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How to Find a Therapist

We know that treating mental health concerns is effective, and you’re in good company if you decide to seek treatment. From 2019 to 2021, the percentage of adults who sought mental health treatment increased from 19.2% to 21.6%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Saying “I’m ready” for professional mental health support for yourself or your child is a big turning point. These steps can help you find the right therapist.

Image of a woman sitting at a table talking on a mobile phone. Image of a woman sitting at a table talking on a mobile phone.

Exploring Care Options

There are many types of therapy and specialists available depending on your specific mental health needs. Therapists — including psychologists, licensed mental health counselors, or marriage and family therapists — and clinical social workers are trained professionals who can evaluate a person’s mental health and provide therapy in a safe and confidential environment. Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who can prescribe and monitor medications as well as diagnose mental health conditions and provide some therapy. Read more about identifying the right professional for you. 

A primary care provider (PCP) can be a good resource to help you get started, but it’s not a mandatory step when seeking support. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts plans don’t require a PCP referral to visit a covered mental health professional. You should always check to see if a provider is in-network to avoid out-of-network costs.

Beginning Your Search

We've made it easier to get the support you need. With MyBlue, you can access mental health tools and resources, as well as in-person and virtual care options with providers currently accepting new patients.

As always, if you need immediate help or feel you may be in danger to yourself or others, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Identifying the Right Therapist

If you’ve chosen therapy to help you in your journey to improved mental health, it’s important to find a therapist who’s a good fit for you. As you consider options, visit therapists’ websites and read their biographies, or call to learn about their practice. Keep these questions in mind:

  • Do they conduct in-person, virtual, or hybrid visits?
  • Can you easily get to their location? While most appointments today are virtual, you may want to consider if in-person appointments are conveniently located.
  • Does their approach to client care agree with your values and how you prefer to receive care?
  • Have they worked with individuals whose challenges are similar to yours?
  • How frequently would they recommend visits for your needs?

Have a quick phone conversation or consultation with potential therapists to find the one who’s most compatible. The purpose of reaching out is to get an initial evaluation to find out what ballpark you’re in and what treatments might be helpful for you,” says Dr. Kenneth Duckworth, child and adolescent psychiatrist, and the chief medical officer for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Continuing the journey

Taking time to find the right therapist is worth it. It may take several appointments to know if your selected therapist or psychiatrist is a good match. You can discontinue therapy with a provider who isn’t meeting your mental health needs.

It's important to feel support, mutual respect, and a sense of progress with your therapist. Keep in mind that improving your mental health can be a lifelong journey.