One of the most important steps you can take to improve your mental health is to consult with a mental health professional.

Here are some general resources and information to help you along this journey. This information is intended as general education and does not take the place of consulting with a qualified mental health professional. If you are concerned about yourself or someone you love, please reach out to a qualified professional in your area for a consultation.

Woman seeking therapy for mental health concerns

When to Seek Help

  • You think you may meet criteria for a mental health condition, or are experiencing mental health symptoms that are upsetting or interfering with your life (Take a Mental Health Test)
  • Someone else has shared concerns about you or your behavior, and/or you no longer feel like “yourself”
  • You notice changes in your mood, attitude, coping strategies, or behavior
  • You notice changes in your usual routines such as your eating or sleeping patterns
  • Symptoms or behavioral changes are causing distress or problems in your life
  • Symptoms and problems persist, and you feel unable to resolve them on your own
  • You feel depressed or hopeless 
  • You feel concerned about your relationships or behavior 
  • You have thoughts about hurting yourself or others 

Crisis Resources

How to Find Help

Finding the right provider – whether that be about specialty, fit, insurance paneling, demographic match or any number of variables – can be a daunting task. Mental health treatment is sensitive work, and finding a provider who meets your needs and who you feel comfortable and safe with is of the utmost importance. That can take time, which can be frustrating especially when you need help quickly.

Perseverance is key. There are a number of systemic barriers that exist to finding quality mental health care. But good help is out there, and it is possible to find. Don’t give up! Reach out to your networks and other resources available to you to help in your journey.

Young black woman looking at therapist directories online to find mental health support

Note: There are many different types of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, and other syndromes, which can present differently in different individuals. The resources offered on this website are not intended to be exhaustive and should not be used to make a mental health diagnosis nor to be used for treatment. Only a qualified, licensed healthcare practitioner can diagnose a mental health condition. If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, please seek a mental health consultation with a professional. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please utilize the Crisis Resources listed above. See our full disclaimer. 

Professional Organizations

Professional organizations are a great place to learn more about different professions, and many offer provider directories on their websites. Professional organizations typically have national associations as well as local (state specific) chapters.

Psychology

Note: Drs. Doran and Lawson are affiliated with and proud members of the American Psychological Association, Connecticut Psychological Association, and New York State Psychological Association.

Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nursing
Social Work
Marriage and Family Therapy

Directories

Provider Directories
Insurance Companies

Insurance companies can provide lists of in-network providers (typically searchable on your benefits website; can also be obtained by calling).

Important note: these directories are not always up-to-date, and it may take some effort to call around and confirm providers who are still offering in-network coverage. If provider lists contain multiple providers who aren’t actually still taking your insurance, this should be reported back to a representative to address.

Larger corporations or businesses may offer an Employee Assistance Program that provides short-term treatment/consultation and/or referrals to community treatment.

Referral Networks

Other Resources

For Veterans