IMANA Mental Health

• Psychologist (Ph.D., Psy.D., Ed.D.)
• Psychiatrist (M.D./D.O.)
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
• Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT)
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

*Keep in mind that some license names can vary by state and may also overlap. We encourage you to research how these terms are defined with respect to your localities.

For religious guidance, you may reach out to your local Imam or Sheikh. However, there may be a gap in knowledge between an Imam and a mental health professional due to level of training on the topic. Khalil Center is a great starting point for those seeking psychology rooted in Islamic principles.

The Islamic Medical Association of North America has launched a directory of mental health care providers in North America to help people find a professional closest to them. Follow the link below to get started:
> Find a Therapist

There is no correct answer for when it is the “right time” to start therapy. Most people choose to start when they are experiencing a crisis or are at a breaking point. However, you can also start therapy:

• Before reaching a crisis
• When you are going through life and personal changes
• When you want to learn more about yourself
• When you want to start having better relationships

Distinguishing between what may be expected behaviors and what might be signs of mental illness isn’t always the easiest. Each illness has its own symptoms, but the following list encompasses what is considered to be common signs of mental illness in adults and adolescents:

• Dramatic sleep or appetite changes; decline in personal care
• Feeling excessive sadness or lows
• Excessive worrying or fear
• Rapid or dramatic mood changes, including uncontrollable “highs” or euphoria
• Confused/illogical thinking, problems concentrating/learning
• Avoiding friends or social activities
• Prolonged/Strong feelings of irritability and/or anger
• Apathy; loss of initiative, desire or drive to participate in any activity
• Difficulty perceiving reality (delusions, hallucinations, feeling disconnected)
• Drop in daily functioning (in school, work, social activities, etc.)
• Suicidal thoughts or intent
• Thoughts or intent of harming others
• Overuse of substances like drugs or alcohol
• Unusual or uncharacteristic behavior

In younger children, symptoms present more behaviorally, such as:

• Changes in school performance
• Hyperactive behavior
• Frequent disobedience or aggression
• Frequent nightmares
• Frequent temper tantrums
• Excessive worry or anxiety

Confidentiality is a crucial and respected part of the psychology code of ethics. Professionals in the mental health field are taught to take your privacy seriously and to create an environment where you feel safe and comfortable.

Additionally, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) contains a privacy rule that creates national standards to protect individuals’ medical records and personal health information, including information about psychotherapy and mental health.

At your first visit, you should be given written information explaining privacy policies and how your personal information will be handled. This information will explain that in some cases, there are exceptions to the privacy rule.