Finding the Right Mental Health Provider: Where to Start and What to Know

Seeking help for your mental health is a brave and important step—but the process of finding the right provider can sometimes feel overwhelming. To help guide you through it, Danielle Lambert, LCSW, behavioral health manager at The Gregory P. Shadek Behavioral Care Center at Englewood Health, answers common questions about how to start your search, what to expect at your first visit, and how our team can help you find the best care for your needs.

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What kind of mental health provider should I look for?

The type of provider you should see depends on your specific needs—whether you're looking for talk therapy, medication management, or both.

Psychotherapists are licensed mental health professionals who provide talk therapy for a range of emotional and behavioral issues. This includes licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), licensed mental health counselors (LMHCs), and licensed professional counselors (LPCs)—all master’s-level clinicians trained in various therapeutic approaches.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and sometimes provide therapy—especially helpful for conditions like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders.

Psychologists have a doctoral degree and provide therapy, testing, and diagnosis, but don’t prescribe medication.

The Englewood Health behavioral health team includes LCSWs and psychiatrists, offering a supportive range of services to help you get the care that’s right for you.

How do I find a provider who’s the right fit for me?

A strong connection with your therapist is essential. When choosing a provider, consider asking:

• What conditions do you treat?
• What is your availability?
• Do you offer in-person or virtual sessions?
• What is your approach to therapy?
• Do you have training or certification in specific therapeutic methods?

Don’t hesitate to speak up if it doesn’t feel like a good match—you deserve to feel comfortable, safe, and supported in your care.

And if you’re not sure where to start, Englewood Health makes the process easier. Through a brief intake assessment with our Behavioral Health Access Center, our team will help identify your needs and connect you with the most appropriate provider for you.

What if the provider I want doesn’t accept my insurance?

Insurance can be a challenge, but there are steps you can take:

• Contact your insurance provider to get a list of in-network behavioral health providers.
• If you’re considering an out-of-network provider, ask your insurer if they offer any reimbursement.
• Search online directories by insurance provider, specialty, and location.

Englewood Health accepts most major insurance plans, making it easier to get the care you need without extra financial stress.

What if I hit a roadblock? How do I keep going?

It’s normal to feel frustrated if your first attempt doesn’t go as planned. Maybe the provider you’d like to see doesn’t accept your insurance or has a long wait for appointments. But don’t give up—you are your own best advocate.

If you’re already in therapy but not seeing progress, speak honestly with your provider. Sometimes, a simple change in approach can make a big difference. And if it’s still not a good fit, it’s okay to switch providers. The key is to keep going. The right support is out there.

What should I expect at my first appointment?

At your first session, your provider will likely ask about your:

• Mental health history
• Current symptoms
• Family background
• Relationships
• Work or school life

Most providers will complete a biopsychosocial assessment—a comprehensive evaluation of your biological, psychological, and social factors. This helps guide treatment and may lead to a diagnosis.

How does Englewood Health make this process easier?

We take the guesswork out of getting started. Our Behavioral Health Access Center helps connect you to the right provider.

Here’s how it works:

1. Visit our Outpatient Behavioral Health Services page to schedule a brief intake.
2. One of our intake coordinators will walk you through an initial assessment.
3. If outpatient care is appropriate, our team will help match you with the most suitable provider and schedule your first appointment.

Our team includes licensed clinical social workers and psychiatrists, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Need someone to talk to right away?

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or thinking about suicide, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988, or visit the 988 Lifeline website for immediate support.

Posted May 22, 2025