You may need to call a few providers to find one who has openings that fit your schedule.
Behavioral health telehealth vs. in-person therapy
Consider Telehealth therapy versus an in-person therapy appointment. Both offer therapeutic counseling with a licensed therapist, providing similar benefits with different delivery methods.
Telehealth therapy allows for remote sessions through video calls, chats, emails or phone calls, providing convenience and accessibility. Options like texting and emailing, can allow flexibility to connect with a therapist in the moment. Writing your thoughts and feelings down may also help you process your emotions. Remote options provide access to therapeutic support that may remove transportation/commuting barriers. Connecting virtually can lower the anxiety associated with sharing physical spaces with others. In contrast, in-person therapy involves face-to-face sessions in a physical setting, promoting a more direct connection. Consider your personal preferences, comfort using technology, therapeutic needs and the nature of your concerns. According to a study on teletherapy, patients and mental health professionals found counseling online effective. In fact, virtual appointments had higher attendance rates compared to in person sessions.
Need help with behavioral health (BH) (mental health or substance use disorders) issues?
Our BH service navigation program can provide you with personal support from the start.
To learn more about the program, call 866-738-4116 (TTY: 711) and ask to talk with a BH service navigator or visit www.tuftshealthplan.com/member/tufts-health-ritogether/your-health/behavioral-health/overview-of-behavioral-health.
Once you find a provider, call the provider and set up your appointment. Your provider is responsible for notifying Tufts Health Plan of your appointments.
If you have questions or need help finding a provider, Tufts Health RITogether members can call our member services team at 866-738-4116 (TTY: 711). We are available Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. We’ll be glad to provide a list of providers and their phone numbers based on your needs.
Which behavioral health professional is right for you?
There are many types of behavioral health professionals. Finding the right one for you may require some research.
To choose the best behavioral health care provider for your needs, it is a good idea to describe the symptoms and/or problems to your primary care provider first. He or she can suggest the type of behavioral health professional you should call.
If you’re looking for a behavioral health (BH) (mental health and substance use) 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 Primary Care Provider (PCP). Behavioral Health (BH) Screening should be part of the annual physical examination. 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 PCPs office may also have an Integrated Care Manager (ICM) for short term behavioral health care and referral support.
You can also begin by asking yourself the following questions:
- Do you prefer one particular kind of training or educational background? Behavioral health care providers come from a number of different educational backgrounds and may be psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, advanced practice nurses or clinical nurse specialists, or they may have another kind of background or training.
- Is it important to you that the provider be legally authorized to prescribe drug treatment if necessary? Only behavioral health care providers with certain educational backgrounds and licenses are legally allowed to prescribe medications, so you may consider connecting with both a counselor and a psychiatric provider.
- Do you have a preference such as culture, race, gender, or is this not important to you?
Types of behavioral health care providers
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 or until you are able to schedule an appointment with one of these providers.
Psychiatric Nurse Mental Health Clinical Specialists (RNCSs)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (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 Physician Assistants (PA-C)
Certified Physician Assistants (PA-C) are advanced healthcare practitioners who diagnosing illnesses, treat illness and prescribe medication 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 offer psychotherapy. Psychiatrists may be board certified in psychiatry and/or specialize in child, adolescent, or addiction treatment.
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 behavioral health counseling. Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors work specifically with persons around substance use disorder. Board Certified Behavior Analysts work to develop behavioral programs for individuals with autism or other developmental disabilities.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs)
LICSWs, have a master's degree in social work (MSW) and additional supervised experiences. Social Workers are trained in psychotherapy and social work techniques. Generally, social work professionals provide counseling to individuals, couples, families and groups directed toward specific goals.
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 received extensive training in research or in 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 (L.M.H.C.s)
L.M.H.C.s, hold a master's degree from a graduate program in the behavioral health field. They may render behavioral health care services to individuals, families or groups. L.M.H.C.s use therapeutic techniques to define goals and develop treatment plans aimed toward prevention, treatment and resolution of behavioral and emotional dysfunction. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) LMFTs hold either a Masters 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 Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs)
LMFTs hold either a Masters 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 assist people in addressing 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