Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
Rotimi M Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, MBBS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19120
I have worked in psychiatry for many years and feel that it's my life purpose! I don't consider this to be a job, it's what I love to do. I've worked in a variety of settings (inpatient and outpatient) with people of all ages, which has given me the expertise and the courage to unravel the complex mental health conditions that inflict so many. I always make mental health simple for my clients, and work with patients to find an approach that feels right for them. Whether you're experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood swings, or something entirely different, I promise it will help to reach out!
I have worked in psychiatry for many years and feel that it's my life purpose! I don't consider this to be a job, it's what I love to do. I've worked in a variety of settings (inpatient and outpatient) with people of all ages, which has given me the expertise and the courage to unravel the complex mental health conditions that inflict so many. I always make mental health simple for my clients, and work with patients to find an approach that feels right for them. Whether you're experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood swings, or something entirely different, I promise it will help to reach out!
Sheena Dohar
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Sheena Dohar is a board certified general psychiatrist. Before joining Talkiatry, she practiced extensively in community mental health with adults of all ages in both outpatient and inpatient settings and as the medical director of several intensive outpatient and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) based programs. She has experience in private practice and in the dual diagnoses of mental health and substance abuse disorders.
Dr. Sheena Dohar is a board certified general psychiatrist. Before joining Talkiatry, she practiced extensively in community mental health with adults of all ages in both outpatient and inpatient settings and as the medical director of several intensive outpatient and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) based programs. She has experience in private practice and in the dual diagnoses of mental health and substance abuse disorders.
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.
Rachel Reis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
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+.
Katherine Vital-Daley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Katherine Vital-Daley is an adult psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She treats all adults and her passion lies in providing accessible care for women facing challenges throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum and in reproductive psychiatry. Dr. Vital-Daley's academic background is rooted in science, with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of California, Merced. She then pursued her medical doctorate at the Medical University of the Americas. Following medical school, she completed her psychiatry residency training.
Dr. Katherine Vital-Daley is an adult psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She treats all adults and her passion lies in providing accessible care for women facing challenges throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum and in reproductive psychiatry. Dr. Vital-Daley's academic background is rooted in science, with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of California, Merced. She then pursued her medical doctorate at the Medical University of the Americas. Following medical school, she completed her psychiatry residency training.
Abby Reineck
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Abby Reineck currently serves as an outpatient child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has been practicing for eleven years. Dr. Reineck's practice is primarily medication-management services, offered in conjunction with either supportive or eclectic therapy. Follow-up appointments average 30 minutes, but may be more or less. Occasionally, Dr. Reineck believes the addition of a therapist is needed and will request you bring a therapist into your care team. This will be asked of individuals if she believes it will lead to an improved clinical outcome.
Dr. Abby Reineck currently serves as an outpatient child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has been practicing for eleven years. Dr. Reineck's practice is primarily medication-management services, offered in conjunction with either supportive or eclectic therapy. Follow-up appointments average 30 minutes, but may be more or less. Occasionally, Dr. Reineck believes the addition of a therapist is needed and will request you bring a therapist into your care team. This will be asked of individuals if she believes it will lead to an improved clinical outcome.
Jessica Plocher
Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am currently scheduling new patients for initial psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We additionally have psychotherapists (within our network at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates) whom we collaborate with if indicated. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field, including working as a mental health resource specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital (2003-2008), The Johns Hopkins Hospital in both clinical and supervisor roles (2009-2012) and have instructed at The University of Pennsylvania (where I completed my training including certification to prescribe psychiatric medications).
I am currently scheduling new patients for initial psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We additionally have psychotherapists (within our network at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates) whom we collaborate with if indicated. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field, including working as a mental health resource specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital (2003-2008), The Johns Hopkins Hospital in both clinical and supervisor roles (2009-2012) and have instructed at The University of Pennsylvania (where I completed my training including certification to prescribe psychiatric medications).
Marcia Starkman
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Things are tough all over! It can be hard to ask for & find help. I’m a warm, compassionate, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist in solo practice. I ONLY do "talk therapy,” using a combination of evidence based methods. I do NOT provide OR refill medications OR prescriptions! Confidential (e-mail, text, video, phone) and remote - whatever way works for you. I mainly work with women, but welcome everyone! My specialties are reproductive mental health (PMDD, PMAD, pregnancy loss, infertility, menopause), anxiety/mood disorders, BPD, HSPs, kids, life transitions, disordered eating, nomads, nurses, young adults & college students.
Things are tough all over! It can be hard to ask for & find help. I’m a warm, compassionate, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist in solo practice. I ONLY do "talk therapy,” using a combination of evidence based methods. I do NOT provide OR refill medications OR prescriptions! Confidential (e-mail, text, video, phone) and remote - whatever way works for you. I mainly work with women, but welcome everyone! My specialties are reproductive mental health (PMDD, PMAD, pregnancy loss, infertility, menopause), anxiety/mood disorders, BPD, HSPs, kids, life transitions, disordered eating, nomads, nurses, young adults & college students.
Megan Ines
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Megan Ines is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Bachelor of Science from Cornell University, where she studied Human Biology, Health & Society with a minor in Policy Analysis & Management. Megan attended medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed residency at Northwell Health-Mather Hospital, where she served as chief resident. As a DO, Megan has been trained to look at a patient holistically, treating the whole patient and not just the disease.
