<p>If you are struggling with mental health issues, getting placed on a waitlist to see a psychiatrist or therapist feels frustrating and scary. You have a sense of urgency to get the help you need and waiting on a waitlist to see a psychiatrist is likely only contributing to your negative symptoms.</p><p>In this article, we’ll discuss tips for coping and offer helpful resources you can take advantage of while you wait to see a mental health professional.</p><p>We&#8217;ll answer some important questions, such as—</p><ul><li>How long are waitlists to see a mental health professional?</li><li>Why are therapy waitlists so long?</li><li>16 tips for managing mental illness when waiting on a waitlist to see psychiatrist</li></ul><p>If you want access to mental health professionals within <strong>48 hours or less</strong>,<a href=https://www.helloklarity.com/ target="_blank"> book an appointment on Klarity</a> Health. We’ll match you with a mental health specialist who will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your individual needs.</p><p><em>Disclaimer: If you are in a mental health crisis or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it is crucial to seek immediate help from a mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. You can also call your local emergency services, visit your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the United States.&nbsp;</em></p><h2 class= "subtitle" id='heading_2__How_Long_Are_Therapy_Waitlists?_'><strong>How Long Are Therapy Waitlists?</strong></h2><p>The average wait time to see a therapist is around six weeks. However, this can vary significantly depending on the location, availability of therapists in the area, and the type of treatment you need. Sometimes, waitlists for therapy can be several months long, particularly in areas with a high demand for mental health services.</p><p>It’s important to develop coping strategies while navigating waitlists so that you can do your best to take care of yourself in the meantime. Additionally, not all psychology offices or telehealth companies have waitlists for therapists, as there’s been major improvements over the past year following the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p><div data-elementor-type="page" data-elementor-id="15401" class="elementor elementor-15401" data-elementor-post-type="elementor_library"><section class="elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-c521b1f elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="c521b1f" data-element_type="section" data-settings="{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}"><div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"><div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1e5f769" data-id="1e5f769" data-element_type="column"><div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"><section class="elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-8537e6b elementor-section-content-middle elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="8537e6b" data-element_type="section" data-settings="{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}"><div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"><div class="elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-f020c0d" data-id="f020c0d" data-element_type="column" data-settings="{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}"><div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"><div class="elementor-element elementor-element-2478e2a elementor-widget__width-auto elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading" data-id="2478e2a" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="heading.default"><div class="elementor-widget-container"><p class="elementor-heading-title elementor-size-large">Licensed providers on Klarity provide personalized treatment.
Find a provider that matches your needs and preferences.</p></div></div><div class="elementor-element elementor-element-87df69e elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer" data-id="87df69e" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="spacer.default"><div class="elementor-widget-container"><div class="elementor-spacer"><div class="elementor-spacer-inner"></div></div></div></div><div class="elementor-element elementor-element-76f1234 elementor-widget-tablet__width-inherit elementor-tablet-align-center elementor-align-center elementor-widget__width-auto elementor-widget elementor-widget-button" data-id="76f1234" data-element_type="widget" data-settings="{&quot;sticky&quot;:&quot;top&quot;,&quot;sticky_on&quot;:[&quot;mobile&quot;],&quot;sticky_offset_mobile&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_effects_offset_mobile&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_offset&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_effects_offset&quot;:0}" data-widget_type="button.default"><div class="elementor-widget-container"><div class="elementor-button-wrapper"><a class="elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-md" href=https://www.helloklarity.com/ target="_blank"><span class="elementor-button-content-wrapper"><span class="elementor-button-text">Find a provider</span></span></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div></div></section></div><h2 class= "subtitle" id='heading_2__16_Tips_To_Help_You_When_Waiting_to_See_a_Therapist_'><strong>16 Tips To Help You When Waiting to See a Therapist</strong></h2><p>Waiting to see a therapist can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to help manage your mental health while you wait. Here are some tips you should consider:</p><ol><li><strong>Opt For Telemedicine</strong><strong><br></strong>Telemedicine can be a great alternative if you cannot find an opening with a therapist in your area. Telemedicine allows you to receive treatment remotely, through phone or video sessions, in the comfort of your own home. Because it’s online, telemedicine appointments are usually easier to come by and more flexible so that you can work within your ideal schedule.</li><li><strong>Get On the Waitlist of Other Agencies</strong><strong><br></strong>If you&#8217;re on a waitlist at one agency, it&#8217;s a good idea to reach out to other agencies in your area to see if they have any openings. This can help you receive treatment faster and allow you to try out a couple of different therapists to find the best one for you.</li><li><strong>Join a Support Group</strong><strong><br></strong>Joining a support group can be a great way to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Support groups provide a sense of community and a safe space to talk about your struggles with others who understand. You can often find these groups online and in person, which makes getting support more accessible while you wait for a therapy opening.</li><li><strong>Start Exercising</strong><strong><br></strong>Exercise has been shown to positively impact mental health by boosting endorphins. Consider starting an exercise routine, whether going for a walk or run, practicing yoga, or lifting weights. Consistently moving your body can help improve your mood and reduce stress and anxiety.</li><li><strong>Try Meditation</strong><strong><br></strong>Meditation can be a helpful mindfulness tool for managing stress and anxiety. Some people find guided meditations, such as those available on apps like Headspace, Calm, or Meditopia, particularly helpful. There are many different types of meditation, so it&#8217;s worth trying a few other techniques to see what works best for you.