Psychiatrists in 21208
![Photo of Tessa George-Perry - TSG Mental Health Services, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5cb1d21-4c51-4e75-bb40-dc38e5745e11/1/320x400.jpeg)
TSG Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in private practice, who is also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My belief is that the patient benefits most by following the psychiatric evaluation with a dynamic and in-depth plan of action which is focused on the emotional and physical health of the patient. My duel degrees and clinical experience, provides a wealth of knowledge in medication management.
I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in private practice, who is also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My belief is that the patient benefits most by following the psychiatric evaluation with a dynamic and in-depth plan of action which is focused on the emotional and physical health of the patient. My duel degrees and clinical experience, provides a wealth of knowledge in medication management.
![Photo of Desmond Marc Kaplan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d0ff897-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neuropsychiatrist who treats all ages with a wide variety of problems particularly depression & anxiety. I have over 20 years experience utilizing medication and therapy and get great satisfaction from helping people feel better as quickly as possible. I am on the part time faculties at Johns Hopkins & University of Maryland. I am caring, non-judgmental and confidential. I unfortunately do not take any insurance but will provide statements to submit to your insurance company. I welcome the opportunity to help you or your loved one.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neuropsychiatrist who treats all ages with a wide variety of problems particularly depression & anxiety. I have over 20 years experience utilizing medication and therapy and get great satisfaction from helping people feel better as quickly as possible. I am on the part time faculties at Johns Hopkins & University of Maryland. I am caring, non-judgmental and confidential. I unfortunately do not take any insurance but will provide statements to submit to your insurance company. I welcome the opportunity to help you or your loved one.
![Photo of Janice L Miller, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cacaac0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
You are not alone in the face of multiple or severe stressors in your life. No PhD psychologist or social worker in the state of Maryland is allowed to prescribe medications to help such conditions as stress, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, and multiple other conditions which even your Internist or OB/Gyn are not adequately trained to diagnose and treat. I sometimes will do psychotherapy and medication management myself or alternatively I am happy to work collaberatively with a psychotherapist you may already have.
You are not alone in the face of multiple or severe stressors in your life. No PhD psychologist or social worker in the state of Maryland is allowed to prescribe medications to help such conditions as stress, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, and multiple other conditions which even your Internist or OB/Gyn are not adequately trained to diagnose and treat. I sometimes will do psychotherapy and medication management myself or alternatively I am happy to work collaberatively with a psychotherapist you may already have.
![Photo of Tom Dennis Gates - GMH Psychiatry, LLC, FPMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417387ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
GMH Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
I am a family psychiatric nurse practitioner treating a variety of patients across the lifespan. I perform diagnostic evaluations and or medication management. I see children to elderly treating diagnosis such as; depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am experienced in seeing children as well as adults. Culturally competent to see people from all walks of life no matter religion, race, or sexuality. Goal is to get client to optimum mental health. Now a Cannabis Certification Provider!
I am a family psychiatric nurse practitioner treating a variety of patients across the lifespan. I perform diagnostic evaluations and or medication management. I see children to elderly treating diagnosis such as; depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am experienced in seeing children as well as adults. Culturally competent to see people from all walks of life no matter religion, race, or sexuality. Goal is to get client to optimum mental health. Now a Cannabis Certification Provider!
![Photo of Desmond M Kaplan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5483a3b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
![Photo of Robert Byron Lehman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54bb3f4f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My expertise is in the area of diagnosis and psychopharmacology. My office is a private practice setting and there is strong staff support for scheduling, medication refills, and for consultation with referring therapists . I have more than 30 years experience in the field and have an interest and involvement in pharmacology research through my company, Pharmasite Research. I have numerous publications in the field of psychopharmacology and lecture frequently in the area of psychopharmacology.
My expertise is in the area of diagnosis and psychopharmacology. My office is a private practice setting and there is strong staff support for scheduling, medication refills, and for consultation with referring therapists . I have more than 30 years experience in the field and have an interest and involvement in pharmacology research through my company, Pharmasite Research. I have numerous publications in the field of psychopharmacology and lecture frequently in the area of psychopharmacology.
![Photo of Belinda Okoruwa - RCC Community Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93b54388-e262-40ff-a8e7-b6e0538758bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
RCC seeks to serve clients who need hope and second chances. We strive to reach patients who are ready to take hold of their addiction and mental health and conquer the difficulties they face. Clinically, we specialize in substance abuse treatment and we desire to guide patient's to recovery of their addiction through a range of flexible options.
RCC seeks to serve clients who need hope and second chances. We strive to reach patients who are ready to take hold of their addiction and mental health and conquer the difficulties they face. Clinically, we specialize in substance abuse treatment and we desire to guide patient's to recovery of their addiction through a range of flexible options.
![Photo of Desmond Marc Kaplan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/551dfe34-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
![Photo of Neil Warres - Neil Warres, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7cb56d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
While always having a private, psychotherapy practice, I was Chief of Psychiatry at the University of Maryland's Shock Trauma Center for 20 years and also Chief of Psychiatry at Kernan Hospital and Montebello Hospital. Now in full-time practice, my office is conveniently located in Pikesville, one block from Reisterstown Road. I am Board Certified and am a past president of the Maryland Psychiatric Society.
