If you\u2019re struggling with mental illness, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to finding the right care provider to address your symptoms. How do you know if you need a specialist or more general care? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this article, we\u2019ll discuss how you can find the best mental health professionals for your needs. This way, you can make an informed decision about pursuing the right provider. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are you looking for ADHD<\/a>, insomnia<\/a>, anxiety<\/a>, or depression<\/a> treatment? Take our brief self-evaluation today to get started! At Klarity, we connect you with licensed mental health providers within 48 hours so that you can get the help you need fast, right from the comfort of your own home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before you search for a mental health provider, it\u2019s important to understand your needs. Self-reflecting on your current symptoms, history with medication, and counseling can be a good jumping-off point for determining how to approach your next provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Maybe you\u2019ve already tried talk therapy and would like to explore medication. Or, perhaps you\u2019d like to include counseling as part of your treatment plan alongside medication. Maybe you\u2019re not interested in medication at all and just need someone to talk to. Understanding your current concerns and mental health conditions will help you find a professional to best meet your needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You should check your health insurance coverage before you search for a mental health professional. Many insurance companies have a list of mental health providers covered under your plan so you can determine the most affordable option for you. If you don\u2019t have insurance, you can also look for providers who offer sliding-scale payment plans or telehealth platforms that don\u2019t require it. <\/p>\n\n\n\nUnderstand Your Needs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Medication, Counseling, or Diagnosis <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Insurance Coverage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
| <\/th> | Provides Diagnosis<\/th> | Provides CBT<\/th> | Prescribes Medication<\/th> | Average Cost per Visit \n(before insurance) \n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychiatrist<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | $150 to $500<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Psychologist<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | No<\/td> | $70 to $150<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes \n(under physician supervision in some states) \n<\/td> | $120 (approximately)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Physician Assistant \n \n<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | $70 to $135<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Licensed Clinical Social Worker<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | No<\/td> | $80 to $150<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Licensed Professional Counselor<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | Yes<\/td> | No<\/td> | $20 to $80<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nTypes of Mental Health Professionals<\/h2>\n\n\n\nMental health professionals have different areas of expertise. Some are trained to prescribe medication, while others are trained to provide counseling or therapy. Some may be able to provide both. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The right mental health professional will be someone who makes you feel seen, heard, and valued. There are several different kinds of mental health providers that can help you address your needs, so which one is the best fit for you? Sometimes, you may have to try sessions with multiple providers before finding one that clicks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Psychiatrist<\/h3>\n\n\n\nA psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health. These are professionals who can prescribe medication and provide therapy to treat mental, emotional, and behavioral conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Psychologist<\/h3>\n\n\n\nPsychologists are providers who have completed a graduate degree in psychology. They can do psychological evaluations and provide counseling and therapy. Psychologists differ from psychiatrists because they cannot prescribe medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nPsychiatric-mental health nurses (PMHNs) are registered nurses who have completed additional training in treating behavioral or mental health conditions. They can provide counseling, medication management, and other mental health services to individuals, groups, and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Physician Assistant<\/h3>\n\n\n\nA physician assistant (PA) is a medical professional who works under the supervision of a doctor. These providers often have graduate-level education and can diagnose and treat patients with behavioral and mental health issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Licensed Clinical Social Worker<\/h3>\n\n\n\nLicensed clinical social workers are trained mental health professionals who can provide counseling and therapy around mental health, domestic, child-protective, and social service issues. These social workers often operate outside of government agencies or non-profit organizations that fall within the healthcare sector. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Licensed Professional Counselor<\/h3>\n\n\n\nLicensed professional counselors (LPCs) are trained professionals who can provide mental health and substance misuse care. LPCs typically hold a master’s degree and work in community mental health centers, agencies, and organizations. These providers are typically covered under major insurance plans, but it\u2019s best to check with your insurer first. <\/p>\n\n\n\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t |