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So how does this therapist thing work?

H

hongkongfever

Senior member
It's taken me quite awhile but I'm thinking I may be at a point in my life where I will benefit from speaking to a therapist. I have a lot of underlying issues from my childhood and family that has affected my behavior and my relationships with other as an adult. The only issue is I'm unclear as to how this whole mental health thing works. Is it just like seeing a doctor? I find someone I want on my own, call the office, schedule an appointment, and then have them bill my insurance? Is this kind of thing even covered under insurance? I have a pretty good plan under Kaiser. And is there a specific kind of therapist I should be seeking given my "problem?"

Also if anyone has had positive/negative experience with speaking to a therapist, I'd like to hear it. Thanks.
 
For the mechanics of picking a doctor and paying them, you really need to talk to your HR rep or insurance company. They may have a list of approved care providers that you'll need to choose from in order for the services to be covered.

Generally there are two types of mental health therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists don't offer prescriptions and will use various behavioral or cognitive therapies to help you. Psychiatrists are physicians specializing in mental disorders and can prescribe psychiatric medications.

Either way, you'll find that you need to work in order to get through the issues that you have and make positive changes in your life. Working with a therapist can give you the tools to make your effort more effective.

Good luck!
 
OP, call the office and check to see if they accept your insurance. Make an appointment and talk to the therapist. Just like a medical doctor, you might have to try a few to find one that works for you. Something to think about before you go, what do you hope to get out of the counseling?
 
BEL6772 said:
For the mechanics of picking a doctor and paying them, you really need to talk to your HR rep or insurance company. They may have a list of approved care providers that you'll need to choose from in order for the services to be covered.

Generally there are two types of mental health therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychologists don't offer prescriptions and will use various behavioral or cognitive therapies to help you. Psychiatrists are physicians specializing in mental disorders and can prescribe psychiatric medications.

Either way, you'll find that you need to work in order to get through the issues that you have and make positive changes in your life. Working with a therapist can give you the tools to make your effort more effective.

Good luck!
Click to expand...


Wait so do psychiatrists deal with emotional issues too or just strictly mental problems?
 
MagnusTheBrewer said:
OP, call the office and check to see if they accept your insurance. Make an appointment and talk to the therapist. Just like a medical doctor, you might have to try a few to find one that works for you. Something to think about before you go, what do you hope to get out of the counseling?
Click to expand...


To put it generally, I have a lot of issues with my past growing up that I think has affected me today as an adult. Nothing extreme like sexual abuse but really things that has scarred me emotionally. I find it hard to have an intimate relationship with anyone on any level. There may be some depression involved somewhere too and I would like to have someone help me connect all the dots.
 
TecHNooB said:
I dunno, but ATOT deals with any and ALL problems.
Click to expand...

Disclaimer: The above statement does not offer any guarantees, implicit or otherwise, with regards to the quality of ATOT's assistance. This assistance may not be beneficial. By posting on ATOT, you accept these terms of warning.
 
hongkongfever said:
To put it generally, I have a lot of issues with my past growing up that I think has affected me today as an adult. Nothing extreme like sexual abuse but really things that has scarred me emotionally. I find it hard to have an intimate relationship with anyone on any level. There may be some depression involved somewhere too and I would like to have someone help me connect all the dots.
Click to expand...

Well, to me, that does sound like psychologist rather than psychiatrist.
 
hongkongfever said:
Wait so do psychiatrists deal with emotional issues too or just strictly mental problems?
Click to expand...

This is a generalization ... you may find exceptions 🙂

Psychiatrists generally deal with the "physical" causes of mental health issues. They are likely to work towards finding a prescription that will benefit you. They have pills that can help with depression and ones that can help calm emotions.

From what you've posted I'd say start with a psychologist. Ask lots of questions and don't be afraid to shop around. Also, try to think about what you want to achieve. Clearly telling the doctor what you want to get from the therapy will help you both pick the right type of treatment.
 
hongkongfever said:
It's taken me quite awhile but I'm thinking I may be at a point in my life where I will benefit from speaking to a therapist. I have a lot of underlying issues from my childhood and family that has affected my behavior and my relationships with other as an adult. The only issue is I'm unclear as to how this whole mental health thing works. Is it just like seeing a doctor? I find someone I want on my own, call the office, schedule an appointment, and then have them bill my insurance? Is this kind of thing even covered under insurance? I have a pretty good plan under Kaiser. And is there a specific kind of therapist I should be seeking given my "problem?"

Also if anyone has had positive/negative experience with speaking to a therapist, I'd like to hear it. Thanks.
Click to expand...

I'm on the same boat OP. But my case is much more severe and all this even led me to lose my wonderful relationship with my SO. It is fucked up and you can't help but realize that you need help. I have an appointment on Monday so I guess I'll see if helps. Good luck!
 
therapists can't give you meds and psychiatrists won't listen to you. also your insurance will make you pay for most or all of it.

it's a general lose lose lose situation.
 
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