Finding the Help you Need
Nancy Bergeron, R.Psych.
Over the past year, I have shared many mental health moment topics. As a result, I have learned that for some, finding the help they need, or having a better understanding of who to seek out can sometimes be confusing. In this article, I hope give clarity to those who may be seeking to better understand what to look for and how to access mental health help.
First, talk to your doctor as a first line of assessment to see if there are any medical reasons for why you may be struggling or feeling the way you do. Many health issues can mask themselves as depression and anxiety. Your doctor can run your blood work to see many of these hormonal and/or chemical imbalances and prescribe medications if necessary. If you are diagnosed or thought to have Bi-Polar Disorder or Schizophrenia, you may need a doctor’s referral to see a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor that can prescribe drugs and do a more formal mental health assessment. They can better monitor your medications and adjust accordingly.
Next, if it is deemed to be out of your medical doctor’s scope of practice, reach out to a mental health practitioner. We are referred to by many names: psychotherapist, talk-therapist, counsellor, or therapist. Look for a registered psychologist (RPsych), clinical psychologist, certified counsellor, social worker (MSW), or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT/RMFT). There are also some pastors and clergy that are trained in general counselling. Bear in mind, the education level, hours of required supervised training, certification, board examinations and services differ greatly between these practitioners. Ask for credentials and see if they are licensed and insured through a governing body to ensure you are getting the best care.
Each of these practitioners have special areas of expertise that they have been educated, trained, and certified to accommodate. No practitioner can do everything well. Look for someone who specializes in your specific area of challenge. If you approach a practitioner to work in an area they are not competent in, they should be willing to refer you to someone who is, and be able to offer you a few options.
Last to consider is the cost. Private practitioners charge upfront for their fee, but if you have an insurance plan, the cost is often eligible for reimbursement. Please ask your insurance company about your coverage and any stipulations in advance so there are no surprises. Registered Psychologists are accepted by all insurance companies and sometimes, they are required based on the service you are seeking (such as mental health or educational assessments). You do not need a doctor’s referral to seek private counselling or assessments.
I hope this information is helpful for you or someone you care about. I encourage everyone to take care or their physical, emotional, and mental health. Sometimes all we need is to be heard in an empathic, non-judgemental, unbiased way.
Nancy Bergeron is a Registered Psychologist.
“Psychologists are regulated health professionals who provide services including psychotherapy, assessment, diagnosis, and research of psychological health and problems. They are trained in evidence-based practices and follow a code of ethics that promotes respect for dignity and fair treatment. Alberta’s psychologists have advanced university degrees (Masters or PhD) and undergo extensive supervised training and examinations. Psychologists study the biological, cognitive, emotional, social, cultural, and environmental determinants of behaviour and through such extensive research and practice, psychologists help people cope more effectively in daily life.” Psychological Association of Alberta
In an emergency situation, you can call 911 or contact the Distress Centre for 24-hour phone support 403-266-4357 or go to their online site for a chat service from 3-10 pm.