2023-08-17 06:03:24
If you’ve never seen a mental health professional before, it may be difficult to find a professional who meets your needs. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind as you seek a mental health professional.
Mental health professionals diagnose and treat mental health conditions. Most of them hold a master’s degree.
Some of them may have received a higher level of education and training, and obtained a higher degree of qualification. Make sure the professional you choose is licensed to provide mental health services. Licensing and services depend on the specialist’s training, area of specialization, and state law.
Below you’ll find some of the most common specializations for mental health professionals. Some may specialize in areas such as depression, alcohol and substance abuse, or family therapy. They work in a private clinic, hospital, community organization, or other facility.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a doctor with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) who specializes in mental health. This type of physician may specialize in certain areas, such as child and adolescent psychiatry, geriatrics, or addiction psychiatry. This doctor can diagnose and treat mental health conditions and prescribe medications. He may also offer talk therapy, known as psychotherapy.
Psychology specialist
A psychologist is a person trained in the field of psychology, which is the science concerned with thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. A psychologist usually holds a doctoral degree, such as a doctorate in psychiatry or a doctorate in psychology.
A psychologist can diagnose and treat many types of mental health conditions. It offers different types of talking therapy. In the United States, most psychologists are not authorized to prescribe medication. But they may work with another specialist who is authorized to prescribe medications if needed.
Psychiatric mental health nurses
A mental health and psychiatric nurse is a registered nurse who has been trained in mental health issues.
The Registered Advanced Practitioner Mental Health and Psychiatry Nurse holds at least a Master’s degree in Mental Health and Psychiatry Nursing.
Other types of registered advanced practice nurses who provide mental health services include the clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner, and nurse doctorate in nursing.
The services provided by mental health nurses depend on their educational degree, level of training and experience, and state law. They can diagnose and treat mental illness. Nurses registered as advanced practitioners may prescribe the medication if state law allows it.
Physician assistant
A physician assistant practices medicine as a primary care provider or in conjunction with a physician. Physician assistants can specialize in psychiatry.
They can diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They can also provide advice about the causes, treatments and possible causes of mental health conditions. A physician assistant can prescribe medication.
Certified Clinical Social Worker
If you prefer the services of a social worker, look for a certified clinical social worker with training and experience specifically in mental health. A certified clinical social worker must have a master’s degree. Some of them have PhDs in social work.
Social workers provide assessment, counseling and a range of other services. The services they provide depend on their training and the accreditation they have obtained. They are not authorized to prescribe medication. But they may work with another specialist who is authorized to prescribe medications if needed.
Certified professional consultant
The training required for both Certified Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Professional Counsellor or similar titles varies by state, but most require at least a master’s degree with clinical experience.
These certified counselors diagnose mental health conditions and provide counseling on a range of issues. They are not authorized to prescribe medication. But they may work with another specialist who is authorized to prescribe medications if needed.
A therapist specializing in marriage and family relations
The therapist who specializes in marriage and family relations is trained in family and individual therapy. This type of therapist can help you work through family problems or other problems you have in other relationships. They hold at least a master’s degree.
Licensing and certification requirements vary by state. Find a certified marriage and family therapist. These therapists may work alone or in collaboration with other professionals.
Other things to think about
Consider these things when choosing a mental health professional:
your problem or condition. Most mental health professionals treat a range of conditions, but a doctor who specializes in a particular field may be the best option for your needs. For example, if you have an eating disorder, you may need to see a psychologist who specializes in this specific area. And if you are facing problems in your marital life, you may need to consult a certified marriage and family relationship specialist. In general, the more severe the symptoms or the more complex the diagnosis, the more experienced a mental health professional you should look for.
If you need medication, counseling, or both. Some mental health professionals aren’t authorized to prescribe medications. Therefore, you may need to see more than one mental health professional. For example, you may need to see a psychiatrist to prescribe medications and a psychologist or other mental health professional for counseling.
Health insurance coverage. An insurance policy may include a specific list of mental health professionals who are covered under the insurance plan. Insurance coverage may include some mental health professionals who specialize in certain areas but not others. Contact your insurance company (Medicare or Medicaid in the US) to find out what types of mental health services are covered and what your limits are.
How do I find a mental health professional?
To find a mental health doctor, you can:
Ask the health insurance company for a list of co-insured doctors. Many insurance companies offer a list of these doctors online. Ask for a referral or recommendation from your primary care physician. Ask your trusted friends, family or someone from your religious denomination. Check if your employer offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), check if your school’s student health center offers mental health services, or ask for a referral. Contact a local or national mental health organization by phone or on the Internet, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Look online for professional associations that provide directories for mental health clinicians, such as the American Medical Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association or Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies. Check phone registry listings or search online under specific categories, such as numbers for community services, counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, or social service organizations.
What should you look for in a mental health professional?
When choosing a mental health professional, consider the following:
Academic qualification, training, licensing and years of practice. Licensing requirements vary by state. The areas in which the specialist specializes and the services he provides. Treatment methods and philosophy. Types of insurance companies that can be used. Clinic working hours, fees and duration of sessions.
Prepare a list of questions to ask. Finding the right specialist is crucial to establishing a good relationship and getting the most out of your treatment.
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