Hellobee Boards

The first time I did it, I went through my insurance. It was much easier to see who they covered, and then narrow it down based on what their specialties were. Once I found who I wanted, I let my insurance know, and they told me what I would pay per visit (they negotiated the cost) and I could go as often as I needed, but paid that same fee each time (I think I went every 3 weeks?)

My insurance changed the way they do mental health care and now only cover in network providers, but their online portal for finding them is so confusing and not very intuitive or easy to use and I was easily overwhelmed by all the results.

I ended up asking around for recommendations, and found a faith-based network that helped me find a social worker with a similar faith background. And since a lot of my anxiety stems from grief/fertility issues, it made sense to work with someone with the same beliefs.

Insurance isn't covering any part of it, but DH says if it helps, we'll pay whatever it takes.

The hardest part was leading up to the first appointment. I have social anxiety so it was terrible thinking about talking to a stranger about my problems. But once I got over that hump it's gotten better.

It's such a hard place to be in though - to know you need help, but the more you need it, the less you want to actually make it happen.

If you don't want to figure it out through your insurance, do you have an EAP that might be able to help?

I would look up who is covered on your insurance website and compare it to the list of referrals.

I found mine after calling a few people who were covered in town. I've been seeing her for 2 1/2 years- it's been so great.

I know it's work up front but it's worth it.

@iluvboba637: I actually just looked up therapists online and read bios and reviews, marked the ones I liked the sound of who also accepted my insurance, and started making calls. I don't believe there's a limit to how many visits I can have in a week/month/year. It's a $20 copay for every visit.

@iluvboba637: I know you can probably do it yourself, but if you're feeling unmotivated, down, overwhelmed, whatever, please wall me. It took me so long to get up the courage to find someone a second time after the first time didn't pan out, and I've been kicking myself for waiting so long. It's such a relief to talk with someone who has no agenda, and is there to help you.

Check out the Psychology Today website and search your area. You can filter them by insurance network, then reach out to a few you think you could connect with and confirm coverage/cost.

@iluvboba637: I just wanted to encourage you to reach out and take the first step! Starting with insurance and your list is a great idea. As a clinical social worker myself I wanted to suggest ways to search for a social worker who does therapy:
http://www.helpstartshere.org/find-a-social-worker

I am not in private practice myself but I meet with clients and families who are of course nervous and unsure at first. But you deserve to give it a chance. Good luck!