While always having a private, psychotherapy practice, I was Chief of Psychiatry at the University of Maryland's Shock Trauma Center for 20 years and also Chief of Psychiatry at Kernan Hospital and Montebello Hospital. Now in full-time practice, my office is conveniently located in Pikesville, one block from Reisterstown Road. I am Board Certified and am a past president of the Maryland Psychiatric Society.
![Photo of Pamela Johnson - Citywide Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecc3cbe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
How Can We Help? Where does change begin? At some point in life, we all have challenges that cause us to seek change! Change begins with you selecting Citywide Behavioral Health (CBH). Citywide is a client-focused, culturally competent, strength-based, behavioral health program. We provide mental health and substance abuse services to adults. Citywide offers individualized care for our consumers including psychotherapy, medication management (also injections), psychiatric rehabilitation program (PRP), IOP and OP groups. In addition, we are a licensed residential housing program (3.5-3.1) for adults with dual diagnosis.
How Can We Help? Where does change begin? At some point in life, we all have challenges that cause us to seek change! Change begins with you selecting Citywide Behavioral Health (CBH). Citywide is a client-focused, culturally competent, strength-based, behavioral health program. We provide mental health and substance abuse services to adults. Citywide offers individualized care for our consumers including psychotherapy, medication management (also injections), psychiatric rehabilitation program (PRP), IOP and OP groups. In addition, we are a licensed residential housing program (3.5-3.1) for adults with dual diagnosis.
![Photo of Keysha Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5906f7c5-6271-4537-b888-ea7f43a4bb40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Keysha Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am a dually certified Family and Psychiatric nurse practitioner with 19 years of experience in health care. I completed undergraduate studies at Stevenson University and then received an MSN from Simmons University. After working with individuals suffering with mental illness and other co-occurring disorders, I began to see how the care was fragmented and marginalized. I am very passionate about addressing an individual’s health in its entirety, so I decided to obtain a post-graduate Psychiatric Certification from Wilkes University.
I am a dually certified Family and Psychiatric nurse practitioner with 19 years of experience in health care. I completed undergraduate studies at Stevenson University and then received an MSN from Simmons University. After working with individuals suffering with mental illness and other co-occurring disorders, I began to see how the care was fragmented and marginalized. I am very passionate about addressing an individual’s health in its entirety, so I decided to obtain a post-graduate Psychiatric Certification from Wilkes University.
15 Second Videos
TSG Mental Health Services, LLC
Desmond Marc Kaplan
Robert Byron Lehman
Sound Wellness Center
![Photo of Nkiru Nonso-Ekweozoh - Inclusive Wellness Services Inc, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46f89b50-a9bc-48ff-b6f1-daed4ad78c31/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inclusive Wellness Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21208 (Online Only)
My team at Inclusive Wellness Services Inc. provide evidence-based and holistic psychiatric care that caters to the needs of diverse client population. We support the treatment of our clients in a positive and compassionate manner, while recognizing the clients' cultural preferences. We take pride in providing care that is tailored to meet the personal needs of the client using a warm and supportive approach that follows the lead of the client as an important part of the treatment.
My team at Inclusive Wellness Services Inc. provide evidence-based and holistic psychiatric care that caters to the needs of diverse client population. We support the treatment of our clients in a positive and compassionate manner, while recognizing the clients' cultural preferences. We take pride in providing care that is tailored to meet the personal needs of the client using a warm and supportive approach that follows the lead of the client as an important part of the treatment.
![Photo of Linda Arobieke, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f24c711c-1e09-4e6f-bda7-4cf5c544165b/3/320x400.png)
Linda Arobieke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health psychiatry, the client experiencing bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, mood, disorders, substance abuse problems, trauma, and significant personal challenges is my goal. I will identify the primary causes of their challenges, and the client would benefit from a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. Mrs. Linda is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Association (ANA), International Society of Psychiatric Mental Nurses (ISPN), American Psychiatric Association (APA), and Maryland Nursing Association (MNA).
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health psychiatry, the client experiencing bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, mood, disorders, substance abuse problems, trauma, and significant personal challenges is my goal. I will identify the primary causes of their challenges, and the client would benefit from a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. Mrs. Linda is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Association (ANA), International Society of Psychiatric Mental Nurses (ISPN), American Psychiatric Association (APA), and Maryland Nursing Association (MNA).
![Photo of Desmond M. Kaplan, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b68087-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
![Photo of Christiana Ikome - Resilience Behavioral Health LLC, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42be4180-a179-4798-85eb-5d6d3b06c0b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Resilience Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Christiana is a board-certified Family, Psychiatric, and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (CRNP-PMH, FNP-BC, FNP-C), located in Pikesville, Maryland. Christiana offers non-emergent personalized mental & behavioral health services, including but not limited to initial psychiatric evaluation and treatment, medication management across the lifespan. Credentialed with Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial insurances, Christiana provides mental health services from ages six-years old, pre-teens, teens and adults. When life throws curveballs at us, we need someone we can trust. That is where Christiana comes in to support you.
