If you’re looking for a behavioral health (BH) (mental health and substance use disorder) professional, consider starting by talking with your primary care provider (PCP). He or she can suggest the type of BH professional to see.
It is important to discuss both physical and emotional concerns with your PCP. BH screening should be a part of the annual physical exam. PCP’s provide whole person care that includes medical and BH care coordination for you and your children. A PCP can help coordinate all your health care specialists. Your PCP's office may also have an Integrated Care Manager (ICM) for short term BH care and referral support.
Here is some information about the types of providers that may be able to help you based on your needs.
Who can prescribe psychiatric medication for me?
Psychiatrists, Certified Physician Assistants, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (NPs), and Psychiatric Nurse Clinical Specialists can prescribe psychiatric medication. Your PCP may be able to prescribe psychiatric medication until you are able to schedule an appointment with one of these behavioral health specialists.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialists CNS) and Certified Physician Assistants (PA)
NPs and CNS are advanced practice nurses with additional special education in psychiatric care. These nurse specialists may offer behavioral health care, which includes evaluation, diagnosis, consultation, and counseling, as well as prescribing medications.
Certified PAs are advanced health care practitioners who prescribe medication, diagnose and treat illness in the primary care settings.
Psychiatrists (M.D.s or D.O.s)
Psychiatric M.D.s or D.O.s are licensed medical doctors who specialize in psychiatry. They can prescribe medication and may also offer some form of psychotherapy. Psychiatrists may be board certified in psychiatry and/or child psychiatry.
Who can I see for counseling?
Licensed independent clinical social workers, psychologists, licensed mental health counselors, and licensed marriage and family therapists are all qualified to provide BH counseling. Licensed alcohol and drug counselors work specifically with persons who have substance use disorder. Board certified behavioral analysts work to develop behavioral programs for those with autism or other developmental disabilities.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs)
LICSWs have a master's degree in social work and additional supervised experiences. Social workers are trained in psychotherapy and social work techniques. Generally, social work professionals provide counseling directed toward specific goals to individuals, couples, families and groups.
Psychologists (Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed.D.)
Psychologists may have a Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed.D. degree, all of which are doctoral-level credentials. Psychologists have extensive training in research or clinical psychology, with additional supervised experiences after they receive their degree. Some psychologists may also have training in psychological and/or neuropsychological testing.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs)
LMHCs hold a master's degree in the BH field. They may provide BH services to individuals, families or groups. LMHCs use therapeutic techniques to define goals and develop treatment plans aimed toward prevention, treatment, and resolution of behavioral and emotional issues.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs)
LMFTs hold either a master’s or doctoral-level degree and have special expertise in treating the family. They may work with individuals, couples and families in addressing family issues.
Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADCs)
LADCs are licensed to help people address substance use disorder problems. They deal with individuals who may be addicted to alcohol and/or prescription or illegal drugs. They may work individually with patients or in group settings. They may also offer counseling to the families of patients.
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
BCBAs hold a graduate-level degree and a certificate in behavior analysis. They have extensive training and experience in designing, developing, implementing and evaluating a wide range of applied behavior analysis programs for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.