Psychiatrists in Chantilly, VA

Psychiatric Associates of Northern Virginia LLC,
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20151
Psychiatrist Associates of Northern Virginia (paofnova.com) is comprehensive behavioral health practice geared to meet the psychiatric needs for individuals 18 and over. Our emphasis as clinicians is to build a seamless model, which integrates mind, spirit and body. Empathy, education, and support are extremely helpful while encouraging the person to continue until the best response can be achieved.
Psychiatrist Associates of Northern Virginia (paofnova.com) is comprehensive behavioral health practice geared to meet the psychiatric needs for individuals 18 and over. Our emphasis as clinicians is to build a seamless model, which integrates mind, spirit and body. Empathy, education, and support are extremely helpful while encouraging the person to continue until the best response can be achieved.
(571) 414-0242 View (571) 414-0242
Photo of Amy Rizkallah, Physician Assistant in Chantilly, VA
Amy Rizkallah
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHSc, MS
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20152  (Online Only)
I specialize in women's mental health. I treat a range of psychiatric issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, bipolar, pregnancy and postpartum depression/anxiety. The overlap between mental health and hormones is often ignored. I specializes in mental health issues during fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, pregnancy planning, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. In partnership with Dr. Julie Brownley, I provide an evidence-based, holistic approach, focusing on utilizing the fewest medications possible, and optimizing all facets of wellness.
I specialize in women's mental health. I treat a range of psychiatric issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, bipolar, pregnancy and postpartum depression/anxiety. The overlap between mental health and hormones is often ignored. I specializes in mental health issues during fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, pregnancy planning, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. In partnership with Dr. Julie Brownley, I provide an evidence-based, holistic approach, focusing on utilizing the fewest medications possible, and optimizing all facets of wellness.
(646) 397-7210 View (646) 397-7210
Gohar Choudhary
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20152
I provide an integrative approach towards mental health and wellness of children, adolescents and adults, combining behavior modification, evidence-based medication management and therapy to best suit the individual needs of the patient and their families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, school refusal, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, disruptive behaviors and psychotic disorders. I have a special interest in issues faced by women of different racial and ethnic backgrounds
I provide an integrative approach towards mental health and wellness of children, adolescents and adults, combining behavior modification, evidence-based medication management and therapy to best suit the individual needs of the patient and their families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, school refusal, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, disruptive behaviors and psychotic disorders. I have a special interest in issues faced by women of different racial and ethnic backgrounds
(703) 659-4409 View (703) 659-4409
Photo of Ruby Thomas, Psychiatrist in Chantilly, VA
Ruby Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
I am a Board certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist practicing in various clinical settings over the past 13 years. My extensive experience has included practicing in Acute Inpatient hospital settings, Adolescent Partial Hospitalization Programs, Community Mental Health Centers, as well as Outpatient Private Practice.
I am a Board certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist practicing in various clinical settings over the past 13 years. My extensive experience has included practicing in Acute Inpatient hospital settings, Adolescent Partial Hospitalization Programs, Community Mental Health Centers, as well as Outpatient Private Practice.
(571) 306-7919 View (571) 306-7919
Photo of Adnan M Durrani, Psychiatrist in Chantilly, VA
Adnan M Durrani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20151
I treat a wide array of psychiatric disorders including (but not only) Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Substance Use Disorders, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders and Sleep Disorders. I strive to treat all my patients with kindness, empathy and the patience that they deserve. Please use the link to my website on my profile to schedule an appointment. Available Tuesdays and Fridays! https://drdurranipsychiatry.com/
I treat a wide array of psychiatric disorders including (but not only) Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Substance Use Disorders, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders and Sleep Disorders. I strive to treat all my patients with kindness, empathy and the patience that they deserve. Please use the link to my website on my profile to schedule an appointment. Available Tuesdays and Fridays! https://drdurranipsychiatry.com/
(703) 658-8467 View (703) 658-8467
Photo of Enyonam Jordan-Brangman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Enyonam Jordan-Brangman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. My goal is to get to know my patients individually, by listening to their unique needs and establishing treatment goals that focus on the whole person. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner my role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. In addition to medication management, I incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing and person-centered techniques into treatment.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. My goal is to get to know my patients individually, by listening to their unique needs and establishing treatment goals that focus on the whole person. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner my role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. In addition to medication management, I incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing and person-centered techniques into treatment.
