Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN

Photo of Erika Bales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(629) 276-5592 View (629) 276-5592
Photo of Lisa Kaye Kruger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Lisa Kaye Kruger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Now accepting adult and adolescent patients who are interesting in exploring options for Anxiety disorders, Depression, ADHD, ADD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, adjustment difficulties and child - caregiver difficulties.
Now accepting adult and adolescent patients who are interesting in exploring options for Anxiety disorders, Depression, ADHD, ADD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, adjustment difficulties and child - caregiver difficulties.
(865) 345-5937 View (865) 345-5937
Photo of Edelyn Bishop, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Edelyn Bishop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Edelyn is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner receiving her post-masters PMHNP graduate degree from the University of Tennessee in 2021. She received her Bachelor degree in nursing in 1988 from the University of Connecticut, and has had an over 34 year nursing career in various areas of Psychiatric Nursing including inpatient, outpatient, partial programs, and 14 years of emergency room psychiatric crisis work.
Edelyn is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner receiving her post-masters PMHNP graduate degree from the University of Tennessee in 2021. She received her Bachelor degree in nursing in 1988 from the University of Connecticut, and has had an over 34 year nursing career in various areas of Psychiatric Nursing including inpatient, outpatient, partial programs, and 14 years of emergency room psychiatric crisis work.
(865) 503-5497 View (865) 503-5497
Photo of Hannah Hutchins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Hannah Hutchins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS-Edu, BSN-RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Related Disorders, OCD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Related Disorders, OCD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
(865) 509-9483 View (865) 509-9483
Photo of Rachel Tamaroff, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Rachel Tamaroff
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Many of us struggle with depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and joy from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve a sense of contentedness and fulfillment.
Many of us struggle with depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and joy from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve a sense of contentedness and fulfillment.
(347) 657-7182 View (347) 657-7182
Photo of Hannah Braden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Hannah Braden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Hannah Braden is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Lincoln Memorial University in 2015 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2018. She has experience in caring for patients across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients 18 years and older. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and attention deficit disorder.
Hannah Braden is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Lincoln Memorial University in 2015 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2018. She has experience in caring for patients across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients 18 years and older. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and attention deficit disorder.
(865) 432-0119 View (865) 432-0119
Photo of Scott Baymiller, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Scott Baymiller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Scott Baymiller, M. D, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in the field of medication management for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. "š He graduated medical school at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been on faculty at multiple universities and has worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and community mental health settings. He has also served as medical director of multiple psychiatric hospitals.
Scott Baymiller, M. D, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in the field of medication management for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. "š He graduated medical school at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been on faculty at multiple universities and has worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and community mental health settings. He has also served as medical director of multiple psychiatric hospitals.
(865) 290-2334 View (865) 290-2334
Photo of Ladonna Hubbard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Ladonna Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Maybe you’re looking for a change in your circumstances that are causing constant anxiety, or are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions. Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely.
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Maybe you’re looking for a change in your circumstances that are causing constant anxiety, or are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions. Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely.
(865) 344-6110 View (865) 344-6110
Photo of Mikayla Vican, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Mikayla Vican
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Mikayla Vican is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Nursing degree from South College in 2018 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2022. She also serves in the United States Air Force as an Aerospace Medical Technician since 2014. She has experience in caring for patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients that are 8 years of age and older.
Mikayla Vican is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Nursing degree from South College in 2018 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2022. She also serves in the United States Air Force as an Aerospace Medical Technician since 2014. She has experience in caring for patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients that are 8 years of age and older.
(865) 395-6096 View (865) 395-6096
Photo of Al Mathewson, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Al Mathewson
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Al Mathewson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2004. He holds an MSW degree from the University of South Carolina, as well as an MSN from the University of Tennessee. Al works collaboratively with his clients to build a plan that will work best for them. Outside of work, Al enjoys photography, playing guitar, and spending time with his granddaughters.
Al Mathewson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2004. He holds an MSW degree from the University of South Carolina, as well as an MSN from the University of Tennessee. Al works collaboratively with his clients to build a plan that will work best for them. Outside of work, Al enjoys photography, playing guitar, and spending time with his granddaughters.
(865) 302-3459 View (865) 302-3459
Photo of Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-CNL
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
(865) 213-7490 View (865) 213-7490
