9+ Top ADHD Counselors Near Me: Find Help Now!


9+ Top ADHD Counselors Near Me: Find Help Now!

The phrase features as a search question employed by people in search of therapeutic professionals specializing in Consideration-Deficit/Hyperactivity Dysfunction (ADHD) who’re situated of their speedy geographical space. As an illustration, an individual just lately identified with ADHD would possibly make the most of this search time period to determine native therapists skilled in managing the situation.

The capability to find specialised psychological well being companies in shut proximity presents vital benefits. Accessibility reduces obstacles to entry for therapy, will increase adherence to remedy schedules, and facilitates stronger therapeutic relationships. Traditionally, entry to specialised care was restricted by geographical constraints, making this sort of focused search performance a beneficial asset for people in search of help.

The following sections will delve into the method of discovering appropriate professionals, exploring the {qualifications} and specializations to think about, and discussing the assorted therapeutic approaches out there for managing ADHD.

1. Proximity

Proximity represents a main driver within the utility of the search time period “adhd counselors close to me.” The underlying motivation for together with “close to me” is the pragmatic want to reduce journey time and logistical burdens related to attending remedy classes. A shorter distance facilitates constant attendance, lowering the potential for missed appointments on account of transportation points or scheduling conflicts. As an illustration, a pupil attending school can particularly find a counselor close by for after-class classes, enhancing adherence to the therapy plan.

The importance of geographic accessibility is additional accentuated when contemplating the challenges often related to ADHD itself. Signs comparable to impulsivity, disorganization, and issue with time administration could make adhering to distant appointments significantly tougher. By deciding on a counselor in shut proximity, people can reduce these obstacles. Moreover, the sensible advantages prolong to lowering prices related to journey and permitting for elevated flexibility in scheduling appointments round different commitments.

Due to this fact, Proximity just isn’t a mere comfort, however a pivotal issue influencing the success of remedy interventions. Minimizing these extraneous obstacles is a crucial first step in enabling people to focus on the therapeutic course of itself. The emphasis on locality, as mirrored within the search time period, acknowledges the sensible realities of managing ADHD and the significance of simplifying entry to therapy.

2. Specialization

The inclusion of “adhd counselors close to me” implicitly emphasizes the significance of focused experience. Normal psychological well being professionals might lack the precise coaching and expertise required to successfully handle the nuances of ADHD. Specialization ensures that people obtain evidence-based interventions tailor-made to their distinctive wants.

  • Diagnostic Experience

    Specialised counselors possess superior data of ADHD diagnostic standards and differential diagnoses. They’re expert in administering and decoding related assessments, minimizing the danger of misdiagnosis or delayed therapy. As an illustration, a counselor specializing in ADHD can differentiate between ADHD signs and people stemming from nervousness or studying disabilities, making certain applicable intervention methods are carried out. That is crucial as a result of ADHD usually presents comorbid circumstances that require individualized therapy plans.

  • Proof-Based mostly Therapy Modalities

    Counselors with specialised coaching in ADHD are proficient in delivering evidence-based interventions. These interventions embody behavioral therapies, cognitive behavioral remedy (CBT), and mother or father coaching packages. For instance, a specialised counselor can implement methods to enhance govt functioning expertise comparable to time administration, group, and impulse management, resulting in tangible enhancements in tutorial {and professional} efficiency. A licensed counselor understands therapy comparable to cognitive behavioral and publicity.

  • Age-Particular Competency

    ADHD manifests in another way throughout the lifespan, necessitating age-specific experience. A counselor specializing in baby and adolescent ADHD will make use of methods distinct from these used with adults. As an illustration, interventions for youngsters might concentrate on behavioral modification methods throughout the classroom and residential environments, whereas adult-focused therapies usually emphasize self-regulation and coping mechanisms for office challenges. A faculty counselor is ready to determine particular studying wants for college kids.

  • Comorbidity Administration

    ADHD often co-occurs with different psychological well being circumstances, comparable to nervousness, despair, and studying disabilities. Specialised counselors are geared up to handle these comorbidities comprehensively. For instance, a counselor might combine CBT methods to handle each ADHD signs and co-occurring nervousness, offering a holistic method to therapy. Some medical skilled have expertise with psychiatric problems and provide psychological well being care to help.