(571) 946-5181 View (571) 946-5181
Photo of Sabah Hadi, Psychiatrist in Chantilly, VA
Sabah Hadi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20151
Congratulation to Dr. Sabah Hadi for the esteemed recognition by the Washingtonian Magazine, as a "Top Psychiatrist". Dr. Hadi is one of few Adult and Child Psychiatrist in the area to receive this recognition and honor. Dr. Hadi is a Board Certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist, trained, experienced and certified to treat all age groups. Dr. Hadi have more than 10 years experience and interest treating clients with ADD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating disorder, Trauma, Obsessive and Autistic spectrum disorders. Dr. Hadi also has extensive training and experience treating addiction disorders. He is credentialed to treat opiate addiction with Suboxone.
Congratulation to Dr. Sabah Hadi for the esteemed recognition by the Washingtonian Magazine, as a "Top Psychiatrist". Dr. Hadi is one of few Adult and Child Psychiatrist in the area to receive this recognition and honor. Dr. Hadi is a Board Certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist, trained, experienced and certified to treat all age groups. Dr. Hadi have more than 10 years experience and interest treating clients with ADD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating disorder, Trauma, Obsessive and Autistic spectrum disorders. Dr. Hadi also has extensive training and experience treating addiction disorders. He is credentialed to treat opiate addiction with Suboxone.
(703) 831-6767 View (703) 831-6767
Photo of Young H Bae, Psychiatrist in Chantilly, VA
Young H Bae
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 35 years of experience in psychiatry. In addition to my career as a psychiatrist, I was ordained as a Christian Minister in 1999. I founded Vine Psychiatric Associates to provide healing based on modern psychiatric practice while integrating a spiritual approach. I provide medication management along with counseling (using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy approaches).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 35 years of experience in psychiatry. In addition to my career as a psychiatrist, I was ordained as a Christian Minister in 1999. I founded Vine Psychiatric Associates to provide healing based on modern psychiatric practice while integrating a spiritual approach. I provide medication management along with counseling (using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy approaches).
(703) 830-1800 View (703) 830-1800
Photo of Mimi Jimenez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Mimi Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20152
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS... Cervello-Wellness is a psychiatric care practice that uses a variety of treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Our specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders.
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS... Cervello-Wellness is a psychiatric care practice that uses a variety of treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Our specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
Accepting New Clients in Maryland and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s lived experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create therapeutic partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals, what you are experiencing and how effective treatment is going in each visit. We provide psychiatric evaluations, individual treatment plans, medication management and supportive therapy.
Accepting New Clients in Maryland and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s lived experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create therapeutic partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals, what you are experiencing and how effective treatment is going in each visit. We provide psychiatric evaluations, individual treatment plans, medication management and supportive therapy.
(240) 647-5910 View (240) 647-5910
Photo of Dr. Peace Peters, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Dr. Peace Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20152  (Online Only)
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-trained board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP). Peace Specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area. Her experience includes working in; general medicine and surgery, bariatric surgery, telemetry, orthopedics, pediatric medicine, Critical Care Unit and long-term care.
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-trained board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP). Peace Specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area. Her experience includes working in; general medicine and surgery, bariatric surgery, telemetry, orthopedics, pediatric medicine, Critical Care Unit and long-term care.
(571) 771-2301 View (571) 771-2301
Photo of Oasis Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Oasis Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20152  (Online Only)
At Oasis, We offer the option of tele-psychiatry evaluations for both your initial consultation and any subsequent follow-up visits. Oasis Mental Health, represented by our team of certified professionals, provides services such as Psychiatric evaluation, Medication Management, talk therapy, Psychotherapy, Psychoeducation, and various behavioral health interventions. The focus of our care predominantly lies in Psychiatric Medication Management and Psychoeducation.
At Oasis, We offer the option of tele-psychiatry evaluations for both your initial consultation and any subsequent follow-up visits. Oasis Mental Health, represented by our team of certified professionals, provides services such as Psychiatric evaluation, Medication Management, talk therapy, Psychotherapy, Psychoeducation, and various behavioral health interventions. The focus of our care predominantly lies in Psychiatric Medication Management and Psychoeducation.
(571) 462-2407 View (571) 462-2407

