It’s no secret: the last few years have been challenging for everyone, especially our kids. Even though familiar routines resumed a while ago, many kids are in crisis, struggling with feelings of hopelessness, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. The latest research shows that even before the pandemic, levels of anxiety and depression in kids increased 27 and 24 percent, respectively, from 2016 to 2019.
If your child is struggling with mental health issues, there are numerous resources to get help. “It may seem daunting to know where to start but there are many options available to families,” says Schenike Massie-Lambert, PhD, clinical coordinator, Rutgers Health Children’s Center for Resilience and Trauma Recovery, University Behavioral Health Care. “A good first step is to contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers in your area.”
Although there is a huge demand on mental health professionals right now, openings are available–if you know where to look. “I always suggest parents explore different options simultaneously,” says Kelly L. Gilrain, PhD, chief psychologist and medical director of behavioral medicine, Cooper University Health Care. “This can help get your child support more quickly.”
WHO IS THE RIGHT THERAPIST FOR YOUR CHILD?
Once you’ve found a therapist, you need to decide if they are a good fit for your family. “Ask the provider about experience and expertise,” says Massie-Lambert. “You can be specific and say, ‘This is my child’s issue. How would you handle it?’”
You also may want to bring up any cultural- or faith-based concerns you have to make sure a counselor’s values align with your own. “It’s your right to gather information to understand whether this is the right person for your child,” says Massie-Lambert. “Therapy is like any other relationship. If something doesn’t feel right, it may not be the right fit for your family.”
Once sessions begin, give it some time. “I advise kids to give the counselor at least three sessions,” says Gilrain. Parents should expect to be part of the sessions, too, from time to time.
Therapists also should touch base with parents regularly. “Our goal is not to be involved in your life forever,” says Massie-Lambert. “We set goals and check in periodically to see how we are progressing. We’re in this together.”
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF THERAPISTS?
Counselors, such as licensed family and marriage therapists (LFMT), have a master’s degree and specialize in treating families, including siblings and parents.
Licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselors (LCADC) have a master’s degree and are trained to work with addiction issues.
Licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) have master’s degrees and may be on staff at schools and hospitals; they’re trained to help a child deal with issues at school or home.
Licensed clinical psychologists have a doctorate degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD) and are trained to provide therapy and psychological evaluations to assess personality, depression and anxiety, or to rule out medical concerns.
Psychiatrists have a medical degree (MD) and determine if medications may be helpful for conditions such as anxiety, depression or ADHD. Most psychiatrists do not provide therapy but work in concert with your child’s therapist.
Of course, if your child is in a crisis and you’re concerned about their safety or the safety of others, go to the ER for evaluation and access to mental health treatment.
Here are the best resources for finding a therapist for your child:
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Contact your company’s HR department. “Most large companies and the military have programs that can connect you quickly to providers,” says Gilrain. They may offer referrals or even provide a number of sessions.
- Pediatrician’s Office: Your family doctor usually has a good feel for local providers who are accessible to families, says Massie-Lambert.
- Your Child’s School: School districts often have lists of providers they’ve worked with successfully, says Massie-Lambert. Group Practices Large mental healthcare organizations, such as Bridge to Balance and The Center for Emotional Health, have access to many different providers, as opposed to a solo practice, so they will have more appointments available, says Gilrain. Telehealth services are also another option.
- Community Mental Health Centers and Hospital Clinics: Local mental health centers and behavioral health hospitals may have openings. Hospital clinics are another avenue and may accept all types of insurance.
- Perform Care of New Jersey: Perform Care of New Jersey is a single access point for mental health support for any child within New Jersey. “Regardless of the type of mental health concerns and insurance status, they provide access to services for all ages from 0 to 21 years old,” says Massie-Lambert. There’s also a mobile response team for evaluations, as well as in-home and telehealth services.
- Searchable Directories: Professional organizations such as the American Psychological Association, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy have searchable provider databases. Other helpful directories can be found at psychologytoday.com and therapyforblackgirls.com.