Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Paul Okoronkwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP -, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in public? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US AT: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in public? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US AT: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Alex Tan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients for ADHD Management via Telehealth/In-Person. Are you looking to work with a medical provider who can help evaluate and manage ADHD? Adults with ADHD may struggle with staying focused, paying attention, completing projects and may feel impulsive and restless. This can affect your work, personal lives and relationships. I provide comprehensive evaluations to discern if your symptoms may be due to ADHD or other conditions, and provide both prescription and non-prescription options for treatment. I believe that ADHD can become a strength if it is managed properly and responsibly.
Accepting New Patients for ADHD Management via Telehealth/In-Person. Are you looking to work with a medical provider who can help evaluate and manage ADHD? Adults with ADHD may struggle with staying focused, paying attention, completing projects and may feel impulsive and restless. This can affect your work, personal lives and relationships. I provide comprehensive evaluations to discern if your symptoms may be due to ADHD or other conditions, and provide both prescription and non-prescription options for treatment. I believe that ADHD can become a strength if it is managed properly and responsibly.
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
Transformational Psychiatry NW & TMS Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
Anicka Oyer Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
Sarah A Pullen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
“A tree that is unbending is easily broken.” Lao Tzu (Tao Te Ching). One of Aesop’s fables, “The Oak and the Reeds,” reflects this same idea- that a rigid oak will break in a major storm whereas the flexible reeds live on. We cannot avoid life’s storms, yet we can find ways to weather them and perhaps come out the other side a bit stronger. I believe that the key to this is resilience. It is the ability to spring back from adversity. To face the winds of life while also being strong in one’s core and true to one’s value. And after the storm, to stand up straight and tall, unbroken. My goal is to help you build your resilience.
“A tree that is unbending is easily broken.” Lao Tzu (Tao Te Ching). One of Aesop’s fables, “The Oak and the Reeds,” reflects this same idea- that a rigid oak will break in a major storm whereas the flexible reeds live on. We cannot avoid life’s storms, yet we can find ways to weather them and perhaps come out the other side a bit stronger. I believe that the key to this is resilience. It is the ability to spring back from adversity. To face the winds of life while also being strong in one’s core and true to one’s value. And after the storm, to stand up straight and tall, unbroken. My goal is to help you build your resilience.
Shana Cantoni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I work with clients who have mood and anxiety disorders and are interested in comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and ensuing treatment. Perhaps you have not been feeling well for some time, not sure why and interested in working with someone in order to feel better. I am skillful at prescribing medications while also have an understanding of what medications cannot do. I am judicious in the prescribing of medications. I do not treat ADHD and I do not prescribe stimulants.
I work with clients who have mood and anxiety disorders and are interested in comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and ensuing treatment. Perhaps you have not been feeling well for some time, not sure why and interested in working with someone in order to feel better. I am skillful at prescribing medications while also have an understanding of what medications cannot do. I am judicious in the prescribing of medications. I do not treat ADHD and I do not prescribe stimulants.
Ryan R. Gorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
I am an experienced mental health clinician with expertise treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I prescribe discerningly for adult clients who would benefit from a medication's role in their healing process. Additionally, I offer insight-oriented, strength-based psychotherapies which support the brain's natural ability to recover from trauma and attachment wounds. Whether you are accessing mental health treatment for the first time or wish to pursue your healing on a deeper level, I look forward to working together.
I am an experienced mental health clinician with expertise treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I prescribe discerningly for adult clients who would benefit from a medication's role in their healing process. Additionally, I offer insight-oriented, strength-based psychotherapies which support the brain's natural ability to recover from trauma and attachment wounds. Whether you are accessing mental health treatment for the first time or wish to pursue your healing on a deeper level, I look forward to working together.
Geoffrey Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority with specialty in Psychiatry. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, formulate diagnoses and prescribe evidence based-medication and supportive therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In particular, I have a specialized interest in the treatment of Autism, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, psychotic symptoms and ADHD. Through my experience I have come to conceptualize clients and their psychiatric issues as a complex union of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I aim to provide treatment that is patient-centered, supportive, collaborative, safe and non-judgmental.
I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority with specialty in Psychiatry. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, formulate diagnoses and prescribe evidence based-medication and supportive therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In particular, I have a specialized interest in the treatment of Autism, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, psychotic symptoms and ADHD. Through my experience I have come to conceptualize clients and their psychiatric issues as a complex union of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I aim to provide treatment that is patient-centered, supportive, collaborative, safe and non-judgmental.
Jesse P McClelland
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
I want to personally invite new clients to my psychiatry practice. I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing innovative, insightful care to my clients. I enjoy collaborating with adult clients with mental health issues who are serious about taking control of their life's journey. I relate personally to you. I understand your struggles, having been diagnosed and treated for ADHD myself. Not surprisingly, my special emphasis in my practice is treating ADHD/ADD, as I believe I have a unique insight into the treatment and therapy that might work best.
I want to personally invite new clients to my psychiatry practice. I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing innovative, insightful care to my clients. I enjoy collaborating with adult clients with mental health issues who are serious about taking control of their life's journey. I relate personally to you. I understand your struggles, having been diagnosed and treated for ADHD myself. Not surprisingly, my special emphasis in my practice is treating ADHD/ADD, as I believe I have a unique insight into the treatment and therapy that might work best.
