Psychiatrists in 10018
![Photo of Maryellen Hammill, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c309cbf1-39d1-4586-83c3-ecea6af621e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maryellen Hammill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Maryellen Hammill is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Maryellen is a warm, empathetic care provider who understands the importance of being fully present and engaged with her patients. She helps her patients identify issues causing them distress and helps them explore holistic, evidence-based treatment options. Everyday challenges, life transitions, adverse experiences, and personal stressors can manifest in the form of stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, etc. A thorough psychiatric interview and assessment can bring those issues to light. She provides psychiatric assessments, talk therapy, and Med Management.
Maryellen Hammill is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Maryellen is a warm, empathetic care provider who understands the importance of being fully present and engaged with her patients. She helps her patients identify issues causing them distress and helps them explore holistic, evidence-based treatment options. Everyday challenges, life transitions, adverse experiences, and personal stressors can manifest in the form of stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, etc. A thorough psychiatric interview and assessment can bring those issues to light. She provides psychiatric assessments, talk therapy, and Med Management.
![Photo of Jaemin Lee, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3a73328-6e2b-4de2-a8aa-51a0862fae3d/2/320x400.png)
Jaemin Lee is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Jaemin helps patients who have been experiencing depression, anxiety, and/or attention issues that negatively impact their everyday lives. In addition to the regimen that she offers, her ultimate goal is to help patients figure out what they can do on their end to optimize their mental health. During sessions with Jaemin, a patient can expect the individualized treatment options she provides after a comprehensive evaluation holistically. She works in a team with her patients and respects patients’ preferences. She works with adults ages 20-55.
Jaemin Lee is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Jaemin helps patients who have been experiencing depression, anxiety, and/or attention issues that negatively impact their everyday lives. In addition to the regimen that she offers, her ultimate goal is to help patients figure out what they can do on their end to optimize their mental health. During sessions with Jaemin, a patient can expect the individualized treatment options she provides after a comprehensive evaluation holistically. She works in a team with her patients and respects patients’ preferences. She works with adults ages 20-55.
![Photo of Carmen Wong, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d84a7956-754e-4200-b4dd-e3adca496aaf/1/320x400.png)
Carmen Wong is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Carmen approaches all problems with the patient in mind knowing that each experience is unique and individual. Her Eastern background and Western approach provide a holistic model of care which is not solely focused on psychopharmacology. She believes that through empathetic and compassionate care, we can all approach life’s obstacles together with growth and resilience. You can expect a collaborative treatment plan with Carmen. You will work together to form a plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications, holistic approaches, and psychopharmacology.
Carmen Wong is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Carmen approaches all problems with the patient in mind knowing that each experience is unique and individual. Her Eastern background and Western approach provide a holistic model of care which is not solely focused on psychopharmacology. She believes that through empathetic and compassionate care, we can all approach life’s obstacles together with growth and resilience. You can expect a collaborative treatment plan with Carmen. You will work together to form a plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications, holistic approaches, and psychopharmacology.
![Photo of Kristoffer Acasio, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07a289f3-6ab7-4f86-bd29-4adb30938b75/2/320x400.png)
Kristoffer Acasio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Kristoffer Acasio is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Kristoffer strives to build a collaborative relationship with each patient while empowering them to achieve their personal goals. He has experience working with diverse populations to develop effective, well-rounded treatment plans. Kristoffer uses cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy. He helps his patients identify their feelings and symptoms, then guides them in learning new ways to manage those symptoms through medication management and therapy. Kristoffer works with patients ages 18-55.
Kristoffer Acasio is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Kristoffer strives to build a collaborative relationship with each patient while empowering them to achieve their personal goals. He has experience working with diverse populations to develop effective, well-rounded treatment plans. Kristoffer uses cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy. He helps his patients identify their feelings and symptoms, then guides them in learning new ways to manage those symptoms through medication management and therapy. Kristoffer works with patients ages 18-55.
![Photo of Dr. Ashley David, DNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce919273-796e-4731-908e-94a36bfba081/1/320x400.png)
Every individual comes from lived experiences that impacts different stages of their life. Using a patient-centered model, my aim consists of both medication management (if indicated) and psychotherapy to help you build the foundation and skills, which allows you to take charge in your own mental health while maintaining a safe environment.
Every individual comes from lived experiences that impacts different stages of their life. Using a patient-centered model, my aim consists of both medication management (if indicated) and psychotherapy to help you build the foundation and skills, which allows you to take charge in your own mental health while maintaining a safe environment.
![Photo of Claudia Rhanes, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e539fa78-256a-4ab2-8459-3049ba1b7c32/2/320x400.png)
Claudia Rhanes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Claudia A. Rhanes is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Claudia helps her patients achieve their goals and restore normalcy to their lives. She is passionate about delivering holistic, individualized care. She believes that empathizing with her patients and normalizing their experiences can help them feel calmer. She educates her patients and draws on their natural strengths to build confidence and self-esteem. Her ultimate goal is to support her patients so they can achieve their highest goals in life.
