Psychiatrists in Acton, MA

Photo of Sandra S Marien, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Sandra S Marien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
My name is Sandra Marien and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I offer psychiatric services to children, adolescents, and adults, such as psychopharmacology evaluation, medication management, diagnosis, treatment, and psychotherapy. I work with clients who have various psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and mood and psychotic disorders. My approach is to collaborate with you to create a personalized and realistic treatment plan that suits your needs and goals.
My name is Sandra Marien and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I offer psychiatric services to children, adolescents, and adults, such as psychopharmacology evaluation, medication management, diagnosis, treatment, and psychotherapy. I work with clients who have various psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and mood and psychotic disorders. My approach is to collaborate with you to create a personalized and realistic treatment plan that suits your needs and goals.
(978) 254-2200 View (978) 254-2200
Photo of Grace Lilienthal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Grace Lilienthal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Appointments available as early as this week and next week! 100% Telehealth Practice. I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both talk therapy and psychiatric medication prescribing. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice.
Appointments available as early as this week and next week! 100% Telehealth Practice. I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both talk therapy and psychiatric medication prescribing. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice.
(339) 214-9007 View (339) 214-9007
David D Kaminester
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01718
I am dually board-certified in Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and have been in practice since 2004. I have undergone advanced training in child and adolescent psychotherapy, and have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults, including much experience working in the collegiate mental health field. Commonly-seen issues in my practice include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety and Mood Disorders, and Disruptive Behavior Disorders (eg Oppositional Defiant Disorder). I also work extensively with families and school systems. I promote treatment in a nurturing environment and the formation of a strong therapeutic attachment.
I am dually board-certified in Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and have been in practice since 2004. I have undergone advanced training in child and adolescent psychotherapy, and have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults, including much experience working in the collegiate mental health field. Commonly-seen issues in my practice include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety and Mood Disorders, and Disruptive Behavior Disorders (eg Oppositional Defiant Disorder). I also work extensively with families and school systems. I promote treatment in a nurturing environment and the formation of a strong therapeutic attachment.
(978) 785-8224 View (978) 785-8224
Photo of Nicole Duane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Nicole Duane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01718
I have 20 years experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families as a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. My practice uses a whole person approach connecting mental health and medicine, mind and body. I collaborate with other professionals such as therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, guidance counselors, teachers, and family members (with your consent). Clients are encouraged to engage with a therapist, recognizing that this is a personal choice.
I have 20 years experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families as a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. My practice uses a whole person approach connecting mental health and medicine, mind and body. I collaborate with other professionals such as therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, guidance counselors, teachers, and family members (with your consent). Clients are encouraged to engage with a therapist, recognizing that this is a personal choice.
(978) 222-7989 View (978) 222-7989
Photo of Dr. Veronika Stock, Psychiatrist in Acton, MA
Dr. Veronika Stock
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01718
Waitlist for new clients
In past decade, I observed the mental health crisis culminating while access to help stagnate, or worse - decline. Most people are getting their psychiatric prescription from their general practitioner. This may be enough for some, but not all people affected by mental illness. In most cases, careful and stepwise stabilization is needed, sometimes with two of more medications. In addition, people suffering form several side effects may benefit from genetic testing.
In past decade, I observed the mental health crisis culminating while access to help stagnate, or worse - decline. Most people are getting their psychiatric prescription from their general practitioner. This may be enough for some, but not all people affected by mental illness. In most cases, careful and stepwise stabilization is needed, sometimes with two of more medications. In addition, people suffering form several side effects may benefit from genetic testing.
(978) 381-1903 View (978) 381-1903
Photo of Taixiang Saur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Taixiang Saur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MSN, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
You have reasons to seek out mental health treatment. You may feel nervous about this, having doubts and suspicions concerning treatment. Past experiences may have left you feeling frustrated, but you now have found the courage to try treatment again. I am here to listen to your story and help you. My 17 years of professional medical experience include outpatient care and inpatient care; including both general hospital and mental health facilities. Having been trained and employed by McLean Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, I learned a great deal about a wide variety of mental health conditions.
