Psychiatrists in Austin, TX
Austin Psychcare: Magid, Fox, Cullers, & Robinson
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Nature vs. Nurture? At Austin PsychCare, we believe that the two are so intricately entwined, that you can't address one without the other. As such, Michelle Magid, MD, MBA, Isadora Fox, PMHNP, Justin Cullers, PMHNP, and Anna Robinson MD have spent their entire careers becoming experts in both pharmacology and therapy. We have received specialized trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and life coaching. In addition, we are experts in medication management. We hope to pass our research, knowledge, and experience in the mind/body connection onto you, so that you can become your best self.
Nature vs. Nurture? At Austin PsychCare, we believe that the two are so intricately entwined, that you can't address one without the other. As such, Michelle Magid, MD, MBA, Isadora Fox, PMHNP, Justin Cullers, PMHNP, and Anna Robinson MD have spent their entire careers becoming experts in both pharmacology and therapy. We have received specialized trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and life coaching. In addition, we are experts in medication management. We hope to pass our research, knowledge, and experience in the mind/body connection onto you, so that you can become your best self.
Tracy Figlan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
It takes strength and courage to reach out for assistance. Thank you for taking that first step towards self-discovery and creating the life you have envisioned. Each person has an individualistic life experience, therefore each treatment plan is personalized and may include supportive medication or medication/therapy. I work with clients who have graduated high school/GED, 18 years and older; who have depression, ptsd, anxiety, bipolar, adhd. My specialized areas are bipolar, adhd, ptsd. As a veteran, I understand the military community and our combat veterans.
It takes strength and courage to reach out for assistance. Thank you for taking that first step towards self-discovery and creating the life you have envisioned. Each person has an individualistic life experience, therefore each treatment plan is personalized and may include supportive medication or medication/therapy. I work with clients who have graduated high school/GED, 18 years and older; who have depression, ptsd, anxiety, bipolar, adhd. My specialized areas are bipolar, adhd, ptsd. As a veteran, I understand the military community and our combat veterans.
Jennifer Brock-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78727 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, up-to-date mental health care to my clients. This can range from prescribing medication, providing information about how to improve sleep or nutrition, or simply helping clients to understand how mental health issues happen, how they can affect our lives, and what options for treatment exist. Trauma, anxiety and depression (unipolar or bipolar) and hormonal issues (PMDD, menopause) are areas of specialty for me, as I have had significant experience treating these issues. Currently, I can see clients age 17 and over.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, up-to-date mental health care to my clients. This can range from prescribing medication, providing information about how to improve sleep or nutrition, or simply helping clients to understand how mental health issues happen, how they can affect our lives, and what options for treatment exist. Trauma, anxiety and depression (unipolar or bipolar) and hormonal issues (PMDD, menopause) are areas of specialty for me, as I have had significant experience treating these issues. Currently, I can see clients age 17 and over.
Joseph Swider
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Dr. Joe Swider is a Georgetown trained psychiatrist with over 20 yrs of experience in treating the most challenging mental health issues, and has had over 15 yrs of inpatient experience. Specialties include treatment refractory depression and anxiety, which may include PTSD or OCD. Outside of the office, Dr. Swider enjoys an active life, to include skiing, biking and scuba diving.
Dr. Joe Swider is a Georgetown trained psychiatrist with over 20 yrs of experience in treating the most challenging mental health issues, and has had over 15 yrs of inpatient experience. Specialties include treatment refractory depression and anxiety, which may include PTSD or OCD. Outside of the office, Dr. Swider enjoys an active life, to include skiing, biking and scuba diving.
Michael Ross
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist who attended both my adult and child and adolescent psychiatry training in Austin, TX. I am board-certified in adult psychiatry in addition to child and adolescent psychiatry. I provide assessment and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, developmental disorders, ADHD, and other behavioral issues. I have specific training in trauma-informed care and enjoy working with individuals and families. I like to focus on both psychotherapy and medication management approaches to help address the concerns at hand and empower the client.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist who attended both my adult and child and adolescent psychiatry training in Austin, TX. I am board-certified in adult psychiatry in addition to child and adolescent psychiatry. I provide assessment and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, developmental disorders, ADHD, and other behavioral issues. I have specific training in trauma-informed care and enjoy working with individuals and families. I like to focus on both psychotherapy and medication management approaches to help address the concerns at hand and empower the client.
Jodie L Hopkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78735 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a counselor who has worked across the spectrum of age groups. Many of my clients have commented that they like my insight and non-judgmental approach. In my experience, the right therapy and if needed, the right medication can be life changing. It can liberate a life. The right treatment does not solve all your problems but when needed, it can remove obstacles and allow you to discover your full potential to live your best life, the life you deserve to have.
