In these situations, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Today, there is a simple process for getting support in the form of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline, launched nationally in 2022. This line provides 24/7 emotional support and helps connect people with needed services and agencies in their area. If you are in crisis, you can call 988 from any phone, use the chat feature on the 988 website, or text MHA to 741741.
People who are not in crisis have a variety of symptoms that may prompt them to seek mental health help. Some may experience emotional or physical symptoms such as sadness, anxiety, malaise or trouble sleeping. Psychologist Marni Shanbhag of Florida notes that initial help-seeking may be triggered by feelings of sadness, anxiety or other mental health issues. Rochford adds that there are also many people seeking help for changes in their lives, overcoming addictions or resolving conflicts. It's important to remember that seeking mental health help is not only for crisis situations, but also to maintain mental health and well-being.
There are a wide variety of tools available to treat mental health issues, and you need to know exactly what tools you need to start getting help. However, as Rochford states, it is helpful to have a goal in front of you, «Identify your goals and think about how to best meet your needs».
Websites like NAMI and MHA can help you put your feelings into words or describe symptoms that you find difficult to communicate. There are also many mental health warmlines where you can get free and confidential phone support: NAMI runs a national helpline, and different states have their own warmlines. These are different from hotlines like 988 because their goal is not only to support people during a crisis, but also to provide resources for follow-up care.
People who are not in crisis have a variety of symptoms that may prompt them to seek mental health help. Some may experience emotional or physical symptoms such as sadness, anxiety, malaise or trouble sleeping. Psychologist Marni Shanbhag of Florida notes that initial help-seeking may be triggered by feelings of sadness, anxiety or other mental health issues. Rochford adds that there are also many people seeking help for changes in their lives, overcoming addictions or resolving conflicts. It's important to remember that seeking mental health help is not only for crisis situations, but also to maintain mental health and well-being.
There are a wide variety of tools available to treat mental health issues, and you need to know exactly what tools you need to start getting help. However, as Rochford states, it is helpful to have a goal in front of you, «Identify your goals and think about how to best meet your needs».
Websites like NAMI and MHA can help you put your feelings into words or describe symptoms that you find difficult to communicate. There are also many mental health warmlines where you can get free and confidential phone support: NAMI runs a national helpline, and different states have their own warmlines. These are different from hotlines like 988 because their goal is not only to support people during a crisis, but also to provide resources for follow-up care.
These websites and help lines can also help you navigate the many resources available for people with mental health issues. While many people opt for talk therapy and medications as their primary treatments, there are also self-help groups, peer support and other community-based approaches to care, as well as a variety of non-medication therapies that can be helpful in a variety of situations. For some serious mental illnesses that are more difficult to treat, electroconvulsive therapy and certain psychedelic drugs may be helpful and show great potential.
MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS ARE USUALLY QUITE WILLING TO HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT PLACE TO START, EVEN IF IT MEANS YOU HAVE TO BE REFERRED TO ANOTHER PROVIDER WITH BETTER EXPERTISE TO MEET YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS.
«If you need help but don't know where to turn, don't hesitate to discuss your concerns with your doctor. Sometimes it's really helpful to talk to someone you trust and who can be your compass» — advises Rochford.
GPs are likely to know mental health professionals in your area and can help you find appropriate treatment, including prescribing the right medication. It's also important to rule out the possibility that your physical condition may be exacerbating your symptoms.
«In the end, mental health professionals are usually willing to help you find the right place to begin treatment, even if it means seeing another professional who has more experience with your particular situation» — Shanbhag concludes.
For more information about mental health diagnoses, treatment types and supports, visit:
- NAMI Resource Directory, one of many resource lists on the organization's website.
How will I pay for my treatment?
Financial issues are always a barrier to getting medical care, and mental health care is no exception.
If you have health insurance, it is recommended that you research your plan information (or call the number on your insurance card) to find out what treatments it covers. There may also be a deductible — an amount that must be paid regardless of the total cost of treatment, and this payment may vary depending on the insurance company's specific plan. Some plans provide full coverage for a certain number of doctor visits before you have to pay out-of-pocket.
Each plan is different, so it is advisable to check with your insurer to avoid unpleasant surprises before seeking medical care.
Many plans offer access to a network of providers who are less expensive for members than out-of-network providers. These providers are usually located in your area, although some may provide services online and reside in another state but be licensed in yours. Insurance plans pay partially for in-network providers and have a lower rate or no payment for out-of-network providers.
Even with health insurance, paying for mental health care is often different than paying for physical health care. Therapists often bill you directly and then you reimburse and submit for reimbursement to your insurer.
If you don't have health insurance, you still have options. If you need therapy, you may have to pay the full cost out of pocket. This is expensive, usually between $100 and $200 per session. Some providers offer therapy on a sliding scale, which means lower costs for people with less ability to pay, so it's worth asking.
In addition, many online providers provide services for people paying out of pocket (some also accept certain insurance plans).
There are also low-cost and free options for both therapy and other treatments. Rochford suggests looking for universities with graduate programs that train people to provide psychotherapy; they often offer treatment for free. In addition, self-help and support groups are usually free to attend.
