Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
Russell Bohner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Russell Bohner is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked with psychiatric patients for over 21 years. Through his education and previous practice experience, Russell has accumulated a wide range of experiences working with people from adolescents to the elderly. Russell started his career in psychiatry as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and worked his way to a Master's degree in Nursing (MSN) at Wilkes University before obtaining his Nurse Practitioner (NP) license.
Russell Bohner is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked with psychiatric patients for over 21 years. Through his education and previous practice experience, Russell has accumulated a wide range of experiences working with people from adolescents to the elderly. Russell started his career in psychiatry as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and worked his way to a Master's degree in Nursing (MSN) at Wilkes University before obtaining his Nurse Practitioner (NP) license.
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.
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Linda Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I strive to offer a holistic and warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I am passionate about supporting people in their life journeys, and have taken specialized training to offer the most comprehensive care possible. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. Patients state that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them.
I strive to offer a holistic and warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I am passionate about supporting people in their life journeys, and have taken specialized training to offer the most comprehensive care possible. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. Patients state that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them.
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.
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.
Prianka Sinha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I was born and raised in New Jersey, and moved to Erie, PA for medical school, internship, residency, and fellowship. I am trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and have also certified in ECT. I received my medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and completed residency and fellowship with Millcreek Community Hospital. During my time working as a child and adolescent psychiatrist in Erie, PA, I was given an incredible opportunity to serve a community in need.
I was born and raised in New Jersey, and moved to Erie, PA for medical school, internship, residency, and fellowship. I am trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and have also certified in ECT. I received my medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and completed residency and fellowship with Millcreek Community Hospital. During my time working as a child and adolescent psychiatrist in Erie, PA, I was given an incredible opportunity to serve a community in need.
Restore 360 LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, CRNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19151
At Restore 360, we approach mental health from a holistic and personalized approach. We’re not just treating the symptoms, we care about your total recovery.
At Restore 360, we approach mental health from a holistic and personalized approach. We’re not just treating the symptoms, we care about your total recovery.
Christina Woodson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Christina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and former Clinical Social Worker who combines empathy and a strong understanding of psychopharmacology to provide comprehensive mental health treatment. Mental Health conditions treated include depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/bereavement, adjustment disorder, ADHD, and OCD. Christina is passionate about mental health advocacy, client-centered care, and building a strong and effective therapeutic relationship.
Christina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and former Clinical Social Worker who combines empathy and a strong understanding of psychopharmacology to provide comprehensive mental health treatment. Mental Health conditions treated include depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/bereavement, adjustment disorder, ADHD, and OCD. Christina is passionate about mental health advocacy, client-centered care, and building a strong and effective therapeutic relationship.
Danielle Couture
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
If you are currently searching for a therapist or psychiatrist, it may be because you would like some help dealing with current unhappiness or dissatisfaction in your life. I collaboratively work with patients to identify issues, make goals, and create personalized treatment plans. My practice is focused on treatment for adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (adult ADHD), and mood disorders. I can also help you deal with life transitions, low motivation, grief, stress, establishing relationships, and work-life balance.
If you are currently searching for a therapist or psychiatrist, it may be because you would like some help dealing with current unhappiness or dissatisfaction in your life. I collaboratively work with patients to identify issues, make goals, and create personalized treatment plans. My practice is focused on treatment for adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (adult ADHD), and mood disorders. I can also help you deal with life transitions, low motivation, grief, stress, establishing relationships, and work-life balance.
Voyage Healing PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Voyage Healing is a unique Ketamine and Psychedelic -Assisted Therapy clinic in East Falls. Founded by Dr. Gail Serruya, a psychiatrist with over 18 years experience, our team offers Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar depression, and PTSD. While many Ketamine clinics are set-up in a sterile way, with little preparation for the actual Ketamine experience, we offer a warm and therapeutic milieu. We offer IV ketamine infusions, intramuscular injections, oral ketamine, and Spravato (intranasal ketamine). We also offer therapy and medication management.
Voyage Healing is a unique Ketamine and Psychedelic -Assisted Therapy clinic in East Falls. Founded by Dr. Gail Serruya, a psychiatrist with over 18 years experience, our team offers Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar depression, and PTSD. While many Ketamine clinics are set-up in a sterile way, with little preparation for the actual Ketamine experience, we offer a warm and therapeutic milieu. We offer IV ketamine infusions, intramuscular injections, oral ketamine, and Spravato (intranasal ketamine). We also offer therapy and medication management.
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Dr. Johan Othmer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Othmer is an Attending Psychiatrist at Talkiatry and is double board-certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Othmer moved to Lititz, PA in 2011, worked at Philhaven (now Wellspan Philhaven) in both the York & Mount Gretna Child & Adolescent Partial Programs (2011-2016). Followed by working at Lancaster General Hospital Outpatient; C+L, and Inpatient coverage; PA Counseling, and TeamCare Behavioral Health during the Pandemic. During this time, he developed a commitment to optimizing the patient experience and removing treatment barriers.