The sides of diagnostic experience, evidence-based therapy modalities, age-specific competency, and comorbidity administration exhibit the crucial function of specialization throughout the framework of “adhd counselors close to me.” Searching for professionals with focused ADHD experience enhances the probability of correct analysis, efficient intervention, and improved outcomes for people in search of help.

3. Credentials

When looking for “adhd counselors close to me,” verifying skilled credentials represents a vital step in making certain competent and moral care. Credentials function goal indicators of a counselor’s {qualifications}, coaching, and adherence to skilled requirements. They provide a level of assurance concerning the therapist’s competence in addressing ADHD-related considerations.

  • Licensure

    State licensure represents essentially the most elementary credential. It signifies {that a} counselor has met particular instructional necessities, handed a licensing examination, and is allowed to observe inside a given jurisdiction. Widespread licenses embody Licensed Skilled Counselor (LPC), Licensed Scientific Social Employee (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Household Therapist (LMFT), and Licensed Psychologist (PhD or PsyD). For instance, a search end result indicating an LPC in a particular state confirms the counselor’s authorized authorization to supply counseling companies in that location. Verifying licensure standing by means of the related state board is crucial to make sure its validity and stop practising with out authorization.

  • Certifications

    Certifications denote specialised coaching and experience past common licensure. Related certifications for ADHD counselors would possibly embody Licensed ADHD Skilled (CAP) or certifications in particular therapeutic modalities comparable to Cognitive Behavioral Remedy (CBT) or Dialectical Conduct Remedy (DBT). These certifications signify that the counselor has accomplished superior coaching and demonstrated proficiency within the particular space. As an illustration, a counselor with a CAP certification signifies centered data and expertise in addressing ADHD throughout the lifespan. Its essential to verify the certifying physique’s legitimacy and recognition throughout the subject.

  • Instructional Background

    A counselor’s instructional background supplies perception into their theoretical basis and scope of observe. A Grasp’s or Doctoral diploma in counseling, psychology, social work, or a associated subject is often required for licensure. The precise program attended will also be related, as some packages provide specialised coaching in ADHD or associated areas. For instance, a counselor with a PhD in Scientific Psychology from a good college is more likely to possess a robust analysis background and a complete understanding of psychological rules related to ADHD. Inspecting the counselor’s tutorial credentials and affiliations can present a degree of consolation.

  • Expertise

    Whereas not a proper credential, sensible expertise represents a major indicator of competence. The variety of years a counselor has been in observe, their particular expertise working with ADHD populations, and their earlier work settings (e.g., faculties, hospitals, personal observe) can all be informative. A counselor with intensive expertise working with kids and adolescents with ADHD in a faculty setting, for instance, is more likely to possess a deep understanding of the challenges and techniques related to that age group. Inquiring a couple of counselor’s expertise straight can present beneficial perception into their experience and suitability.

The convergence of licensure, certifications, instructional background, and sensible expertise kinds a holistic view of a counselor’s credentials. Prioritizing these parts when deciding on from “adhd counselors close to me” will increase the probability of discovering a professional skilled who can present efficient and moral help in managing ADHD.

4. Availability

Within the context of “adhd counselors close to me,” availability transcends mere scheduling; it encompasses the multifaceted accessibility of psychological healthcare companies. The time period displays the alignment of a counselor’s capability to supply companies with a person’s particular wants and constraints.

  • Scheduling Flexibility

    Scheduling flexibility refers back to the vary of appointment instances provided by a counselor, together with daytime, night, and weekend choices. People with ADHD usually face challenges with time administration and adherence to routines. The supply of various scheduling choices accommodates these difficulties, rising the probability of constant appointment attendance. For instance, a pupil managing ADHD whereas attending school might require night appointments on account of class schedules, whereas a working skilled would possibly necessitate early morning or weekend classes. The higher the scheduling flexibility, the extra accessible the counselor turns into, mitigating a major barrier to therapy.

  • Appointment Frequency

    Appointment frequency pertains to the counselor’s capability to supply classes at intervals aligned with the person’s therapeutic wants. Some people might require extra frequent classes, significantly throughout the preliminary phases of therapy or during times of elevated stress. A counselor’s availability to supply weekly and even twice-weekly appointments can considerably influence therapy outcomes. Conversely, restricted availability would possibly necessitate longer intervals between classes, doubtlessly hindering therapeutic progress. For instance, somebody battling acute nervousness associated to ADHD signs might profit from extra frequent classes, whereas somebody in a upkeep part would possibly require much less frequent help.