Claudia A. Rhanes is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Claudia helps her patients achieve their goals and restore normalcy to their lives. She is passionate about delivering holistic, individualized care. She believes that empathizing with her patients and normalizing their experiences can help them feel calmer. She educates her patients and draws on their natural strengths to build confidence and self-esteem. Her ultimate goal is to support her patients so they can achieve their highest goals in life.
![Photo of Rachel Waters, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b9b3153-23b0-45ab-b99a-2bbec4daef24/1/320x400.png)
Rachel Waters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Rachel Waters is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Rachel’s treatment philosophy incorporates the mind and body. She conducts thorough patient assessments that factor in medical or biological contributors to behaviors, referring patients to resources when needed. Her goal is to enrich her patients’ lives so they can embrace life – the good and the bad. Rachel’s patients can expect to establish a trusting relationship with her as they receive individualized, evidence-based care.
Rachel Waters is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Rachel’s treatment philosophy incorporates the mind and body. She conducts thorough patient assessments that factor in medical or biological contributors to behaviors, referring patients to resources when needed. Her goal is to enrich her patients’ lives so they can embrace life – the good and the bad. Rachel’s patients can expect to establish a trusting relationship with her as they receive individualized, evidence-based care.
![Photo of Shanda Yoon, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8bc7ab5-0326-48d3-a9ae-d95825d56d7d/1/320x400.png)
Shanda Yoon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Shanda Hwang has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She has experience working with patients from diverse backgrounds.
Shanda Hwang has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She has experience working with patients from diverse backgrounds.
![Photo of Nighat Yasmine Sindhu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0402b59a-4b35-437e-a7d2-eec70ca14047/1/320x400.png)
Doctor Sindhu completed her residency at Bergen Regional Medical Centre in New Jersey and thereafter undertook to complete two Fellowships, one in Schizophrenia Research at Albert Einstein College Of Medicine and another in Geriatric Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center, New York. Doctor Sindhu is an Inpatient Attending Psychiatrist at South Beach Psychiatric Centre in Staten Island, New York, and also, at Northwell Staten Island University Medical Center. Dr. Sindhu also worked as an outpatient Psychiatrist.
Doctor Sindhu completed her residency at Bergen Regional Medical Centre in New Jersey and thereafter undertook to complete two Fellowships, one in Schizophrenia Research at Albert Einstein College Of Medicine and another in Geriatric Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center, New York. Doctor Sindhu is an Inpatient Attending Psychiatrist at South Beach Psychiatric Centre in Staten Island, New York, and also, at Northwell Staten Island University Medical Center. Dr. Sindhu also worked as an outpatient Psychiatrist.
![Photo of Aparna Dole, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24a2ee65-97d4-4977-9057-1be3e445f4b0/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Dole is board certified in Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Mumbai in 2002. She worked briefly with the NHS system in the United Kingdom prior to moving to the US. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn in 2009 and completed her fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio in 2010. She has more than 10 years of experience in working with patients with Depression, and Anxiety.
Dr. Dole is board certified in Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Mumbai in 2002. She worked briefly with the NHS system in the United Kingdom prior to moving to the US. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn in 2009 and completed her fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio in 2010. She has more than 10 years of experience in working with patients with Depression, and Anxiety.
![Photo of Robert Weston, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e2815cd-5e4d-4791-996e-edcb2204405a/1/320x400.png)
Robert Weston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Robert Weston is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Robert provides comprehensive care using an integrated approach of brief psychotherapy and judicious use of medication when appropriate. His goal is to support patients in living their most fulfilled lives. During sessions with Robert, patients can expect empathetic, patient-centered care.
Robert Weston is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Robert provides comprehensive care using an integrated approach of brief psychotherapy and judicious use of medication when appropriate. His goal is to support patients in living their most fulfilled lives. During sessions with Robert, patients can expect empathetic, patient-centered care.
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![Photo of Justine Bello, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42206e7d-4301-4bcc-9cb0-d16102ddcc90/1/320x400.png)
Justine Bello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Justine Bello, PMHNP-BC is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing treatment in the form of medication management and brief psychotherapy tailored to each individual’s unique needs. She has experience working with diverse populations in the psychiatric emergency room, inpatient and outpatient clinical settings.
Justine Bello, PMHNP-BC is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing treatment in the form of medication management and brief psychotherapy tailored to each individual’s unique needs. She has experience working with diverse populations in the psychiatric emergency room, inpatient and outpatient clinical settings.
![Photo of Dr. Henrietta Okpala, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, B SN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc1795f1-6ce9-4db9-913f-a893524ec49e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Henrietta Okpala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, B SN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a91d1d7-d1d3-4d72-9ae3-b84383b7394b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Ann Green, NP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f95aef9-2cd9-4eb7-9e4e-b4844de897cf/1/320x400.png)
We all face difficult or painful life situations. Depression or anxiety may overwhelm us. Yet “knowing what’s wrong” often isn’t enough. Perhaps this is one of those moments for you or your family. You're emotional state is impacting your work, your relationships, your life! Yet, even in the midst of this turmoil, you know that more is possible. You’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to take on the challenges in your life . You’re ready to grow and go after what you want. Most of all, you’re ready to become the person you want to be! I want to help you get there.