You have reasons to seek out mental health treatment. You may feel nervous about this, having doubts and suspicions concerning treatment. Past experiences may have left you feeling frustrated, but you now have found the courage to try treatment again. I am here to listen to your story and help you. My 17 years of professional medical experience include outpatient care and inpatient care; including both general hospital and mental health facilities. Having been trained and employed by McLean Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, I learned a great deal about a wide variety of mental health conditions.
(978) 574-9372 View (978) 574-9372
Photo of Stephanie Ann Randazzo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Stephanie Ann Randazzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01718
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) since 2017. I received my Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2016 from Northeastern University in Boston. As a Registered Nurse, the majority of my past nursing experience is with women and children. In the realm of school nursing I have served children with special needs, first at the Cotting School in Lexington, then shared between Arlington School and Pathways Academy, both of McLean Hospital, becoming full time at Arlington School of McLean.
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) since 2017. I received my Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2016 from Northeastern University in Boston. As a Registered Nurse, the majority of my past nursing experience is with women and children. In the realm of school nursing I have served children with special needs, first at the Cotting School in Lexington, then shared between Arlington School and Pathways Academy, both of McLean Hospital, becoming full time at Arlington School of McLean.
(978) 451-6238 View (978) 451-6238

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jonathan Moran, Psychiatrist in Acton, MA
Jonathan Moran
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sudbury, MA 01776
Not accepting new clients
Are you sad or anxious too much of the time? Stressed from work? Do you wish you could be closer to the people in your life? Are you feeling a little lost? Life is challenging and seeking help can be an important first step towards feeling better. I offer weekly or every other week psychotherapy for adults in a warm, empathic and private setting. As a physician, my practice may include medications, if clinically indicated. I look forward to working together so that you may achieve a rewarding and fulfilling life.
Are you sad or anxious too much of the time? Stressed from work? Do you wish you could be closer to the people in your life? Are you feeling a little lost? Life is challenging and seeking help can be an important first step towards feeling better. I offer weekly or every other week psychotherapy for adults in a warm, empathic and private setting. As a physician, my practice may include medications, if clinically indicated. I look forward to working together so that you may achieve a rewarding and fulfilling life.
(774) 221-7026 View (774) 221-7026
Photo of William Chad Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
(781) 653-5110 View (781) 653-5110
Photo of Light Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Light Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824
I value compassion, comprehensive, open and honest communication, where individuals feel understood and validated. Alliance in treatment is my goal, therefore I will work to understand your beliefs, values and goals to develop a treatment plan that is comfortable, effective while obtaining hope towards an optimal quality of life.
I value compassion, comprehensive, open and honest communication, where individuals feel understood and validated. Alliance in treatment is my goal, therefore I will work to understand your beliefs, values and goals to develop a treatment plan that is comfortable, effective while obtaining hope towards an optimal quality of life.
(351) 206-0255 View (351) 206-0255
Photo of Margaret Cheng Tuttle, Psychiatrist in Acton, MA
Margaret Cheng Tuttle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital, where I see adults in the outpatient general psychiatry clinic. In my private practice in Lexington, I enjoy working with clients to design individualized treatment plans, taking into account preferences for psychotherapy, medication, or some combination of the two.
I am a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital, where I see adults in the outpatient general psychiatry clinic. In my private practice in Lexington, I enjoy working with clients to design individualized treatment plans, taking into account preferences for psychotherapy, medication, or some combination of the two.
(781) 243-3785 View (781) 243-3785
Photo of Assured Hope Community Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Assured Hope Community Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824
We provide Therapy services by incorporating patient-centered care while implementing a multi-disciplinary approach. Patient-centered care enables you to be the immediate source for information on your values in any clinical decision. Our goal is to include the perspective of the patients in their care and clinical decision-making process. Our multi-disciplinary approach to care assists the client and clinician to integrate the diversity of clients’ and clinician’s values while merging and outreaching with a multi-disciplinary team of internal and external specializations to deliver the best results for you.