Dr. Othmer is an Attending Psychiatrist at Talkiatry and is double board-certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Othmer moved to Lititz, PA in 2011, worked at Philhaven (now Wellspan Philhaven) in both the York & Mount Gretna Child & Adolescent Partial Programs (2011-2016). Followed by working at Lancaster General Hospital Outpatient; C+L, and Inpatient coverage; PA Counseling, and TeamCare Behavioral Health during the Pandemic. During this time, he developed a commitment to optimizing the patient experience and removing treatment barriers.
Melissa Brubaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Next available Apr 9th - click on 'My website' to book directly ... Hi, I’m Melissa, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to helping you achieve your best self. My mission is to provide you with a supportive space where you can feel understood and empowered on your journey to wellness. My primary areas of expertise are in treating burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Beyond medication management, I emphasize holistic wellness, including nutrition, exercise, and self-care practices. Together, we'll identify your treatment goals and explore effective options to help you achieve them.
Next available Apr 9th - click on 'My website' to book directly ... Hi, I’m Melissa, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to helping you achieve your best self. My mission is to provide you with a supportive space where you can feel understood and empowered on your journey to wellness. My primary areas of expertise are in treating burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Beyond medication management, I emphasize holistic wellness, including nutrition, exercise, and self-care practices. Together, we'll identify your treatment goals and explore effective options to help you achieve them.
Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19123
Accepting new clients with insurance! As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication management for treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, among other conditions. During the 60 minute initial evaluation, we will discuss history and symptoms to gain clarity on diagnosis to guide our treatment plan moving forward. During the 30 minute follow ups, we will discuss medication efficacy, side effects and risks/benefits in continuing medications. Please visit my website at impakpsychiatry.com.
Accepting new clients with insurance! As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication management for treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, among other conditions. During the 60 minute initial evaluation, we will discuss history and symptoms to gain clarity on diagnosis to guide our treatment plan moving forward. During the 30 minute follow ups, we will discuss medication efficacy, side effects and risks/benefits in continuing medications. Please visit my website at impakpsychiatry.com.
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
Daniel Bigman
Psychiatrist, MD, MHS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
After medical school, internship, and residency training in Psychiatry, completed additional fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. Practice focus on neurodevelopment, neuropsychiatry, complex sleep, and consultation for diagnostic clarification.
After medical school, internship, and residency training in Psychiatry, completed additional fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. Practice focus on neurodevelopment, neuropsychiatry, complex sleep, and consultation for diagnostic clarification.
Theresa Colberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Theresa Colberg is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She offers guidance with navigating difficult and painful emotions that may result from mood disorders, stressful life situations, the loss of a loved one, traumatic events, attachment traumas, or neurodevelopment disorders. Within a safe, and supportive working relationship, Dr. Colberg will strive to reach an understanding your unique situation, identify the issues that are interfering with progress, and develop a plan to better identify and achieve your goals.
Dr. Theresa Colberg is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She offers guidance with navigating difficult and painful emotions that may result from mood disorders, stressful life situations, the loss of a loved one, traumatic events, attachment traumas, or neurodevelopment disorders. Within a safe, and supportive working relationship, Dr. Colberg will strive to reach an understanding your unique situation, identify the issues that are interfering with progress, and develop a plan to better identify and achieve your goals.
Susan P Marcel
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I like to think I am best suited for treating individuals who are very sensitive and want more out of their lives, those who are seeking a deeper, richer life than where they find themselves currently. Identifying and changing those things that block emotional satisfaction is something patients and I work together on. Doing this allows my patients to make better emotional contact with themselves, with their loved ones and their life's work. I like to help patients identify what is healthy and what is unhealthy in their emotional and physical lives. Establishing genuine contact with my patients is the hallmark of psychotherapy.
I like to think I am best suited for treating individuals who are very sensitive and want more out of their lives, those who are seeking a deeper, richer life than where they find themselves currently. Identifying and changing those things that block emotional satisfaction is something patients and I work together on. Doing this allows my patients to make better emotional contact with themselves, with their loved ones and their life's work. I like to help patients identify what is healthy and what is unhealthy in their emotional and physical lives. Establishing genuine contact with my patients is the hallmark of psychotherapy.
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
Seetha Chandrasekhara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Dr. Seetha Chandrasekhara is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. She completed her undergraduate studies in Behavioral Neuroscience at Lehigh University. After college, she attended medical school at Temple. and stayed on at Temple to complete her residency in general psychiatry and serve as Chief Resident her last year. While in residency, she completed a master's in Urban Bioethics, and she went on to complete her geriatric psychiatry fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Chandrasekhara is board certified in General Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry.
Dr. Seetha Chandrasekhara is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. She completed her undergraduate studies in Behavioral Neuroscience at Lehigh University. After college, she attended medical school at Temple. and stayed on at Temple to complete her residency in general psychiatry and serve as Chief Resident her last year. While in residency, she completed a master's in Urban Bioethics, and she went on to complete her geriatric psychiatry fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Chandrasekhara is board certified in General Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry.
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 |
95% | Anxiety |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | 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.