Navigation: Who to See for Mental Health Diagnosis, Why You Need a Proper Mental Health Diagnosis, How to Find a Mental Health Professional to Diagnose Mental Illness, What is a Dual Diagnosis?
Sometimes it’s hard to figure out what type of mental illness you have and what is causing your symptoms. The good news is that there are many different types of health care professionals who can help you determine the specific mental health disorder that you are experiencing.
These healthcare providers not only help identify your condition, they can also treat mental health disorders and help you achieve your recovery goals. You may find them in inpatient facilities like psychiatric clinics and general hospitals, or in outpatient facilities like community health clinics. It’s all a matter of reaching out and seeking their assistance. [1]
Taking the time and effort to get an accurate diagnosis can go a long way in terms of improving your physical and mental health. Yes, even your physical health can improve because we all know that mental illnesses can create problems for your body as well.
Here we will talk about the different types of mental health care providers who can help you recover and reach your recovery goals.
Who to See for Mental Health Diagnosis
Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or any other mental health disorder, it’s good to receive an actual diagnosis from a mental health expert.
These healthcare providers may use lab tests, a physical exam, or a psychological evaluation to provide an accurate diagnosis that will pave the way towards your recovery. A physical exam is done in order to rule out any physical problems that may be causing your symptoms.
If there are no physical health problems that are contributing to your mental condition, then a psychological evaluation may be used to assess your symptoms, thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns. Depending on their findings, they can then help you improve your condition as well as your quality of life by providing professional guidance.
For professional assessment, psychologists, counselors, clinicians, and therapists may be of assistance. They can also provide therapy after providing the diagnosis.
Psychologists are trained to assess and diagnose mental health conditions through psychological testing, clinical interviews, testing, and evaluations. Their clinical psychology doctorate helps them make accurate diagnoses. Others have a doctoral degree in another specialty like education or counseling. While they may offer therapy and counseling, they cannot prescribe medication in most cases. [1]
Psychologists can provide individual and group therapy. Some of them are able to provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and other interventions.
Counselors, therapists, and clinicians are health care professionals that have a master’s degree in a mental health-related field like psychology, counseling psychology, family therapy, etc. Their job title is usually based on the treatment setting. [1]
For example, a licensed professional counselor or LPC is trained to diagnose and provide counseling for mental health issues. A licensed marriage and family therapist or LMFT, on the other hand, specializes in working with couples and families but can also diagnose and treat individual mental health issues.
Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) provide therapy and counseling services. They are also qualified to diagnose mental health conditions in individuals, couples, and families. They are also trained in advocacy services and case management. To become an LCSW, they need to have a master’s degree in social work (MSW). [1]
If you are looking for mental health professionals who can prescribe medications and monitor your intake, psychiatrists can diagnose mental health conditions and also prescribe medications. They are licensed medical doctors who have completed psychiatric training. A psychiatrist is therefore a medical doctor who is able to provide therapy and monitor patient conditions. [1]
Similarly, psychiatric or mental health nurse practitioners can provide assessment, diagnosis and therapy for people with mental health conditions as well as substance use disorders.
You don’t even have to go too far to find mental health support. Your first step can be to see your primary care doctor. They can assess your symptoms, provide an initial evaluation, and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist. Primary care physicians and even pediatricians can prescribe medications—however, you may want to consider visiting a mental health specialist before that.
Primary care and mental health professionals can definitely work together to determine the best treatment approach for a specific patient.
You may also approach other mental health practitioners such as clinical psychiatric nurses, family nurse practitioners (FNP), psychiatric pharmacists, certified peer specialists, social workers, pastoral counselors, and neuropsychologists.
A clinical psychiatric nurse practitioner is an advanced practice nurse who can assess, diagnose, and provide medication management for mental health conditions. Meanwhile, an FNP can provide general medical services like those of primary care physicians.
Psychiatric pharmacists are, as the name implies, pharmacists who specialize in mental health care. Because of their specialization, they can recommend and prescribe medications based on their patient’s condition. However, this depends on whether or not it is allowed in their state and practice setting. Psychiatric pharmacists are skilled at medication management, meaning they can adjust medications and modify treatment as needed. [1]
Certified peer specialists are people who have experienced a mental health condition or a substance use disorder. They then trained and got certified for the purpose of assisting others in recovery. They can provide mentoring, guidance, and emotional support. However, they cannot prescribe medications or provide a diagnosis.
Social workers can provide case management services and other services to support a person’s recovery. Meanwhile pastoral counselors provide clinical pastoral education. They may have equivalents to a doctorate in counseling. [1]
Finally, for those whose mental health issues are related to brain injuries or neurological conditions, a neuropsychologist can provide assessments and diagnostics in these areas.