For more information on the financial side of mental health treatment, visit:
There are also low-cost and free options for both therapy and other treatments. Rochford suggests looking for universities with graduate programs that train people to provide psychotherapy; they often offer treatment for free. In addition, self-help and support groups are usually free to attend.
For more information on the financial side of mental health treatment, visit:
How do I find the right doctor for me?
For many people with mental health problems, psychotherapy is an important part of the treatment process. It is a specialized type of therapy that involves talking with a therapist to identify and change negative feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. However, choosing the right therapist can be a challenge due to the variety of specializations and methods.
To begin your search, it's worth assessing your finances. If cost is important and you have health insurance, it is helpful to start by looking for providers who work with your insurance company. You can search for information about therapists online or look to reviews and testimonials. Sites like Psychology Today offer a directory of therapists with detailed information about their practice.
For many people with mental health problems, psychotherapy is an important part of the treatment process. It is a specialized type of therapy that involves talking with a therapist to identify and change negative feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. However, choosing the right therapist can be a challenge due to the variety of specializations and methods.
To begin your search, it's worth assessing your finances. If cost is important and you have health insurance, it is helpful to start by looking for providers who work with your insurance company. You can search for information about therapists online or look to reviews and testimonials. Sites like Psychology Today offer a directory of therapists with detailed information about their practice.
There are also low-cost psychotherapy options offered by local health departments and community organizations. Believers can see clergy, and children can see school counselors. It is important to seek out the right professional who can provide help and support for your situation.
While some therapists prefer to see patients either in person or online, many offer both options. Jeff Ashby, a psychologist and University of Georgia professor of stress and trauma research, notes that the pandemic has changed the approach to telehealth. Research shows that many problems can be successfully addressed through telehealth.
In-person therapy can have its advantages: the therapist can analyze your body language, not just your facial expressions, which helps establish a trusting relationship. That's why professor and counselor Katharine Chang recommends having a few in-person meetings before moving to online interactions. However, the best way to get the therapy help you need is to choose the one that suits your needs. If that means only using a virtual platform, that's perfectly acceptable too.
Recently, many text therapy platforms have emerged. While they provide a convenient way to get support, experts advise caution. State licensing bodies for psychotherapists do not endorse text therapy, as there is no conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. Therefore, it is worth evaluating the quality of service and payment options beforehand, as you may have to pay for text therapy out of your own pocket.
More tips on finding a therapist can be found here:
While some therapists prefer to see patients either in person or online, many offer both options. Jeff Ashby, a psychologist and University of Georgia professor of stress and trauma research, notes that the pandemic has changed the approach to telehealth. Research shows that many problems can be successfully addressed through telehealth.
In-person therapy can have its advantages: the therapist can analyze your body language, not just your facial expressions, which helps establish a trusting relationship. That's why professor and counselor Katharine Chang recommends having a few in-person meetings before moving to online interactions. However, the best way to get the therapy help you need is to choose the one that suits your needs. If that means only using a virtual platform, that's perfectly acceptable too.
Recently, many text therapy platforms have emerged. While they provide a convenient way to get support, experts advise caution. State licensing bodies for psychotherapists do not endorse text therapy, as there is no conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. Therefore, it is worth evaluating the quality of service and payment options beforehand, as you may have to pay for text therapy out of your own pocket.
More tips on finding a therapist can be found here:
How will I know if I have received 100% psychological/psychotherapeutic help?
Treatment for mental health problems can sometimes be challenging, even if things are going well. Researcher Chang from the University of Georgia suggests evaluating yourself after your first visit to see if the method is right for you. He advises asking yourself questions such as whether you feel like you're really being heard, whether your therapist is someone you can open up to, and whether you're getting support in talking about your goals and expectations for counseling.
Psychiatrist Richard A. Friedman recently wrote in the Atlantic magazine that the primary goal of most forms of therapy and medication for mental illness is to get you to feel and function well enough to live without ongoing support. While some people with chronic illnesses may need medication and support for long periods of time, most patients seeking mental health care should realize that eventually they will no longer need ongoing therapy or will only need it occasionally.
The duration of therapy and other psychiatric care can vary depending on the individual and the patient's condition. Sometimes a few sessions can solve a problem, but more often than not, therapy can help uncover deeper issues, Ashby says. You might have a few sessions with a therapist and realize that your problems involve more than just superficial aches and pains in your life.
Treatment for mental health problems can sometimes be challenging, even if things are going well. Researcher Chang from the University of Georgia suggests evaluating yourself after your first visit to see if the method is right for you. He advises asking yourself questions such as whether you feel like you're really being heard, whether your therapist is someone you can open up to, and whether you're getting support in talking about your goals and expectations for counseling.
Psychiatrist Richard A. Friedman recently wrote in the Atlantic magazine that the primary goal of most forms of therapy and medication for mental illness is to get you to feel and function well enough to live without ongoing support. While some people with chronic illnesses may need medication and support for long periods of time, most patients seeking mental health care should realize that eventually they will no longer need ongoing therapy or will only need it occasionally.
The duration of therapy and other psychiatric care can vary depending on the individual and the patient's condition. Sometimes a few sessions can solve a problem, but more often than not, therapy can help uncover deeper issues, Ashby says. You might have a few sessions with a therapist and realize that your problems involve more than just superficial aches and pains in your life.