Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

Photo of Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC, Psychiatrist in Southington, CT
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
(860) 406-7650 x206 View (860) 406-7650 x206
Alessandra Buonopane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Buonopane is a Psychiatrist who is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her degree in Psychiatry in 2000 from the Yale School of Medicine, where she also received an award in Excellence in Teaching and an award in Research on Severe Mental Illness by the American Psychiatric Association. She treats patients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and PTSD. Her practice has a holistic approach, which combines pharmacology with mindfulness, meditation, diet and exercise. Dr. Buonopane supports Ukraine working as volunteer Psychiatrist with TelehelpUkraine.
Dr. Buonopane is a Psychiatrist who is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her degree in Psychiatry in 2000 from the Yale School of Medicine, where she also received an award in Excellence in Teaching and an award in Research on Severe Mental Illness by the American Psychiatric Association. She treats patients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and PTSD. Her practice has a holistic approach, which combines pharmacology with mindfulness, meditation, diet and exercise. Dr. Buonopane supports Ukraine working as volunteer Psychiatrist with TelehelpUkraine.
(475) 219-1050 View (475) 219-1050
Photo of George J Costanzo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
George J Costanzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DC APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489  (Online Only)
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
(860) 863-1289 View (860) 863-1289
Photo of Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Southington, CT 06489
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 Kary Krochko, Psychiatric Nurse in Southington, CT
Kary Krochko
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Verified Verified
Southington, CT 06489
We are currently accepting new clients. We offer Medical Marijuana Treatments for adults in the State of Connecticut.
We are currently accepting new clients. We offer Medical Marijuana Treatments for adults in the State of Connecticut.
(203) 408-7805 View (203) 408-7805
Photo of Destination Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Destination Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Life is just really challenging right now. On the outside, you look like you have it all together. But on the inside, you're falling apart. You think something is wrong but can't quite put your finger on it. You know you need to reach out for help but can’t muster up the energy to do so. Chances are, you have too much on your plate and feel like you’re missing balance and stability. You know you need to take that first step.
Life is just really challenging right now. On the outside, you look like you have it all together. But on the inside, you're falling apart. You think something is wrong but can't quite put your finger on it. You know you need to reach out for help but can’t muster up the energy to do so. Chances are, you have too much on your plate and feel like you’re missing balance and stability. You know you need to take that first step.
(475) 325-5847 View (475) 325-5847
North Star Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
Verified Verified
Southington, CT 06489
(860) 851-4494 View (860) 851-4494

