Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
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.
Paula Bu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
Katelyn Shaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Dr. Katelyn Shaffer DNP, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing care to patients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Dr. Shaffer has taken on many roles as a psychiatric NP. She has worked with patients across the lifespan in settings including, outpatient psychiatry, acute inpatient care, research, and education. Working with adult patients in outpatient psychiatry has always been Dr. Shaffer’s primary interest and specialty. She is well-versed in treating an array of diagnoses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders.
Dr. Katelyn Shaffer DNP, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing care to patients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Dr. Shaffer has taken on many roles as a psychiatric NP. She has worked with patients across the lifespan in settings including, outpatient psychiatry, acute inpatient care, research, and education. Working with adult patients in outpatient psychiatry has always been Dr. Shaffer’s primary interest and specialty. She is well-versed in treating an array of diagnoses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders.
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
Dr. Zheya Jenny Yu
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Life is a journey, it does not always go as we have planned or not. Each stage of life brings us different kinds of fulfillment as well as challenges. If you find yourself having difficulties in overcoming these challenges whether they are loss, trauma, or extreme stress related to school, work, relationships, you are not alone. When not dealt with, these challenges may interfere with your daily function and affect your capacity to achieve your potential. As a result, you may experience combination symptoms of insomnia, appetite and weight change, muscle tension and fatigue, inability to focus, depression, anxiety or more.
Life is a journey, it does not always go as we have planned or not. Each stage of life brings us different kinds of fulfillment as well as challenges. If you find yourself having difficulties in overcoming these challenges whether they are loss, trauma, or extreme stress related to school, work, relationships, you are not alone. When not dealt with, these challenges may interfere with your daily function and affect your capacity to achieve your potential. As a result, you may experience combination symptoms of insomnia, appetite and weight change, muscle tension and fatigue, inability to focus, depression, anxiety or more.
Angel Marie Augustin
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I am Dr. Angel Augustin, a board-certified psychiatrist based out of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love! I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Pennsylvania. I have expertise in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, grief, cultural identity, and struggles with life transitions. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach to creating a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
I am Dr. Angel Augustin, a board-certified psychiatrist based out of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love! I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Pennsylvania. I have expertise in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, grief, cultural identity, and struggles with life transitions. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach to creating a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
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.
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.
Sophia Monsour
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Sophia Monsour holds the position of Chief Psychiatrist for Pennsylvania at Talkiatry. After completing residency in 2013 at Albany Medical Center, she has spent the past 9 years fulfilling her passion for integrated and specialty care for adults suffering from mental illness. Her years of experience has included working as an integrated care Psychiatrist at a community health center, a medical director of a Partial Hospital and Intensive Outpatient Program (PHP/IOP), and also working for an Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACT) specializing in the Serious Mentally Ill (SMI) population.
Dr. Sophia Monsour holds the position of Chief Psychiatrist for Pennsylvania at Talkiatry. After completing residency in 2013 at Albany Medical Center, she has spent the past 9 years fulfilling her passion for integrated and specialty care for adults suffering from mental illness. Her years of experience has included working as an integrated care Psychiatrist at a community health center, a medical director of a Partial Hospital and Intensive Outpatient Program (PHP/IOP), and also working for an Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACT) specializing in the Serious Mentally Ill (SMI) population.
Vincenzo R Sanguineti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
My areas of expertise in Adult Psychiatry include: anxiety disorders (obsessive-compulsive, PTSD, dissociative disorders); depression (including atypical and treatment resistant subtypes); bipolar disorders; pain management and other medico-psychiatric conditions; addictions and substance abuse; problems of aging. By practicing for over 40 years I came to realize that every individual is able to change his or her way of thinking and feeling, provided the client is willing to do so. My role is to individualize which role medications and psychotherapy may play for each client, in which combination, and to act accordingly.
My areas of expertise in Adult Psychiatry include: anxiety disorders (obsessive-compulsive, PTSD, dissociative disorders); depression (including atypical and treatment resistant subtypes); bipolar disorders; pain management and other medico-psychiatric conditions; addictions and substance abuse; problems of aging. By practicing for over 40 years I came to realize that every individual is able to change his or her way of thinking and feeling, provided the client is willing to do so. My role is to individualize which role medications and psychotherapy may play for each client, in which combination, and to act accordingly.
Karen (Yang) Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
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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+.
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.
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124 (Online Only)
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Franklin George Maleson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I regard empathy, responsiveness, and respect for the patient as core therapeutic values. While I tailor treatment to the individual, as a psychoanalyst I place special importance on gaining insight about unconscious contributors to current difficulties. I also appreciate the importance of clarifying and resolving here-and-now problems. When appropriate I prescribe medications or work short-term. My style is collaborative rather than authoritarian. For many years I have taught psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to trainees in these fields. I also teach professional ethics. I have published in the major journals in my field and am a training and supervising psychoanalyst.
I regard empathy, responsiveness, and respect for the patient as core therapeutic values. While I tailor treatment to the individual, as a psychoanalyst I place special importance on gaining insight about unconscious contributors to current difficulties. I also appreciate the importance of clarifying and resolving here-and-now problems. When appropriate I prescribe medications or work short-term. My style is collaborative rather than authoritarian. For many years I have taught psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to trainees in these fields. I also teach professional ethics. I have published in the major journals in my field and am a training and supervising psychoanalyst.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website for a video/phone visit today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting Insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website for a video/phone visit today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting Insurances.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
PBS Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19110 (Online Only)
As board certified mental health providers at Philadelphia Better Stories Psychiatry, we want to help you destress and improve your quality life with our years of experience and expertise in treating patients with a broad range of mental health disorders. Your care involves us working together, you provide your life experiences and perspective, we use our skills and experience in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Together we will create a treatment plan that we agree will help you reduce your symptoms and yield a greater quality of life.
As board certified mental health providers at Philadelphia Better Stories Psychiatry, we want to help you destress and improve your quality life with our years of experience and expertise in treating patients with a broad range of mental health disorders. Your care involves us working together, you provide your life experiences and perspective, we use our skills and experience in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Together we will create a treatment plan that we agree will help you reduce your symptoms and yield a greater quality of life.
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.
Lula Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Lula Thomas, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been in practice for over ten years. I genuinely love what I do and believe in a holistic patient-centered approach. If you ever feel sad overwhelmed, lack motivation, struggle with goals, or don't enjoy things you used to, I am here to help.
Hello, my name is Lula Thomas, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been in practice for over ten years. I genuinely love what I do and believe in a holistic patient-centered approach. If you ever feel sad overwhelmed, lack motivation, struggle with goals, or don't enjoy things you used to, I am here to help.
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
$230
Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | 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.