Finding Treatment For Social Anxiety Disorder
This step may be easy or hard depending on your approach to it. If you have a family doctor that you regularly see, then ask for a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist he or she may know. Other ways to find a therapist or psychologist are through your phone book’s yellow pages. Similarly, you can call the psychiatric ward of a local hospital ask the head nurse for a recommendation. Also, if you have insurance, review a list of approved mental health providers.
Guidelines for selecting a mental health professional
When selecting a mental health practioner he or she must be able to answer all of the basic questions below. Remember, its your health, don’t settle for second best.
- What training and experience do you have in treating anxiety disorders?
- What is your basic approach to treatment?
- Can you prescribe medication or refer me to someone who can, if that proves necessary?
- What is your fee schedule, and do you have a sliding scale for varying financial circumstances?
- What kinds of health insurance do you accept?
