Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
Ifeoluwa Ajuwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping clients enhance their quality of life. My approach is rooted in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowerment, and timely interventions. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is respectful, nonjudgmental, and focused on your well-being. By combining evidence-based guidelines with my clinical experience, I aim to provide you with the highest standard of care. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping clients enhance their quality of life. My approach is rooted in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowerment, and timely interventions. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is respectful, nonjudgmental, and focused on your well-being. By combining evidence-based guidelines with my clinical experience, I aim to provide you with the highest standard of care. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
Zachariah Pranckun
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, academically oriented child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy and medication management services to clients located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. I use a comprehensive, collaborative, and holistic approach. Please note that I am only providing services through telemedicine and I am not in-network with any insurance providers.
I am a board-certified, academically oriented child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy and medication management services to clients located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. I use a comprehensive, collaborative, and holistic approach. Please note that I am only providing services through telemedicine and I am not in-network with any insurance providers.
Tammy Lafferty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to discuss which providers are licensed in your specific location.
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to discuss which providers are licensed in your specific location.
Theresa Colberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Theresa Colberg is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She offers guidance with navigating difficult and painful emotions that may result from mood disorders, stressful life situations, the loss of a loved one, traumatic events, attachment traumas, or neurodevelopment disorders. Within a safe, and supportive working relationship, Dr. Colberg will strive to reach an understanding your unique situation, identify the issues that are interfering with progress, and develop a plan to better identify and achieve your goals.
Dr. Theresa Colberg is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She offers guidance with navigating difficult and painful emotions that may result from mood disorders, stressful life situations, the loss of a loved one, traumatic events, attachment traumas, or neurodevelopment disorders. Within a safe, and supportive working relationship, Dr. Colberg will strive to reach an understanding your unique situation, identify the issues that are interfering with progress, and develop a plan to better identify and achieve your goals.
Marja Elina Mattila-Evenden
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hi! My name is Marja M.Evenden, and I am a psychiatrist in Philadelphia area. In addition to my hospital work, I am also treating private patients. I would like to offer my extensive professional training to help you to feel better and to improve your quality of life, and to help you to thrive. My special interests include: diagnosis and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, biological psychiatry/biomarkers, dual diagnoses, and low dose benzodiazepine dependence. By training I am well rounded to master the whole spectrum of psychiatric treatment types. My main research work has been on benzodiazepines and safe clinical use.
Hi! My name is Marja M.Evenden, and I am a psychiatrist in Philadelphia area. In addition to my hospital work, I am also treating private patients. I would like to offer my extensive professional training to help you to feel better and to improve your quality of life, and to help you to thrive. My special interests include: diagnosis and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, biological psychiatry/biomarkers, dual diagnoses, and low dose benzodiazepine dependence. By training I am well rounded to master the whole spectrum of psychiatric treatment types. My main research work has been on benzodiazepines and safe clinical use.
Yun Mi Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Online Only)
Yun Mi is board certified in psychiatry. She offers diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and genetic testing services to those 18+. She believes in providing patient-led care in an environment that is validating, compassionate, and free of judgment. Yun Mi is a firm believer that diagnoses do not define an individual. Her approach to psychopharmacological treatment is evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative. She takes her time to provide optimal care, and her overall goal is to help her patients achieve psychological well-being and the quality of life they deserve. Appointments are available within 1 week.
Yun Mi is board certified in psychiatry. She offers diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and genetic testing services to those 18+. She believes in providing patient-led care in an environment that is validating, compassionate, and free of judgment. Yun Mi is a firm believer that diagnoses do not define an individual. Her approach to psychopharmacological treatment is evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative. She takes her time to provide optimal care, and her overall goal is to help her patients achieve psychological well-being and the quality of life they deserve. Appointments are available within 1 week.
Lula Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Lula Thomas, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been in practice for over ten years. I genuinely love what I do and believe in a holistic patient-centered approach. If you ever feel sad overwhelmed, lack motivation, struggle with goals, or don't enjoy things you used to, I am here to help.
Hello, my name is Lula Thomas, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been in practice for over ten years. I genuinely love what I do and believe in a holistic patient-centered approach. If you ever feel sad overwhelmed, lack motivation, struggle with goals, or don't enjoy things you used to, I am here to help.
