Psychiatrists in Portland, CT

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Photo of One Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of Central Connecticut Behavioral Health, LLC, Psychiatrist in Portland, CT
Central Connecticut Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Providing quality care to all our satisfied clients through a comprehensive array of services, convenience and timely access. Our Expert, and caring team of clinicians with more than 30 yrs in the field of Psychiatry. We are multilingual with fluency in English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi and treat patients age 18 and over. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation including thorough evaluation of your medical records, Extensive psychiatric interview and explanation of treatment plan .
Providing quality care to all our satisfied clients through a comprehensive array of services, convenience and timely access. Our Expert, and caring team of clinicians with more than 30 yrs in the field of Psychiatry. We are multilingual with fluency in English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi and treat patients age 18 and over. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation including thorough evaluation of your medical records, Extensive psychiatric interview and explanation of treatment plan .
(860) 248-2391 View (860) 248-2391
Photo of Five Corners Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Five Corners Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MPH, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
Marti Stewart is a Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. She sees patients age 16 and up. Marti’s specialties include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Depression.
Marti Stewart is a Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. She sees patients age 16 and up. Marti’s specialties include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Depression.
(860) 821-7678 View (860) 821-7678
Photo of Advanced Telepsych, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Advanced Telepsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
I am a doctoral level psychiatric nurse practitioner, board certified and trained at Yale University. I have 21 years of experience diagnosing and assessing mental health issues as well as prescribing medications for such issues. In addition, I have 27 years of experience in mental health treatment in general. I began my career as a psychotherapist and then furthered my education to include medical practice.
I am a doctoral level psychiatric nurse practitioner, board certified and trained at Yale University. I have 21 years of experience diagnosing and assessing mental health issues as well as prescribing medications for such issues. In addition, I have 27 years of experience in mental health treatment in general. I began my career as a psychotherapist and then furthered my education to include medical practice.
(888) 344-3893 View (888) 344-3893
Photo of Francine Augeri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Francine Augeri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MS, CS
Verified Verified
Cromwell, CT 06416
I have 30 years experience in psychiatry. I provide adult clients comprehensive medication evaluations and/or psychotherapy for psychiatric disorders. I have expertise treating anxiety and mood disorders.
I have 30 years experience in psychiatry. I provide adult clients comprehensive medication evaluations and/or psychotherapy for psychiatric disorders. I have expertise treating anxiety and mood disorders.
(833) 549-1001 View (833) 549-1001
Photo of Michelle Nwigwe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Michelle Nwigwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Cromwell, CT 06416  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(959) 265-2971 View (959) 265-2971
Photo of Jay Seigel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Jay Seigel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
(203) 717-4433 View (203) 717-4433
Photo of Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
East Hampton, CT 06424
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
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Photo of Shelly Foster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Shelly Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Hampton, CT 06424  (Online Only)
I believe in decreasing stigma and barriers that prevent individuals from seeking mental health treatment. I have a holistic view of a person’s health and integrate this into clinical decisions. I believe in creating a trusting therapeutic relationship where the individual feels supported, validated, and listened to in a non-judgmental manner. I am passionate about providing quality service with empathy and patience. I hope to work in conjunction with therapists in Connecticut with the understanding that psychotherapy and medication management are evidence-based interventions and when combined provide the safest and best outcome.
I believe in decreasing stigma and barriers that prevent individuals from seeking mental health treatment. I have a holistic view of a person’s health and integrate this into clinical decisions. I believe in creating a trusting therapeutic relationship where the individual feels supported, validated, and listened to in a non-judgmental manner. I am passionate about providing quality service with empathy and patience. I hope to work in conjunction with therapists in Connecticut with the understanding that psychotherapy and medication management are evidence-based interventions and when combined provide the safest and best outcome.
(860) 530-6033 View (860) 530-6033
Photo of NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
(860) 854-1764 View (860) 854-1764
Photo of Marsha Charlton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Marsha Charlton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and skilled PMHNP with dual-board certifications in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I obtained my BSN from the University of Massachusetts Boston. I then received a MSN specializing in family medicine from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. I earned a Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Massachusetts Worcester Medical School. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in diverse healthcare settings, including primary care, surgical, psychiatric, and within the VA healthcare system, where I dedicated my services to veterans.
