Psychiatrists in Northbrook, IL
Phillip Samuel Epstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a wellness hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine or Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, Infusion therapy, Art therapy, Hypnosis, Breath work, VR exposure therapy, EMDR, Movement and Somatic work. We also offer trusted resources for overcoming substance abuse issues.
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a wellness hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine or Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, Infusion therapy, Art therapy, Hypnosis, Breath work, VR exposure therapy, EMDR, Movement and Somatic work. We also offer trusted resources for overcoming substance abuse issues.
Emily Schaffer
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a Wellness Hub of solutions to each client's unique needs. As a Physician Assistant, Emily has a passion for the intricacies of psychiatry and takes the time to get to know each of her patients' unique backgrounds and needs. She has extensive experience helping adults of all ages manage and overcome anxiety, stress, depression and other conditions. Emily previously served as Physician Assistant at Clarity Clinic.
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a Wellness Hub of solutions to each client's unique needs. As a Physician Assistant, Emily has a passion for the intricacies of psychiatry and takes the time to get to know each of her patients' unique backgrounds and needs. She has extensive experience helping adults of all ages manage and overcome anxiety, stress, depression and other conditions. Emily previously served as Physician Assistant at Clarity Clinic.
Melissa Stefanowicz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Melissa Stefanowicz is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has experience in providing medication management and brief psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. Melissa values her relationship with her clients and prioritizes physical, emotional and spiritual needs as a whole person approach. She aims to provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment. Melissa understands how the therapeutic relationship between provider and patient can play a positive role in patient’s long-term success.
Melissa Stefanowicz is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has experience in providing medication management and brief psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. Melissa values her relationship with her clients and prioritizes physical, emotional and spiritual needs as a whole person approach. She aims to provide a safe and nonjudgemental environment. Melissa understands how the therapeutic relationship between provider and patient can play a positive role in patient’s long-term success.
Caroline Onischak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I care about you and want to know your story. I strive to make my patients feel heard, seen and understood, and provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental presence in which patients can feel comfortable sharing their past experiences and current hopes and goals. I combine this understanding with my expertise in medicine, neuroscience and trauma-informed care to develop the best treatments possible for you.
I care about you and want to know your story. I strive to make my patients feel heard, seen and understood, and provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental presence in which patients can feel comfortable sharing their past experiences and current hopes and goals. I combine this understanding with my expertise in medicine, neuroscience and trauma-informed care to develop the best treatments possible for you.
Eitan D Schwarz
Psychiatrist, MD, FAACAP, DLFAPA
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
A therapist psychiatrist blends intelligent psychotherapy and appropriate medication care. We’ll first meet for a thorough consultation to understand you and to map out your treatment plan, based on your strengths, always sensitive to your needs and preferences. I’ll serve you personally in your unique journey as your highly trained guide (Cornell, Johns Hopkins, U of Chicago) with 50+ years of continuous experience as a leading therapist and clinician of adults and children. I am also accomplished as a pioneer PTSD researcher, teacher, and forensic expert. (For videos, copy this into your browser: youtube.com/user/mydigitalfamily).
A therapist psychiatrist blends intelligent psychotherapy and appropriate medication care. We’ll first meet for a thorough consultation to understand you and to map out your treatment plan, based on your strengths, always sensitive to your needs and preferences. I’ll serve you personally in your unique journey as your highly trained guide (Cornell, Johns Hopkins, U of Chicago) with 50+ years of continuous experience as a leading therapist and clinician of adults and children. I am also accomplished as a pioneer PTSD researcher, teacher, and forensic expert. (For videos, copy this into your browser: youtube.com/user/mydigitalfamily).
Alexia Copenhaver
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a Wellness Hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine or Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, Infusion therapy, Art therapy, Hypnosis, Breath work, VR exposure therapy, EMDR, Movement and Somatic work. We also offer trusted resources for overcoming substance abuse issues.
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a Wellness Hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine or Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, Infusion therapy, Art therapy, Hypnosis, Breath work, VR exposure therapy, EMDR, Movement and Somatic work. We also offer trusted resources for overcoming substance abuse issues.
Kim Dennis
Psychiatrist, MD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating addictions, eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders. She has helped thousands of remarkable people with their illnesses. Her knowledge of eating disorders and addiction isn’t just limited to her academic and clinical experience, having had her own personal experience as a woman in recovery from an eating disorder and alcoholism. She is able to combine her personal journey with her medical training to help SunCloud Health patients become emotionally strong, responsible problem-solvers, who are inspired to create fulfilling lives for themselves.
Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating addictions, eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders. She has helped thousands of remarkable people with their illnesses. Her knowledge of eating disorders and addiction isn’t just limited to her academic and clinical experience, having had her own personal experience as a woman in recovery from an eating disorder and alcoholism. She is able to combine her personal journey with her medical training to help SunCloud Health patients become emotionally strong, responsible problem-solvers, who are inspired to create fulfilling lives for themselves.
Chrisantha E Anandappa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
My ideal client seeks to improve their well-being, facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders. They desire a personalized approach, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Their goal is to regain control, rebuild relationships, and live a fulfilling life. I provide knowledge, tools, and support to empower their growth and transformation. Let's connect to discuss your specific needs.
My ideal client seeks to improve their well-being, facing mental health conditions and substance use disorders. They desire a personalized approach, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Their goal is to regain control, rebuild relationships, and live a fulfilling life. I provide knowledge, tools, and support to empower their growth and transformation. Let's connect to discuss your specific needs.
Eitan D Schwarz
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, FAACAP
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I offer uniquely broad and deep expert experience and judgement, accumulated during a career marked by decades of consistent compassionate professional competence, helping folks of all ages with stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. Expect me to send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can be thorough and remain focused on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
I offer uniquely broad and deep expert experience and judgement, accumulated during a career marked by decades of consistent compassionate professional competence, helping folks of all ages with stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. Expect me to send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can be thorough and remain focused on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
Pooja J Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
Vibhuti Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-C
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a Wellness Hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine or Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, Infusion therapy, Art therapy, Hypnosis, Breath work, VR exposure therapy, EMDR, Movement and Somatic work. We also offer trusted resources for overcoming substance abuse issues.
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a Wellness Hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine or Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, Infusion therapy, Art therapy, Hypnosis, Breath work, VR exposure therapy, EMDR, Movement and Somatic work. We also offer trusted resources for overcoming substance abuse issues.
Michelle Gavin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Dr. Michelle Gavin is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the outpatient treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. She is a graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and received her training in adult Psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Dr. Gavin works closely with her patients in a warm and empathic environment and tailors treatment to fit the needs of the individual. If medication is warranted, she strives to achieve the best possible outcomes with minimal to no side effects.
Dr. Michelle Gavin is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the outpatient treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. She is a graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and received her training in adult Psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Dr. Gavin works closely with her patients in a warm and empathic environment and tailors treatment to fit the needs of the individual. If medication is warranted, she strives to achieve the best possible outcomes with minimal to no side effects.
Relief Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Dr. Poprawski specializes in the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to treat depression, OCD, and other diagnoses. Through collaboration with all providers at Relief, Dr. Poprawski has a proven track record of outstanding outcomes in the field of neuropsychiatry. Her commitment to providing the best patient care is unparalleled and contagious with patients and her peers. She uses multiple modalities in conjunction with TMS to create the best possible outcomes and efficacy. Dr. Poprawski values the goals of her patients and treats all patients with individualized care.
Dr. Poprawski specializes in the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to treat depression, OCD, and other diagnoses. Through collaboration with all providers at Relief, Dr. Poprawski has a proven track record of outstanding outcomes in the field of neuropsychiatry. Her commitment to providing the best patient care is unparalleled and contagious with patients and her peers. She uses multiple modalities in conjunction with TMS to create the best possible outcomes and efficacy. Dr. Poprawski values the goals of her patients and treats all patients with individualized care.
Relief Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Dr. Poprawski specializes in the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to treat depression, OCD, and other diagnoses. Through collaboration with all providers Dr. Poprawski has a proven track record of outstanding outcomes in the field of neuropsychiatry. Her commitment to providing the best patient care is unparalleled and contagious with patients and her peers. She uses multiple modalities in conjunction with TMS to create the best possible outcomes and efficacy. Dr. Poprawski values the goals of her patients and treats all patients with individualized care.
Dr. Poprawski specializes in the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to treat depression, OCD, and other diagnoses. Through collaboration with all providers Dr. Poprawski has a proven track record of outstanding outcomes in the field of neuropsychiatry. Her commitment to providing the best patient care is unparalleled and contagious with patients and her peers. She uses multiple modalities in conjunction with TMS to create the best possible outcomes and efficacy. Dr. Poprawski values the goals of her patients and treats all patients with individualized care.
