Psychiatrists in Dandridge, TN

Christi Banks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Dandridge, TN 37725
I am a kind and compassionate Christian provider committed to providing excellent care. I offer Christian counseling, Evidence-based counseling, and psychiatric medication management as needed, to people of all ages.
I am a kind and compassionate Christian provider committed to providing excellent care. I offer Christian counseling, Evidence-based counseling, and psychiatric medication management as needed, to people of all ages.
(865) 344-2407 View (865) 344-2407
Photo of Ladonna Hubbard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Ladonna Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dandridge, TN 37725  (Online Only)
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Maybe you’re looking for a change in your circumstances that are causing constant anxiety, or are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions. Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely.
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Maybe you’re looking for a change in your circumstances that are causing constant anxiety, or are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions. Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely.
(865) 344-6110 View (865) 344-6110

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dogwood Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Dogwood Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CBIS, LNCC, CLCP
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37876  (Online Only)
Telepsychiatry is proven to be a very effective means of treating mental health issues. All patients are treated with respect and dignity via of HIPAA-compliant televideo appointments. Most follow-up appointments last 15 to 30 minutes and offer you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your own home or wherever you have a WiFi or cellular connection. No waiting in crowded lobbies or driving to appointments. Medications are sent electronically to your pharmacy and are ready within a short period of time. I offer convenient appointment times. I do not provide therapy or counseling sessions; I do medication management only.
Telepsychiatry is proven to be a very effective means of treating mental health issues. All patients are treated with respect and dignity via of HIPAA-compliant televideo appointments. Most follow-up appointments last 15 to 30 minutes and offer you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your own home or wherever you have a WiFi or cellular connection. No waiting in crowded lobbies or driving to appointments. Medications are sent electronically to your pharmacy and are ready within a short period of time. I offer convenient appointment times. I do not provide therapy or counseling sessions; I do medication management only.
(865) 351-3853 View (865) 351-3853

