06/17/2026
When the Therapist Needs a Therapist:
Over the last 48 hours, I found myself in a position I often encourage others to embrace: reaching out for support.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I firmly believe that therapists should have therapists too. We are human first.
So I began searching for a telehealth therapist.
I reached out to three different practices.
Only one responded.
The response focused primarily on rates and insurance options. While I do have insurance available to me, I was intentionally looking for a simple, straightforward out-of-pocket option that would allow me to access support quickly without additional administrative hurdles.
After I explained that, the conversation stopped.
No follow-up. No alternative options. No referral suggestions. No "let us know if your situation changes."
Nothing.
I sat there thinking:
"If I'm having this experience as a mental health professional who understands the system, what happens to someone who doesn't?"
That realization hit me hard.
Mental health care should not feel difficult to access when someone has already done the hardest part—asking for help.
This experience reminded me why I created Elevated Horizons Mental Health.
I wanted a practice where people could access support without waiting for insurance approvals, referral requirements, or complicated processes. A practice where the focus remains on the person reaching out, not the paperwork surrounding them.
As clinicians, we sometimes forget that every inquiry is a human being who may already be carrying more than anyone realizes.
A response may only take a few minutes.
The impact can last much longer.
And yes—I'm still looking for a therapist.
Because being a therapist doesn't mean I don't need support too.
It means I understand just how important it is.
— Alexis McCray, Ed.S., LPC
Founder & CEO
Elevated Horizons Mental Health