Candice Schrodetzki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help all age groups. As a graduate from the University of Texas Health Science-Houston, I understand the need to listen and create a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs. I take a holistic approach to treating mental health while incorporating modern day therapies. I specialize in OCD, ADHD, stress, and anxiety disorders. I am passionate about the LGBTQ+ community, and want each and every person to feel safe and comfortable while under my care.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help all age groups. As a graduate from the University of Texas Health Science-Houston, I understand the need to listen and create a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs. I take a holistic approach to treating mental health while incorporating modern day therapies. I specialize in OCD, ADHD, stress, and anxiety disorders. I am passionate about the LGBTQ+ community, and want each and every person to feel safe and comfortable while under my care.
Jenna Felici-West
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745
At Valera Health, we believe mental healthcare should be high-quality, affordable and accessible for all. Our compassionate team of licensed mental healthcare experts offer virtual individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, psychiatry and more from the comfort of your own home. Our telemental healthcare services are available in 10 states (AZ, CT, FL, MA, NJ, NY, OR, TX, VT, WA) and 20 languages including English, Spanish and Chinese. Everyone deserves high-quality mental healthcare without the hassle, which is why our providers are in-network with many insurances.
At Valera Health, we believe mental healthcare should be high-quality, affordable and accessible for all. Our compassionate team of licensed mental healthcare experts offer virtual individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, psychiatry and more from the comfort of your own home. Our telemental healthcare services are available in 10 states (AZ, CT, FL, MA, NJ, NY, OR, TX, VT, WA) and 20 languages including English, Spanish and Chinese. Everyone deserves high-quality mental healthcare without the hassle, which is why our providers are in-network with many insurances.
Daniel Coleman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731 (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Samuel Omolade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731 (Online Only)
I have over 7 years of experience in the mental health field, working as a behavioral health nurse at Jacobi Medical Center, Nix Hospital, Perimeter Behavioral Health, and as a consultant at King Haven Counseling Group. I am a highly skilled and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a wealth of experience in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I have demonstrated my proficiency in helping individuals struggling with anxiety by implementing evidence-based treatment modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication management.
I have over 7 years of experience in the mental health field, working as a behavioral health nurse at Jacobi Medical Center, Nix Hospital, Perimeter Behavioral Health, and as a consultant at King Haven Counseling Group. I am a highly skilled and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a wealth of experience in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I have demonstrated my proficiency in helping individuals struggling with anxiety by implementing evidence-based treatment modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication management.
Dr. Lauren Williams
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
The ideal client is an adult grappling with mental health challenges, seeking more than just symptom management. They desire comprehensive care that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These individuals recognize the limitations of conventional treatments and are looking for integrative, holistic and innovative therapies. They are curious about evidence based treatment not skewed by external entities. They aspire to overcome deep-seated traumas and achieve a sustained sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.
The ideal client is an adult grappling with mental health challenges, seeking more than just symptom management. They desire comprehensive care that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These individuals recognize the limitations of conventional treatments and are looking for integrative, holistic and innovative therapies. They are curious about evidence based treatment not skewed by external entities. They aspire to overcome deep-seated traumas and achieve a sustained sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.
15 Second Videos
Joseph Swider
Samuel Omolade
Melanie Foutz
Elizabeth Ssemanda
Matthew Edward Masters Jr
Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry Austin - We Are Open!
Meredith Tompkins
Blake Grant
Pondworks - Bernard Kim MD
Dr Lynda Parker - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Katharine Conrad
Josh Ingleby
Ronil Shah
Bruce Bassi
Jennifer Schaefer
Dana Ebeling
Jennifer Dawson
Sonia Ike
Candyce Willis
Anita Padilla Weekend Availability
Hyojin Han
Anita Padilla Weekend Availability
Amelia Harding
Pooja Memula
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Keilah Baker Ford Dnp Pmhnp
Uchenna Stephanie Ukoha
Brightside Health
Macbarbara Amaechi
Aaron Cummins
Robert E Feinstein
Dr Lynda Michele - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Insightful Psychiatry
Dr Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Mercie Health Psychiatric Mental Health & Wellness
Salvi Marie Alday
Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry - Cedar Park
Gabriel Obu
Elizabeth Emebo
Fredric Matthew Johnson
Seeta Patel
VICCpsychiatry, pllc
Anita Padilla Weekend Availability
Jocelyn Jingwa
Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC
Beverly Alomepe
Fresh Start Psychiatry and Recovery
Zeba Madni
Stefani Reinold
JLyle Medical Clinic, PLLC
Kelly Campbell
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in medication management for mental illness and psychotherapy. After medical school I completed five years in residency and fellowship training and a double board certification to give me psychiatric expertise in patients of all ages. I work with children, adolescents and adults (ages 4-55) and provide diagnosis and treatment on a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, autism, PTSD, and more.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in medication management for mental illness and psychotherapy. After medical school I completed five years in residency and fellowship training and a double board certification to give me psychiatric expertise in patients of all ages. I work with children, adolescents and adults (ages 4-55) and provide diagnosis and treatment on a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, autism, PTSD, and more.