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Patricia Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Patricia Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
My ideal client is the client who is coming to me ready to get to work to optimize their mental health. Everyone has health and everyone has mental health, therefore we can all experience mental illness. Whether you are coping with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder or other mental health concerns, my goal will be to help you understand your diagnosis and investigate the most effective means to help you reach wellness. My approach is highly collaborative, focused on client input as well as input from other members of the client’s care team.
My ideal client is the client who is coming to me ready to get to work to optimize their mental health. Everyone has health and everyone has mental health, therefore we can all experience mental illness. Whether you are coping with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder or other mental health concerns, my goal will be to help you understand your diagnosis and investigate the most effective means to help you reach wellness. My approach is highly collaborative, focused on client input as well as input from other members of the client’s care team.
(505) 421-4435 View (505) 421-4435
Photo of Francoise Bissai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Francoise Bissai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
At Holistiq Health, we are accepting new patients! We currently treat ages 18 and above. We are currently offering most appointments virtually via video. Visit us at www.holistiqhealthandwellness.com or call 571-400-2326. Our specialties include medication management of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, dementia and more. We take a holistic approach to your care by focusing on your whole person; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
At Holistiq Health, we are accepting new patients! We currently treat ages 18 and above. We are currently offering most appointments virtually via video. Visit us at www.holistiqhealthandwellness.com or call 571-400-2326. Our specialties include medication management of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, dementia and more. We take a holistic approach to your care by focusing on your whole person; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
(703) 940-0196 View (703) 940-0196
Photo of Cynthia Awadzi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Cynthia Awadzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
As a doctorate prepared nurse practitioner with five years of diverse experience in acute care, community, and outpatient settings, I bring a wealth of expertise in providing comprehensive healthcare.
As a doctorate prepared nurse practitioner with five years of diverse experience in acute care, community, and outpatient settings, I bring a wealth of expertise in providing comprehensive healthcare.
(703) 260-9498 View (703) 260-9498
Photo of Camtran Huynh, Physician Assistant in Chantilly, VA
Camtran Huynh
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Camtran Huynh, PA-C graduated as a Physician Assistant from Shenandoah University in Virginia. Prior to joining the Neuropsychic Wellness Center, she was a hospitalist at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, treating both chronic and acute conditions. She also took the initiative to obtain her certification as a Brain Injury Specialist to enhance care for traumatic brain injury patients. With her experience in providing comprehensive primary care to a diverse patient population, Cammy is able to meet the needs of psychiatric patients in a holistic way that includes the body, the brain, and the mind.
Camtran Huynh, PA-C graduated as a Physician Assistant from Shenandoah University in Virginia. Prior to joining the Neuropsychic Wellness Center, she was a hospitalist at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, treating both chronic and acute conditions. She also took the initiative to obtain her certification as a Brain Injury Specialist to enhance care for traumatic brain injury patients. With her experience in providing comprehensive primary care to a diverse patient population, Cammy is able to meet the needs of psychiatric patients in a holistic way that includes the body, the brain, and the mind.
(571) 410-3827 View (571) 410-3827
Photo of Divya Gongireddy, Psychiatrist in Chantilly, VA
Divya Gongireddy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Divya Gongireddy, M.D. is board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed both her residency in General Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System. Dr. Gongireddy’s clinical interests include PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and mood disorders.
Divya Gongireddy, M.D. is board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed both her residency in General Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System. Dr. Gongireddy’s clinical interests include PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and mood disorders.
(571) 487-7432 View (571) 487-7432
Photo of Howard Jay Cohen, Psychiatrist in Chantilly, VA
Howard Jay Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
In my experience, I have found it extremely important to listen to a patient's complaints and gather as much information as I can to understand their symptoms, the stressors they are experiencing and their relationships at work and at home. All of this information must be taken into account during the diagnostic evaluation along with a detailed medical and psychiatric history. After a diagnosis is made, I explain what the treatment will be. I will provide information about whatever medication is prescribed and I will discuss medication options. I will also review and discuss any possible drug interactions.
In my experience, I have found it extremely important to listen to a patient's complaints and gather as much information as I can to understand their symptoms, the stressors they are experiencing and their relationships at work and at home. All of this information must be taken into account during the diagnostic evaluation along with a detailed medical and psychiatric history. After a diagnosis is made, I explain what the treatment will be. I will provide information about whatever medication is prescribed and I will discuss medication options. I will also review and discuss any possible drug interactions.
(703) 957-7210 View (703) 957-7210
Photo of Heidi Nealey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chantilly, VA
Heidi Nealey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am currently accepting new clients with immediate availability. I am a Board Certified Mental Health NP. I have been in the nursing field for over 30 years and bring a wide range of experiences from various treatment settings into my practice. One of my distinctive qualities is my ability to craft comprehensive treatment plans in collaboration with my patients. Through my approach, individuals under my care receive highly personalized attention and support, ultimately establishing the groundwork for their mental well-being.
I am currently accepting new clients with immediate availability. I am a Board Certified Mental Health NP. I have been in the nursing field for over 30 years and bring a wide range of experiences from various treatment settings into my practice. One of my distinctive qualities is my ability to craft comprehensive treatment plans in collaboration with my patients. Through my approach, individuals under my care receive highly personalized attention and support, ultimately establishing the groundwork for their mental well-being.
(571) 536-2256 View (571) 536-2256
Photo of Jason Emejuru, Psychiatrist in Chantilly, VA
Jason Emejuru
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I hope to offer a fresh approach to mental health care. This involves reviewing evidence-based care and your strengths to determine the best treatment fit for you. You do not have to go through your struggles alone. There is an effective way to become prepared for or actively deal with the challenges that come your way. I focus on helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate and overcome obstacles preventing them from confidently moving forward in their lives.
I hope to offer a fresh approach to mental health care. This involves reviewing evidence-based care and your strengths to determine the best treatment fit for you. You do not have to go through your struggles alone. There is an effective way to become prepared for or actively deal with the challenges that come your way. I focus on helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate and overcome obstacles preventing them from confidently moving forward in their lives.
(410) 892-1117 View (410) 892-1117

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Chantilly, VA

10+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in Chantilly, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
92% Trauma and PTSD
83% ADHD
75% Medication Management

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Chantilly, VA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Chantilly?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.