Finding Emotional Support Resources
People living with multiple sclerosis are more likely to experience depression, anxiety and emotional issues than the general population. Your carepartners may also benefit from emotional support. A skilled professional can help you and the members of your care team.Professionals who can help include:
- Psychologists/clinical therapists
- Social workers
- Counselors, including pastoral counselors
- How long has the professional been in practice?
- Are they licensed by your state to provide mental health counseling?
- Ask to see their credentials if they are not displayed on their wall or website.
- Usually, providers licensed as clinical therapists hold advanced degrees. However, license requirements may differ slightly from state to state.
- Do they have experience working with people living with MS or other chronic illnesses?
- Do they have experience working with concerns like yours? These could include depression, anxiety, career challenges or parenting issues.
- Do they offer the services you want (e.g., individual therapy, couples or marriage therapy, or family or pediatric therapy?
- Do they use any specific therapeutic methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy?
- How do they keep up to date in their knowledge of MS or other chronic illnesses?
- Does insurance cover these services?
- Does the provider take your insurance?
- If the professional does not take your insurance, do they have a sliding scale?
- If you need a referral for other services or medications, can they provide one?
- What is the therapist’s scheduling and cancellation policy?
- Is the office accessible?
- Do they offer telehealth appointments?
- Do they offer home visits?
- Do you feel comfortable being open with this provider?
- Do they explain their method well and how they believe it will help you?
- Does their practice feel like a good fit for you?
- Can emotional support services help if you or someone else in the care team is feeling stressed or overwhelmed?
- Could you benefit from support with self-care?
- What type of services do you need? Would individual therapy, a support group or peer-to-peer connections help?