  • Ready Instances

    Ready instances characterize the interval between preliminary contact and the primary scheduled appointment. Prolonged ready instances can discourage people in search of help, particularly these experiencing acute misery or going through challenges with impulsivity. A counselor’s availability when it comes to minimal ready instances is usually a crucial think about partaking people in therapy and stopping additional escalation of signs. As an illustration, a person experiencing a sudden improve in ADHD-related difficulties at work would possibly profit from speedy entry to counseling companies, somewhat than ready a number of weeks for an preliminary appointment.

  • Communication Accessibility

    Communication accessibility encompasses the assorted modes of communication out there for contacting and interacting with the counselor outdoors of scheduled classes. This consists of choices comparable to telephone, electronic mail, or safe messaging platforms. Immediate and responsive communication can improve the therapeutic relationship and supply well timed help throughout difficult intervals. A counselor’s availability by means of a number of communication channels can foster a way of connection and accessibility, facilitating ongoing engagement within the therapeutic course of. For instance, a person battling remedy adherence would possibly profit from the power to speak with their counselor through safe messaging to handle considerations or request reminders.

These parts scheduling flexibility, appointment frequency, ready instances, and communication accessibility collectively outline a counselor’s availability and exert a considerable affect on the accessibility and effectiveness of ADHD therapy. When looking for “adhd counselors close to me”, contemplating these elements can enhance the probability of discovering knowledgeable whose availability aligns with one’s particular person wants and facilitates significant therapeutic progress.

5. Price

The monetary implications of in search of ADHD counseling companies characterize a major consideration throughout the seek for “adhd counselors close to me.” Price straight impacts accessibility and sustainability of therapy, influencing the person’s means to have interaction in ongoing care.

  • Insurance coverage Protection

    Insurance coverage protection profoundly impacts the out-of-pocket bills related to ADHD counseling. Medical insurance plans might cowl a portion or everything of remedy prices, relying on the plan’s specifics, together with deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. As an illustration, a plan with a low deductible and copay will considerably scale back the monetary burden in comparison with a high-deductible plan. Conversely, some insurance policy might have limitations on the variety of remedy classes coated per yr or might not embody protection for particular counselors. Confirming the counselor’s acceptance of the person’s insurance coverage plan and understanding the plan’s protection particulars are important steps in managing prices when in search of native therapeutic intervention.

  • Out-of-Pocket Charges

    Counselors working outdoors of insurance coverage networks sometimes cost an hourly or per-session charge on to the consumer. These out-of-pocket charges can differ considerably based mostly on the counselor’s expertise, specialization, and site. In areas with a excessive price of dwelling, remedy charges are usually increased. For instance, a extremely skilled specialist in a significant metropolitan space might cost considerably extra per session than a newly licensed counselor in a rural space. People ought to inquire about session charges upfront and contemplate whether or not the prices align with their budgetary constraints. Some counselors provide a sliding scale charge construction based mostly on revenue, enhancing accessibility for these with restricted monetary sources.

  • Affect of Teletherapy

    The rise of teletherapy has launched new dimensions to the fee equation. Teletherapy usually presents decrease overhead prices for counselors, doubtlessly translating to decrease session charges for shoppers. Moreover, teletherapy eliminates transportation bills and time commitments related to in-person visits. For instance, a person dwelling in a rural space with restricted entry to specialised ADHD counselors might discover teletherapy to be a less expensive possibility than touring lengthy distances for in-person classes. Nonetheless, it is essential to confirm that teletherapy is roofed by the person’s insurance coverage plan and that the counselor is licensed to observe within the particular person’s state.

  • Lengthy-Time period Monetary Implications

    Whereas the speedy price of remedy is a main concern, the long-term monetary implications of managing ADHD, each with and with out therapy, needs to be thought of. Untreated ADHD can negatively influence tutorial efficiency, profession prospects, and total high quality of life, doubtlessly resulting in monetary instability. Investing in efficient counseling can enhance govt functioning expertise, scale back impulsivity, and improve productiveness, in the end resulting in improved monetary outcomes. For instance, people with well-managed ADHD usually tend to preserve steady employment and obtain profession development. Due to this fact, contemplating the potential return on funding in remedy is an important side of the fee analysis course of.

