How do I find a mental health professional with Medicare coverage?

Finding a mental health professional who accepts Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with anxiety about treatment changes. Medicare Part B typically covers mental health services from licensed professionals like psychiatrists, psychologists, and clinical social workers - contacting Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE or using their online provider directory can help locate covered professionals in your area. Many people in this community understand the challenges of navigating insurance changes while managing mental health concerns, and discussing medication concerns openly with potential providers can help find someone who will work collaboratively on treatment approaches that feel right for you.

I have Stage 4 MBC and I asked my oncologist if there were any mental health specialists I could talk to. She gave my contact information to a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who contacted me within a couple days. We have a zoom call every couple weeks and it gives me a chance to ask questions about my emotions, mindset, etc.

Thank you, Teri, I have reached out to my PCP and I have a video call with her Friday. I guess in my area there is a shortage of people that specialize in what I need. Thanks for your response!

Most cancer treatment centers have a licensed clinical social worker who can help with this. One was offered to me and it helped so much! As I’m sure we all have experienced this anxiety and uncertainty. Hope this helps

Thank you, Karen, I went that route when I was going through induction treatments, and he was not helpful. I don't think talking about stinking thinking for 8 sessions would be helpful for anyone. I think if we are dealing with "stinking thinking," we have every right to those thoughts. That was not my issue, so I felt he was a waste of time and money. At the time, I had lost my 23 year old granddaughter, and my hematologist oncologist was in disagreement with my transplant doctor about transplant. I was struggling with what to do. Now, I am struggling with retirement and a new treatment plan as I have relapsed. There are not enough mental health care providers in my area, so I have to wait until the end of June just to get a video call.