Photo of Tammy Ellington, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Tammy Ellington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP, DNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Tammy Ellington is an ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in both private practice and community mental health settings, and has experience treating anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders, OCD, prolonged grief, postpartum depression, anger and impulse control issues, conduct disorders, ODD, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, executive function deficits, sensory integration issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and co-occurring substance use.
Tammy Ellington is an ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in both private practice and community mental health settings, and has experience treating anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders, OCD, prolonged grief, postpartum depression, anger and impulse control issues, conduct disorders, ODD, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, executive function deficits, sensory integration issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and co-occurring substance use.
(865) 432-0319 View (865) 432-0319
Photo of Patti Reposa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Patti Reposa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues by providing assessment and medication management. I serve as the Managing Partner at Knoxville Family Psychiatry and and provide mentoring and guidance to the other nurse practitioners in the practice and how best to serve their patients. In my own practice, I love working with people who are highly motivated and take great joy when they have the opportunity to experience positive change in their lives.
I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues by providing assessment and medication management. I serve as the Managing Partner at Knoxville Family Psychiatry and and provide mentoring and guidance to the other nurse practitioners in the practice and how best to serve their patients. In my own practice, I love working with people who are highly motivated and take great joy when they have the opportunity to experience positive change in their lives.
(865) 269-6729 View (865) 269-6729
Photo of Mind Matters Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Mind Matters Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN`, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
My journey began in the ICU, caring for society's most vulnerable as they fought for their lives. Though we saved many, I yearned to do more - to truly improve their quality of life. This calling led me to psychiatry, where I now have the privilege of walking with people on their road to recovery. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I draw on 7 years of nursing experience and 2 years specializing in mental health to meet each person where they are. My goal is not just to prolong life, but to improve it.
My journey began in the ICU, caring for society's most vulnerable as they fought for their lives. Though we saved many, I yearned to do more - to truly improve their quality of life. This calling led me to psychiatry, where I now have the privilege of walking with people on their road to recovery. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I draw on 7 years of nursing experience and 2 years specializing in mental health to meet each person where they are. My goal is not just to prolong life, but to improve it.
(865) 290-7619 View (865) 290-7619
Photo of Amber Redfield, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Amber Redfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amber Redfield is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Tennessee. She obtained her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan College and her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of Tennessee. Amber has been working in mental health nursing since 2007 in inpatient and outpatient community mental health and since May 2018, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in community outpatient. She additionally has experience as a nurse practitioner in addiction, working in detox since 2020. Amber is certified to treat people over the lifespan.
Amber Redfield is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Tennessee. She obtained her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan College and her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of Tennessee. Amber has been working in mental health nursing since 2007 in inpatient and outpatient community mental health and since May 2018, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in community outpatient. She additionally has experience as a nurse practitioner in addiction, working in detox since 2020. Amber is certified to treat people over the lifespan.
(865) 217-0570 View (865) 217-0570
Photo of Amy Rosenbalm, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Amy Rosenbalm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
(865) 375-9194 View (865) 375-9194
Photo of Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am passionate about women's mental health. In today's world, there are many pressures of life that can cause mental health illnesses. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am also a Certified Nurse Midwife. I love working with women who are struggling with mental health needs as well. Breastfeeding is NOT a limiter for medications! Let me help you manage your mental health today!
I am passionate about women's mental health. In today's world, there are many pressures of life that can cause mental health illnesses. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am also a Certified Nurse Midwife. I love working with women who are struggling with mental health needs as well. Breastfeeding is NOT a limiter for medications! Let me help you manage your mental health today!
(865) 302-3722 View (865) 302-3722
Photo of Healthy Living Medical Services LLC, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Healthy Living Medical Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
(865) 276-7022 View (865) 276-7022
Photo of Resa Noe-Norman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Resa Noe-Norman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Resa Noe-Norman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Resa offers her clients unconditional positive regard. Outside of work, Resa enjoys spending time with her animals, including 3 dogs, 7 bunnies and fish. She enjoys working out, dancing and gymnastics.
Resa Noe-Norman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Resa offers her clients unconditional positive regard. Outside of work, Resa enjoys spending time with her animals, including 3 dogs, 7 bunnies and fish. She enjoys working out, dancing and gymnastics.
(865) 375-8727 View (865) 375-8727
Photo of Lori Hestand, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Lori Hestand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
I have been a nurse practitioner for about 15 years. I was a pediatric nurse practitioner for 12 years. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for the last 3 years. I see clients of all ages. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder. I enjoy partnering with my clients to develop an individualized treatment plan.
I have been a nurse practitioner for about 15 years. I was a pediatric nurse practitioner for 12 years. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for the last 3 years. I see clients of all ages. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder. I enjoy partnering with my clients to develop an individualized treatment plan.
(865) 213-7605 View (865) 213-7605

Nearby Searches for Knoxville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
90% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
92% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male

FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Knoxville?

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.