Mental Health Care: Where to Start

Mental health is health and should be prioritized, just like physical health. This Mental Health Awareness Month, feel empowered to get the care you need.

With different ways to get support, you might wonder: Where do I even start?

Whether you begin with your primary care provider (PCP), go straight to a mental health specialist, or explore organizations that can help, what matters most is taking the first step. Let’s break it down so you can find the path that works best for you.

Starting with your PCP

If you’re unsure where to begin, your PCP can be a great first stop. They already know your medical history and can:

• Help determine if your symptoms are related to mental health, physical health, or both
• Offer initial treatment, like lifestyle recommendations or medication if appropriate
• Refer you to a therapist, psychiatrist, or other specialist

This route is helpful if you want guidance before committing to a mental health professional. Just let your doctor know what you’re experiencing—whether it’s anxiety, stress, mood changes, or anything else—and they’ll help you figure out next steps.

Important: With some health plans, like HMOs, you’ll need a referral from your PCP before seeing a specialist. With other plans like PPOs, you can typically go straight to a specialist without a referral.

Going straight to a specialist

If you know you want therapy or psychiatric care, you can reach out to a mental health provider directly. Here’s a quick guide to the types of professionals you might consider:

• Therapists (Counselor, Psychologist, Social Worker): If you want to talk through your mental health concerns and work on personal challenges, a therapist is a great choice. Therapy can be a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings, and work on strategies to support your mental well-being.
• Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners: If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or think medication might help, these specialists can diagnose and prescribe medication.

Not sure who to see? Start with a therapist; if they think medication might help, they can refer you to a provider. For a breakdown of different types of mental health providers, visit: Get the Help You Need: Different Types of Mental Health Services.

For AZ Blue members

AZ Blue has thousands of mental health professionals serving all needs. Find in-network specialists, such as therapists or psychiatrists, by logging into your member portal. Click ‘Find a Doctor’ and search ‘Doctors by Specialty.’

If you need help RIGHT NOW

If you or a loved one needs immediate help: Call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org to reach a trained crisis counselor 24/7.

To learn more, visit: Everything You Need to Know About the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in Arizona.

The most important step is starting

No matter where you begin—what’s important is taking that first step.

If you’re feeling stuck, start small: Call a friend, take an online mental health screening, or find an organization that provides free resources and information. Your mental health journey is personal, but you don’t have to walk it alone.

For a list of organizations that can help, head to our Behavioral Health website: Care & Resources | AZBlue.