Often, one of the best ways to find a therapist is by “word of mouth.” Start by asking friends or family members who may have worked with therapists in the past. If you do not feel comfortable with this, ask your pediatrician or even your child’s teacher or the director of your child’s childcare program. School personnel will often know of many mental health professionals who are experienced in working with children. If these options do not feel appropriate, you may want to check with your insurance company to see if they cover mental health services under your insurance plan. If so, check to see if they have a list of therapists in your area who work with families and young children.

When you talk with therapists for the first time, it is important to ask if they have experience in infant and early childhood mental health. Finding someone who knows and understands young children can make a significant difference in the services you and your family will receive. Additionally, you may prefer to work with a therapist who shares your family’s cultural or ethnic background, or a therapist who speaks your primary language. You may also want to talk with a few therapists before deciding. Many therapists allow for an “introduction” session in which you can discuss your concerns, questions, and hopes for treatment. This time will also allow you to learn about the therapist’s background and philosophy and hear how the therapist might approach working with you and your family. Use this time to determine if the therapist is a good fit for you and your family.

The cost of therapy can vary greatly, often from $35–200 per session. But many therapists have “sliding scales.” This means that they can adjust their fee depending on a family’s financial situation. Also, most insurance plans provide full or partial reimbursement for mental haealth services. However, it is important to check with your provider to understand the limits of your coverage. If you are using your insurance coverage, find out exactly what documentation, if any, is required from a therapist to approve coverage. To approve coverage, insurance companies often require submission of a diagnosis and a treatment plan. If the cost of therapy is a barrier to you and your family, talk with the therapist about your concerns and the challenges you are facing. Together, you can work out a plan that ensures you and your family receive the support you need at a cost that fits your budget.

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For more information on supporting your child’s social-emotional health, please visit my article: Social-Emotional Development (http://www.abilitypath.org/areas-of-development/social--emotional/social-emotional-development.html)

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References

Cooper, S., and Wanerman, L. (1977) Children in Treatment: A primer for beginning psychotherapists. New York, NY: Brunner/Mazel.

Lieberman, A. and Pawl, J. (1993) Infant-Parent Psychotherapy. In C. Zeanah (Ed.), Handbook of Infant Mental Health (pp 427–444). New York, NY: Guildford Press.

Lieberman, A., and Van Horn, P. (2008) Psychotherapy with Infants and Young Children: Repairing the effects of stress and trauma on early attachment. New York, NY: Guilford Press.

O’Connor, K. (2000) The Play Therapy Primer. New York: Wiley.