How to choose Behavioral Health programs and services
Do you need help for behavioral health (BH), emotional or substance use concerns? We can help you get the care you need. Your plan covers outpatient counseling, inpatient psychiatric treatment and substance use recovery programs.
Here are the steps you can take to set up an appointment:
1. Stay in-network
You need to see a provider who accepts Tufts Health RITogether for counseling services. You do not need a referral from your primary care provider (PCP). But your PCP may be able to help you find a provider who offers services near you.
2. Choose a provider
Click here to see Rhode Island Certified Community BH Clinics (CCBHC) with same day or next day visits available or use our provider search tool to see a list of in-network providers in your area.
3. Consider whether you prefer BH telehealth or in-person therapy
What’s the difference? Both offer counseling with a licensed therapist with similar benefits but different delivery methods.
Telehealth therapy allows for remote sessions through video calls, chats, emails or phone calls. This can help you get support if you have transportation/commuting issues. Telehealth may cause less stress than seeing someone in person.
In-person therapy involves face-to-face sessions in a physical setting. These visits may promote more direct connection.
When making a choice, think about your preferences, your comfort using technology and your therapy needs.
4. Schedule a visit
Call a provider and make an appointment. You may need to call a few providers to find one who has openings that fit your needs.
It is important to discuss both physical and emotional concerns with your PCP. BH screening should be part of the annual physical exam. PCP’s provide whole person care that includes and emotional care coordination. A PCP can help you figure out which BH professional is right for you. Your PCPs office may also have an integrated care manager (ICM) for short term BH care and referral support.
Psychiatrists, Certified Physician Assistants, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (NPs), and Psychiatric Nurse Clinical Specialists can prescribe psychiatric medication. Your PCP may be able to prescribe psychiatric medication until you are able to schedule an appointment with one of these providers.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) are advanced practice nurses with additional special education in psychiatric care. These nurse specialists may offer BH care, which includes evaluation, diagnosis, consultation, and counseling, as well as prescribing medications.
Certified Physician Assistants (PA-C)
Certified Physician Assistants (PA-C) are advanced healthcare practitioners who specialize in diagnosing illnesses, treating illness and prescribing medication in the primary care settings.
Psychiatrists (M.D.s or D.O.s)
Psychiatric M.D.s or D.O.s are licensed medical doctors who specialize in psychiatry. They can prescribe medication, complete diagnostic assessments, and may offer psychotherapy. Psychiatrists may be board certified in psychiatry and/or geriatric care, child and adolescent care, addiction treatment or other specialty areas.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers, Psychologists, Licensed Mental Health Counselors and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists are all qualified to provide counseling. Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors help with substance use dependence and addiction. Board Certified Behavior Analysts work to develop behavioral programs for individuals with autism or other developmental challenges.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs)
LICSWs have a master's degree in social work and additional supervised experience. Social Workers are trained in psychotherapy and social work techniques. Social work professionals provide counseling directed toward specific goals for individuals, couples, families and groups.
Psychologists (Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed.D)
Psychologists may have a Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed.D degree, which are doctoral-level credentials. Psychologists have extensive training in research and/or clinical psychology, with additional supervised experience after they receive their degree. Some psychologists may also have training in psychological and/or neuropsychological testing.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors (L.M.H.C.s)
An LMHC is a mental health professional who provides counseling and psychotherapy services after completing a master’s degree in counseling and two years of post-master’s supervised clinical work, and passing the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor licensing board examination. They use therapeutic techniques to meet patients’ goals by developing treatment plans aimed toward improving emotional health.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs)
LMFTs hold either a master’s or doctoral-level degree and have special expertise with treating families. They may work with individuals, couples or families in addressing family issues.
Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADCs)
LADCs are licensed to help people address substance use disorder. They work with individuals who may be addicted to alcohol and/or prescription or street drugs. They may work individually with patients or in group settings. They may also offer counseling to the families of patients.
Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
BCBAs hold a graduate-level degree and a certificate in behavior analysis. They have extensive training and experience in designing, developing, implementing and evaluating a wide range of applied behavior analysis programs for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Not sure where to start?
Call Member Services at 866-738-4116 (TTY: 711). We can help you find BH therapy and programs. Or click here to learn about our BH Service Navigation program.
When you need help right away
Call or text 988 if you have thoughts of suicide or are facing a mental health crisis. You’ll reach the national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can talk with a counselor 24/7 who will listen, understand, provide support and connect you with added support if you need it. Services are free and private.