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Whitley Wright, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Whitley Wright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
Whitley is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience managing patients with complex medical and psychiatric histories in multiple settings. Whitley works with all psychiatric diagnoses and age groups, but has a special interest in trauma-informed care. She is passionate about whole body wellness and committed to providing holistic mental health care to those in need, regardless of background.
Whitley is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience managing patients with complex medical and psychiatric histories in multiple settings. Whitley works with all psychiatric diagnoses and age groups, but has a special interest in trauma-informed care. She is passionate about whole body wellness and committed to providing holistic mental health care to those in need, regardless of background.
(423) 205-0806 View (423) 205-0806
Photo of Al Mathewson, Psychiatric Nurse in Dandridge, TN
Al Mathewson
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Al Mathewson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2004. He holds an MSW degree from the University of South Carolina, as well as an MSN from the University of Tennessee. Al works collaboratively with his clients to build a plan that will work best for them. Outside of work, Al enjoys photography, playing guitar, and spending time with his granddaughters.
Al Mathewson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2004. He holds an MSW degree from the University of South Carolina, as well as an MSN from the University of Tennessee. Al works collaboratively with his clients to build a plan that will work best for them. Outside of work, Al enjoys photography, playing guitar, and spending time with his granddaughters.
(865) 302-3459 View (865) 302-3459
Photo of Paul Ivan D'Cruz, Psychiatrist in Dandridge, TN
Paul Ivan D'Cruz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
I have 25 yrs of experience working as a psychiatrist in Knoxville. I graduated from the Medical College of Georgia in 1991 and from residency at Wake Forest in 1999. For 5 years I worked in an acute unit at a state psychiatric hospital and then for 17 years I worked at a busy community mental health center. I also worked some years doing consultation-liaison psychiatry treating psychiatric patients which complex medical problems.
I have 25 yrs of experience working as a psychiatrist in Knoxville. I graduated from the Medical College of Georgia in 1991 and from residency at Wake Forest in 1999. For 5 years I worked in an acute unit at a state psychiatric hospital and then for 17 years I worked at a busy community mental health center. I also worked some years doing consultation-liaison psychiatry treating psychiatric patients which complex medical problems.
(865) 355-4530 View (865) 355-4530
Photo of Teresa Arnold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Teresa Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 6 years of nursing experience and 2 years of experience in psychiatry. My nursing background is in critical care, and I have experience treating high-acuity and high-risk patient populations across neurological, surgical, medical, trauma, and cardiac intensive-care settings. I transitioned into psychiatry due to my experience with vulnerable mentally ill and substance -addicted populations experiencing acute illness as a result of many years without adequate psychiatric care.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 6 years of nursing experience and 2 years of experience in psychiatry. My nursing background is in critical care, and I have experience treating high-acuity and high-risk patient populations across neurological, surgical, medical, trauma, and cardiac intensive-care settings. I transitioned into psychiatry due to my experience with vulnerable mentally ill and substance -addicted populations experiencing acute illness as a result of many years without adequate psychiatric care.
(615) 437-9767 View (615) 437-9767
Photo of Alicia Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Alicia Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-BC
Verified Verified
Crossville, TN 38572  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Alicia Ellis. Choosing you is the first step towards gaining control over your mental health because, honestly – initiating therapy can be scary and enlightening all at the same time. I am passionate about assisting patients who have experienced trauma-related experiences. I can assist Veterans that experienced PTSD, anxiety, substance use disorders, and depression. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows my clients to explore their triggers that have caused them undue trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and/or self-care.
Hello! I'm Alicia Ellis. Choosing you is the first step towards gaining control over your mental health because, honestly – initiating therapy can be scary and enlightening all at the same time. I am passionate about assisting patients who have experienced trauma-related experiences. I can assist Veterans that experienced PTSD, anxiety, substance use disorders, and depression. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows my clients to explore their triggers that have caused them undue trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and/or self-care.
(931) 391-3301 View (931) 391-3301
Photo of Mind Matters Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Mind Matters Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN`, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
My journey began in the ICU, caring for society's most vulnerable as they fought for their lives. Though we saved many, I yearned to do more - to truly improve their quality of life. This calling led me to psychiatry, where I now have the privilege of walking with people on their road to recovery. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I draw on 7 years of nursing experience and 2 years specializing in mental health to meet each person where they are. My goal is not just to prolong life, but to improve it.
My journey began in the ICU, caring for society's most vulnerable as they fought for their lives. Though we saved many, I yearned to do more - to truly improve their quality of life. This calling led me to psychiatry, where I now have the privilege of walking with people on their road to recovery. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I draw on 7 years of nursing experience and 2 years specializing in mental health to meet each person where they are. My goal is not just to prolong life, but to improve it.
(865) 290-7619 View (865) 290-7619
Photo of Vanessa Freeman, Psychiatrist in Dandridge, TN
Vanessa Freeman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Dr. Vanessa Freeman is a Medical Doctor who is double Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry. She graduated from Fellowship in 2021 from the University of Arkansas for the Medical Sciences. Dr. Freeman believes in providing medication management, TMS, and therapeutic interventions to her patients. She values a patient centered approach in treating psychotic disorders and mood disorders. In her spare time, Dr. Freeman enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and animals.
Dr. Vanessa Freeman is a Medical Doctor who is double Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry. She graduated from Fellowship in 2021 from the University of Arkansas for the Medical Sciences. Dr. Freeman believes in providing medication management, TMS, and therapeutic interventions to her patients. She values a patient centered approach in treating psychotic disorders and mood disorders. In her spare time, Dr. Freeman enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and animals.
(865) 503-6755 View (865) 503-6755
Photo of Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-CNL
