Mental-Care Abuse? Let’s See Some Proof

Iam responding to the often-stated notion that if outpatient mental health benefits were open-ended, they surely would be overused (“Advocates Hail New Respect for Mental Health Care,” Sept. 30). In my 14 years as a marriage and family therapist in private practice, I have rarely seen this to be the case. Quite the opposite--clients tend to stop prematurely.

Therapy involves a commitment to a process that, while enlightening and life-enhancing, can also be emotionally challenging. Most clients would prefer not to need to go to a psychotherapist; many come as a last resort to manage their problems. Seeing a therapist also takes time--something people have less and less these days.

Until there is a reliable study done that indicates there is evidence that people will overuse their mental health benefits just because they have them available, this idea is conjecture.

EVELYN GOODMAN

Culver City