Overview

The 21,800 mental health practitioners in the US diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders and problems due to mental illness, alcohol and substance abuse, physical and emotional trauma, or stress. Practitioners include psychologists, counselors, therapists, social workers, and nurses. Practitioners may operate private or group practices or work within third-party facilities, such as hospitals, medical centers, substance abuse treatment centers, hospitals, and colleges.

Dependence on Third-Party Payers

Mental health practitioners are highly dependent on government programs and third-party insurers to pay for services.

Telehealth

The use of telehealth is increasing, particularly in underserved areas, as more states allow mental health care providers to use technology to deliver services.