Thursday, September 26, 2013

Mental Health Professionals In Florida Offer Important Services To The Public

By Marla Mills


Mental health professionals in Florida provide valuable services to certain individuals. People who have never needed the services of such a practitioner before may have questions about how best to locate a professional who suits their individual needs. Because the selection process overwhelms certain individuals, the following steps should be taken by those who are searching for such a doctor for the first time:

Before choosing a professional, one should take into consideration the reason for which he or she is seeking treatment. This is because there is a vast array of professionals who work in this field, such as psychiatrists, clinical social workers, psychologists, counselors, and licensed therapists. Therefore, a practitioner whose services may be ideal for one patient may not be the most appropriate choice for someone else.

All mental health practitioners diagnose and treat various conditions. However, psychologists and psychiatrists must have a Master's degree in a related discipline, while counselors or therapists may simply hold state certification. This is another reason why it is important to consider the type of disorder for which one is seeking help. For example, someone with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder will be best served by a psychiatrist, while a person with posttraumatic stress syndrome or emotional problems may find the services of a therapist or licensed counselor adequate.

Even though numerous practitioners in the mental health field offer assistance to patients suffering from various conditions, a specialist may be needed in certain cases. For example, a behavioral therapist will likely be the best choice for someone with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Those suffering from unexplained pain for which no medical reason exists may be best served by a psychologist. Those who have a history of abuse may discover that speaking to a counselor is the most advantageous course of action.

Those who have marital or family problems should consider speaking to a family therapist or marriage counselor. Such individuals do not typically offer advice. Rather, they are trained to help individuals to work out their differences without becoming sidetracked by resentful or angry emotions.

In the majority of instances, outpatient treatment is offered to patients. There are times, however, when an individual may require hospitalization for the purpose of receiving more advanced treatment. This is sometimes necessary for those who have threatened suicide, or who have severe conditions such as schizophrenia.

Determining whether or counseling, drug therapy, or both are required is also essential. This is due to the fact that not all practitioners are allowed to prescribe medications. This is why it is usually wise for one to initially speak to a family practitioner in order to receive some guidance regarding the type of care that is necessary.

In addition, it is essential to talk to an employee at one's health insurance agency to discover if such treatment is covered, and if any co-pays are necessary. The majority of insurance agencies provide lists of in network professionals to their customers to ensure that the person's costs will be minimal. Medicaid or Medicare sometimes covers such treatment. Mental health professionals in Florida should be contacted by anyone who feels he or she needs help of this type.




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