We provide Therapy services by incorporating patient-centered care while implementing a multi-disciplinary approach. Patient-centered care enables you to be the immediate source for information on your values in any clinical decision. Our goal is to include the perspective of the patients in their care and clinical decision-making process. Our multi-disciplinary approach to care assists the client and clinician to integrate the diversity of clients’ and clinician’s values while merging and outreaching with a multi-disciplinary team of internal and external specializations to deliver the best results for you.
(978) 677-6354 View (978) 677-6354
Photo of Ryan Henner, Psychiatrist in Acton, MA
Ryan Henner
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Sudbury, MA 01776
What is getting in the way of your happiness? Let's find out together. I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist. I run an esketamine clinic at a Boston teaching hospital, and am now accepting patients in my private practice in MetroWest. I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for people who have tried initial treatments, and are hoping to deepen their insights and awareness.
What is getting in the way of your happiness? Let's find out together. I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist. I run an esketamine clinic at a Boston teaching hospital, and am now accepting patients in my private practice in MetroWest. I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for people who have tried initial treatments, and are hoping to deepen their insights and awareness.
(978) 570-8649 View (978) 570-8649
Photo of Edward M Hallowell, Psychiatrist in Acton, MA
Edward M Hallowell
Psychiatrist, MD, EdD
Verified Verified
Sudbury, MA 01776
You are not alone! Let me help you, or a person you love, live joyfully and successfully with ADHD. At the Hallowell Centers in Boston MetroWest, New York City, Palo Alto, San Francisco & Seattle, we understand the struggles that accompany ADHD. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and cognitive and behavioral concerns for all ages. Since I have both ADHD & dyslexia, we understand these conditions from a personal as well as professional standpoint. Using my strength-based approach, we help you tap into those strengths, and minimize the struggles using effective and proven methods, both with and without medication.
You are not alone! Let me help you, or a person you love, live joyfully and successfully with ADHD. At the Hallowell Centers in Boston MetroWest, New York City, Palo Alto, San Francisco & Seattle, we understand the struggles that accompany ADHD. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and cognitive and behavioral concerns for all ages. Since I have both ADHD & dyslexia, we understand these conditions from a personal as well as professional standpoint. Using my strength-based approach, we help you tap into those strengths, and minimize the struggles using effective and proven methods, both with and without medication.
(978) 767-8628 View (978) 767-8628
Photo of Dr. Susan G Vonderheide, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Dr. Susan G Vonderheide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824
I have a private practice consisting of clients seeking psychiatric medication and a small number of adult clients seeking counseling only. I see both children and adults for psychiatric medication. Clients seek services for Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as well as many other symptoms.
I have a private practice consisting of clients seeking psychiatric medication and a small number of adult clients seeking counseling only. I see both children and adults for psychiatric medication. Clients seek services for Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as well as many other symptoms.
