Finding a therapist, counselor, psychologist, social worker, etc.

Finding a therapist, counselor, psychologist, social worker, etc.
E

EGL

Registrant
I went to see my family physician today to see about finding a counselor or someone to talk to about the sexual abuse I went through as a child. His nurse called me back this afternoon and said that she could recommend a social worker who is trained in this area. Couple of problems with this:

1. Social Worker is not covered by insurance (although psychologists are).
2. Name she gave me is of a woman.

On the second point, I think I would be very uncomfortable discussing what happened to me with a woman. I know that sounds sexist, but it's the way it is. I just don't think I could open up that much to a woman on this, and I know I've got a lot of garbage I need to unload.

I found the number of the state's Psychology Association this evening, so I guess I will call them in the morning to see if they can give me some names of psychologists that have dealt with child sexual abuse.

I'm getting frustrated and depressed over this, trying to find someone to help me through this. Any ideas on you guys past experience with therapists would be greatly appreciated. How'd you find them, what types are better than others, etc. I really don't like the idea of just randomly calling through the yellow pages - that seems like a chancy roll of the dice.

Thanks,
 
Hi Eddie,

You might get lucky and find the person you need right here on the website. Go to the top of any page and click on the "survivor" tab. The first item mentioned on the drop menu is "Finding a therapist". Follow the instructions and see if there's someone in your area. If there is then check this person's name out with your insurance company. If there isn't then call your insurance company and get a list of names of male psychologists in your area and question them by phone as to their training and/or experience working with male survivors.

Come back often and let us know how you're doing. The brotherhood we have is the most supportive group of men you'll ever have the honor of sharing your life with. Good luck!

Taz
 
EGL:
Most insurance companies are happy to use licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) because they pay us less than psychiatrists and psychologists. Often/usually, the LCSW is as good or even better than the psys.

Be sure to read "A consumer's guide to therapist shopping" after locating someone your insurance will cover. You can interview perspective therapists. If they are put off by your questions, it is a good sign that they are probably not the person for you.

Good luck.
Ken
 
Originally posted by Ken Singer, LCSW:
EGL:
Most insurance companies are happy to use licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) because they pay us less than psychiatrists and psychologists. Often/usually, the LCSW is as good or even better than the psys.

Be sure to read "A consumer's guide to therapist shopping" after locating someone your insurance will cover. You can interview perspective therapists. If they are put off by your questions, it is a good sign that they are probably not the person for you.

Good luck.
Ken
Click to expand...
Ken - Thanks much for the information. The nurse at my family doctor's office said that insurance might not pay for a social worker, so I assumed (I know, bad thing to do) that mine wouldn't pay. I'll call them tomorrow and see. If so, it will open up further opportunities for finding a therapist.

Thanks again,
 
Originally posted by Taz:
Hi Eddie,

You might get lucky and find the person you need right here on the website...

...Come back often and let us know how you're doing. The brotherhood we have is the most supportive group of men you'll ever have the honor of sharing your life with. Good luck!

Taz
Click to expand...
Taz - I think you're very right on this point! I know that it has been a great help for me, reading these posts and knowing I haven't been some kind of freak all my life because of what happened to me. I'm looking forward to participating here on the forum. Please, all, be patient with me as I find my way. I appreciate everything that you all have offered me since I arrived here.
 
It is interesting to me, what you said of talking with a woman. I went into looking to therapy thinking I could not at all trust a man. It is interesting how we all are different with things. I go to a clinical psychologist. My regular doctor is the one who monitors my medications. But I have a friend who goes to psychiatrist, who could do medicines as well as therapy, I believe. I like the way I have it, with the two of them working with me. He likes his way, although he does not need medicines. I think it is just to find a person you feel comfortable with, in their experience, education and how you feel with them personally.

Good luck to you.

Leosha
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top