How to find the right behavioral health provider

Camille: Welcome to "Health Break" by UPMC Health Plan, your quick guide to health, wellness, and how to make the most of your health insurance plan. I’m your host, Dr. Camille Clarke-Smith. This is your…"Health Break."

Finding the right behavioral health provider can feel overwhelming, but it’s a crucial step in getting the care you need.

At UPMC Health Plan, we want to make this process easier by helping members understand where to start, what to look for, and what to expect from their provider.

Mimi Yablonsky joins us in this episode to break down how to find the right fit for your behavioral health needs.

Mimi, thank you for joining us on today’s “Health Break.”

Mimi: Dr. Smith, thank you for inviting me today to join you in talking about behavioral health. I’m excited to help clarify ways for people to find the right provider.

Camille: Let’s jump right into it. What types of behavioral health providers are available and how do they differ?

Mimi: There are several types of behavioral health providers, each with unique qualifications. Therapists or counselors may hold master’s or doctoral degrees in counseling, psychology, or social work. They offer talk therapy, including goal setting tailored to each person’s needs.

Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can prescribe and manage medications, and some also provide therapy. Health coaches and peer support specialists offer guidance and connect people with support and community services.

Camille: What should someone consider when looking for the right provider?

Mimi: People might want to consider specializations—like anxiety, depression, or substance use—as well as the type of therapy offered (individual, group, couples, or family). Delivery methods are also important: in-person or virtual, through apps or websites. But most importantly, feeling comfortable with the provider is key.

Camille: Are there UPMC Health Plan resources that can help with this?

Mimi: Yes. The UPMC app and member website have a “Find Care” search tool to match members with in-network providers. The behavioral health coaching team can guide members toward appropriate care, and Member Services can help identify and connect members with providers.

Camille: Once we’ve selected a provider, how should someone prepare for their first appointment?

Mimi: Preparing for a behavioral health appointment is like preparing for a physical one. Write down reasons for the visit and questions in advance. Be open about symptoms and goals. And remember, it’s okay to switch providers if it doesn’t feel like the right fit.

Camille: Thank you so much, Mimi, for joining us today and sharing how to find the right behavioral health provider.

Mimi: Thank you, Dr. Smith.

Camille: Finding a provider who understands your unique needs is crucial for effective care.

UPMC Health Plan makes it easier with the “Find Care” tool to locate in-network behavioral health professionals.

For assistance, call UPMC Health Plan Behavioral Health Services at 1-888-777-8754 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Your mental health matters—and we’re here to support you in finding the right care. 

Find show notes and more information at upmchealthplan.com/podcast. Join us as we continue exploring health, wellness, and how to make the most of your health insurance plan in the next episode of "Health Break."

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes. It is not medical care or advice. Individuals in need of medical care should consult their personal care provider.

Views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of UPMC Health Plan and its employees.