Richard M D'Amato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates providers Telehealth Virtual Psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy and in-office appointments. In-office appointments are available in our Philadelphia and Mainline of Philadelphia location (Paoli, PA) and virtual appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Specifically, I treat adults with various psychiatric struggles, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. A large subset of my patients are college and graduate students, in additional to young professionals.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates providers Telehealth Virtual Psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy and in-office appointments. In-office appointments are available in our Philadelphia and Mainline of Philadelphia location (Paoli, PA) and virtual appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Specifically, I treat adults with various psychiatric struggles, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. A large subset of my patients are college and graduate students, in additional to young professionals.
iMatter Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Do you experience feelings of dread and doom when your phone rings between the hours of 8:00AM-3:00PM? Do you fear your teen is growing more isolative or distant? Do you feel out of options regarding how to support your child emotionally or academically? Does it seem all you and your child do is argue these days? Have YOU been feeling depressed, stressed, or more irritable lately? Does work/school seem more overwhelming than usual? You are not alone!
Do you experience feelings of dread and doom when your phone rings between the hours of 8:00AM-3:00PM? Do you fear your teen is growing more isolative or distant? Do you feel out of options regarding how to support your child emotionally or academically? Does it seem all you and your child do is argue these days? Have YOU been feeling depressed, stressed, or more irritable lately? Does work/school seem more overwhelming than usual? You are not alone!
Joshua Weasen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Weasen is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with Talkiatry. He received his medical degree from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. He then moved to Washington, D.C. to complete his residency training at Saint Elizabeth's Hospital, where he served as Chief Resident during his final year. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and has presented at the APA Annual Meeting on the topic of virtual fatigue. He has had extensive experience working with a wide array of patients, including college/graduate students, geriatric patients, military veterans, and LGBTQ+.
Dr. Weasen is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with Talkiatry. He received his medical degree from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. He then moved to Washington, D.C. to complete his residency training at Saint Elizabeth's Hospital, where he served as Chief Resident during his final year. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and has presented at the APA Annual Meeting on the topic of virtual fatigue. He has had extensive experience working with a wide array of patients, including college/graduate students, geriatric patients, military veterans, and LGBTQ+.
SinclairMethod
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
We provide the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Use Disorders exclusively through secure online video appointments. It is a scientific approach to problem drinking that uses the FDA-approved drug Naltrexone to gradually reduce your alcohol use. We will help you regain control over alcohol, which you can use to maintain abstinence or drink in moderation.
We provide the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Use Disorders exclusively through secure online video appointments. It is a scientific approach to problem drinking that uses the FDA-approved drug Naltrexone to gradually reduce your alcohol use. We will help you regain control over alcohol, which you can use to maintain abstinence or drink in moderation.
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Nefertiti Isoke
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been conducting therapy for over twenty years. While doing this work, I became aware of the severe shortage of providers able to prescribe psychotropic medication and its detrimental impact on my client's mental health. So, I decided to return to school to provide more integrated care. I became a registered nurse (RN) in 2020 and will complete NYU’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in May 2024. I am currently completing my practicum at Dr. Robin Lowey & Associates, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management services.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been conducting therapy for over twenty years. While doing this work, I became aware of the severe shortage of providers able to prescribe psychotropic medication and its detrimental impact on my client's mental health. So, I decided to return to school to provide more integrated care. I became a registered nurse (RN) in 2020 and will complete NYU’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in May 2024. I am currently completing my practicum at Dr. Robin Lowey & Associates, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management services.
Esther Anyatonwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-PMH, NP-BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19120 (Online Only)
Esther Anyatonwu DNP-PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CRNP has a combined 20 years of nursing experience. Her doctoral graduate degree was obtained from the prestigious Brandman University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health-Board Certified. She also holds a Masters in Nursing degree with a specialty in Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The founder of UMA Behavioral Health, LLC (www.umabehavioralhelathllc.com), she specializes in diagnosing and medication management of psychiatric disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia disorders, and non-stimulant management of ADHD.
Esther Anyatonwu DNP-PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CRNP has a combined 20 years of nursing experience. Her doctoral graduate degree was obtained from the prestigious Brandman University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health-Board Certified. She also holds a Masters in Nursing degree with a specialty in Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The founder of UMA Behavioral Health, LLC (www.umabehavioralhelathllc.com), she specializes in diagnosing and medication management of psychiatric disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia disorders, and non-stimulant management of ADHD.