Megan Ines is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Bachelor of Science from Cornell University, where she studied Human Biology, Health & Society with a minor in Policy Analysis & Management. Megan attended medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed residency at Northwell Health-Mather Hospital, where she served as chief resident. As a DO, Megan has been trained to look at a patient holistically, treating the whole patient and not just the disease.
Ijeoma Njoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPN
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
15 Second Videos
Rachel Reis
Marcia Starkman
Andrea Papa-Molter
Richard M D'Amato
Chris Pagnani MD PC
Shannon Bucciarelli
Karen (Yang) Chen
Paul Joseph Resignato
Elizabeth Milburn
Michelle McCarthy
Allen Masry
Paula Bu
Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry
Linda Kim
Edena Walden
Robert F. McFadden
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates
DUO Mental Health
michaelsumdpc
Marie R. Dona
Michelle Antanovich
Renewing Mindsets
Bright Mind Wellness
Thomas Scary
Aviva Zohar
KetaMinds
Melissa Lopez-Larson
Ife Ajuwon
Theresa Webster
Conboy Psychiatry, LLC
Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress
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.
Dr. Stephanie Cross
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
The journey to emotional well-being can be a challenge, is an ever evolving process, and our goals for treatment vary over the lifespan. Dr. Cross is a UPenn trained adult psychiatrist, with a private practice located in Philadelphia, and is available to help you on your mental health journey. She has an exceptional training background, with additional experience working with older adults and medically complex individuals. She takes a holistic mind-body approach to treatment, and works to build a safe space for exploration and healing.
The journey to emotional well-being can be a challenge, is an ever evolving process, and our goals for treatment vary over the lifespan. Dr. Cross is a UPenn trained adult psychiatrist, with a private practice located in Philadelphia, and is available to help you on your mental health journey. She has an exceptional training background, with additional experience working with older adults and medically complex individuals. She takes a holistic mind-body approach to treatment, and works to build a safe space for exploration and healing.
Dr. Arif Noorbaksh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Are you struggling with depressive, anxiety, and/or bipolar and related disorders? I strongly believe in meeting patients where they are in their individual journeys. The ideal client is the one who attends their initial evaluation to talk through their experience and potential treatment options. I approach patient care holistically and attempt to develop an understanding of the patient’s lived experience and current symptoms.
Are you struggling with depressive, anxiety, and/or bipolar and related disorders? I strongly believe in meeting patients where they are in their individual journeys. The ideal client is the one who attends their initial evaluation to talk through their experience and potential treatment options. I approach patient care holistically and attempt to develop an understanding of the patient’s lived experience and current symptoms.
Dr. Alexandra Blaes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Alexandra (“Sasha”) Blaes is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Blaes completed medical school at The University of Maryland, followed by a psychiatry residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. While at Johns Hopkins, she mastered clinical assessment and treatment of general psychiatric problems. She also received specialized training in eating disorders, addiction, reproductive psychiatry, chronic pain, and geriatric psychiatry, an interest she pursued further with a fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Dr. Alexandra (“Sasha”) Blaes is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Blaes completed medical school at The University of Maryland, followed by a psychiatry residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. While at Johns Hopkins, she mastered clinical assessment and treatment of general psychiatric problems. She also received specialized training in eating disorders, addiction, reproductive psychiatry, chronic pain, and geriatric psychiatry, an interest she pursued further with a fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Morgan Campbell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
People who decide to seek care deserve a psychiatrist who is curious about their individual stories and goals, who is both realistic and optimistic, and who won’t judge them. Most importantly, they deserve a psychiatrist who is highly motivated to help them using tailor-made strategies which will lead to the fullest, most rapid improvement. I strive to be this kind of psychiatrist.
People who decide to seek care deserve a psychiatrist who is curious about their individual stories and goals, who is both realistic and optimistic, and who won’t judge them. Most importantly, they deserve a psychiatrist who is highly motivated to help them using tailor-made strategies which will lead to the fullest, most rapid improvement. I strive to be this kind of psychiatrist.
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.
Bianca Previdi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Hi! I am a psychiatrist and therapist, trained at Jefferson Medical and University of Pennsylvania, currently working at my private practice in center city. I offer comprehensive psychiatric treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, and seek to provide an individualized approach through therapy (with or without) medications. I have received additional post-graduate training in therapy at the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia and practice insight-oriented psychotherapy. My goal is to provide compassionate, professional care, and to truly understand the person seeking my help, and collaborate with them.
Hi! I am a psychiatrist and therapist, trained at Jefferson Medical and University of Pennsylvania, currently working at my private practice in center city. I offer comprehensive psychiatric treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, and seek to provide an individualized approach through therapy (with or without) medications. I have received additional post-graduate training in therapy at the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia and practice insight-oriented psychotherapy. My goal is to provide compassionate, professional care, and to truly understand the person seeking my help, and collaborate with them.
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.
John G Wilson III
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who works hard to practice psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in both a private & supportive setting. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic interventions backed by empirical evidence, I am a firm believer in the value of therapy & more holistic interventions (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I understand the importance of shoring up wellness rather than treating illness, and you can expect to spend a significant amount of time discussing the importance of sleep, fitness and nutrition, in addition to tackling deeper psychological issues.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who works hard to practice psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in both a private & supportive setting. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic interventions backed by empirical evidence, I am a firm believer in the value of therapy & more holistic interventions (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I understand the importance of shoring up wellness rather than treating illness, and you can expect to spend a significant amount of time discussing the importance of sleep, fitness and nutrition, in addition to tackling deeper psychological issues.
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) |
74% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
84% | 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.