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
(865) 213-7490 View (865) 213-7490
Photo of Angel M Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Angel M Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingsport, TN 37660
Hello, my name is Angel Smith and I own Dedicated Psychiatric Services in Kingsport TN. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 2018. I have been a registered nurse since 2008. My mental health career first began in 2009, and I now have over 15 years of experience working with Psychiatric patients. I treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses and age ranges from 6 years old and up. I am passionate about all mental health and treatment but I do enjoy specifically treating ADHD, perinatal mood disorders, and bipolar disorder.
Hello, my name is Angel Smith and I own Dedicated Psychiatric Services in Kingsport TN. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 2018. I have been a registered nurse since 2008. My mental health career first began in 2009, and I now have over 15 years of experience working with Psychiatric patients. I treat a wide range of psychiatric illnesses and age ranges from 6 years old and up. I am passionate about all mental health and treatment but I do enjoy specifically treating ADHD, perinatal mood disorders, and bipolar disorder.
(423) 358-4644 View (423) 358-4644
Photo of Hannah Hutchins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Hannah Hutchins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS-Edu, BSN-RN, MSN-APN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Related Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Related Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
(865) 509-9483 x125 View (865) 509-9483 x125
Photo of Healthy Living Medical Services LLC, Psychiatrist in Dandridge, TN
Healthy Living Medical Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
(865) 276-7022 View (865) 276-7022
Photo of Kellye Hudson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Kellye Hudson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I am here to help you determine if medication is needed as part of your treatment. There are many pathways to healing and medication can be one small part of this journey. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
I am here to help you determine if medication is needed as part of your treatment. There are many pathways to healing and medication can be one small part of this journey. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
(865) 276-7690 View (865) 276-7690
Photo of Stefani Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Stefani Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingsport, TN 37664
Waitlist for new clients
I am deeply passionate about working with children and adults who are facing psychiatric disorders. My primary focus is medication management, as I believe the right pharmaceutical intervention can play a crucial role in improving overall well-being. Witnessing the positive impact that medication can have on individuals' lives is truly fulfilling for me. I am committed to staying updated with the latest research and advancements in the field, ensuring that I can provide the best possible care to my patients. My ultimate goal is to empower individuals to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.
I am deeply passionate about working with children and adults who are facing psychiatric disorders. My primary focus is medication management, as I believe the right pharmaceutical intervention can play a crucial role in improving overall well-being. Witnessing the positive impact that medication can have on individuals' lives is truly fulfilling for me. I am committed to staying updated with the latest research and advancements in the field, ensuring that I can provide the best possible care to my patients. My ultimate goal is to empower individuals to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.
(423) 250-1533 View (423) 250-1533
Photo of Amber Redfield, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Amber Redfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amber Redfield is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Tennessee. She obtained her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan College and her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of Tennessee. Amber has been working in mental health nursing since 2007 in inpatient and outpatient community mental health and since May 2018, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in community outpatient. She additionally has experience as a nurse practitioner in addiction, working in detox since 2020. Amber is certified to treat people over the lifespan.
Amber Redfield is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Tennessee. She obtained her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan College and her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of Tennessee. Amber has been working in mental health nursing since 2007 in inpatient and outpatient community mental health and since May 2018, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in community outpatient. She additionally has experience as a nurse practitioner in addiction, working in detox since 2020. Amber is certified to treat people over the lifespan.
(865) 217-0570 View (865) 217-0570
Photo of Amy Palmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Amy Palmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Powell, TN 37849
I am dedicated to getting you where you want to be with your mental and emotional health. Using medications and/or therapy, change can happen to improve emotional burdens, limiting beliefs, and relationship patterns. Medications help with symptoms, therapy helps with feelings. My therapy approaches are using Internal Family Systems Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy. Let me help you feel better on the inside.
I am dedicated to getting you where you want to be with your mental and emotional health. Using medications and/or therapy, change can happen to improve emotional burdens, limiting beliefs, and relationship patterns. Medications help with symptoms, therapy helps with feelings. My therapy approaches are using Internal Family Systems Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy. Let me help you feel better on the inside.
(865) 424-8558 View (865) 424-8558
Photo of Amy Rosenbalm, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Dandridge, TN
Amy Rosenbalm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
(865) 375-9194 View (865) 375-9194
Photo of Jana Arwood, Psychiatrist in Dandridge, TN
Jana Arwood
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Graduated from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville with a BA in Chemistry. Graduated from Quillen College of Medicine-East Tennessee State University with Medical Degree. Completed General Psychiatry Residency Washington University St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in General Psychiatry. Lifetime Member of American Psychiatric Association and the Tennessee Psychiatric Association.
Graduated from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville with a BA in Chemistry. Graduated from Quillen College of Medicine-East Tennessee State University with Medical Degree. Completed General Psychiatry Residency Washington University St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in General Psychiatry. Lifetime Member of American Psychiatric Association and the Tennessee Psychiatric Association.
(865) 674-4203 View (865) 674-4203

See more therapy options for Dandridge

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Dandridge, TN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Dandridge, TN who prioritize treating:

50% Depression
50% Anxiety
50% ADHD
50% Bipolar Disorder
50% Career Counseling
50% Coping Skills

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Dandridge, TN see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Dandridge?

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.