I am a compassionate and skilled PMHNP with dual-board certifications in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I obtained my BSN from the University of Massachusetts Boston. I then received a MSN specializing in family medicine from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. I earned a Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Massachusetts Worcester Medical School. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in diverse healthcare settings, including primary care, surgical, psychiatric, and within the VA healthcare system, where I dedicated my services to veterans.
(475) 252-4435 View (475) 252-4435
Photo of Emily Friedman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Emily Friedman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
With more than 8 years of experience working in the mental health field helping clients achieve their vision of wellness, stability and peace, I offer a safe, affirming, nonjudgmental space to share where you've been and envision where you'd like to go. I have worked in substance use disorder programs as well as intensive outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings.
With more than 8 years of experience working in the mental health field helping clients achieve their vision of wellness, stability and peace, I offer a safe, affirming, nonjudgmental space to share where you've been and envision where you'd like to go. I have worked in substance use disorder programs as well as intensive outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings.
(475) 897-5578 View (475) 897-5578
Photo of Fredo J Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Fredo J Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
Accepting New Patient on a limited basis. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient on a limited basis. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 901-0520 View (860) 901-0520
Photo of Stéphane P Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Stéphane P Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 431-3331 View (860) 431-3331
Photo of Debra Sicilian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Debra Sicilian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
My name is Debra Sicilian, and I am a dedicated psychiatric consultant offering open and genuine support for your well-being. With extensive clinical experience, I deeply grasp brain function, medications, and treatments. My unwavering commitment to uncovering the root causes behind distressing symptoms is what sets me apart. The complexity of the brain, governing various aspects of our being, drives my fascination. I acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's neurodiversity, influencing treatment responses.
My name is Debra Sicilian, and I am a dedicated psychiatric consultant offering open and genuine support for your well-being. With extensive clinical experience, I deeply grasp brain function, medications, and treatments. My unwavering commitment to uncovering the root causes behind distressing symptoms is what sets me apart. The complexity of the brain, governing various aspects of our being, drives my fascination. I acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's neurodiversity, influencing treatment responses.
(475) 405-2067 View (475) 405-2067
Photo of Deborah L Collins-Perrica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Deborah L Collins-Perrica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNS, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Deborah Collins-Perrica APRN is a board certified Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the treatment of mental illness providing the following: comprehensive diagnostic evaluations; medication ordering and management; psychotherapy; nutritional medicine; weight loss support; psychotherapy during pregnancy, and termination or abortion trauma; ordering and interpretation of blood and lab tests; referrals for consultation to other specialists as needed.
Deborah Collins-Perrica APRN is a board certified Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the treatment of mental illness providing the following: comprehensive diagnostic evaluations; medication ordering and management; psychotherapy; nutritional medicine; weight loss support; psychotherapy during pregnancy, and termination or abortion trauma; ordering and interpretation of blood and lab tests; referrals for consultation to other specialists as needed.
(860) 356-3756 View (860) 356-3756
Matthew Robbins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
My practice focuses on a medical-biological approach to human health. Together we can target specific pathways in the brain to treat a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Men’s Health, bipolar disorder and substance dependence. I am passionate about understanding and providing education regarding the science of mental health. Whether you are struggling day to day or looking to take your current situation to the next level there is a solution and hope for you.
My practice focuses on a medical-biological approach to human health. Together we can target specific pathways in the brain to treat a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Men’s Health, bipolar disorder and substance dependence. I am passionate about understanding and providing education regarding the science of mental health. Whether you are struggling day to day or looking to take your current situation to the next level there is a solution and hope for you.
(860) 784-7681 View (860) 784-7681
Photo of Michael Valalik, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, CT
Michael Valalik
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
Thank you for considering my practice for your mental health care. I provide medication management services for adults who are already seeing a therapist regularly for psychotherapy.
Thank you for considering my practice for your mental health care. I provide medication management services for adults who are already seeing a therapist regularly for psychotherapy.
(203) 479-9488 View (203) 479-9488
Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Sarah Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, bipolar disorder, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, bipolar disorder, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(860) 898-9216 View (860) 898-9216
Photo of Sound Mynd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, CT
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN,, APRN, FNP-C, PMHPBC
Verified Verified
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
(860) 775-6069 View (860) 775-6069

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Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Portland, CT who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in Portland, CT see their clients

2% Online Only
1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?

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.