Psychiatrists in Rockford, IL

Photo of Jessica Stier, Psychiatrist in Rockford, IL
Jessica Stier
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107  (Online Only)
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I earned my medical degree from Rosalind Franklin University and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago. As a general psychiatrist, I have experience working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I understand that many people have difficulty accessing psychiatric services. Therefore, my practice utilizes a virtual platform to provide patients located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin with high quality and confidential care.
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I earned my medical degree from Rosalind Franklin University and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago. As a general psychiatrist, I have experience working with a wide range of psychiatric disorders and with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. I understand that many people have difficulty accessing psychiatric services. Therefore, my practice utilizes a virtual platform to provide patients located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin with high quality and confidential care.
(779) 204-5944 View (779) 204-5944
Photo of Sarah Bier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Sarah Bier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108  (Online Only)
Women and birthing people face their own unique mental health challenges. Sarah specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry. She values a holistic approach to mental health and seeks to provide comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well being. Services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. She also has additional training in integrative psychiatry and offers natural options for patients who prefer to limit medication, including treatments for depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
Women and birthing people face their own unique mental health challenges. Sarah specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry. She values a holistic approach to mental health and seeks to provide comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well being. Services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. She also has additional training in integrative psychiatry and offers natural options for patients who prefer to limit medication, including treatments for depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
(815) 605-8205 View (815) 605-8205
Photo of Amanda Lantow, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Amanda Lantow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I find the greatest fulfillment in assisting individuals who are grappling with anxiety or depression and find themselves in a state of stagnation. Guiding them to envision possibilities beyond their current challenges is immensely rewarding. These individuals aspire to feel better, break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression, and regain the confidence to pursue their goals unhindered. Ultimately, their journey involves building self-esteem, unraveling the barriers that hold them back, and ascending to a more gratifying and fulfilling life.
I find the greatest fulfillment in assisting individuals who are grappling with anxiety or depression and find themselves in a state of stagnation. Guiding them to envision possibilities beyond their current challenges is immensely rewarding. These individuals aspire to feel better, break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression, and regain the confidence to pursue their goals unhindered. Ultimately, their journey involves building self-esteem, unraveling the barriers that hold them back, and ascending to a more gratifying and fulfilling life.
(815) 859-8275 View (815) 859-8275
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in Rockford, IL
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61103
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Amanda Hahn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Amanda Hahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108  (Online Only)
Women and birthing people face their own unique mental health challenges. Mandy specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry. She values a holistic approach to mental health and seeks to provide comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well being. Services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. She also has additional training in integrative psychiatry and offers natural options for patients who prefer to limit medication, including treatments for depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
Women and birthing people face their own unique mental health challenges. Mandy specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry. She values a holistic approach to mental health and seeks to provide comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well being. Services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. She also has additional training in integrative psychiatry and offers natural options for patients who prefer to limit medication, including treatments for depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
(815) 402-2364 View (815) 402-2364
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61109  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting BCBS of IL, Optum/UHC insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting BCBS of IL, Optum/UHC insurances.
(855) 910-6739 View (855) 910-6739
Photo of Courtney Leinen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Courtney Leinen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108  (Online Only)
Women and birthing people face their own unique mental health challenges. Courtney specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry. She values a holistic approach to mental health and seeks to provide comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well being. Services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. She also has additional training in integrative psychiatry and offers natural options for patients who prefer to limit medication, including treatments for depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
Women and birthing people face their own unique mental health challenges. Courtney specializes in women's and perinatal psychiatry. She values a holistic approach to mental health and seeks to provide comprehensive care that addresses psychological, emotional, and physical well being. Services include medication management, supportive therapy, preconception counseling, and birth/postpartum planning. She also has additional training in integrative psychiatry and offers natural options for patients who prefer to limit medication, including treatments for depression, anxiety, and PMDD.
(815) 885-5055 View (815) 885-5055
Photo of Kim McCoy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Kim McCoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Hello Everyone, My name is Kim McCoy. I am a PMHNP-BC in Illinois. I earned my Bachelor's degree in nursing from St. Xavier University and my Master's degree from U.I.C.'s psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program.
Hello Everyone, My name is Kim McCoy. I am a PMHNP-BC in Illinois. I earned my Bachelor's degree in nursing from St. Xavier University and my Master's degree from U.I.C.'s psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program.
(224) 339-7313 View (224) 339-7313
Photo of Idowu O Oshokoya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Idowu O Oshokoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Idowu Oshokoya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. He works with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and provides care for patients who are battling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolars, and other mental disorders. Idowu studied at Walden University, where he obtained a Master of Science in PMHNP. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. He has extensive training and 10 years of experience with behavioral health. He has provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 6 different teaching hospitals.