The interaction of insurance coverage protection, out-of-pocket charges, the affect of teletherapy, and long-term monetary implications underscores the necessity for cautious price evaluation when in search of “adhd counselors close to me.” Addressing these price elements ensures that people can entry and maintain efficient therapy, maximizing the advantages of therapeutic intervention whereas minimizing monetary pressure.

6. Therapeutic Strategy

The efficacy of in search of “adhd counselors close to me” is intrinsically linked to the precise therapeutic method employed by the skilled. This method dictates the methods, methods, and theoretical framework used to handle ADHD signs and related challenges. Due to this fact, understanding the assorted therapeutic approaches is essential for choosing a counselor whose strategies align with particular person wants and preferences. A mismatch between therapeutic method and particular person necessities can impede progress and diminish the general effectiveness of remedy.

A number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches exhibit effectiveness in managing ADHD. Cognitive Behavioral Remedy (CBT), for example, focuses on figuring out and modifying maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to ADHD signs comparable to impulsivity and inattention. Behavioral Remedy, usually used with kids, emphasizes optimistic reinforcement and structured routines to advertise desired behaviors. Mum or dad coaching packages equip mother and father with efficient methods for managing their kid’s ADHD at dwelling. Moreover, mindfulness-based interventions are more and more acknowledged for his or her potential to reinforce consideration, scale back stress, and enhance emotional regulation in people with ADHD. The supply and proficiency of native counselors in these approaches considerably influences the sensible worth of the “adhd counselors close to me” search.

In conclusion, the relevance of “adhd counselors close to me” is contingent upon the therapeutic modalities provided and the counselor’s experience of their software. A complete understanding of obtainable approaches empowers people to make knowledgeable selections, optimizing the potential for profitable ADHD administration. The problem lies in figuring out counselors whose therapeutic orientations aren’t solely evidence-based but additionally tailor-made to the person’s particular presentation of ADHD and co-occurring circumstances. Success depends on aligning localized sources with specialised therapeutic interventions.

7. Evaluations

On-line evaluations exert a major affect on the decision-making course of when people seek for “adhd counselors close to me.” These evaluations, sometimes discovered on platforms comparable to Google, Yelp, or specialised psychological well being directories, present potential shoppers with aggregated suggestions from earlier or present shoppers, providing insights into the counselor’s skilled conduct, therapeutic effectiveness, and total consumer expertise. Optimistic evaluations usually correlate with elevated consumer inquiries and the next perceived worth of the counselor’s companies. Conversely, adverse evaluations can deter potential shoppers, even when the counselor possesses sturdy credentials or specialization. The authenticity and reliability of evaluations stay a crucial concern, necessitating cautious analysis.

The influence of evaluations extends past merely attracting or deterring shoppers. Evaluations can form expectations concerning the therapeutic course of and the counselor’s method. A sequence of evaluations highlighting a counselor’s empathetic communication type, for example, might appeal to shoppers in search of a supportive and understanding therapist. Nonetheless, if the precise consumer expertise deviates considerably from these expectations, dissatisfaction and untimely termination of remedy might end result. Due to this fact, the alignment between on-line evaluations and the precise therapeutic expertise is paramount. Counselors usually actively handle their on-line popularity by soliciting suggestions from shoppers and addressing considerations raised in evaluations, demonstrating a dedication to consumer satisfaction and steady enchancment.

In conclusion, evaluations characterize a crucial part of the “adhd counselors close to me” search course of. Whereas evaluations provide beneficial insights, people ought to interpret them with warning, contemplating elements such because the supply of the assessment, the potential for bias, and the general consistency of suggestions. A balanced evaluation of evaluations, mixed with cautious consideration of credentials, specialization, and therapeutic method, is crucial for making knowledgeable selections and deciding on an area ADHD counselor who can present efficient and supportive care.

