If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, a life transition or simply wanting to feel better in your day-to-day life, a counselor or therapist might be helpful for you. However, finding a good match with a mental health professional can be a journey. Here’s what you need to know.
While the terms “counselor†and “therapist†are often used interchangeably, there are differences between these two kinds of mental health practitioners. Counseling often focuses on your current issues and solutions. Therapists might go deeper into trauma-related conditions that have roots in the past. There are also different licensing, degree and training requirements for people in the two fields. But overall, both counselors and therapists address mental health with similar approaches.
Talking with a counselor or therapist can help you bear the weight of life. Most counselors or therapists have areas or topics in which they specialize. These can range from grief or mood disorders to addiction or family issues.
The type of therapy that’s right for you depends on your mental health needs. Some common therapies include:
To find a provider who specializes in mental and behavioral health, visit your plan website at myUHCMedicare.com/retiree and select Find Care. If you need additional help finding a provider, give us a call at the number on your member ID card.
Once you find two or three therapists who you think might be a good fit, call their offices. Inform them of your mental health goals. Ask about each provider’s background, education and certifications. You’ll also want to ask about wait times for getting the first appointment.
After your first appointment, consider how it went. Therapy can bring up difficult emotions, and it’s important to be comfortable with your therapist. If you aren’t, try another therapist or counselor. It might take a few tries to find somebody who fulfills your needs, but when you do, it can be a truly rewarding experience.
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