Idowu Oshokoya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. He works with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and provides care for patients who are battling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolars, and other mental disorders. Idowu studied at Walden University, where he obtained a Master of Science in PMHNP. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. He has extensive training and 10 years of experience with behavioral health. He has provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 6 different teaching hospitals.
(773) 232-5526 View (773) 232-5526
Photo of Imuentiyan Oyesiku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Imuentiyan Oyesiku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
Hi there! Welcome to my professional profile! I am Faith Oyesiku, a highly skilled Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing. With three years of dedicated practice, I bring a wealth of experience across diverse healthcare settings. Are you looking for a provider who is Kind? Empathetic? Compassionate? then look no further!
Hi there! Welcome to my professional profile! I am Faith Oyesiku, a highly skilled Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing. With three years of dedicated practice, I bring a wealth of experience across diverse healthcare settings. Are you looking for a provider who is Kind? Empathetic? Compassionate? then look no further!
(630) 389-6206 View (630) 389-6206
Photo of Senami Edalere-Lukula, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Senami Edalere-Lukula
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
Hi there, I'm Senami Do you feel like you are trying to juggle a million things at once? Are you finding it challenging to balance your relationships, career, and health? Is treating oneself kindly difficult for you? As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry, I provide anxiety disorder management and burnout prevention for high achievers. Together, we can figure out what is not working and restore balance to your life. I utilize a holistic and evidence-based model, in caring for your mind, body, and spirit's needs for you to have a better relationship with yourself and others.
Hi there, I'm Senami Do you feel like you are trying to juggle a million things at once? Are you finding it challenging to balance your relationships, career, and health? Is treating oneself kindly difficult for you? As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with expertise in psychiatry, I provide anxiety disorder management and burnout prevention for high achievers. Together, we can figure out what is not working and restore balance to your life. I utilize a holistic and evidence-based model, in caring for your mind, body, and spirit's needs for you to have a better relationship with yourself and others.
(630) 866-8266 View (630) 866-8266
Photo of Juliette Murphy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Juliette Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
I want to know your story. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is my job to make sure you feel seen and heard in order to provide the best care possible. I have been in the field of mental health since 2018, working in both the inpatient and outpatient sectors. I have experience across the lifespan working with a broad range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, and serious mental illness. Together, we will collaborate using a biopsychosocial approach to meet your individual goals.
(630) 339-5160 View (630) 339-5160
Photo of Julie Haggerty, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Julie Haggerty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome. I'm Julie Haggerty. I received my master degree in advanced practice nursing from the University of IL at Chicago. I have been a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for 14 years. I provide medication management combined with mental health therapy to assist you in being able to better deal with your mental health issues and life stressors.
Hi and welcome. I'm Julie Haggerty. I received my master degree in advanced practice nursing from the University of IL at Chicago. I have been a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for 14 years. I provide medication management combined with mental health therapy to assist you in being able to better deal with your mental health issues and life stressors.
(224) 385-1206 View (224) 385-1206
Photo of Zoelife Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Zoelife Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61103
Hi! I am Queen **** Our clinic is accepting new patients****We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders. Email us or call us today to book an appointment. You shouldn’t have to struggle to also find a provider.
Hi! I am Queen **** Our clinic is accepting new patients****We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders. Email us or call us today to book an appointment. You shouldn’t have to struggle to also find a provider.
(779) 237-7950 View (779) 237-7950
Photo of Brave Health, Psychiatrist in Rockford, IL
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
(929) 552-6659 View (929) 552-6659
Photo of Generations Behavioral Healthcare, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Generations Behavioral Healthcare, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
At Generations Behavioral Healthcare, P.C., (GBH) we offer telehealth services so that you can seek help in the comfort, safety and convenience of your home using fully HIPAA compliant meeting software with the flexibility for Live Text, Live Phone or Live Video sessions. We serve the entire states of Illinois and Florida and offer counseling, neuropsychological testing and psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents and adult clients.
At Generations Behavioral Healthcare, P.C., (GBH) we offer telehealth services so that you can seek help in the comfort, safety and convenience of your home using fully HIPAA compliant meeting software with the flexibility for Live Text, Live Phone or Live Video sessions. We serve the entire states of Illinois and Florida and offer counseling, neuropsychological testing and psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents and adult clients.
(847) 600-4263 View (847) 600-4263
Photo of Illinois Telepsychiatry, Psychiatrist in Rockford, IL
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MBBS, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61102  (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
(847) 750-5708 View (847) 750-5708
Photo of Better Me Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Better Me Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC, FPA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life can be challenging, demanding, overwhelming and sometimes painful. But suffering does not have to be a part of your life. Mental health symptoms are unique to each individual. In addition there are many factors to consider when seeking mental health services. There are so many treatment options and approaches, it can be confusing. Together we will explore your specific needs and find the treatment options that work for you.
Life can be challenging, demanding, overwhelming and sometimes painful. But suffering does not have to be a part of your life. Mental health symptoms are unique to each individual. In addition there are many factors to consider when seeking mental health services. There are so many treatment options and approaches, it can be confusing. Together we will explore your specific needs and find the treatment options that work for you.
(815) 520-0353 View (815) 520-0353
Photo of Grace Esmalla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Grace Esmalla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61104
(779) 237-3079 View (779) 237-3079

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Zoelife psychiatric services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Rockford, IL
Zoelife psychiatric services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Cherry Valley, IL 61016
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
(319) 214-7918 View (319) 214-7918

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Rockford, IL

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Rockford, IL who prioritize treating:

74% Depression
74% Anxiety
68% Trauma and PTSD
63% Bipolar Disorder
63% Medication Management
58% ADHD
53% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
93% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Rockford, IL see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Rockford?

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.