(603) 891-1152 View (603) 891-1152
Photo of Ally Integrated Healthcare, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Ally Integrated Healthcare, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP-BC, PCNS-BC, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harvard, MA 01451
Our group practice is accepting new patients!! At AIH, we believe that THERAPEUTIC ALLIANCE or RELATIONSHIP greatly influences treatment outcomes. Through a patient-centered model, we provide specialized care and treatment tailored to individual needs. With our expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and addiction-related disorders, we are committed to delivering effective, evidence-based care. Our diverse practice subscribes to a balanced approach to treatment, going beyond symptom relief and seeking to help people find ways to revitalize their lives so that they are able to thrive in their endeavors. Call 617-600-4249
Our group practice is accepting new patients!! At AIH, we believe that THERAPEUTIC ALLIANCE or RELATIONSHIP greatly influences treatment outcomes. Through a patient-centered model, we provide specialized care and treatment tailored to individual needs. With our expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and addiction-related disorders, we are committed to delivering effective, evidence-based care. Our diverse practice subscribes to a balanced approach to treatment, going beyond symptom relief and seeking to help people find ways to revitalize their lives so that they are able to thrive in their endeavors. Call 617-600-4249
(351) 277-0501 x235 View (351) 277-0501 x235
Photo of James Quackenbush, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
James Quackenbush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
Please note: At this time, I am primarily virtual but offer intermittent in-person appointments. I am based in Southern NH and Greater Boston, MA. I received my nurse practitioner education at Rivier University and completed clinical training at McLean Hospital, in Belmont, MA. My personal and professional goals include bridging the gaps that exist in our healthcare system to ensure everyone has adequate access and good mental health care, reducing stigma so that people are more inclined to ask for help, and providing a treatment plan where both you and I work together to ensure your needs are met.
Please note: At this time, I am primarily virtual but offer intermittent in-person appointments. I am based in Southern NH and Greater Boston, MA. I received my nurse practitioner education at Rivier University and completed clinical training at McLean Hospital, in Belmont, MA. My personal and professional goals include bridging the gaps that exist in our healthcare system to ensure everyone has adequate access and good mental health care, reducing stigma so that people are more inclined to ask for help, and providing a treatment plan where both you and I work together to ensure your needs are met.
(617) 982-3184 View (617) 982-3184
Photo of Valeria Dworkowitz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Valeria Dworkowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, MA 01730
I am an integrative practitioner licensed in NJ & MA who can assess biochemistry to identify important deficiencies/abnormalities that may be related to mental health symptoms. I can provide genetic testing for med management. Patients often seek integrative/"functional" psychiatry after they have trialed multiple medications, experienced unpleasant/unremitting side effects, and have not been able to obtain symptom alleviation with traditional psychiatry. I believe strongly in psychotherapy to help the patient work towards healing. I work collaboratively with other treatment providers and am a strong advocate for my patients needs.
I am an integrative practitioner licensed in NJ & MA who can assess biochemistry to identify important deficiencies/abnormalities that may be related to mental health symptoms. I can provide genetic testing for med management. Patients often seek integrative/"functional" psychiatry after they have trialed multiple medications, experienced unpleasant/unremitting side effects, and have not been able to obtain symptom alleviation with traditional psychiatry. I believe strongly in psychotherapy to help the patient work towards healing. I work collaboratively with other treatment providers and am a strong advocate for my patients needs.
(973) 409-1065 View (973) 409-1065
Photo of Adrienne Pitts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Acton, MA
Adrienne Pitts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824  (Online Only)
I have current openings (as of 4/24). I enjoy getting to know my patients and consider that the best part of my job. I provide medication management services and won’t rush you through appointments and will take time getting to know you. I believe that quality care takes into account the whole person. As a specialist in women’s health, have spent years working in obstetrics as a midwife, and now as a psychiatric NP. I am passionate about serving as a support for women who may be coping with infertility, are currently pregnant, postpartum, or dealing with the stress that often accompanies the early parenting years.
I have current openings (as of 4/24). I enjoy getting to know my patients and consider that the best part of my job. I provide medication management services and won’t rush you through appointments and will take time getting to know you. I believe that quality care takes into account the whole person. As a specialist in women’s health, have spent years working in obstetrics as a midwife, and now as a psychiatric NP. I am passionate about serving as a support for women who may be coping with infertility, are currently pregnant, postpartum, or dealing with the stress that often accompanies the early parenting years.
(603) 821-0008 View (603) 821-0008
Photo of Karina Riedel, Psychiatric Nurse in Acton, MA
Karina Riedel
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
Harvard, MA 01451
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
(617) 380-4472 View (617) 380-4472

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Acton, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Acton, MA who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
86% ADHD
86% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Harvard Pilgrim
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Acton, MA see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Acton?

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.