While mental health awareness is becoming more important in our culture, one fact still remains. Many Americans aren’t getting the professional help they need to help them thrive mentally.
It’s estimated that over 40 million Americans are dealing with some kind of mental health concern, yet 56% of this group is not getting the assistance and treatment that they need. The mental health concerns could range from depression, to bipolar disorder, to a host of other treatable conditions. Now we’re under the impression that a lot of people would get help, but aren’t quite sure how to find the right person to give them the right kind of care. To help ease any anxiety or headaches you or someone else may have about seeking out help, keep reading as we discuss how to find the right psychologist. Ask Those in Your CircleWhile you and your friends and family may not regularly talk about one another’s mental health, it may be a good idea to ask those closest to you if they are currently or have ever sought out professional help, and had a good experience. If those close to you sought out help and enjoyed the psychologist they spoke with, inquire if they wouldn’t mind asking their psychologist for a referral list of other doctors that you could see. And while you may not consider your primary physician as a family member or friend, he or she is also a good resource to help you in your search for a psychologist; especially, if the physician knows you a little beyond your name and listed medical chart information. Recognize Your Demographic PreferenceIt’s alright if you have preferences when it comes to the demographics of your future psychologist. Some people are more comfortable opening up to a person they believe can better identify with their life experiences because of similar demographic traits. For example, a woman seeking professional help from another woman is not uncommon in the psychology world. Photo “Shop”To be clear, searching for a psychologist shouldn’t be like searching for a date on a dating app. You shouldn’t be sold on a psychologist based on a photo you see online or in a directory alone. But for many people, photos can say a thousand words. If you look up a potential doctor and get a good feeling from a picture, do some research and see if you’re gut and his/her actual qualifications align. Do the ResearchWhen you come across a psychologist, don’t be afraid to look up credentials and some reviews. Find out where your potential psychologist when to school, what degrees and certifications he/she has, and what patients past and present may be saying about the help they’re receiving. Also, see what a psychologist may specialize in when it comes to mental health services. For example, a CBT psychologist is great to see if you struggle with depression or PTSD. Selecting the Right PsychologistRegardless of the “why”, make sure you take the right steps when it comes to choosing the “who” when it comes to selecting the right psychologist. Professional help is a great resource to have in your corner when dealing with stress or more severe mental health issues. For more great life hacks and tips, be sure to visit our other blog posts.
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