If you are seeking diagnosis and treatment of a mental health condition, you want the right clinic with qualified, compassionate mental health therapists on staff. Besides this obvious consideration, what else should you look at when selecting the right environment for your treatment? Read on to learn more on this very important topic.
When to See a Professional at a Mental Health Clinic
You and your primary care physician should discuss the possibility of seeking professional evaluation and treatment if you are perceiving signs of depression, anxiety or other mental health issues. Be sure to undergo a complete health examination to rule out any possible physical causes for your symptoms. Then, discuss with your provider the possible benefits of seeing a:
- Psychiatrist
- Psychologist
- Therapist
- Counselor
Finally, ask your PCP for a referral to a clinic in your area. Your doctor knows you, your family background and unique health needs better than any other provider. So, he or she likely will direct you to a couple of choices in your community which could be suitable for your personality and situation.
How Can You Know a Mental Health Clinic Provides Quality Services?
Besides getting a referral from your PCP, ask a trusted friend or family member for a personal referral. You will be surprised at how people will talk about their current or past experience with a mental health professional. It’s unlikely that they will recommend someone they did not like or whose services were substandard.
Finally, read online reviews. They will give you valuable information on availability of appointments, friendliness of staff, the physical environment of the clinic and more. If possible, go to the mental health clinic’s website to read about services provided, conditions treated, appointment times and off-hours communication. Read about the providers’ qualifications, experience and focus of practice in the biography section.
Is the Mental Health Clinic Convenient to Your Home, Place of Employment or School?
Choosing a location close to home or work makeskeepingand getting to appointments easier. You also should inquire about telehealth visits which you can access using your phone, tablet or laptop.
Does the Prospective Clinic Accept Your Health Insurance?
Call both the clinic and your insurance carrier to verify your coverage and copays. If you do not have coverage, learn if the clinic offers fees based on household income.
What Are the Providers Like In-person?
Contact your prospective clinic and book an appointment. When you arrive at the clinic, see if you are greeted respectfully and cheerfully and begin your appointment on time.
Be clear with the provider that you want to pursue mental health care and wish to know if he or she is the right person for your needs and goals. Ask if the provider has experience treating your symptoms and/or diagnosis. Are your questions answered completely and are you listened to compassionately?
Trust your gutwhen making your choice. If you sense this is not the person to help you, move on to another provider or mental health clinic. You want the best possible relationship with your provider.
My Buoyant Health Mental Health Clinic in Phoenix, AZ
At My Buoyant Health, we focus on helping patients not only survive but thrive. We offer a wide range of services to families and individuals of all ages, walks of life and ethnicities.
We have in-office hours Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and we are pleased to offer convenient and confidential telehealth appointments on Mondays and Tuesdays. So, if you need a psychiatric evaluation, mental health coaching or counseling for any one of a long list of concerns, including depression, bipolar disorders and PTSD, we encourage you to come see us.
Russell Horning is our board-certified family psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He has a passion to serve the mental health needs of people living in the Phoenix, AZ, area.
Call today for a friendly and confidential in-person visit or request your appointment here. We look forward to treating you!