8. Insurance coverage

The function of medical health insurance is crucial in figuring out entry to “adhd counselors close to me.” Insurance coverage protection straight influences the affordability and, consequently, the provision of specialised ADHD therapy. People in search of native counseling companies usually prioritize suppliers who settle for their insurance coverage plan to reduce out-of-pocket bills. The monetary burden of remedy will be substantial, and with out insurance coverage, many people could also be unable to afford constant, crucial therapy. For instance, a household with a toddler identified with ADHD would possibly discover that the price of weekly remedy classes with a professional specialist turns into prohibitive with out insurance coverage advantages, doubtlessly delaying or limiting the kid’s entry to care. The sensible impact is a narrowed subject of accessible professionals when constrained by insurance coverage community limitations.

The kind of insurance coverage plan held by a person additionally dictates the extent and nature of protection. Well being Upkeep Organizations (HMOs) usually require referrals from a main care doctor to see a specialist, together with ADHD counselors, doubtlessly including an additional step and delay in accessing companies. Most popular Supplier Organizations (PPOs) sometimes provide extra flexibility, permitting people to see out-of-network suppliers, albeit usually at the next price. Moreover, the precise advantages bundle related to every insurance coverage plan varies significantly. Some plans might have limitations on the variety of remedy classes coated per yr, impose excessive deductibles, or exclude protection for sure therapeutic modalities deemed experimental or not medically crucial. Understanding the specifics of 1’s insurance coverage coverage is, subsequently, essential when looking for “adhd counselors close to me.”

In abstract, insurance coverage represents a foundational aspect within the equation of accessing “adhd counselors close to me.” The diploma to which a person’s insurance coverage plan covers psychological well being companies, the plan’s community restrictions, and the person’s monetary capability to handle out-of-pocket bills collectively decide the feasibility of partaking in native ADHD counseling. Navigating the complexities of insurance coverage protection requires diligence and proactive inquiry to make sure that people can entry the care they want in an reasonably priced and sustainable method. Overcoming the barrier requires checking psychological well being advantages and confirming that your insurance coverage and therapist take your plan.

9. Teletherapy

The appearance of teletherapy has essentially altered the panorama of psychological healthcare accessibility, significantly in regards to the seek for “adhd counselors close to me.” Previous to teletherapy’s widespread adoption, geographical proximity served as a main limiting issue. People residing in rural areas or these with mobility challenges usually confronted vital obstacles in accessing specialised ADHD counseling. Teletherapy transcends these bodily constraints, enabling people to attach with certified professionals no matter location. For instance, a school pupil attending a college in a distant space can entry a specialised ADHD counselor situated in a distant metropolis, a state of affairs beforehand untenable. This expanded entry enhances the practicality and relevance of the “adhd counselors close to me” search by successfully broadening the pool of obtainable suppliers.

The mixing of teletherapy into ADHD counseling presents sensible advantages past mere accessibility. Teletherapy classes will be extra simply integrated into busy schedules, lowering the time and logistical burdens related to in-person appointments. People can attend classes from the consolation of their properties or workplaces, minimizing disruptions to their every day routines. Furthermore, teletherapy will be significantly helpful for people with ADHD who wrestle with govt functioning expertise comparable to group and time administration. The comfort of on-line classes reduces the probability of missed appointments on account of transportation points or forgetfulness. Contemplate a working skilled with ADHD who makes use of teletherapy throughout their lunch break, successfully integrating remedy into their workday with out vital disruption.

Whereas teletherapy presents quite a few benefits, challenges persist. Technical difficulties, comparable to unstable web connections or lack of familiarity with expertise, can impede the therapeutic course of. Moreover, the absence of face-to-face interplay might pose challenges for constructing rapport and establishing a robust therapeutic alliance with sure people. Regardless of these limitations, teletherapy’s means to beat geographical obstacles and improve scheduling flexibility has solidified its place as an important part of the trendy “adhd counselors close to me” search. Its ongoing evolution guarantees to additional refine entry to specialised ADHD care for people throughout various geographical places and private circumstances.

Incessantly Requested Questions on Finding ADHD Counselors

This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning the method of figuring out and accessing certified ADHD counselors in proximity to a given location.

Query 1: What {qualifications} ought to one search in an ADHD counselor?

Credentials comparable to licensure (LPC, LCSW, LMFT, PhD, PsyD) are paramount. Certifications particular to ADHD (e.g., CAP) point out specialised coaching. Moreover, expertise working with ADHD populations, particularly these matching the people age group, warrants consideration.

Query 2: How can insurance coverage protection be verified when in search of an ADHD counselor?