When seeking mental health diagnosis and treatment, it’s important to find a professional who is experienced in dealing with your specific concerns. You may want to start with a primary care physician or a general therapist, who can then refer you to a specialist if needed.
Don’t hesitate to seek help if you believe you’re experiencing mental health issues, as early intervention and treatment can be crucial for better outcomes.
If you believe you may be experiencing mental health issues and are seeking a diagnosis, it’s essential to consult with mental health professionals who are trained and qualified to provide assessments, diagnoses, and treatment.
Why You Need a Proper Mental Health Diagnosis
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a diagnosis can help patients understand why they are having certain symptoms. A diagnosis can be used as a tool to help your doctor address these symptoms. [2]
A proper mental health diagnosis is important because it helps mental health professionals develop an effective treatment plan. Different mental health conditions may require different types of therapy, medication, or interventions. Without a clear diagnosis, it’s challenging to tailor treatment to an individual patient’s specific needs.
In cases where medication is prescribed, an accurate diagnosis is crucial. Different medications are used to treat different mental health conditions, and misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective or even harmful treatment.
A diagnosis is also important for the purposes of insurance. Many insurance policies require a valid diagnosis to cover mental health treatments. A proper diagnosis can ensure that recovering individuals can access the care they need without incurring substantial out-of-pocket expenses.
A mental health diagnosis may also be required for accommodations in the workplace or to receive legal protections under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A valid diagnosis can support a person’s rights and access to necessary accommodations.
As for the patient experiencing mental health symptoms, receiving a diagnosis can be a relief. It provides a name and explanation for their struggles, which can reduce stigma and self-blame. It can even empower them to learn more about their condition and develop healthy coping strategies.
A diagnosis provides a common language for patients, families, and mental health professionals to communicate about the condition. It also opens up access to support groups and peer communities, where recovering individuals can share their experiences and struggles with those who have similar diagnoses.
Going to a mental health professional is essential because an incorrect or vague diagnosis can lead to ineffective or harmful treatments. Misdiagnosis can also make symptoms worse. Mental health diagnoses should be made by qualified mental health professionals.
Keep in mind that diagnoses are not labels but tools to help guide treatment and support individuals in their journey to better mental health. Individuals can make use of their diagnosis to move towards recovery. It can help guide patients towards a productive and fulfilling life. [2]
How to Find a Mental Health Professional to Diagnose Mental Illness
Before you schedule your first mental health appointment, you may want to do some research on your potential treatment providers. It may be worth looking into their treatment approach and philosophy, as well as their education, licenses, professional associations, credentials and specializations. Some mental health professionals specialize in working with certain age groups or people with certain disorders. [3]
Also look into fees, office hours, insurance coverage, lengths of sessions, and policies surrounding missed appointments.
But most importantly, you should work with a mental health provider that you trust. You need to be able to trust them even when they are saying something that sounds uncomfortable for you. You will be spending a lot of time with them after all. Ideally, you want to work with someone who is available in case of an emergency or mental health crisis. [3]
Look for a mental health treatment provider by asking for referrals from trusted friends, family, colleagues, etc. When in doubt, ask your general practitioner for a referral.
What is a Dual Diagnosis?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a dual diagnosis refers to the presence of both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder in an individual.
This term is used to describe situations where a person is struggling with both addiction or substance abuse and a psychiatric or mental health issue simultaneously.
Unfortunately, these conditions often co-occur. This does not necessarily mean they are caused by one another, even if one develops first. But because of the complex relationship between substance abuse and mental health, they tend to worsen one another. [4]
People with mental health disorders may turn to drugs and alcohol in order to cope with their symptoms. On the other hand, some people who abuse drugs and alcohol may end up developing certain mental disorders. Therefore, it can be hard to figure out which came first. [4]
Genetics, stress, and trauma are three risk factors that commonly contribute to both conditions.
A dual diagnosis is therefore a complex condition that requires integrated treatment. The two disorders need to be addressed simultaneously or else it may be difficult to achieve long-term recovery. Treating one condition while neglecting the other can lead to poor outcomes and a higher risk of relapse.
There are plenty of rehab facilities that specialize in dual diagnosis treatment.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a mental health disorder or a substance use disorder such as alcohol addiction or drug addiction, look for a rehab center near you today. It is possible to recover from these conditions. You just need to find proper support. Your journey to recovery begins today.
Sources:
[1]: https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Types-of-Mental-Health-Professionals
[2]: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-couch/201907/how-important-is-psychiatric-diagnosis
[3]: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/doctors-treat-illness
[4]: https://medlineplus.gov/dualdiagnosis.html
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