Johanna Beck
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106
As an adult psychiatrist who has chosen to pursue further specialization in child and adolescent psychiatry, I provide medication management and psychotherapy to patients of all ages. I have expertise in women’s mental health, burn out, anxiety/OCD, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis, PTSD, and addiction. As a former teacher, my goal is for my patients to feel understood, as well as to better understand their own conditions and their treatment. I have a particular interest in treating children, young adults/transitional age youth, and parents. I believe that for our children to do well, we must first support their caregivers.
As an adult psychiatrist who has chosen to pursue further specialization in child and adolescent psychiatry, I provide medication management and psychotherapy to patients of all ages. I have expertise in women’s mental health, burn out, anxiety/OCD, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis, PTSD, and addiction. As a former teacher, my goal is for my patients to feel understood, as well as to better understand their own conditions and their treatment. I have a particular interest in treating children, young adults/transitional age youth, and parents. I believe that for our children to do well, we must first support their caregivers.
Christina Woodson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Christina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and former Clinical Social Worker who combines empathy and a strong understanding of psychopharmacology to provide comprehensive mental health treatment. Mental Health conditions treated include depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/bereavement, adjustment disorder, ADHD, and OCD. Christina is passionate about mental health advocacy, client-centered care, and building a strong and effective therapeutic relationship.
Christina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and former Clinical Social Worker who combines empathy and a strong understanding of psychopharmacology to provide comprehensive mental health treatment. Mental Health conditions treated include depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/bereavement, adjustment disorder, ADHD, and OCD. Christina is passionate about mental health advocacy, client-centered care, and building a strong and effective therapeutic relationship.
Anthony R Carlino
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Johns Hopkins and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist offering both psychotherapy and medication management. I have extensive experience in treating individuals who struggle with anxiety and/or emotional challenges, in addition to life transitions, professional development, and relationship difficulties. Most of my patients seek care with me to receive psychotherapy with the option of medications (if appropriate) under a single provider in a discrete private practice setting. I also work with couples seeking relationship counseling.
Johns Hopkins and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist offering both psychotherapy and medication management. I have extensive experience in treating individuals who struggle with anxiety and/or emotional challenges, in addition to life transitions, professional development, and relationship difficulties. Most of my patients seek care with me to receive psychotherapy with the option of medications (if appropriate) under a single provider in a discrete private practice setting. I also work with couples seeking relationship counseling.
Lori A. Albright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
Triston Wong
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Triston Wong is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who emphasizes a collaborative approach and strong therapeutic alliance in treatment of psychiatric conditions. Though his practice focuses on medication management, Dr. Wong advocates for a holistic approach to treatment. He may incorporate elements of various psychotherapies, including supportive, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and insight-oriented therapy. At times, Dr. Wong may believe that additional therapy is needed for best outcome and recommend that you bring a dedicated therapist into your care team.
Dr. Triston Wong is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who emphasizes a collaborative approach and strong therapeutic alliance in treatment of psychiatric conditions. Though his practice focuses on medication management, Dr. Wong advocates for a holistic approach to treatment. He may incorporate elements of various psychotherapies, including supportive, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and insight-oriented therapy. At times, Dr. Wong may believe that additional therapy is needed for best outcome and recommend that you bring a dedicated therapist into your care team.
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
Thy Vo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Thy Vo is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children. Dr. Vo approaches patients as whole human beings with the goal of providing a safe therapeutic space that will help patients understand and address their suffering as well as foster healthy emotional expression and self-awareness. Dr. Vo is collaborative with treatment needs, which may include medication and/or supportive or insight-oriented psychotherapy in 30 or 45-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Thy Vo is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children. Dr. Vo approaches patients as whole human beings with the goal of providing a safe therapeutic space that will help patients understand and address their suffering as well as foster healthy emotional expression and self-awareness. Dr. Vo is collaborative with treatment needs, which may include medication and/or supportive or insight-oriented psychotherapy in 30 or 45-minute follow-up visits.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
- Bala Cynwyd
- Bryn Mawr
- Drexel Hill
- Gladwyne
- Haverford
- Havertown
- Jenkintown
- Narberth
- Springfield
- Upper Darby
- Wynnewood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
200+
Average cost per session
$227
Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Philadelphia?
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.