Need Help Right Now?

Consider reaching out if symptoms last more than a few weeks, interfere with daily life, or cause significant distress. It may also be wise to reach out if you are using substances to cope with emotions or if concern has been expressed by people close to you. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek urgent help right away.

A therapist is a licensed mental health professional who provides talk-based treatment to help with emotional, behavioral, and psychological concerns. You can find therapists through insurance directories, referrals from a primary care clinician, or trusted professional directories, and it’s common to meet with more than one to find a good fit.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health and can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication. The easiest way to find one is through a referral from a primary care clinician or therapist, or by searching your insurance network or other directory for providers.

Most first visits focus on your story: what’s been going on, how it affects your life, your medical/mental health history, current medications/substances, sleep, stressors, and goals—often with brief questionnaires. You’ll usually leave with a plan (for example, therapy approach and cadence, coping strategies, referrals, or a medication) and a chance to ask questions about next steps and fit.

Telehealth is convenient, often easier to schedule, and works well for many people for therapy and routine medication follow-ups; it can also reduce barriers like transportation and time off work. In-person care can be better if you prefer face-to-face connection, need certain assessments which must be done in-person, have privacy concerns at home, or want more structured support.

Ask about their experience with your main issue, what approach they use, what progress typically looks like, and how you’ll measure it together. If applicable, also ask about logistics: cost/insurance, session frequency, cancellation policy, between-session support, and how crises are handled.

A waitlist means a provider is currently at capacity and is holding your name for the next available appointment. It's okay to stay on multiple waitlists and ask each office if they have a cancellation list you can join for earlier openings. In parallel, consider other alternative and/or temporary options such as group therapy, community clinics, university training clinics, telehealth providers, and your primary care clinician.

Keep it simple, specific, and nonjudgmental: name what you’ve noticed and invite them to talk (“I’ve noticed you’ve seemed really overwhelmed lately, how are you holding up?”). Listen more than you advise, ask what would feel supportive right now, and if you’re worried about safety, ask directly about self-harm. Then help them connect to professional or crisis support if needed.