As a mental health and wellness therapist, it will likely come as no surprise to you to find a statement in support of my profession. You may be surprised to learn that I have struggled to ask for help so many times as a Dad; I've felt weak, believed myself unworthy, expected that I should just know how to do it, was too overwhelmed, or just didn't want to bring down my good mood by talking about the hard stuff.
This means that I have often missed opportunities to seek support that could have helped me find my way through and supported me during my journey. At times, I still have to remind myself that there is no shame in asking for help; in fact, I want to teach my kiddo that asking for help is good and so important. I can only teach this lesson through my actions and being vulnerable enough to push myself out of my comfort zone.
If you have ever or currently find yourself in a similar position, I encourage you to reach out to a professional. There are many out there that all do amazing work, whether they are Social Workers, Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, or Psychologists. Don't be afraid to ask for an initial consultation (often 15 minutes and free), ask lots of questions, or try more than one until you find a good fit.
I've included some information and links below that may help you in finding a professional that can be a support for you on your parenting journey.
For articles, tips, or information about seeking professional support, see these helpful sites.
An article from NPR including step-by-step guide for how to prepare for, search for, and find a therapist.
Provides an overview of therapeutic practices to help familiarize yourself with what is available. Explore the remainder of the site for additional helpful information.
A helpful blog article about the different therapy licenses to help you understand the nuances and finding what fits best for you.
There are numerous sources you can use to find a mental health provider, so I've provided only a few options below. Click on the buttons below to search for providers in your area. If you are unsure about your insurance coverage, you can call the "member" number on the back of your insurance card to ask for a list of in-network providers in your area.
psychologytoday.com - a site to search providers by zip code, services offered, insurances accepted, and more.
betterhelp.com - answer questions to find the right provider; communicate through text, chat, audio, or video.
mentalhealthmatch.com - answer questions to connect with the right fit; tips and guides for engaging in therapy.
Have general questions about connecting with a professional? Reach out to let me know and I'll do my best to help!
Disclaimer: By responding, I am not offering therapeutic advice, nor am I providing therapy with any information I may provide. If you are having a mental health or other crisis, please contact your local emergency services or a medical/mental health provider in your area.
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