</li><li><strong>Contact SAMHSA</strong><strong><br></strong>The<a href=https://www.samhsa.gov/ target="_blank" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration</a> (SAMHSA) is a federal agency that provides support for people seeking mental health services. You can contact SAMHSA to learn about resources in your area that can help you find a therapist or a community of support.</li><li><strong>Call a Hotline</strong><strong><br></strong>If you need someone to talk to or you’re experiencing an acute mental health crisis, including thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation, consider calling a hotline. Many hotlines can provide support and resources, including the<a href=https://988lifeline.org/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=web&amp;utm_campaign=onebox target="_blank" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> National Suicide Prevention Lifeline</a> and<a href=https://www.crisistextline.org/ target="_blank" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> Crisis Text Line</a>. Sometimes just being heard by someone else can make all the difference when you are in a crisis.</li><li><strong>Practice self-care</strong><strong><br></strong>Develop a self-care routine that includes activities you enjoy and that promote relaxation, such as taking a warm bath, listening to calming music, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy and help reduce stress.</li><li><strong>Learn about your mental health condition</strong><strong><br></strong>Educate yourself about the specific mental health issue you&#8217;re facing. Understanding your condition and its symptoms can help you better manage your emotions and behaviors during the waiting period.</li><li><strong>Develop healthy coping strategies</strong><strong><br></strong>Practice techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization to help manage stress, anxiety, or other symptoms you may be experiencing.</li><li><strong>Connect with friends and family</strong><strong><br></strong>Reach out to your support network and share your feelings with people you trust. Having someone to talk to can help alleviate feelings of isolation or hopelessness.</li><li><strong>Maintain a healthy routine</strong><strong><br></strong>Establish a consistent sleep schedule, eat a balanced diet, and stay hydrated. A healthy routine can contribute to better mental health and help manage symptoms.</li><li><strong>Set small, achievable goals</strong><strong><br></strong>Break down larger tasks or goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This can help you experience a sense of accomplishment, even while waiting for professional help.</li><li><strong>Journaling</strong><strong><br></strong>Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be therapeutic and help you process emotions, track symptoms, or identify patterns in your behavior.</li><li><strong>Use self-help resources</strong><strong><br></strong>Explore books, podcasts, or online resources related to mental health and well-being. These materials can provide valuable insights, coping strategies, and techniques to help manage your mental health.</li><li><strong>Volunteer or engage in community activities</strong><strong><br></strong>Participating in local events or volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and social connection, which can contribute positively to mental health.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ol><h2 class= "subtitle" id='heading_2__Get_Mental_Health_Care_With_Klarity_Health_in_48_Hours_or_Less_'><strong>Get Mental Health Care With Klarity Health in 48 Hours or Less</strong></h2><p>Getting access to mental health care services should not take weeks. Our telehealth platform connects you with licensed mental health care providers who offer psychiatric services—diagnosis and medication prescription. You don&#8217;t need to wait weeks—in fact, in most cases, you can access mental health professionals in <strong>48 hours or less</strong>.</p><p>Get started with mental health providers on Klarity Health and<a href=https://www.helloklarity.com/ target="_blank"> book an appointment today</a>!</p><div class="wp-block-klarity-faq-section k-cmp k-section cmp-faq-section cmp-layout--default cmp-style--undefined" data-layout="default"><div class="k-section-inner"><div class="k-section-head"></div><div class="k-section-content"><dl class="k-faq-list"><dt class="k-faq-q"><h3>Sources</h3></dt><dd class="k-faq-a"><p>Nina Chamlou. “What to Do on a Therapy Waitlist” <em>Psychology.org</em><br><a href=https://www.psychology.org/what-to-do-on-a-therapy-waitlist target="_blank" rel="noopener" target="_blank">https://www.psychology.org/what-to-do-on-a-therapy-waitlist</a><br><br>Mayo Clinic Staff. “Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms” <em>Mayo Clinic</em><br><a href=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495 target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495</a><br><br>“Meditation” <em>Headspace</em><br><a href=https://www.headspace.com/meditation target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.headspace.com/meditation</a><br><br>“Meditation” <em>Calm</em><br><a href=https://www.calm.com/app/meditate target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.calm.com/app/meditate</a><br><br>“Benefits of Mindfulness” <em>Meditopia</em><br><a href=https://meditopia.com/en/mindfulness/benefits-of-mindfulness/ target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://meditopia.com/en/mindfulness/benefits-of-mindfulness/</a></p></dd><dt class="k-faq-q"><h3>How we reviewed this article</h3></dt><dd class="k-faq-a"><p>This article went through rigorous fact-checking by a team of medical reviewers. Reviewers are trained medical professionals who ensure each article contains the most up-to-date information, and that medical details have been correctly interpreted by the author. Learn more about the <a href=https://www.helloklarity.com/policy/editorial-standards/ target="_blank">editorial and medical review</a> process and standards for the HelloKlarity site.</p></dd></dl></div></div></div><div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"><div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class="wp-block-klarity-disclaimer-section k-cmp k-section cmp-disclaimer-section cmp-style--default" data-style="default"><div class="k-section-inner"><div class="k-section-content"><p>*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Free initial consultations are available only with select providers. Prescriptions, particularly for controlled substances, may require an in-person evaluation depending on the state of residence and current federal regulations.<br><br>The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy. Nothing in this article is intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including guaranteeing prescription medication of any kind or dosage.  Not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe all medications, particularly medications that are controlled substances.<br><br>If you’re having a mental health crisis or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it’s crucial to seek immediate help from a mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. You can also call your local emergency services, visit your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by calling or texting 988 or dialing the Lifeline’s previous phone number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the U.S.</p></div></div></div></div></div>

Frustrated,Sad,Woman,Feeling,Tired,Worried,About,Problem,Sitting,On

Dr. Zoe Russell

16 Things To Do When on a Waitlist to See a Therapist

<strong>How Long Are Therapy Waitlists?</strong>

<strong>16 Tips To Help You When Waiting to See a Therapist</strong>

<strong>Get Mental Health Care With Klarity Health in 48 Hours or Less</strong>