The Essential Role of Therapists in Mental Health Care and How to Find the Right One
- AdvancedMind HealthWellness
- Sep 14, 2022
- 4 min read
The journey to mental wellness is personal and can be challenging. Amidst the many resources available, therapy remains a crucial aspect of mental health care. Engaging with a therapist offers vital support, guidance, and effective strategies necessary for navigating life's difficulties. Therapy is the foundation of all mental health care. In this post, we will explore why having a therapist is critical for mental health and how to find the right professional for your needs.
*At the end of the article, I listed some therapists in the NH area that are accepting new clients as of the time of this writing.
Why Having a Therapist is Essential
A Safe Space for Expression
Therapists provide a confidential and non-judgmental environment where clients can share their thoughts and feelings openly. This safe space allows individuals to explore their emotions and confront difficult issues at their own pace.
For example, a study by the American Psychological Association found that 76% of patients reported experiencing significant symptom relief after just a few sessions of therapy. The ability to express personal challenges can be healing, enabling individuals to gain deeper insights into their struggles.
Professional Guidance
Working with a therapist means benefiting from expert advice on mental health challenges. Therapists utilize evidence-based practices to help clients understand their feelings and behaviors.
They identify negative patterns of thinking and connect clients with strategies that promote healthier viewpoints. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by as much as 50% in numerous studies. This structured approach helps clients manage their symptoms and regulate their emotions effectively.
Building Coping Skills
Therapists equip clients with coping strategies tailored to their specific situations. Whether someone deals with anxiety, depression, or stress, a therapist can lead them through techniques such as mindfulness practices and relaxation exercises.
For instance, regular practice of mindfulness has been linked to a 34% reduction in anxiety symptoms among participants according to a meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology. These tools allow clients to handle their emotions and navigate daily stressors more effectively, fostering better mental health overall.
Encouragement of Self-Discovery
Therapy is also a journey of self-exploration. A skilled therapist can help clients discover their core values, motivations, and aspirations, which enhances self-awareness.
As clients gain insights about themselves, they can make informed choices that align with their true selves. For many, this process leads to a greater sense of fulfillment and contentment in life. A notable finding from a survey conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness showed that 83% of those undergoing therapy felt more connected to their true selves and more confident in their decision-making. EIGHTY THREE PERCENT!
How to Find a Therapist
Finding the right therapist is crucial for successful therapy. Here are a few effective methods to locate a qualified mental health professional.
Check with Your Insurance Provider
Start by logging in to your profile on your insurer's website or calling them directly. This step allows you to identify which therapists are in-network, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
Most insurance providers have search tools and online directories that list covered mental health professionals, making it easier to find someone to meet your needs.
Seek Recommendations
Word of mouth is powerful. If it feels right, consider asking friends and family for therapist recommendations. Personal referrals can provide meaningful insights into a therapist's effectiveness and style.
Having a trusted contact recommend a therapist can ease initial apprehensions about starting therapy.
Consult Your Primary Care Provider
Your primary care provider (PCP), or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatrist that provides your medication management services, can serve as a useful resource when searching for a therapist. They usually have a network of mental health professionals to recommend based on your specific needs.
Cross-Reference Findings
After compiling a list of potential therapists that are in-network with your insurer, conduct thorough research on their credentials, read reviews, and check for any disciplinary actions. This diligence ensures that you choose a qualified therapist who aligns with your needs and preferences.
Use Online Directories
After finding a few therapist you are interested in working with, you can get extra information on them by checking online directories. These directories offer extensive listings of therapists based on various criteria such as specialties and geographical location.
For example, sites like Psychology Today allow you to filter therapists based on your preferences. Each profile includes qualifications and treatment approaches, making it easier to find a good match. Here is a link to PsychologyToday.com 's page for New Hampshire. You can click here and change the location so that it is specific to exactly where you live and sort by location. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/new-hampshire?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD_gfux39h7BTxK3VBtKO_p66fIwX&gclid=CjwKCAjwn6LABhBSEiwAsNJrjnYaapWih9OHorHWTNa9G40bVMlDaWYo7Mv6gMuphpwz26Tf-E8XUxoC7skQAvD_BwE
Your Path to Wellness
Having a therapist is crucial in mental health care. They provide a safe environment for self-expression, expert guidance, coping skills, and opportunities for self-discovery. Finding the right therapist may take time, but by exploring your insurance benefits, seeking recommendations, consulting your primary care provider, and using online directories, you can find someone who suits your unique needs.
Prioritize your mental health—your well-being is worth the effort.
If you are in need of a therapist, I always recommend checking with Womankind Counseling Center to see if any of our therapist are accepting new clients https://www.womankindcounseling.org/appointmentstest
And if they are not taking new clients some more options are listed below.
While I can't endorse them because I don't know any well enough to do so, below are some NH area therapists that have recently communicated with me that they are accepting new clients. So please do your due diligence; check if in network, check their credentials, etc.
A Balanced Self
Authentically You Counseling
Avanti Counseling
Balanced Lifestyle Counseling
Blue Lotus Wellness Therapists
Crosswinds Counseling
Devon Donohue
Enso Counseling Group
Evergreen Counseling
Expressive Arts Therapy at Concord Community School
Dr. Cathy Forbes
Kristen Grant Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC, IDSP
Lakeside Counseling and Wellness; Elyse Dinan
Maple Street Counseling
Treebrook Counseling
