To be considered for a HOPE sponsorship you should have an existing relationship with a qualified mental health professional, or have an intake session already scheduled before submitting an application.

Hope Mental Health Foundation does not recommend therapists or give information on specific therapists or counseling centers. 

By Dr. Kim Buck, PhD  Learn More

Choosing a therapist is a big decision because finding the right fit will determine how helpful your healing process will be. When you know what to look for and understand what will best suit your specific needs, choosing a therapist can be a positive and productive first step on your way to better mental health.

What to look for in a therapist? (required by Hope Mental Health Foundation)

All approved mental health providers should hold a qualified license in good standing in the state where their clients reside.

1. Licensing, Certifications, & Education

There are many types of mental health professionals, all with different levels of education, licensing, and certifications. Having professional credentials means that the therapist has completed many years of specific education and training to help people with mental health concerns. This communicates a level of understanding and competence required to not only help people but also to avoid harming them.

A Life Coach or Consultant is not a licensed professional and will not be approved for Hope sponsorships. 

2. Specialty

While most therapists see a variety of clients for various reasons, many specialize in certain areas. For example, some focus on depression, anxiety, or other specific challenges, and some mental health providers work with a particular age group or population. In order to get the most out of your sessions it is important to choose a therapist that specializes in your specific challenges. For example:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders

• ADHD/ADD

• Addictive Disorders

• Anxiety Disorders

• Autism Spectrum Disorders

• Bipolar Disorders

• Depressive Disorders

• Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders

• Eating Disorders

• Marital/Couples/Relationship Difficulties

• Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

• Personality Disorders (Borderline, Histrionic, Dependent, Compulsive, Anti-Social)

• Substance-Related Disorders

• Suicidality / Ideation

• Trauma and PTSD

• Etc

3. Specific Life Stages or Cultural Backgrounds

In addition to the above factors, consider your gender, sexual orientation, religion, race and ethnicity, and cultural background. Your age may also play a factor. For example, some therapists specialize in young adults and others work primarily with seniors. 

Many therapists offer a free consultation before scheduling an appointment. Consider talking to them in advance about your concerns and asking any important questions you may have about their education, training, background, and specialities.