Psychiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ

Photo of Kim Leight, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
Kim Leight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PsyNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience treating patients with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder and autism spectrum disorder. I have experience caring for individuals of all ages. As a medical professional, my main responsibility is to prescribe and manage medication. I encourage mindfulness practices as a way to approach all aspects of living. I stress the importance of healthy nutrition, exercise and the practice of good sleep hygiene. This allows me to take as conservative an approach as possible with medication.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience treating patients with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder and autism spectrum disorder. I have experience caring for individuals of all ages. As a medical professional, my main responsibility is to prescribe and manage medication. I encourage mindfulness practices as a way to approach all aspects of living. I stress the importance of healthy nutrition, exercise and the practice of good sleep hygiene. This allows me to take as conservative an approach as possible with medication.
(602) 845-8635 View (602) 845-8635
Photo of Samar A Jasser, Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ
Samar A Jasser
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85259  (Online Only)
I do not have an "ideal client." The ideal I strive for is to meet each person where they are and come to know who they are as a person first, in the process of trying to help them find some understanding around possible diagnoses and treatment interventions. In today's transactional healthcare world, the doctor-patient relationship has been sidelined in its role as the core medium by which any healing and/or understanding can happen. My goal every day of my practice is to restore the centrality and valuation of that relationship. Only from there can an "ideal client" feel comfortable enough to share their vulnerabilities.
I do not have an "ideal client." The ideal I strive for is to meet each person where they are and come to know who they are as a person first, in the process of trying to help them find some understanding around possible diagnoses and treatment interventions. In today's transactional healthcare world, the doctor-patient relationship has been sidelined in its role as the core medium by which any healing and/or understanding can happen. My goal every day of my practice is to restore the centrality and valuation of that relationship. Only from there can an "ideal client" feel comfortable enough to share their vulnerabilities.
(520) 415-0818 View (520) 415-0818
Photo of New Wave Health and Wellness, Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ
New Wave Health and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
At New Wave we believe mental health has been declining in the U.S. over the past few years and is nearing an all-time low. Whether you have minor struggles or a psychiatric illness we can evaluate and customize treatment based on the most up to date science. Because no two people are the same, we pride ourselves in using innovative methods and technology to provide a unique experience for our patient. We are a full spectrum Psychiatric, Addiction Medicine, and Ketamine infusion practice with medication treatment, psychotherapy, addiction therapy and counseling with sensitivity and a niche for treating professionals.
At New Wave we believe mental health has been declining in the U.S. over the past few years and is nearing an all-time low. Whether you have minor struggles or a psychiatric illness we can evaluate and customize treatment based on the most up to date science. Because no two people are the same, we pride ourselves in using innovative methods and technology to provide a unique experience for our patient. We are a full spectrum Psychiatric, Addiction Medicine, and Ketamine infusion practice with medication treatment, psychotherapy, addiction therapy and counseling with sensitivity and a niche for treating professionals.
(480) 424-4962 View (480) 424-4962
Photo of Amen Clinics Phoenix, Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ
Amen Clinics Phoenix
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
We offer the highest level of psychiatric care with targeted treatment plans customized to our patient’s specific situation, using the least toxic, most effective methods. We are unique from the way traditional psychiatry is practiced because we look at the organ we treat through the use of SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) imaging. All of the practitioners at the nationwide Amen Clinics locations are board certified and have been personally handpicked and trained by Dr. Amen in his method.
We offer the highest level of psychiatric care with targeted treatment plans customized to our patient’s specific situation, using the least toxic, most effective methods. We are unique from the way traditional psychiatry is practiced because we look at the organ we treat through the use of SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) imaging. All of the practitioners at the nationwide Amen Clinics locations are board certified and have been personally handpicked and trained by Dr. Amen in his method.
(480) 780-3794 View (480) 780-3794
Photo of Smink Achila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Smink Achila is Board certified Nurse practitioner with years of experience in dealing with mental health issues. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or any other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Please, allow him the chance to be part of your journey towards gaining your optimum level of functioning despite what life throws at you. He specializes in treating both adolescents, adults and geriatric clients with issues with mental health. let's start the journey.
Smink Achila is Board certified Nurse practitioner with years of experience in dealing with mental health issues. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or any other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Please, allow him the chance to be part of your journey towards gaining your optimum level of functioning despite what life throws at you. He specializes in treating both adolescents, adults and geriatric clients with issues with mental health. let's start the journey.
