How to Hire a Psychologist to Help Cope With Cerebral Palsy

Dealing with cerebral palsy can be emotionally draining for everyone affected. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities, and adolescents and young adults with CP may experience depression and isolation. Many people hire psychologists to help them cope with illness-related stress.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Find a Psychologist to Help Cope With Cerebral Palsy

1. Contact your insurance company to find out what kind of psychological services are covered and what type of coverage is provided under your plan. If you are not covered, you may be eligible for coverage through Medicaid, Medicare, or your state's Children's Health Insurance Program. Psychological counseling may also be provided free of charge for children who qualify for an Individual Education Program, or "IEP," offered through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
2. Gather the names of psychologists in your area. Your insurance company may require you to choose a psychologist from its network of providers. If your plan allows you to choose from outside the network, get a referral from a friend, health care professional, psychological associations or other people trying to cope with cerebral palsy.
3. Find an American Psychological Association psychologist in your area by visiting their website (see Resources below). Click the "Psychology Topics" tab on the APA homepage, and then select "Find a Psychologist." Type your zip code into the search box and choose a search area.
4. Make a list of several psychologists and their phone numbers, and call each one to find out if they are taking on new patients.

Hire a Psychologist to Help Cope With Cerebral Palsy

5. Ask questions. Before you hire a psychologist to help cope with cerebral palsy, find out if they have experience working with clients who have disabilities. Ask what methods or treatments they use.
6. Find out if the psychologist you are considering is licensed by the state. You can ask the therapist directly or check with your state's licensing board. Visit the Psychwatch.com website for a nationwide directory of licensing boards (see Resources below).
7. Ask about fee structures. If you have insurance, ask if they accept your insurance and if they will bill your insurance company directly. If you do not have insurance, ask if they will structure a sliding fee scale, which means that the cost is determined by your income and ability to pay.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with the psychological association in your state to find out whether a psychologist is licensed or if they have ever had disciplinary action.