Many children are struggling with their mental health right now. In the wake of the pandemic, medical health professionals are even calling children’s mental health a crisis, and it can be even worse if your child has a learning difference.
So, how do you make sure your child has the support they need? Let’s go through our top tips for finding a child therapist in Tampa.
1. Talk To Your Insurance Company
You’ll want to start out by talking to your insurance provider and seeing what they cover. There may be a limited number of therapists that they actually cover. If your insurance doesn’t cover a therapist, you’ll have to pay for one out of pocket, which can get expensive quickly.
If you find yourself in that situation, you can look for therapists that operate on a sliding scale system, or that offer discounts for people in need.
2. Get Reviews
Asking about medical professionals from loved ones when it comes to finding a child therapist in Tampa, FL, is a good way to find a therapist. You can rule out people you’ve heard negative things about and rule in people who have good reviews.
Parenting groups on Facebook and other social media forums can be a great resource for finding helpful therapist reviews too. You can also look for groups centered in your city or neighborhood.
3. Find an Organization
If you’re looking for a therapist that specializes in a specific issue, there are resources out there for you. Look for organizations focused on these issues in your area, and see if they keep lists of or recommendations for therapists that can help you. For example, if your child needs a therapist for autism testing, an autism-focused organization in your area should be able to help you out.
4. Ask Questions
Once you find a few options for mental health therapists in Tampa, FL, you’ll want to sit down with them and see if they suit your child’s needs. Prepare a list of questions in advance. Find out about their schooling, training, licensing and qualifications.
Ask them about their background with the specific issues your child is struggling with, to ensure that they know what they’re doing. If your child has other specific needs, such as ability issues, you should ensure that a therapist is educated about and sensitive to these needs. You’ll also want to ask their opinion when it comes to medication and other issues that may come up over the course of treatment.
You’ll likely want your child to meet with a few therapists to see if they’re a good fit. Your child may simply just not connect with specific people, and that’s okay!
Finding a Child Therapist in Tampa: Now You Know
Hopefully, you have the information you need to help you find a child therapist in Tampa. It may take a little trial and error, but it’s time to start looking for options.
If you or your family is struggling, we’re here to help. Contact ICPS to book a consultation today.