We all face difficult or painful life situations. Depression or anxiety may overwhelm us. Yet “knowing what’s wrong” often isn’t enough. Perhaps this is one of those moments for you or your family. You're emotional state is impacting your work, your relationships, your life! Yet, even in the midst of this turmoil, you know that more is possible. You’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to take on the challenges in your life . You’re ready to grow and go after what you want. Most of all, you’re ready to become the person you want to be! I want to help you get there.
![Photo of Us Today - Elevate Medical - Spravato Treatment Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8f37ce-e195-4fc3-a22d-503c9568fbac/1/320x400.png)
We provide mental wellness for everyone by making it affordable. We specialize in Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry with several top New York City Psychiatric Providers to choose from. We are also a Certified Spravato Treatment Center for those who have treatment resistant depression. We are in-network with major insurance carriers and have low-fee pay options for those who prefer self-pay.
We provide mental wellness for everyone by making it affordable. We specialize in Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry with several top New York City Psychiatric Providers to choose from. We are also a Certified Spravato Treatment Center for those who have treatment resistant depression. We are in-network with major insurance carriers and have low-fee pay options for those who prefer self-pay.
![Photo of Aimee Bensimhon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecccaa9f-e81f-47e5-8eba-358e3405d5db/2/320x400.png)
Aimee Bensimhon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Aimee is passionate about helping her patients thrive and strive for mental wellness while achieving their personal goals. She adopts a genuine and nonjudgmental approach to her practice to foster a safe and comfortable therapeutic space. She uses a person-centered approach while incorporating a good balance between psychotherapy, exploring lifestyle enhancements, and recommending medication.
Aimee is passionate about helping her patients thrive and strive for mental wellness while achieving their personal goals. She adopts a genuine and nonjudgmental approach to her practice to foster a safe and comfortable therapeutic space. She uses a person-centered approach while incorporating a good balance between psychotherapy, exploring lifestyle enhancements, and recommending medication.
![Photo of Jennifer Beach, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aee79fc-1175-4eab-808a-5b181659cac9/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Beach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Jennifer Beach is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Jennifer is committed to meeting her patients where they are on their journeys and helping them improve their lives. She has worked with underserved populations in rural and urban settings, complex trauma survivors, BIPOC individuals, and LBGTQ+ individuals. Her approach is trauma-informed and factors in how social determinants of healthcare impact individuals. Jennifer provides medication management combined with light therapy. Jennifer works with patients ages 18-65
Jennifer Beach is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Jennifer is committed to meeting her patients where they are on their journeys and helping them improve their lives. She has worked with underserved populations in rural and urban settings, complex trauma survivors, BIPOC individuals, and LBGTQ+ individuals. Her approach is trauma-informed and factors in how social determinants of healthcare impact individuals. Jennifer provides medication management combined with light therapy. Jennifer works with patients ages 18-65
![Photo of Gerard Scardino - Psych Matters, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10902934-6d58-4721-9361-1d3e20aa2cb9/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Scardino is board certified in General Psychiatry. He has 39 years of experience treating the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders, using a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach to expedite patients’ recovery. He has received multiple awards and recognitions in Harris County for his service excellence. Dr. Scardino began practicing psychiatric medicine in 1986, and has been chosen as the head of interdisciplinary treatment teams numerous times. He has served as a medical director at the MHMRA and Mid City Community Service Center.
Dr. Scardino is board certified in General Psychiatry. He has 39 years of experience treating the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders, using a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach to expedite patients’ recovery. He has received multiple awards and recognitions in Harris County for his service excellence. Dr. Scardino began practicing psychiatric medicine in 1986, and has been chosen as the head of interdisciplinary treatment teams numerous times. He has served as a medical director at the MHMRA and Mid City Community Service Center.
![Photo of Dania Codada, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f63fb88f-27ed-4442-af68-10d42dcc95ee/1/320x400.png)
Dania Codada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Dania Codada is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Coming from a culture where mental health is misunderstood, Dania understands the impact it can have mentally, physically, socially, and on various relationship dynamics. She strives to collaborate with her patients to support them to their fullest potential and enhance their quality of life. She always aims to inspire her patients to become their best selves. Life can sometimes take a toll. Dania is here to support and provide coping tools through warmth, compassion, open-mindedness, and nonpharmacological approaches to help empower her patients.
Dania Codada is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Coming from a culture where mental health is misunderstood, Dania understands the impact it can have mentally, physically, socially, and on various relationship dynamics. She strives to collaborate with her patients to support them to their fullest potential and enhance their quality of life. She always aims to inspire her patients to become their best selves. Life can sometimes take a toll. Dania is here to support and provide coping tools through warmth, compassion, open-mindedness, and nonpharmacological approaches to help empower her patients.
See more therapy options for 10018
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 10018
70+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in 10018 who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
85% | Medication Management |
82% | ADHD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Stress |
70% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Aetna |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 10018 see their clients
51% | Online Only | |
49% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
59% | Female | |
41% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 10018?
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.