(602) 598-5091 View (602) 598-5091
Photo of Niki Traub, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
Niki Traub
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Hello - I am happy that you are here! Asking for help is not an easy thing to do. Whatever challenge you may be facing, I am here to meet you where you are, support your emotional health and ability to live your best life. You will find that I am a great listener, open-minded, nonjudgemental, and accepting. My ideal client is a person that is curious about what the options for feeling better are and they are ready to explore these options together. I see my role as an educator and/or "tour-guide" for your mental health journey. When medication is recommended, my goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits.
Hello - I am happy that you are here! Asking for help is not an easy thing to do. Whatever challenge you may be facing, I am here to meet you where you are, support your emotional health and ability to live your best life. You will find that I am a great listener, open-minded, nonjudgemental, and accepting. My ideal client is a person that is curious about what the options for feeling better are and they are ready to explore these options together. I see my role as an educator and/or "tour-guide" for your mental health journey. When medication is recommended, my goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits.
(480) 576-5759 View (480) 576-5759
Photo of Ryan Thebo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
(480) 690-3342 View (480) 690-3342
Photo of Katrina Kaczmarek, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
Katrina Kaczmarek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience treating patients with ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety, PMDD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD and autism spectrum disorder. I offer psychiatric medication management. To request an appointment, call, text or email. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation before scheduling your first appointment. I have experience caring for individuals of all ages. As a medical professional, my main responsibility is to prescribe and manage medication and to offer supporting listening through psychotherapy.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience treating patients with ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety, PMDD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD and autism spectrum disorder. I offer psychiatric medication management. To request an appointment, call, text or email. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation before scheduling your first appointment. I have experience caring for individuals of all ages. As a medical professional, my main responsibility is to prescribe and manage medication and to offer supporting listening through psychotherapy.
(480) 605-2393 View (480) 605-2393
Photo of Janet Melvin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
Janet Melvin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, MSNED
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I am board-certified with Arizona as an Advanced Practice Nurse with specializations in Psychiatry and Family Practice. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of nursing, including the most recent 8 years in advanced practice. A former nursing professor and educator, I have experience that spans across multiple clinical settings including skilled nursing facilities/long-term care, serious mental illness clinic, and private practice. My primary focus is to help bring healing to your mind, body, and spirit by helping you restore emotional, mental, and physical balance to your life.
I am board-certified with Arizona as an Advanced Practice Nurse with specializations in Psychiatry and Family Practice. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of nursing, including the most recent 8 years in advanced practice. A former nursing professor and educator, I have experience that spans across multiple clinical settings including skilled nursing facilities/long-term care, serious mental illness clinic, and private practice. My primary focus is to help bring healing to your mind, body, and spirit by helping you restore emotional, mental, and physical balance to your life.
(602) 671-0273 View (602) 671-0273
Photo of Desanne Gonsalves, Physician Assistant in Scottsdale, AZ
Desanne Gonsalves
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(480) 605-5044 View (480) 605-5044
Photo of Desanne Gonsalves, Physician Assistant in Scottsdale, AZ
Desanne Gonsalves
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(480) 470-9498 View (480) 470-9498
Photo of At Your Service Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
At Your Service Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
100% Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
100% Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
Photo of Alvin Burstein, Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ
Alvin Burstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I specialize in helping people with complex problems who have not yet responded to treatment. Problems can include compound psychiatric illnesses, medical, neurologic, or pharmacologic problems.
I specialize in helping people with complex problems who have not yet responded to treatment. Problems can include compound psychiatric illnesses, medical, neurologic, or pharmacologic problems.
(480) 905-8755 View (480) 905-8755
Photo of Sarah Etinfoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
Sarah Etinfoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
Sarah Etinfoh, PMHNP-BC is a dedicated and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 8 years of experience in Mental Health.  She works with patients across the lifespan starting at age 4, diagnosing and treating a range of mental, emotional, behavioral, and mood disorders.  My goal is to help each patient realize there full potential and to empower them to be part of their individualized treatment plan. Together we will tailor a plan that will address your holistic needs Mind and body. .