Insight Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78735
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a holistic approach to your mental health? Are you seeking medications and/or natural approaches for you or your child? Are you struggling with mood, anxiety, focus, or general wellbeing? Ayesha is certified in integrative psychiatry though the Integrative Psychiatry Institute and approaches achieving optimal mental health from a model of whole self wellness. She believe that addressing lifestyle, diet, and physical and psychiatric symptoms together allows for deeper healing. She is certified in Ketamine assisted psychotherapy and utilizes this for breaking through habitual thought patterns that keep you stuck.
Are you looking for a holistic approach to your mental health? Are you seeking medications and/or natural approaches for you or your child? Are you struggling with mood, anxiety, focus, or general wellbeing? Ayesha is certified in integrative psychiatry though the Integrative Psychiatry Institute and approaches achieving optimal mental health from a model of whole self wellness. She believe that addressing lifestyle, diet, and physical and psychiatric symptoms together allows for deeper healing. She is certified in Ketamine assisted psychotherapy and utilizes this for breaking through habitual thought patterns that keep you stuck.
Ugochi Azubuike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
Melanie Foutz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78757 (Online Only)
In today's world, many of us find ourselves navigating the complex terrain of mental health, dealing with the everyday struggles associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, etc. Feeling overwhelmed by your current situation? Feeling isolated or fatigued? If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms like feeling consistently sad or down, grappling with excessive worries or fear, or are enduring extreme mood swings, I am here to offer guidance and collaboratively problem solve. I want to empower you to actively participate in treatment planning so that we can best meet your needs.
In today's world, many of us find ourselves navigating the complex terrain of mental health, dealing with the everyday struggles associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, etc. Feeling overwhelmed by your current situation? Feeling isolated or fatigued? If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms like feeling consistently sad or down, grappling with excessive worries or fear, or are enduring extreme mood swings, I am here to offer guidance and collaboratively problem solve. I want to empower you to actively participate in treatment planning so that we can best meet your needs.
Elizabeth Ssemanda
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731 (Online Only)
Are you running on autopilot? Feeling burnt out? Tired of taking on other people’s emotional baggage or being told to just figure it out? We are your PARTNER in getting from being overwhelmed to living life with grace and ease. Across the globe, the mental health crisis has escalated over the last decade. No groups have felt this as strongly as healers, caregivers, and empaths. They must manage their stress while caring for individuals, young and old. Healers, caregivers, and empaths, it’s time for you to go from surviving to thriving.
Are you running on autopilot? Feeling burnt out? Tired of taking on other people’s emotional baggage or being told to just figure it out? We are your PARTNER in getting from being overwhelmed to living life with grace and ease. Across the globe, the mental health crisis has escalated over the last decade. No groups have felt this as strongly as healers, caregivers, and empaths. They must manage their stress while caring for individuals, young and old. Healers, caregivers, and empaths, it’s time for you to go from surviving to thriving.
Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
We are accepting new patients, and yes, we will see you within 24 to 72 hours. Book your appointment online today! I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. For the last 13 years, I have worked various mental health settings and have witnessed the profound impacts of mental health treatment.
We are accepting new patients, and yes, we will see you within 24 to 72 hours. Book your appointment online today! I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. For the last 13 years, I have worked various mental health settings and have witnessed the profound impacts of mental health treatment.
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
Andrea Bickley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701 (Online Only)
Hi there! If you're visiting my profile, I'm here to assist you on your path to mental wellness. My name is Andrea Bickley, and I'm excited to announce new openings at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I am in-network with many leading insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and more). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but currently, I'm available Monday to Wednesday evenings.
Hi there! If you're visiting my profile, I'm here to assist you on your path to mental wellness. My name is Andrea Bickley, and I'm excited to announce new openings at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I am in-network with many leading insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and more). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but currently, I'm available Monday to Wednesday evenings.
Dr. Matthew Edward Masters Jr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Board Certified in Addiction Medicine. Outpatient Detox and Treatment of Fentanyl Addiction. Specializing in: Suboxone for Opioid Addiction; Medical Detox; 12 Step Facilitation; and Dual Diagnosis treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and ADHD. Austin Monthly's Top Doctor in Addiction Medicine 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. On the Faculty of Texas A & M School of Medicine-Round Rock with extensive teaching experience in the field of Addiction Medicine. Text us (preferred) or call for appointment at (512) 810-2079 and see our website for information at: www.drugfreeaustin.com
Board Certified in Addiction Medicine. Outpatient Detox and Treatment of Fentanyl Addiction. Specializing in: Suboxone for Opioid Addiction; Medical Detox; 12 Step Facilitation; and Dual Diagnosis treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and ADHD. Austin Monthly's Top Doctor in Addiction Medicine 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. On the Faculty of Texas A & M School of Medicine-Round Rock with extensive teaching experience in the field of Addiction Medicine. Text us (preferred) or call for appointment at (512) 810-2079 and see our website for information at: www.drugfreeaustin.com
See more therapy options for Austin
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Austin, TX
300+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Austin, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Medication Management |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Austin, TX see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
31% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Austin?
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.