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Dr. Katherine Glass @ Montenegro And Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98195 (Online Only)
As a triple boarded physician, I completed my residency at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, ranked number 1 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. My integrated training in pediatrics and psychiatry offers a unique perspective, combining expertise in both fields to provide comprehensive mental health assessments.
As a triple boarded physician, I completed my residency at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, ranked number 1 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. My integrated training in pediatrics and psychiatry offers a unique perspective, combining expertise in both fields to provide comprehensive mental health assessments.
Season Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP-BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Not accepting new clients
Mental health problems like Depression and Anxiety are common and treatable mental disorders that cause dysfunction in one’s life and can further lead to social problems, broken relationships and diseases. A lot has been going on in our world today and for some it has been harder to bounce back. Treatment with medication can help get you back on track so you can live a life with less mental pain, constant self criticism, anxious fears and feelings of worthlessness.
Mental health problems like Depression and Anxiety are common and treatable mental disorders that cause dysfunction in one’s life and can further lead to social problems, broken relationships and diseases. A lot has been going on in our world today and for some it has been harder to bounce back. Treatment with medication can help get you back on track so you can live a life with less mental pain, constant self criticism, anxious fears and feelings of worthlessness.
Sydney Berkman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
I work with people of all ages to understand and work toward their goals for a more fulfilling life. I meet all clients with an individualized and trauma informed approach, recognizing that no one can truly understand another's unique experience. I work with clients living with symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns. I specialize in adolescents and young adults, and am passionate about partnering with young people to develop the skills and language necessary to advocate for their mental wellbeing.
I work with people of all ages to understand and work toward their goals for a more fulfilling life. I meet all clients with an individualized and trauma informed approach, recognizing that no one can truly understand another's unique experience. I work with clients living with symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns. I specialize in adolescents and young adults, and am passionate about partnering with young people to develop the skills and language necessary to advocate for their mental wellbeing.
Dr. Kerry Conant @ Montenegro And Associates
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98195 (Online Only)
Having completed her medical education at University of New England College of osteopathic medicine, Dr. Conant brings a strength, space perspective of finding health in a family system and individually. Dr. Conant completed a combined adult psychiatry residency with her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Massachusetts in Worcester, where she developed her expertise in Autism and Neuropsychiatry. Following her graduation, she worked for two years as an attending physician on the inpatient child psychiatry unit for Mass General Hospital for Children at Northshore Medical Center.
Having completed her medical education at University of New England College of osteopathic medicine, Dr. Conant brings a strength, space perspective of finding health in a family system and individually. Dr. Conant completed a combined adult psychiatry residency with her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Massachusetts in Worcester, where she developed her expertise in Autism and Neuropsychiatry. Following her graduation, she worked for two years as an attending physician on the inpatient child psychiatry unit for Mass General Hospital for Children at Northshore Medical Center.
Glory Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Dr. Nwankwo is a doctoral prepared and licensed dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California, and Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, Minnesota. Dr. Nwankwo provides her clients with empathetic, evidence-based, patient-centered care with the goal of restoring health and balance. She assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders using pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions.
Dr. Nwankwo is a doctoral prepared and licensed dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California, and Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, Minnesota. Dr. Nwankwo provides her clients with empathetic, evidence-based, patient-centered care with the goal of restoring health and balance. She assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders using pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions.
Rafael Achacoso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to offer a safe, warm, and inviting space. I provide comprehensive medication management, ensuring that any medications prescribed are effectively addressing your symptoms while minimizing side effects. As an immigrant from the Philippines & a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I offer a distinct viewpoint on mental health. My experience as an inpatient psychiatric provider, treating clients with complex symptoms and those in active crisis, significantly deepens my understanding and knowledge base.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to offer a safe, warm, and inviting space. I provide comprehensive medication management, ensuring that any medications prescribed are effectively addressing your symptoms while minimizing side effects. As an immigrant from the Philippines & a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I offer a distinct viewpoint on mental health. My experience as an inpatient psychiatric provider, treating clients with complex symptoms and those in active crisis, significantly deepens my understanding and knowledge base.
MiraMinds Holistic Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, ACNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. I strive to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness and work diligently to help my clients achieve a better quality of life. I work with children and adults struggling with varying mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call to schedule an appointment NOW.
Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. I strive to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness and work diligently to help my clients achieve a better quality of life. I work with children and adults struggling with varying mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call to schedule an appointment NOW.
Mercygrace Mental Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
Maycelin Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
I am a doctoral-prepared licensed Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a strong background in acute, subacute and chronic mental health disorders stemming from at least 10 years of inpatient psychiatric and mental health care experience. Though I am certified to work with all ages, I believe that I especially excel in working with adult individuals who are particularly having difficulty from various mood disorders and anxiety disorders along with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
I am a doctoral-prepared licensed Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a strong background in acute, subacute and chronic mental health disorders stemming from at least 10 years of inpatient psychiatric and mental health care experience. Though I am certified to work with all ages, I believe that I especially excel in working with adult individuals who are particularly having difficulty from various mood disorders and anxiety disorders along with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
85% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | Premera |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.