Sarah Etinfoh, PMHNP-BC is a dedicated and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 8 years of experience in Mental Health.  She works with patients across the lifespan starting at age 4, diagnosing and treating a range of mental, emotional, behavioral, and mood disorders.  My goal is to help each patient realize there full potential and to empower them to be part of their individualized treatment plan. Together we will tailor a plan that will address your holistic needs Mind and body. .
(520) 376-8218 View (520) 376-8218
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
(480) 923-7422 View (480) 923-7422
Photo of Arizona Professionals Health Program, Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ
Arizona Professionals Health Program
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, MRO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am empathetic and highly skilled at treating individuals with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions such as gambling, sex and eating disorders. I understand the prevalence of trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders in patients recovering from substance and/or behavioral addictions, thus I accept patients with dual or multiple diagnoses. Of specific interest to me is working with licensed professionals who have addiction treatment needs. I provide education, intervention, assessment, treatment support, monitoring, and/or relapse prevention to professionals whose licensing and/or ability to practice is at stake.
I am empathetic and highly skilled at treating individuals with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions such as gambling, sex and eating disorders. I understand the prevalence of trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders in patients recovering from substance and/or behavioral addictions, thus I accept patients with dual or multiple diagnoses. Of specific interest to me is working with licensed professionals who have addiction treatment needs. I provide education, intervention, assessment, treatment support, monitoring, and/or relapse prevention to professionals whose licensing and/or ability to practice is at stake.
(520) 462-6251 View (520) 462-6251
Photo of David Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ
David Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
My ideal clients are adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD and/or bipolar disorder. They seek a compassionate professional to understand and manage their conditions. Their goals are to improve mental well-being, gain symptom control, and achieve a balanced life. They desire change, understanding, and strategies to enhance personal and professional relationships, driven by a need for empowerment and improved quality of life.
My ideal clients are adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD and/or bipolar disorder. They seek a compassionate professional to understand and manage their conditions. Their goals are to improve mental well-being, gain symptom control, and achieve a balanced life. They desire change, understanding, and strategies to enhance personal and professional relationships, driven by a need for empowerment and improved quality of life.
(623) 294-2335 View (623) 294-2335
Photo of Fariba Pfitzner, Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ
Fariba Pfitzner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Medical Doctor. My passion is healthy family relationships and individual development. I invest the time to understand you and your children and to help them achieve their full potentials. My mission is to support lifelong emotional and behavioral health in my child and adult patients.
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Medical Doctor. My passion is healthy family relationships and individual development. I invest the time to understand you and your children and to help them achieve their full potentials. My mission is to support lifelong emotional and behavioral health in my child and adult patients.
(480) 481-0858 View (480) 481-0858
Photo of Tanya Feinberg, Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ
Tanya Feinberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
I have many years of experience working with children, teenagers, and adults seeking psychiatric evaluation and knowledgeable, compassionate ongoing treatment. You will find me to be a personable, caring physician who is dedicated to her patient's well-being.
I have many years of experience working with children, teenagers, and adults seeking psychiatric evaluation and knowledgeable, compassionate ongoing treatment. You will find me to be a personable, caring physician who is dedicated to her patient's well-being.
(480) 787-0716 View (480) 787-0716
Photo of Dr. DePalma Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ
Dr. DePalma Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Please go to onepsychiatry.com to schedule appointments and for more information about my practice or call us. I use a combination of methods tailored to each individual patient. Methods used range from medication management to psychotherapy to mindfulness based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and drawing from a broad background in psychopharmacology, molecular biology and combining this psychotherapy training. I am a non-judgmental a provider that will use every tool in my arsenal to help you . To schedule an appointment or to get more information, see onepsychiatry.com.
Please go to onepsychiatry.com to schedule appointments and for more information about my practice or call us. I use a combination of methods tailored to each individual patient. Methods used range from medication management to psychotherapy to mindfulness based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and drawing from a broad background in psychopharmacology, molecular biology and combining this psychotherapy training. I am a non-judgmental a provider that will use every tool in my arsenal to help you . To schedule an appointment or to get more information, see onepsychiatry.com.
(623) 257-7264 View (623) 257-7264

See more therapy options for Scottsdale

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ

100+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Scottsdale?

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.