Find the right care for you
Addressing mental health conditions usually requires some combination of solutions, including talk therapy, medication, and healthy habits.
Talk therapy
Speaking to a mental health professional is a great way to explore root causes and patterns that may be factors in cases of depression or anxiety. There are several types of providers in this category, so you may want to ask your primary doctor for a referral.
Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are trained in the delivery of a broad range of evidence-based treatments including psychotherapy and as medical doctors, they are able to prescribe medications.Psychologist
Psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology and specialize in behaviors and the mind. They provide counseling, psychotherapy, and psychological testing.Licensed mental health counselor
Licensed mental health counselors have a master’s degree in psychology or counseling. They provide counseling or psychotherapy to evaluate and treat mental health problems.Clinical social worker
Clinical social workers have a master’s degree in social work. They evaluate and treat mental illness, and can provide case management and advocacy services for patients and families.
Medication
Several prescribed medicines have proved to be very effective in treating depression and anxiety. Your doctor can help determine whether a specific type would be best for you. Be sure to ask about possible side effects and interactions with other medications you are taking.
Healthy habits
When you feel good physically, you’re more likely to feel good emotionally. Incorporate physical activity and a nutritious diet into your routine.
Find a provider or resource
When you’re ready to talk to someone, you have lots of options. Maybe you want to begin
seeing a mental health professional for therapy. Perhaps you’d rather start by sitting in on a
group counseling session. You might just want to learn more about what local advocacy
groups are doing in your area. Use the approach that’s best for you.
seeing a mental health professional for therapy. Perhaps you’d rather start by sitting in on a
group counseling session. You might just want to learn more about what local advocacy
groups are doing in your area. Use the approach that’s best for you.
For Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Members
BCBSAZ network providers
To find a complete list of healthcare providers affiliated with your network, log in to your AZ Blue online account. If you haven’t already done so, set up your account and choose your network from the drop-down menu. Then, enter the specialty you’re looking for–such as psychiatry, psychology, counselor, etc.BlueCare Anywhere™
This telehealth service is available with some BCBSAZ health plans. If it’s a benefit with your plan, it’s easy to learn more about it and sign up. If not, there are companies who offer this service for a fee. Search ‘telehealth’ online for a list of companies.
For Everyone
Arizona advocacy groups
Get involved and learn more by connecting with organizations dedicated to the mental health of Arizonans.
Mental Health America of Arizona
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) ArizonaSupport groups for individuals and families
Connect with other Arizonans who are living with or around mental illness to share coping strategies and success stories. Lists of free support groups located throughout the state are available from NAMI Arizona and Mental Health Arizona.
Tips for talking to a provider about mental health
Opening the conversation about your mental health with a medical professional can seem tough, but they are trained, ready, and happy to help!