Add These Methods To Your Therapy Waitlist Today
The demand for psychologists' services has skyrocketed since the pandemic broke out, according to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association in 2021. More than two-thirds of those polled also reported being unable to accommodate new patients.
According to the National Council on Mental Health, people typically have to wait around six weeks before getting in touch with a mental health professional. However, you may have to wait months if you need a specialist in a specific field or with particular qualifications.
Isolation brought on by the pandemic exacerbated feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, and grief for many people. One lasting impact of the pandemic is that more people are getting therapy for the first time or after a break from it. Waiting for therapy isn't ideal, but if you need counseling help, we recommend scheduling an appointment or joining a waitlist as soon as possible.
View Your Family Physician
If you're having trouble finding a therapist, seeing a general practitioner who does not typically specialize in mental health or therapy may be worthwhile. Your primary care physician can help rule out physical causes of mental distress and provide psychiatric medication & counseling if needed. They might also suggest a nearby mental health professional who has openings.
It's also worth looking into naturopathic medical professionals. To detect vitamin deficiencies and other abnormalities, they can suggest dietary changes, conduct physical examinations, and order blood work.
Keeping A Gratitude Journal
Many people turn to this strategy when they need to calm their nerves after having a bad day or week because of negative thoughts or external circumstances. The exercise entails simply making a list of three to five things for which one is thankful.
Being mindful of the positives in your life, big and small, and the events of the day can help you see that things could always be worse. If you choose to follow one, the prompt can change from time to time, and the exercise can be as free-form as you like. You have the upper hand at this point.
Plan What Should You Discuss With Your Therapist
Before putting yourself on a mental health professional's waiting list, make sure you and the practitioner are a good fit. This lessens the possibility that you won't be happy with their services and will have to start over.
Make sure to ask about insurance and availability, but also think of some more in-depth questions to ask:
How often do you use each of the following therapeutic procedures and modalities?
If one treatment method does not yield the desired results, do you ever switch to another?
Do patients with my symptoms make up a large portion of your practice?
How often do you diagnose patients, if at all, or do you try to avoid doing so?
Do you feel comfortable working with clients from different cultural backgrounds?
Do you have trauma literacy?
If you must break confidentiality, what compels you to do so?
Do you believe that psychiatric drugs should play a significant role in treatment?
In a dire situation, how do you react?
I was wondering, how long does therapy usually last?
By asking them about their approach to counseling and the methods they use, you can learn valuable information that will help you make an informed decision. The degree to which you and your doctor have a good rapport is an essential factor in your recovery and can be determined by how well you and your doctor can communicate.
Often these mental health professionals will be happy to talk to you about these issues over the phone or set up a no-cost initial consultation.
Participating In Social Activities
Humans have an inherent need for other humans. The isolation of the pandemic highlighted how much we rely on one another. The ability to deal with stress is enhanced for those with a strong social support system to turn to in times of need. Since we all require assistance at times, we all should pitch in.
Our Therapists Can Provide Relief In No Time
If you think that your wait time is too long and you need to go for counseling quickly, Metro Family Therapy in Midwest City is your best place. Book your schedule with us today and get relief from your mental agony in no time.
**Disclaimer: Content posted here is not intended as medical advice and constitutes no patient relationship or medical treatment.