Psychiatrists in Orange, CT

Photo of Karolina Dudzik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Karolina Dudzik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Orange, CT 06477  (Online Only)
Hey, I’m Karolina (like the state). Do you ever feel overwhelmed going through your day to day life? Are you feeling like you never have time to think about yourself? ? Is it hard for you to wind down after a long stressful day? I can help you learn to improve your overall self-care behaviors and understand your emotions through the therapeutic use of medications.
Hey, I’m Karolina (like the state). Do you ever feel overwhelmed going through your day to day life? Are you feeling like you never have time to think about yourself? ? Is it hard for you to wind down after a long stressful day? I can help you learn to improve your overall self-care behaviors and understand your emotions through the therapeutic use of medications.
(203) 408-6021 View (203) 408-6021
Photo of Ingrid Coello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Ingrid Coello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CT 06477  (Online Only)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), Ingrid assesses and treats adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and personality disorders. Her focus is on treatment, psychiatric assessment, psychotherapeutic interventions, and medication management.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), Ingrid assesses and treats adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and personality disorders. Her focus is on treatment, psychiatric assessment, psychotherapeutic interventions, and medication management.
(475) 264-6729 View (475) 264-6729
Photo of Jamila Hokanson, Psychiatrist in Orange, CT
Jamila Hokanson
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CT 06477
(203) 463-5102 View (203) 463-5102

