It’s estimated that 1 in 2 Americans will receive some type of mental disorder diagnosis in their lifetime. Mental disorders are one of the most common health conditions affecting Americans. People of all ages — from children to the elderly — can experience depression, anxiety, and more serious illnesses like schizophrenia. 

While there are medications to manage certain mental disorders, mental health counseling (therapy) is a key treatment for anyone experiencing mental illness. Unfortunately, fewer than half of the approximately 53 million people experiencing a mental illness seek help.

From the community: “In the past 2yrs. I have gone through divorce, My Dad passing, job loss, new job, working from home, living alone. Covid. I feel loneliness. And have anxiety about my job. I work remote and there are days where there is nothing to do. And I feel isolated. And now the thought of ever going back to an office gives me anxiety too. And where I currently reside and I am not from. I try to exercise, meditate, on medication (effexor) I feel like I am battling everyday. I am in the process of getting counseling. I want to try EMDR. I don't know what else to do.” – Inspire member 

Do you need therapy?

If you or a loved one has a mental disorder, recognizing the need for therapy is an important first step in getting the necessary care. But you don’t need a mental illness diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Talking to a mental health professional can be especially helpful during periods of intense emotional stress. A therapist can also help you grow as a person, become more confident, and help you establish healthy habits and boundaries.

Signs you or a loved one may benefit from therapy include:

• changes to sleep (either sleeping too much or not enough)

• feeling more stressed, anxious, or depressed than usual, or simply feeling “off” or out of sorts

• feeling worthless, hopeless, or unloved

• lack of appetite and weight loss, or overeating and weight gain

• loss of interest in socializing, spending time with loved ones, or participating in activities that once brought joy

• moodiness or irritability

What professionals offer mental health counseling?

Psychiatrists, as well as some psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs) or physician assistants (PAs), provide mental health counseling. They also can prescribe medications for mental disorders. 

Other professionals who also provide therapy include:

• licensed clinical social workers

• marriage and family therapists

• psychologists

From the community: “It's great that you're starting therapy! My experiences overall have been positive but I think it's important to mention that not every therapist is a good therapist, and sometimes a part of the equation is finding the right therapist for you. You shouldn't expect results immediately, but if you don't feel like you're getting anywhere after several months I would recommend finding someone new. My first attempts at therapy went poorly because I was trying to work with the wrong type of therapist, but once I finally found someone who understood my goals and had experience addressing my particular issues it helped tremendously.” – Inspire member 

How do you find the right therapist?

Finding the right therapist can be challenging. For starters, there are different professionals who provide therapy, as well as different types of therapies. Some therapies work better for certain mental disorders or stressors. 

These steps can help you get started:

• assess your mental healthcare needs

• refine your search

• schedule a consultation

• switch therapists, if necessary

Assess your mental healthcare needs

Talking to a therapist about problems, concerns, or issues is called psychotherapy. There are different types of psychotherapy. If you’ve been diagnosed with a mental disorder, especially a severe, chronic one like bipolar disorder or a type of psychotic disorder like schizophrenia, you should look for a therapist who has experience treating these conditions.

It’s OK if you aren’t sure what sort of therapy or mental health support you need. After a few initial sessions, a therapist should be able to define the issues and offer solutions. If a therapist doesn’t specialize in a treatment you need, they can refer you to someone in their field who does. 

For instance, people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may benefit from a type of therapy called eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). A therapist must complete specialized EMDR training in order to offer this treatment.

From the community:“Therapy has helped me a lot. I go to a female therapist because I am more comfortable with a female. I am very thankful for how she has helped me reframe some of my guilt and shame post abuse.” – Inspire member

Refine your search 

Once you have an idea of the type of therapy or therapist you might need, you can tap these resources to find mental health specialists in your area:

• Health insurer: First, check to see if your health insurer covers mental health counseling. Seeing a therapist who is in your insurance network can save you money. It also means the insurance company has vetted the therapist to ensure they have proper training and licensing. Your insurer can provide you with a list of in-network therapists in your area.

• Primary care doctor: You can ask your primary care physician for a referral to a therapist.

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Check to see if your workplace has an EAP. This program provides free, short-term counseling and referrals.

• School counselors: If your child needs therapy or you need family therapy for all family members, a school counselor may be able to connect you with community resources.

• Word of mouth: If you’re comfortable sharing this need with family and friends, they may be able to recommend someone who has helped them. 

• National organizations: Search the online sites of national organizations, such as the American Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association. 

Schedule a consultation

Once you’ve identified a few potential therapists, it’s time to schedule a phone call or video session to get to know them and ask questions. If you have time, you may choose to meet them in person. In order for therapy to be successful, you want a therapist who you connect to, feel comfortable opening up to, and have confidence in. While you might not always agree with your therapist, trust and rapport are important. 

The potential candidates will have questions for you as well, such as why you’re seeking therapy and a brief overview of any previous diagnosis and treatments. During this initial consultation, you may want to ask questions like:

• What is your experience helping people with my specific mental disorder or life crisis?

• What treatments do you offer for this mental disorder?

• What should I expect from therapy with you? 

• How frequently, and how long, might I need therapy?

• What’s your education and background?

• Are you licensed, and if so, by what organization?

• Do you offer telehealth appointments?

• Do you accept my insurance? 

• What are your fees? Do you offer payment assistance like sliding-scale fees? 

From the community:“Love therapy!!! Finding someone you can be open and honest with in a confidential environment is awesome!! You may feel much needed relief!!!” – Inspire member

Switch therapists, if necessary

Despite your best research and efforts, sometimes a therapist isn’t a good fit. You shouldn’t give up too soon. But if you feel you’re not making progress, or you’re unable to fully open up, you may need to find another therapist. 

It’s a courtesy to let your current therapist know that you’re making this change. You might want to discuss it during your next session. Be prepared to explain why you feel a need to make this switch. And be sure that you’re not leaving therapy because your therapist is making you face some difficult issues. 

Therapy requires a serious commitment on your part. And it can be exhausting and hard. But studies show that 3 in 4 people who receive psychotherapy benefit from it. With the right therapist and treatment, you can be one of them.

Sources

• What is psychotherapy? American Psychiatric Association. January 2019. 

• How do I find a good therapist? American Psychological Association. July 2017.

• What is the difference between psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers? American Psychological Association. July 2017.

• About mental health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. June 2021.

• Mental health treatment among adults: United States, 2019. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. September 2020.

• Finding a therapist who can help you heal. HelpGuide. November 2021.

• Mental illness. National Institute of Mental Health. January 2022.

• Emamzadeh A. How to find the right therapist. Psychology Today. January 4, 2020.

• Oliver D. The importance of finding a good therapist — and why it’s so difficult. USA Today. Sept. 24, 2021.

Disclaimer

Member comments are lightly edited for length and to remove identifying information but are otherwise reproduced as they appear in the community as part of public posts.

This content is for general informational purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of any organization or individual. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.