How to Start Therapy in Ohio

Therapy has become a regular part of how many people care for their health and more people are comfortable reaching out for support. One challenge today is not deciding whether therapy might help, but knowing how to begin.

If you have asked yourself questions such as “Do I need individual therapy or something else?” or “How do I even find the right provider?” you are not alone. Getting started can feel complicated, but the process can be broken down into manageable steps.

Step 1: Identify What You Are Looking For

Some people begin therapy with a clear goal in mind. Others only know they want to feel better but are unsure how. Both approaches are valid. Here are some common entry points:

• Individual therapy is often most helpful for anxiety, depression, grief, or personal challenges.

• Couples counseling can provide tools to strengthen communication and resolve conflict.

• Family therapy supports families working through stress at home.

You do not need to know which type of therapy or approach is right for you before you start. A qualified provider will help guide that process.

Step 2: Review Insurance and Cost Options

The cost of therapy is often the biggest concern. In Ohio, private therapy sessions generally range from $80 to $150 depending on the provider, location, and type of service. Patients usually pay for therapy in one of three ways:

• Commercial insurance, which often includes mental health benefits but varies by plan.

• Medicaid, which covers therapy at little or no cost.

• Sliding scale fees, which some providers use to adjust cost based on income.

  
  

At Clearview Mental Health, we help patients review their benefits so they understand exactly what to expect before starting care.

Step 3: Understand What Insurance Covers

Most insurance plans cover therapy when it is connected to a diagnosed mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, or substance use. Everyday challenges like grief, relationship issues, or stress may not always be covered unless tied to a diagnosis.

Before beginning therapy, it is wise to:

• Call your insurance provider or review your online portal.

• Ask specifically about mental health or behavioral health coverage.

• Clarify whether you need a referral or prior authorization.

• Confirm what your deductible and copay responsibilities are.

For those without insurance, many clinics, including Clearview, provide affordable self-pay options and can connect you with community resources.

Step 5: Finding the Right Therapist

The quality of the connection you have with your therapist is one of the most important parts of care. Credentials matter, but so does feeling comfortable and understood. It may take a few tries to find the right fit, and that is normal.

At Clearview Mental Health, we simplify this process by:

• Listening to your needs during intake.

• Matching you with a therapist based on your goals and preferences.

• Offering the option to switch providers if the fit is not right.

Step 6: Take the First Step

For ongoing therapy, support is available whether you have Medicaid, private insurance, or no insurance at all. What matters most is reaching out and beginning the process.

Clearview Mental Health is here to guide you through each step, from understanding insurance to finding a provider who feels like the right match.

📞 Call us today at 614-930-2750 to get started or visit https://www.clearview-mentalhealth.com/ for more information.