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sanh Angkhavong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Sanh Angkhavong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Terryville, CT 06786
Sanh is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Connecticut who provides medication management to children, adolescents, teens and young adults. Sanh has provided care to individuals with mental illness for 16-years and has a passion for helping others regain control of and successfully navigate their lives. Sanh received her bachelor’s degree from The University of Connecticut and her graduate degree from St. Joseph University.
Sanh is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Connecticut who provides medication management to children, adolescents, teens and young adults. Sanh has provided care to individuals with mental illness for 16-years and has a passion for helping others regain control of and successfully navigate their lives. Sanh received her bachelor’s degree from The University of Connecticut and her graduate degree from St. Joseph University.
(860) 891-2639 View (860) 891-2639
Photo of BE VEry Resilient, L.L.C., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
BE VEry Resilient, L.L.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06052
The mission of BE VEry Resilient is to foster resilience by encouraging, uplifting, restoring, and renewing emotional strength, promoting balanced and stable emotions. Our goal for each individual is to cultivate therapeutic skills that enhance mental well-being and empower effective management of daily challenges. Sheneese, the owner/founder of BE VEry Resilient, brings over 10 years of experience in the nursing field, with a significant focus on mental health. Having practiced as a mental health provider in community outpatient settings, Sheneese has dedicated her career to supporting adults from diverse backgrounds.
The mission of BE VEry Resilient is to foster resilience by encouraging, uplifting, restoring, and renewing emotional strength, promoting balanced and stable emotions. Our goal for each individual is to cultivate therapeutic skills that enhance mental well-being and empower effective management of daily challenges. Sheneese, the owner/founder of BE VEry Resilient, brings over 10 years of experience in the nursing field, with a significant focus on mental health. Having practiced as a mental health provider in community outpatient settings, Sheneese has dedicated her career to supporting adults from diverse backgrounds.
(203) 350-7077 View (203) 350-7077
Photo of Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06053  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
(860) 846-3775 View (860) 846-3775
Photo of Caroline Polsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Caroline Polsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner trained throughout the lifespan with an additional certification in addictions, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health and/or substance use concerns. I am skilled in treating anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Whether you're not feeling like yourself or feeling like your anxieties are controlling you I can help. In order to provide the best quality treatment I look at the client as a whole from a holistic perspective and provide individualized treatment.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner trained throughout the lifespan with an additional certification in addictions, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health and/or substance use concerns. I am skilled in treating anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Whether you're not feeling like yourself or feeling like your anxieties are controlling you I can help. In order to provide the best quality treatment I look at the client as a whole from a holistic perspective and provide individualized treatment.
(475) 405-2930 View (475) 405-2930
Photo of Holly Hillburn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Holly Hillburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry and work with kids, ages 4 to 21. Please visit www.centralpsychiatry.com for details. I've been a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse since 2010 and graduated from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, in Western New York. I have worked alongside child psychiatrists for over a decade and attend the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry annual training academy. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge of pediatric psychopharmacology. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, clarify psychiatric diagnoses, and prescribe psychotropic medication.
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry and work with kids, ages 4 to 21. Please visit www.centralpsychiatry.com for details. I've been a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse since 2010 and graduated from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, in Western New York. I have worked alongside child psychiatrists for over a decade and attend the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry annual training academy. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge of pediatric psychopharmacology. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, clarify psychiatric diagnoses, and prescribe psychotropic medication.
(860) 467-0559 View (860) 467-0559
Photo of Marie Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Marie Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Berlin, CT 06023
I am a highly skilled and accomplished Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. During a significant portion of my career, I worked in different healthcare settings, including the primary care setting, home care setting, and psychiatric mental health. She collaborated with interdisciplinary team members from initial patient assessments to treatment planning, medication management, counseling, and discharge. I have maintained a strong commitment to Best Practices, standards of excellence, and continuous improvement.
I am a highly skilled and accomplished Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. During a significant portion of my career, I worked in different healthcare settings, including the primary care setting, home care setting, and psychiatric mental health. She collaborated with interdisciplinary team members from initial patient assessments to treatment planning, medication management, counseling, and discharge. I have maintained a strong commitment to Best Practices, standards of excellence, and continuous improvement.
(860) 775-4975 View (860) 775-4975
Photo of Psych On Demand, & Man Up Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Psych On Demand, & Man Up Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06011  (Online Only)
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering 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 Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am an expert in clinical psychopharmacology and I treat all adult and pediatric disorders I see individuals from their early teens through middle age and beyond...
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering 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 Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am an expert in clinical psychopharmacology and I treat all adult and pediatric disorders I see individuals from their early teens through middle age and beyond...
(860) 530-4191 View (860) 530-4191
Photo of Sheldon L Hollins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Sheldon L Hollins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06051
People often encounter difficult times in their lives. My aim is to help people to navigate through those times and offer a treatment plan that fits their specific needs.
People often encounter difficult times in their lives. My aim is to help people to navigate through those times and offer a treatment plan that fits their specific needs.
(860) 854-9746 View (860) 854-9746
Photo of Betsy LaRose, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Betsy LaRose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06702
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
(860) 813-3562 View (860) 813-3562
Photo of Five Corners Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Five Corners Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MPH, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032
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
Professional Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111  (Online Only)
My name is Alisa DaCosta Rodrigues. I'm currently based in Connecticut but I am originally from New York City. I completed my graduate degree at Catholic University of America and I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with specialty in psychiatry. I am skilled in assessing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Depression, Bipolar, and so forth. My hobbies outside of work are hiking, biking, and spending time with my family. I look forward in helping you in achieving optimal level of health!"
My name is Alisa DaCosta Rodrigues. I'm currently based in Connecticut but I am originally from New York City. I completed my graduate degree at Catholic University of America and I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with specialty in psychiatry. I am skilled in assessing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Depression, Bipolar, and so forth. My hobbies outside of work are hiking, biking, and spending time with my family. I look forward in helping you in achieving optimal level of health!"
(860) 813-3672 View (860) 813-3672
Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, 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 William Yang, Psychiatrist in Southington, CT
William Yang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06030  (Online Only)
Virtual appointments only - I am a dedicated and compassionate board certified psychiatrist committed to helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being. I help my patients better understand the complex nature of the human mind and address the diverse range of mental health challenges that they may be facing. I believe in a person-centered approach, incorporating evidence-based treatments and therapeutic interventions to support my patients on their journey towards healing and growth.
Virtual appointments only - I am a dedicated and compassionate board certified psychiatrist committed to helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being. I help my patients better understand the complex nature of the human mind and address the diverse range of mental health challenges that they may be facing. I believe in a person-centered approach, incorporating evidence-based treatments and therapeutic interventions to support my patients on their journey towards healing and growth.
(860) 926-5223 View (860) 926-5223

See more therapy options for Southington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Southington, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
86% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Medication Management
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

23 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Optum
80% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Southington, CT see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female

FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Southington?

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.