If you have never had to seek the services of a mental health professional in the past, you may not know how to locate one that will be able to suit your specific needs. Some points you should keep in mind when you are searching for a mental health professional, or a Psychiatric Hospital, are highlighted here.
The Type of Professional You Need
A mental health provider is a professional who is responsible for diagnosing various mental disorders and health conditions and then develop a plan for treatment. The majority of these professionals will have some type of higher learning degree, as well as advanced training and education. You should also check to ensure the mental health provider you plan to use holds the appropriate licenses.
Some of the most common types of mental health professionals are highlighted here.
Psychiatrists
A psychiatrist is a type of physician – doctor of osteopathic medicine or doctor of medicine – who specializes in mental health conditions and disorders. Additionally, this type of doctor may have a further specialization in areas including addiction, geriatric, adolescent or child psychiatry. When you visit a psychiatrist, they have the ability to:
*Diagnose and then treat various types of mental health disorders.
*Provide psychotherapy, which is psychological counseling.
*Offer prescription medication to patients.
Psychologists
A psychologist is a medical professional who is trained in the area of psychology, which is a science that deals with a person’s behaviors, emotions and thoughts. In most cases, a psychologist will hold a doctoral degree. A psychologist can do the following:
*Diagnose and then treat various mental health problems, offer psychological counseling in both group and one-on-one settings.
*They are unable to prescribe medications unless they are licensed to do so.
*May work with other providers who are licensed to prescribe medications as needed.
When you are in need of any type of mental health services, you should first try to determine the type of treatment you need. For example, psychiatric hospitals are designed for anyone who needs around the clock care, while other services are designed to provide you with frequent assistance while you continue with your normal routine.
Prior to seeking care, you should check with your health insurance provider to determine what type of services are covered and whether or not you will need a referral. With these considerations in mind, you can make an educated decision regarding your mental health care and be well on the way to recovery.
