According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 57 million Americans are living with a mental illness. While statistics show that around 30% of Americans have seen a therapist since 2020, there are still many who have yet to start their journey of self-discovery. If this is you, then well done for taking the next step toward feeling better. This guide will explore how to find a therapist in Arlington Heights, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one.
Types of Mental Health Professionals in Arlington Heights
The first thing to be aware of is that not all therapists are created equal. Some may be trained in specific clinical diagnoses, while others may be better at family counseling. Deciding what you need is the first step. Arlington Heights is home to over 400 licensed therapists, and each offers a range of mental health services, including in-person or online sessions. The good news is that you won’t struggle to find a therapist who meets your needs and schedule.
Evaluating Potential Therapists
The next step is to consider a therapist’s experience, treatment approach, and specialties. The average therapist in Arlington Heights usually offers evidence-based therapies, such as:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Trauma-focused therapy
Considering each therapist’s credentials, reading client reviews, and checking whether they’re compatible with your insurance can help narrow down your options. You can also read verified listings on platforms such as Psychology Today or Zocdoc to help you decide.
Specialized Therapy Services in Arlington Heights
Here are some of the specialized therapy services available in Arlington Heights.
Couples and Marriage Counseling
Many therapists in Arlington Heights offer marriage or relationship counseling. Couples therapy can help you and your partner improve the way you communicate, manage conflicts, and may help with rebuilding trust. Licensed marriage and family therapists may use:
- Emotionally Focused Therapy
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy
- CBT
These treatments can help you learn healthier ways to interact with one another. Many therapists provide specific support for major life changes (think preparing for marriage or parenting), coping with losing a job or a loved one, and recovering from infidelity. These can be offered online to work around busy schedules.
Child and Adolescent Therapy
Not all therapists have experience working with children. Therapies will be different from those offered to adults, so it’s important to look for pediatric therapists who specifically offer child and teen therapy. These licensed clinicians help with developmental, behavioral, and emotional struggles for children and adolescents. They often offer:
- Play therapy
- Art therapy
- Family therapy
The goal is to create a safe space where children can share their feelings.
These therapies are helpful for younger children, especially if they struggle verbally. For teens, more traditional therapies such as CBT or DBT can help with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or relationship issues. Parents are often involved in the process so they can learn how to support their child at home or at school.
Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment
Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are serious mental health conditions that require expert care and specialized therapy. A large majority of therapists in Arlington Heights offer trauma-focused care. This can be used to treat:
- PTSD
- Abuse
- Trauma-related issues
These providers specialize in creating a safe space. They may offer specialized modalities such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Somatic Experiencing. These methods help clients work through difficult memories and can help reduce distressing symptoms such as flashbacks and anxiety.
Crisis Intervention Services
If you need urgent mental health support, don’t wait. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (dial 988), domestic violence support lines, and use specialized services for survivors of assault. Several social service organizations in the area provide ongoing counseling, advocacy, and recovery programs for people in crisis.
In situations involving immediate life-threatening emergencies, local authorities recommend going directly to the nearest emergency room or calling 911. You’ll find crisis intervention services at local clinics and hospitals in Arlington Heights. They’ll be able to help you during this critical time. They’ll also be able to connect you with therapists for longer-term care.
What To Expect During a Therapy Session
It’s important to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. Expect the first few sessions to be more of a discovery process. For example, the therapist may ask you questions about your history, current challenges, and your goals for therapy. This helps them understand what you’re struggling with so they can decide the best course of treatment.
Therapy sessions usually last 45 to 60 minutes and can be in person or online. Our team at NeuroHealth Arlington Heights offers both options. You may start with weekly sessions and adjust the schedule as your treatment progresses.
Over time, therapy can help you build coping skills and deal with mental health symptoms. Being open about what is and isn’t working for you helps you get the most out of your sessions. If the first therapist doesn’t feel like the right fit, we have many other experienced professionals who may be a better match. Take the time to find the right one and build rapport.
Making Your First Appointment
Booking your first therapy session can be daunting, but it’s a simple process. Our team at NeuroHealth Arlington Heights offers access to mental health professionals across a range of experience and specialties, from family therapy to child therapy and assessments. When you call to schedule an appointment at NeuroHealth Arlington Heights, our staff will guide you through some initial questions about your needs and help you find the right specialist for your situation. Our office is open Monday through Saturday. Contact NeuroHealth Arlington Heights to schedule your first consultation today.
Image by Nik Shuliahin is licensed with Unsplash License