ten times therapy is considered a luxury that people cannot afford financially or make time for in their schedules. Despite the need for support, therapy can seem like an extra thing to manage, troubleshoot or figure out. In addition people are often pushed away from seeing a mental health professional due to fear of the stigma of getting help. People often suffer in silence to avoid these very things….. fear and lack of resources keep people from seeking support.
It is important for us all to remember that the impact of life’s stressors can take it’s toll on our emotional, physical and spiritual being; Stress can push us into directions that connect to anxiety, depression, isolation and excessive worry. Without gaining support when we need it the most, it can provide additional challenges in our relationships, families, careers and daily living.
More importantly than any of those things is the fact that everyone deserves support; everyone deserves an opportunity to thrive. Therapy is not a selfish act, and instead should be seen as taking care of the vital things that keep your mind and spirit running. It is a tune-up for our mental well being and supports our full functioning.
If you are considering therapy and looking for ways to make it work, here are a couple of things you might want to consider:
- Therapy or counseling charges are considered medical expenses for your HSA (Heath Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HRA (Health Reimbursement Account). https://fsastore.com/FSA-Eligibility-List/C/Counseling-E186.aspx
- There are options for therapy that include in person sessions and tele-sessions. Tele-sessions are video chat sessions that are done using HIPAA compliant software with a therapist or counselor. The expense for sessions like this are comparable to any other session and can be done from the convenience of your home.
- Many health insurance companies have coverage for mental health services. You can call your insurance’s member service line and ask about the benefits for your particular plan. Some insurance plans will also allow you to pay out of pocket and will reimburse you the costs. Call your insurance provider for specifics about your benefits.
- Mental health disorders are common among adults and adolescents, it is not an indicator of something wrong with a person. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 1 in 5 Adults have experienced a mental health disorder. In addition, 21.5% of youth ages 13-18 and 13% of children ages 8-15 have experiences a severe mental illness. No matter what you are experiencing, from a response to life’s challenges or a mental health challenge), you are not alone.
- There are multiple search engines that allow one to look for a therapist that specializes in specific areas or with specific cultures. Whether you are looking for someone who works specifically with LGTBQI, African American, Spanish Speaking, or another other specific intersection of culture, you can search to identify a therapist. Psychology Today, Good Therapy, and Therapists of Color are some of the sites that are available to do this.
Crystal Blanton, LCSW 