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For Providers: HB 341 Compliance Contact Us
How
You Can Help
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Choosing A Therapist If
you’re battling postpartum depression or anxiety, an informed and supportive clinician
can often help speed your recovery.
The decision to seek professional help is a very personal one, and no
single treatment provider is perfect for everyone. Below are some facts and questions that can help you locate the
right provider for your needs. Texas Mental
Health Providers Defined
Psychiatrist
Licensed by the Texas State Board Of Medical
Examiners: http://www.tsbme.state.tx.us/
A
psychiatrist is medical doctor trained in the biology, medical aspects, assessment,
and diagnostic treatment of psychological disorders. Psychiatrists can
prescribe medications, and some will also provide counseling services. Others will only address medication
issues, and refer patients to other types of clinicians for counseling
services. Psychologist Licensed by the Texas
State Board of Examiners of Psychologists: http://www.tsbep.state.tx.us/ A
psychologist has earned a doctoral degree in psychology. Psychologists often charge higher fees for
therapy than MSWs, LPCs, or LMFTs, but their specialized training can be of
great benefit to some clients. LMSW (Licensed Master Of Social Work)
Licensed by the Texas
State Board of Social Worker Examiners: http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/hcqs/plc/lsw/lsw_default.htm
A
Licensed Masters of Social Work considers clients within a social
context. LMSWs are attentive to
diversity and the ways in which cultural influences affect individuals and
families. LPC
(Licensed Professional Counselor) Licensed by The Texas
State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors: http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/hcqs/plc/lpc/lpc_def.htm A Licensed Professional Counselor is a trained and
experienced expert who renders professional counseling services to
individuals and groups in a variety of settings. He or she assists clients using a combination of mental health
and human development principles.
LMFT (Licensed Marriage
and Family Therapist)
Licensed by The Texas
State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists: http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/hcqs/plc/mft.htm
A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist treats individuals, families, and couples--singly or in groups--and applies family systems theories and techniques to their treatment approach. Who’s Right For
You? It is generally a good idea to interview more than one provider on the phone or in person before making a selection. Many will offer a free initial consultation, which will give you the opportunity to ask questions about their approach and experience. Below are some questions you may ask during the initial consultation. · Are you licensed to practice in Texas? (You can usually verify licensure at the Texas licensing board websites listed above.) · Do you have knowledge of and experience in treating postpartum mood disorders? How many cases have you treated? · What is your approach in providing therapy? Will you tailor your approach to my particular needs? Will we set incremental goals for recovery? · What are your views toward medication? If I’d like to consider this form of treatment, can you refer me to someone who can prescribe medication? If I choose not to take medication, will you respect my decision? · How will we assess my progress? When will we know that it’s time to discontinue our relationship? · How much do you charge per session? Do you accept my insurance? If I don’t have insurance and money’s tight, will you arrange a fee I can afford? When is payment due? · How long are your therapy sessions? How often should we meet? Finally, ask yourself this
question: Are you comfortable with this
person? Do you think they will
respect your thoughts, values, and opinions?
Your relationship with your treatment provider will be crucial to
your progress during therapy, so it is essential to find someone with whom
you can establish a trusting, comfortable connection. Questions? Please contact us via
e-mail at info@texaspostpartum.org. Postpartum Resource Center Of Texas, Inc. is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. The information on this site
is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or psychological condition.
You should consult your doctor for individual advice regarding your own
situation. Copyright ©2003 by
Postpartum Resource Center of Texas, Inc. All rights reserved. You may
reproduce materials available at this site for your own personal use and for
non-commercial distribution. All copies must include the above copyright
notice. |