Contacting the insurance coverage supplier straight to verify the counselor’s in-network standing and the plan’s protection for psychological well being companies is suggested. Clarifying deductibles, copays, and any session limits is equally essential.

Query 3: What are some great benefits of teletherapy versus in-person classes for ADHD counseling?

Teletherapy enhances accessibility by eradicating geographical obstacles and providing scheduling flexibility. It could actually reduce transportation prices and time commitments. Nonetheless, elements comparable to web connectivity and luxury with expertise needs to be thought of.

Query 4: What therapeutic approaches are sometimes utilized by ADHD counselors?

Proof-based approaches comparable to Cognitive Behavioral Remedy (CBT), Behavioral Remedy, and mindfulness-based interventions are generally employed. The suitability of every method varies relying on particular person wants and preferences.

Query 5: How dependable are on-line evaluations in evaluating ADHD counselors?

On-line evaluations can provide insights right into a counselor’s observe, however needs to be interpreted cautiously. Contemplate the supply of the assessment, potential biases, and the consistency of suggestions. Evaluations ought to complement, not change, verification of credentials and {qualifications}.

Query 6: What steps will be taken if reasonably priced ADHD counseling just isn’t readily accessible?

Exploring choices comparable to sliding scale charges, neighborhood psychological well being facilities, university-based clinics, and non-profit organizations might enhance affordability. Teletherapy may provide less expensive choices.

These often requested questions function a information for navigating the complexities of finding and accessing certified ADHD counselors.

The succeeding part will present an in depth exploration of sources out there for figuring out ADHD counselors in an area space.

Ideas for Optimizing Your Search

The next suggestions are designed to reinforce the effectiveness of your seek for native ADHD counseling companies, making certain a extra focused and productive end result.

Tip 1: Specify Age Vary in Search Queries: Together with the related age vary (e.g., “ADHD counselors for adults close to me” or “ADHD counselors for teenagers close to me”) refines search outcomes to professionals specializing in that demographic.

Tip 2: Filter by Insurance coverage Supplier: Make the most of on-line directories that permit filtering by insurance coverage supplier to determine counselors inside your community, minimizing out-of-pocket bills. Direct contact with the counselor’s workplace to confirm present acceptance of your plan is suggested.

Tip 3: Leverage Skilled Organizations’ Directories: Seek the advice of directories maintained by skilled organizations such because the American Psychological Affiliation (APA) or the Nationwide Affiliation of Social Staff (NASW), which frequently listing licensed therapists with particular areas of experience.

Tip 4: Learn Evaluations Critically: Whereas on-line evaluations present beneficial insights, consider them holistically. Contemplate the variety of evaluations, the consistency of suggestions, and any potential biases. Concentrate on evaluations addressing points essential to particular person wants, comparable to therapeutic type or communication expertise.

Tip 5: Inquire About Teletherapy Choices: Even when prioritizing in-person classes, exploring teletherapy choices expands the pool of potential counselors and presents scheduling flexibility.

Tip 6: Put together a Listing of Questions: Previous to contacting potential counselors, put together a listing of questions concerning their expertise with ADHD, therapeutic method, charges, and availability. This structured inquiry ensures a complete evaluation of suitability.

Tip 7: Request a Session: Many counselors provide transient preliminary consultations, both free or at a diminished fee. Make the most of these consultations to evaluate rapport and decide if the counselor’s type and method align with particular person preferences.

Implementing the following tips can considerably streamline the search course of, rising the probability of discovering a professional and appropriate ADHD counselor in your native space.

This concludes the article, offering complete data on the nuances of the “ADHD counselors close to me” search, aiming to empower people to make knowledgeable decisions and entry efficient help.

ADHD Counselors Close to Me

This text has explored the multifaceted concerns concerned within the seek for native ADHD counseling companies. From credential verification and insurance coverage compatibility to therapeutic approaches and the influence of teletherapy, quite a few elements affect the effectiveness of the “adhd counselors close to me” search time period. Understanding these parts empowers people to make knowledgeable selections.

The supply of focused psychological healthcare is crucial for managing ADHD successfully. Continued advocacy for accessible, reasonably priced, and specialised help is paramount, making certain that people obtain the care they should thrive. Additional analysis and sources are all the time helpful to search out medical assist.