David Gavin
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
David Gavin, MD, MS attended the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for medical school, residency, and graduate school. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed reports on addiction disorders and schizophrenia and received VA and NIH funding. He has over 10 years of experience treating patients and training residents to treat patients with various psychiatric disorders. In addition, he has received numerous awards, including UIC Departmental Faculty of the Year, NARSAD Young Investigator Grant, and APIRE/AstraZeneca Young Minds in Psychiatry Award.
David Gavin, MD, MS attended the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for medical school, residency, and graduate school. He has published over 30 peer-reviewed reports on addiction disorders and schizophrenia and received VA and NIH funding. He has over 10 years of experience treating patients and training residents to treat patients with various psychiatric disorders. In addition, he has received numerous awards, including UIC Departmental Faculty of the Year, NARSAD Young Investigator Grant, and APIRE/AstraZeneca Young Minds in Psychiatry Award.
Anna Hereth
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
With more than 12 years dedicated to the mental health field, my expertise lies in assisting clients seeking a psychiatric provider committed to attentive listening, advocating for their needs, and developing a patient-centered treatment plan customized to address their unique concerns and treatment objectives. I specialize in connecting with individuals who have faced trauma, and are experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, providing genuine attention to their concerns and prioritizing their goals.
With more than 12 years dedicated to the mental health field, my expertise lies in assisting clients seeking a psychiatric provider committed to attentive listening, advocating for their needs, and developing a patient-centered treatment plan customized to address their unique concerns and treatment objectives. I specialize in connecting with individuals who have faced trauma, and are experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, providing genuine attention to their concerns and prioritizing their goals.
Robert Bloom
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Dr. Bloom graduated from Rush Medical College in 1983, where he went on to do his residency in psychiatry, and he spent his next four years there as Director of Medical Student Education. Dr. Bloom went on to serve in a variety of clinical and academic positions associated with the practice of both psychiatry and sleep medicine. Dr. Bloom is Board Certified in Psychiatry, is a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Dr. Bloom graduated from Rush Medical College in 1983, where he went on to do his residency in psychiatry, and he spent his next four years there as Director of Medical Student Education. Dr. Bloom went on to serve in a variety of clinical and academic positions associated with the practice of both psychiatry and sleep medicine. Dr. Bloom is Board Certified in Psychiatry, is a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Robin J Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well.
I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well.
I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
Michael R. Binder M.D. Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
30 years of experience with adults and adolescents; wholistic approach; average time to improvement - 7 days; easy to reach with direct access to pager. Dr. Michael Binder is a graduate of the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is an innovative neuropsychiatrist who published the first comprehensive psychophysiological hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, an advance that catapulted his success rate to nearly 100%. Dr. Binder offers both psychotherapy and medication management with attention to mind, body, and spirit.
30 years of experience with adults and adolescents; wholistic approach; average time to improvement - 7 days; easy to reach with direct access to pager. Dr. Michael Binder is a graduate of the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is an innovative neuropsychiatrist who published the first comprehensive psychophysiological hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, an advance that catapulted his success rate to nearly 100%. Dr. Binder offers both psychotherapy and medication management with attention to mind, body, and spirit.
Northshore TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Have you tried medication and therapy, but are still struggling with depression, anxious depression, or OCD? TMS Therapy is an FDA-Approved treatment that can help those with treatment resistant mood disorders get relief in as little as 6 weeks. TMS Therapy is a non-invasive, 20 minute treatment done in the outpatient setting that uses a magnetic field to stimulate a targeted area of the brain. Patients are awake during the treatment and can drive themselves to and from the treatment. TMS is tolerable, with less than 2% of patients discontinuing TMS for discomfort.
Have you tried medication and therapy, but are still struggling with depression, anxious depression, or OCD? TMS Therapy is an FDA-Approved treatment that can help those with treatment resistant mood disorders get relief in as little as 6 weeks. TMS Therapy is a non-invasive, 20 minute treatment done in the outpatient setting that uses a magnetic field to stimulate a targeted area of the brain. Patients are awake during the treatment and can drive themselves to and from the treatment. TMS is tolerable, with less than 2% of patients discontinuing TMS for discomfort.
See more therapy options for Northbrook
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Northbrook, IL
30+
Average cost per session
$450
Psychiatrists in Northbrook, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | ADHD |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
74% | Aetna |
57% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Northbrook, IL see their clients
94% | In Person and Online | |
6% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
53% | Female | |
43% | Male | |
4% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Northbrook?
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.