[EmilysZoo]

I've posted in another section about having 2 years of blah, to put it simply (dysthymia, moderate depression??). If I go to a therapist with the idea that something is wrong, but I don't know what it is, do they 'make up' a diagnosis for the insurance companies? Do I need to see a therapist for a while first, pay out of pocket, then, if he/she thinks there is something wrong, I get a diagnosis for insurance purposes?

How do I call insurance companies and ask for a list of therapists in the network if I don't really know what's wrong with me?

I could pay out of pocket for a while. Is that the better way to go?

[ECHOES]

This is where we all begin. We feel odd even giving a name to how we feel. If your insurance company has a website, you might be able to see what the therapist shows as an area of focus. I would look for Depression, because that's what you describe in your post.

Another way is to look at therapist sites such as Psychology Today that has a 'Find a Therapist' option. The therapists include a little about themselves, what they do, what diagnoses they work with or specialize in, and insurances they accept. Go here and then click on the drop down box titled Find a Therapist. http://www.psychologytoday.com/

PsychCentral also offers a therapist search. Click on 'Find Help' on the top bar here on this page.

I hope this helps