Finding the Right Mental Health Support 4/18/2025
You may know that 1 in 5 adults and 1 in 6 youth in the U.S. experience mental illness each year. Mental health conditions impact a large portion of our population, and Josselyn is proud to provide care to nearly 8,000 individuals annually, representing more than 300 different communities. Our clients range across all age groups; 40% of our clients are 18 or under and 60% are under age 30. These numbers highlight the ongoing and widespread need for accessible mental health services at every stage of life.
Anxiety and depression are the most common reasons clients make their way to us. For kids and adolescents, these challenges may manifest themselves as school avoidance or aggressive behavior. Struggling adults may find it hard to get out of bed each morning and may show little interest in social activity. In addition to anxiety and depression, we also treat a meaningful number of clients with severe mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Finding help when you or a loved one is struggling can be daunting. We want to make it easier.
Where Do I Start?
If you or someone you care about is struggling, the first step is acknowledging that support is available—and that seeking help is a sign of strength. You may start by speaking with your primary care physician, school counselor, or a trusted friend to explore options.
When you call or submit an inquiry form to a mental health care provider, your first stop is likely going to be with an intake specialist who will match you with the service you need. To prepare for that conversation:
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Identify Your Needs: Think about what you or your loved one are experiencing—whether it’s stress, sadness, difficulty focusing, or something more severe. This will help you and the provider determine the best course of action. If your loved one is an adult that needs to take the first step on their own, consider how you can help them get started. That might look like gathering information about local supports, making the initial phone call to a provider together, or offering a ride to their first appointment.
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Identify Your Preferences: Consider preferences about type of therapist or their approach: one who has experience with different life stages or who is familiar with a particular culture or who utilizes a certain technique. For example, a young child may communicate better through art than words, and you may want an art therapist. Also be prepared to share what days you are available, and whether you prefer in-person or virtual appointments.
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Understand Insurance and Payment Options: Some offices accept insurance and some will help you determine whether your plan covers their services and at what cost. You can also reach out to your insurance company directly for information about coverage and for a list of in-network providers. Community mental health centers like Josselyn are also required to have a sliding fee scale to ensure affordability.
How to Decide Where to Turn for Help
Choosing the right mental health support depends on your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
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Severity of Symptoms: If you’re experiencing mild to moderate distress, therapy alone may be beneficial. If symptoms are more severe, combining therapy with psychiatric care could be the best approach.
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Type of Support Needed: depending on the situation, you may want individual therapy, family counseling, group therapy, psychiatric services, employment support, or resource navigation.
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Urgency of Care: For adults in crisis, Josselyn’s The Living Room in Northfield provides immediate support in a safe and welcoming environment and may be an alternative to the emergency room. Of course, anyone at immediate risk of harming themselves or others should call 911.
You Are Not Alone
The demand for mental health care is greater than ever. Thankfully there is help in your neighborhood. Please visit josselyn.org to learn more about how we can help you, your family, or your company.
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Gaby Strobehn Donor Relations Manager
- April 18, 2025
- 224-489-7632
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