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Willow Treatment and Associates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Willow Treatment and Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
(475) 267-1865 View (475) 267-1865
Photo of Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
West Haven, CT 06516
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
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Photo of NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06514
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
(860) 854-1764 View (860) 854-1764
Photo of Misty Stafford, Psychiatrist in Orange, CT
Misty Stafford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06520  (Online Only)
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
(860) 718-4351 View (860) 718-4351
Photo of Radmila Meyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Radmila Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Ansonia, CT 06401  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(860) 962-4359 View (860) 962-4359
Photo of Emily Barnett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Emily Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, F403917
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06520  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Emily is a ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate training at The University of Florida and The University of North Florida. She earned her master’s degree from The University of South Alabama. Emily provides comprehensive evaluations and psychiatric treatment plans for patients experiencing a range of difficulties, including mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. She believes a careful and thorough evaluation provides the best path to work with the patient to develop an individualized plan of care for optimal mental health outcomes.
Emily is a ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate training at The University of Florida and The University of North Florida. She earned her master’s degree from The University of South Alabama. Emily provides comprehensive evaluations and psychiatric treatment plans for patients experiencing a range of difficulties, including mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. She believes a careful and thorough evaluation provides the best path to work with the patient to develop an individualized plan of care for optimal mental health outcomes.
(646) 362-6927 View (646) 362-6927
Photo of Tricia Mignosa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Tricia Mignosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06513
Not currently providing evaluations for or treating adult ADHD. I do not treat children or adolescents. Tricia is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in outpatient psychopharmacologic management of adults. She is graduate of Yale University School of Nursing. Prior to becoming an APRN, Tricia obtained a Master's degree in Social Work from Fordham University. She offers medication consultations and evaluations, and ongoing medication management for a range of issues such as anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD.
Not currently providing evaluations for or treating adult ADHD. I do not treat children or adolescents. Tricia is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in outpatient psychopharmacologic management of adults. She is graduate of Yale University School of Nursing. Prior to becoming an APRN, Tricia obtained a Master's degree in Social Work from Fordham University. She offers medication consultations and evaluations, and ongoing medication management for a range of issues such as anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD.
(475) 253-3826 View (475) 253-3826
Photo of Kate Hanselman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Kate Hanselman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511  (Online Only)
Kate Hanselman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with a wide variety of issues, including family conflict, transgender issues, grief, sexual orientation issues, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, women’s issues, and more. Kate earned a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Science from King’s College London.
Kate Hanselman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with a wide variety of issues, including family conflict, transgender issues, grief, sexual orientation issues, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, women’s issues, and more. Kate earned a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Science from King’s College London.
(475) 219-7056 View (475) 219-7056
Photo of Carine Jean, Psychiatrist in Orange, CT
Carine Jean
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Milford, CT 06460
I am a Yale trained psychiatrist, board certified in general and addiction psychiatry. I am also board certified in addiction medicine and a certified provider of Suboxone. I have extensive experience treating co-occurring disorders and chronic mental illnesses. I provide medication management for mental illnesses including: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, post partum depression, post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. I treat young adults, adults and elders.
I am a Yale trained psychiatrist, board certified in general and addiction psychiatry. I am also board certified in addiction medicine and a certified provider of Suboxone. I have extensive experience treating co-occurring disorders and chronic mental illnesses. I provide medication management for mental illnesses including: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, post partum depression, post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. I treat young adults, adults and elders.
(203) 493-0478 View (203) 493-0478
Photo of Blues & Blahs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Blues & Blahs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, CT 06461  (Online Only)
Blues and Blahs was born out of a vision to provide mental health services for the LGBTQIA+ community and our allies. Dr. Nelson Leach offers treatments that are affordable, convenient, and based on current evidence. No matter what struggles you may be facing, you have the power to overcome them. We are here to support you every step on your journey towards wellness. Together, we can develop strategies and find the proper medication and/or therapy to help you feel your best and live the life you deserve. Visit bluesandblahs.com to book your appointment today!
Blues and Blahs was born out of a vision to provide mental health services for the LGBTQIA+ community and our allies. Dr. Nelson Leach offers treatments that are affordable, convenient, and based on current evidence. No matter what struggles you may be facing, you have the power to overcome them. We are here to support you every step on your journey towards wellness. Together, we can develop strategies and find the proper medication and/or therapy to help you feel your best and live the life you deserve. Visit bluesandblahs.com to book your appointment today!
(203) 350-0329 View (203) 350-0329
Photo of Debra Sicilian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Debra Sicilian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06510  (Online Only)
My name is Debra Sicilian, and I am a dedicated psychiatric consultant offering open and genuine support for your well-being. With extensive clinical experience, I deeply grasp brain function, medications, and treatments. My unwavering commitment to uncovering the root causes behind distressing symptoms is what sets me apart. The complexity of the brain, governing various aspects of our being, drives my fascination. I acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's neurodiversity, influencing treatment responses.
My name is Debra Sicilian, and I am a dedicated psychiatric consultant offering open and genuine support for your well-being. With extensive clinical experience, I deeply grasp brain function, medications, and treatments. My unwavering commitment to uncovering the root causes behind distressing symptoms is what sets me apart. The complexity of the brain, governing various aspects of our being, drives my fascination. I acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's neurodiversity, influencing treatment responses.
(475) 405-2067 View (475) 405-2067
Photo of CT Center for Psychiatric Wellness- CCPW, Psychiatric Nurse in Orange, CT
CT Center for Psychiatric Wellness- CCPW
Psychiatric Nurse
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
(475) 338-3501 View (475) 338-3501
Photo of Melissa Kneass Welby, Psychiatrist in Orange, CT
Melissa Kneass Welby
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, CT 06460
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist with private practices in Milford and Fairfield, CT. I offer telepsychiatric care (appointments by video conference) to patients throughout Connecticut. As an accurate diagnostician and skilled psychotherapist with extensive knowledge in psychopharmacology, I believe that patient care is optimized through a partnership between the patient and the physician. I specialize in treating a variety of illnesses, including depression, anxiety, and adult attention deficit disorders.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist with private practices in Milford and Fairfield, CT. I offer telepsychiatric care (appointments by video conference) to patients throughout Connecticut. As an accurate diagnostician and skilled psychotherapist with extensive knowledge in psychopharmacology, I believe that patient care is optimized through a partnership between the patient and the physician. I specialize in treating a variety of illnesses, including depression, anxiety, and adult attention deficit disorders.
(203) 580-6634 View (203) 580-6634
Photo of One Mind Psychiatry NP PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
One Mind Psychiatry NP PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Milford, CT 06460  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06504  (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(475) 253-5839 View (475) 253-5839
Photo of Douglas Zelisko, Psychiatrist in Orange, CT
Douglas Zelisko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
(860) 854-7338 View (860) 854-7338
Photo of Jay Seigel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Orange, CT
Jay Seigel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06501
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
(203) 717-4433 View (203) 717-4433

See more therapy options for Orange

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Orange, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Orange, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
67% Relationship Issues
67% Grief
67% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in Orange, CT see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Orange?

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.