09/03/2020
Let's talk about resources for finding a therapist!
So I've been fielding a ton of phone calls and text messages, some of them from potential clients and some from friends and family in hushed tones all asking for how to go about finding a therapist. I've written a blog post about this before, but I want to get really specific about some things now, and I also don't have time to do any more individual searches for everyone, so I'm going to teach you how to do it on your own!
Most people, I think, myself included are going to start by sending you off to do a search on Psychology Today. They have a user friendly search engine that basically everyone in the business advertises on, but I need to give a disclaimer. I have a huge issue with Psychology Today white washing mental health care. A great example that was pointed out in one of my therapist groups was the most recent cover of their magazine featuring the issue of Grief along with the face of a white woman, specifically in the edition that was released the month after the death of George Floyd and many other social justice tragedies. It's like, BABE WHAT? We need to really take a look at how the very big Grief of Black Americans in terms of police killings, Covid deaths, and all the other crises of this raging pandemic are often completely ignored by mainstream mental health institutions. Therapy in and of itself, like many other types of treatment, academic disciplines, and ideas in Western culture has racism, misogyny and homophobia written into it and this is something everyone in my field needs to be actively working against. Psychology Today is not doing a great job. That being said, it is a helpful resource for many people who want to browse local listings, get an idea of the price range and options, or search by insurance carriers. I recommend going on Psychology Today over your insurance carriers website if you plan to use your benefits, because most people who use PT keep their profile up to date, which is not always the case with insurance websites. Also, keep in mind if you have a PPO plan, you may be able to select an out of network provider and have them provide you with a Superbill for reimbursement.
If you want to take a look at a different type of directory that focuses more on social justice issues I recommend Therapy Den, which was created as a response to the lack of care or inclusiveness of Psychology Today that I described. You can filter for a therapist who cares about the same issues that you do and read a lot about that person before you even pick up the phone.
If money is a barrier for you and/or you don't have insurance benefits to utilize, I recommend going on Open Path and signing up for a membership. It's a one time fee and you will have access to working with any of the clinicians on there who have committed to providing high quality mental health care for people who can't afford the going rates for private pay mental health treatment.
Most therapists, counselors, social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists who did not have telehealth as a part of their practice do now and probably will going forward. Do not agonize about finding someone specifically for telehealth- we're ALL doing it now, and that means the insurance companies have been asked to keep up with the times and reimburse for it, if that is a consideration for you.
If I missed anything else that you need more information about or think I should add to this post feel free to comment or DM me.
The last thing I want to say is that there is no shame in asking for help. We've been tricked into thinking that strength equals never asking for help, crying or expressing any emotion. Strength is having the courage to connect with other people, strength is knowing you are not alone, strength is facing challenges with bravery AND vulnerability. I personally have to channel Glennon Doyle every day and tell myself "We can do hard things." Finding a therapist can be hard for so many reasons, but you can do it!
