How to Write a Letter to the Editor

One way to increase your visibility and credibility as a mental health therapist is to write a letter to the editor for your local newspaper.

A letter to the editor is your chance to inform the public about an issue that is of concern to you. Letters to the editor are one of the most frequently read sections of the newspaper, and your contribution can help increase public support for mental health care issues.

Here are some tips to help you with the letter writing process:

• Always address your letter to "Dear Editor"
• Letters to the editor should be short -- a maximum of three to four paragraphs (100-200 words)
• Keep your sentences short and to the point.
• Stick to only one theme per letter (for example, "confidentiality" or "reimbursement")
• Use your letterhead, and make sure to include your full name, credentials, and a contact phone number
  

Format:

• If your letter is about a controversial issue, start your letter with your credentials. If you're responding to an article or another Letter to the Editor, be sure to reference it in the opening paragraph.
  
• The next paragraph should convey some brief background material. Use the APPT handouts for statistics, facts, and figures regarding the issue (when applicable).
• State your opinion (pro or con)
• Tell the reader what you want him/her to do.
  

Sample Letter:

Dear Editor:

As a licensed mental health practitioner in private practice, I am writing to express my concern about the lack of confidentiality for clients who seek medical and mental health services.

Most people don't know that when they visit their health care provider that a lot of sensitive material is provided to their insurance company as part of the claim filing and reimbursement process. More than just the date of service and a description of the procedure is often required before payment is made. Many times, insurance companies want more -- much more -- like treatment reports, x-rays, chart notes, even copies of your entire file, before they'll pay on even the simplest claim.

I believe that an individual has a basic right to privacy. Insurance companies have not been able to guarantee that they can keep the information that is provided to them safe and secure. I support LB xxx, the healthcare patient protection act, to keep your personal information personal. It's a basic patient/physician privilege, and it doesn't exist right now.

Sincerely,

John Doe, LMHP
Licensed Mental Health Practitioner
Public Counseling Center
Lincoln, Nebraska
402.555.9202