Psychosocial Support Join our Community Psychosocial Support Many people coping with a chronic health problem benefit from work with a therapist or counselor. When choosing a clinician some considerations include: Experience with Parkinson’s disease, chronic illness, or symptoms you are experiencing (e.g. depression or anxiety) Compatibility Geographical location Insurance It is recommended that you work with your primary healthcare provider or neurologist to assist you in identifying an appropriate clinician. These professionals may have a counselor or therapist who works with them and offers outpatient therapy. You can check with them directly for referrals. In addition, the following resources may assist you in your search. The APDA Information & Referral Center 800-651-8466 or 617-638-8466 apdama@apdaparkinson.org Contact the I&R Center for a listing of support groups in your area. These groups are community-lead self-help groups for individuals and families impacted by Parkinson’s disease. For a complete list of support groups across the state, click here. HelpPRO HelpPRO (781) 862-5215 HelpPRO’s Advanced Search feature can be tailored by a number of different factors including location, health insurance accepted, and specialization based on disability or concern. In particular, the drop down box next to “Has expertise with specific populations” includes a “Parkinson’s” option, as well as a “Chronic Illness” option. Social Work Therapy Referral Line Social Work Therapy Referral Line 617-720-2828 or 800-242-9794 info@therapymatcher.org The Social Work Therapy Referral Service is a free, confidential telephone referral service. They provide professional, personalized counseling referrals matched for location, specialty and insurance or fee requirements. Psychology Today Psychology Today Psychology Today is a web site that covers a range topics related to mental health. The “Find a Therapist” tool allows visitors to conduct a zip code search and find a provider with special training or interest in the area of chronic pain or illness. Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association 508-698-0010 The MaMHCA Referral Network Directory is designed to help consumers locate a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based on their individual counseling needs. The directory describes the education and training qualifications of Licensed Mental Health Counselors, and basic information for consumers about the counseling process. Your Insurance Company You can call the number on the back of your card listed for mental and behavioral health, ask them for providers in your area that are covered by your insurance and who may specialize in a particular area (i.e. chronic illness, neurological disorders, or specific symptoms such as anxiety or depression).