Christiana is a board-certified Family, Psychiatric, and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (CRNP-PMH, FNP-BC, FNP-C), located in Pikesville, Maryland. Christiana offers non-emergent personalized mental & behavioral health services, including but not limited to initial psychiatric evaluation and treatment, medication management across the lifespan. Credentialed with Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial insurances, Christiana provides mental health services from ages six-years old, pre-teens, teens and adults. When life throws curveballs at us, we need someone we can trust. That is where Christiana comes in to support you.
![Photo of Joy Eghaghe, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dfd006b-09d8-4e87-b1fe-7da08893f346/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Eghaghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I believe in creating an atmosphere that is focussed on helping clients feel safe protected and heard. I believe in a solution-focused approach in managing my clients who happen to be my absolute priority. I will work with you without bias or judgement. Be rest assured that during therapy/treatment, I will provide evidence based methods to help you achieve balance through collaborative efforts. I have discovered personalized solutions that work. Let's do it!
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I believe in creating an atmosphere that is focussed on helping clients feel safe protected and heard. I believe in a solution-focused approach in managing my clients who happen to be my absolute priority. I will work with you without bias or judgement. Be rest assured that during therapy/treatment, I will provide evidence based methods to help you achieve balance through collaborative efforts. I have discovered personalized solutions that work. Let's do it!
![Photo of Tiffany Ross - IAW Behavioral Health & Wellness, MSN, Ed, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e67f585-6e7b-42d9-979e-a20b5897068e/2/320x400.jpeg)
IAW Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, Ed, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Hello there! I'm Tiffany Ross, Founder & CEO of IAW (I am Worthy) Behavioral Health & Wellness. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner serving Maryland residents aged 6 and above, I am dedicated to delivering thorough and cohesive care. I prioritize collaborative decision-making, partnering closely with you to tailor a personalized care plan that reflects your input and preferences. My expertise spans the management of various mental health conditions, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Hello there! I'm Tiffany Ross, Founder & CEO of IAW (I am Worthy) Behavioral Health & Wellness. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner serving Maryland residents aged 6 and above, I am dedicated to delivering thorough and cohesive care. I prioritize collaborative decision-making, partnering closely with you to tailor a personalized care plan that reflects your input and preferences. My expertise spans the management of various mental health conditions, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
![Photo of David Censits, MD, MAPP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fdcf4cb-5e50-4eda-9215-034ca87fc68c/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Censits is a Psychiatrist in Maryland who has been practicing since 2006. He earned his Master in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, graduated Medical School from Jefferson Medical College/Sydney Kimmel Medical College, and completed his Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Sleep Disorders Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
David Censits is a Psychiatrist in Maryland who has been practicing since 2006. He earned his Master in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, graduated Medical School from Jefferson Medical College/Sydney Kimmel Medical College, and completed his Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Sleep Disorders Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
Are you interested in an integrated, holistic approach to coping with life's problems that feel overwhelming? Need help dealing with anxiety, depression, or spiritual issues? Deeper issues may include trauma, PTSD, panic, aging, loss, cancer, physical disorders, sensitive to life (HSP), and relationship issues. Treatments involve a range of psychodynamic modalities, EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, and meditation. These may be coupled with spiritual direction to help someone who is spiritually depressed or depleted. Helping you to achieve wholeness of body/mind/spirit/soul so that you can come alive to being your best self.
Are you interested in an integrated, holistic approach to coping with life's problems that feel overwhelming? Need help dealing with anxiety, depression, or spiritual issues? Deeper issues may include trauma, PTSD, panic, aging, loss, cancer, physical disorders, sensitive to life (HSP), and relationship issues. Treatments involve a range of psychodynamic modalities, EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, and meditation. These may be coupled with spiritual direction to help someone who is spiritually depressed or depleted. Helping you to achieve wholeness of body/mind/spirit/soul so that you can come alive to being your best self.
![Photo of Victoria Adaramaja, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/882b892c-2446-4534-a6fc-063ec8aad87d/2/320x400.png)
I am a doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized mental health treatment plan. I strive to provide quality care in a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgment manner. Like I always tell my primary care patients; Life is full of seasons and each season prepare you for the next! My approach is very warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and kindness. I will tailor our sessions and your treatment plan to your individual needs and meeting you where you are in life.
I am a doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized mental health treatment plan. I strive to provide quality care in a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgment manner. Like I always tell my primary care patients; Life is full of seasons and each season prepare you for the next! My approach is very warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and kindness. I will tailor our sessions and your treatment plan to your individual needs and meeting you where you are in life.
See more therapy options for 21208
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 21208
40+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in 21208 who prioritize treating:
88% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | ADHD |
71% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | CareFirst |
81% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 21208 see their clients
81% | In Person and Online | |
19% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 21208?
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.