Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY
Svetlana Zak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11235 (Online Only)
I can help you figure out the best medication to take for your symptoms. I have been practicing the art of psychopharmacology for 17 years. Getting on the right medication can be life changing. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood swings and ADHD can be reduced dramatically with medication. Many of my patients are surprised how well the medication can work. If you have tried therapy unsuccessfully, you may need to start a medication regimen that only an experienced psychiatric NP can put together. I see adults age 18 and up.
I can help you figure out the best medication to take for your symptoms. I have been practicing the art of psychopharmacology for 17 years. Getting on the right medication can be life changing. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood swings and ADHD can be reduced dramatically with medication. Many of my patients are surprised how well the medication can work. If you have tried therapy unsuccessfully, you may need to start a medication regimen that only an experienced psychiatric NP can put together. I see adults age 18 and up.
Orenda Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222 (Online Only)
My name is Kimberly Levitt. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health treatment that prioritizes individual need. I encourage each patient to take an active role in their treatment as this overwhelmingly results in successful outcomes. I have experience in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. I try to fully understand my patients and I provide a therapeutic space for them to feel comfortable sharing their story. I combine medication with talk therapy in each session.
My name is Kimberly Levitt. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health treatment that prioritizes individual need. I encourage each patient to take an active role in their treatment as this overwhelmingly results in successful outcomes. I have experience in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. I try to fully understand my patients and I provide a therapeutic space for them to feel comfortable sharing their story. I combine medication with talk therapy in each session.
Levi Welton
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MEd
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11206 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatry Physician Assistant specializing in telehealth, I provide compassionate care to individuals, particularly focusing on anxiety and depression. My evidence-based approach emphasizes medication management tailored to each patient's needs, complemented by collaborative support from therapists and other healthcare professionals. With extensive experience treating patients over 12 years old, I understand the nuances of adolescent and adult mental health. As an observant Jew, I am familiar with the Jewish lifestyle, ensuring a culturally sensitive approach to care while welcoming individuals of all backgrounds and faiths.
As a Psychiatry Physician Assistant specializing in telehealth, I provide compassionate care to individuals, particularly focusing on anxiety and depression. My evidence-based approach emphasizes medication management tailored to each patient's needs, complemented by collaborative support from therapists and other healthcare professionals. With extensive experience treating patients over 12 years old, I understand the nuances of adolescent and adult mental health. As an observant Jew, I am familiar with the Jewish lifestyle, ensuring a culturally sensitive approach to care while welcoming individuals of all backgrounds and faiths.
Fadekemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234 (Online Only)
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Offerring comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Offerring comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder
Laura Bevilacqua
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11231
You have taken a big step in seeking help. When I meet with you in my practice, I will want to get to know you and understand your challenges, strengths, and goals. Together we will come up with a plan which may include psychotherapy and, if necessary, medication. Through this process, my hope is to help you gain clarity and self-knowledge, relieve your suffering, improve your relationships, and support you in building a full and meaningful life.
You have taken a big step in seeking help. When I meet with you in my practice, I will want to get to know you and understand your challenges, strengths, and goals. Together we will come up with a plan which may include psychotherapy and, if necessary, medication. Through this process, my hope is to help you gain clarity and self-knowledge, relieve your suffering, improve your relationships, and support you in building a full and meaningful life.
Orenda Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222 (Online Only)
Dr. Jarvis, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, considering the mind, body, and spirit. She values the patient as an active partner in their care, striving to empower them in managing their health journey. Dr. Jarvis offers comprehensive services, including psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and culturally sensitive care. Patients under her care feel genuinely supported, heard, and empowered, fostering hope for positive improvements in their situations.
Dr. Jarvis, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, considering the mind, body, and spirit. She values the patient as an active partner in their care, striving to empower them in managing their health journey. Dr. Jarvis offers comprehensive services, including psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and culturally sensitive care. Patients under her care feel genuinely supported, heard, and empowered, fostering hope for positive improvements in their situations.
Vera Udebhulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11208
Vera Udebhulu is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner who renders services to young teen and older adults (age range 14 and older). She has worked in different settings providing care to individuals and families suffering from acute to chronic mental illness. Vera is very passionate about delivering comprehensive, integrated, and individualized care to those seeking her services. She has been providing mental health services since 2013 and truly believes that effectively engaging her clients is an integral part of successful treatment.
Vera Udebhulu is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner who renders services to young teen and older adults (age range 14 and older). She has worked in different settings providing care to individuals and families suffering from acute to chronic mental illness. Vera is very passionate about delivering comprehensive, integrated, and individualized care to those seeking her services. She has been providing mental health services since 2013 and truly believes that effectively engaging her clients is an integral part of successful treatment.
Kabiite Mukisa Okello
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I am Dr. Kabiite Mukisa Okello, a doctor-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 2 decades of experience. My practice style is versatile, offering evidence-based psychiatric medications and alternative natural treatments. I believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit for optimal well-being. With a kind and detail-oriented approach, I tailor treatments to each patient's unique needs, ensuring patient-centered care and effective outcomes. Together, we create an agreeable evidence-based treatment plan, leading to happy and healthy patients!
I am Dr. Kabiite Mukisa Okello, a doctor-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 2 decades of experience. My practice style is versatile, offering evidence-based psychiatric medications and alternative natural treatments. I believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit for optimal well-being. With a kind and detail-oriented approach, I tailor treatments to each patient's unique needs, ensuring patient-centered care and effective outcomes. Together, we create an agreeable evidence-based treatment plan, leading to happy and healthy patients!
Shalita Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11230
Hello, my name is Shalita Clark, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practioner with a clinical career in outpatient settings. I specialize in managing the care of adults with depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and adjustment disorders. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation, monitoring, and management.
Hello, my name is Shalita Clark, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practioner with a clinical career in outpatient settings. I specialize in managing the care of adults with depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and adjustment disorders. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation, monitoring, and management.
Christina L Persaud
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Online Only)
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
Tanya Azarani
Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist with training in conventional and alternative medicine. I treat adults of all ages with many conditions including anxiety, depression, insomnia, relationship difficulties, sexual orientation and gender identity concerns. I have experience working with college and graduate students and professionals with occupational burnout.
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist with training in conventional and alternative medicine. I treat adults of all ages with many conditions including anxiety, depression, insomnia, relationship difficulties, sexual orientation and gender identity concerns. I have experience working with college and graduate students and professionals with occupational burnout.
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Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222
As your psychiatrist, I work hard to understand the history and circumstances that have led you to seek help. Accurate diagnosis is important, but many issues we face are not captured by diagnosis alone. I aim to create a treatment plan that suits your unique needs. Using psychotherapy and medication, I treat mood disorders (such as depression or bipolar), anxiety disorders, attention-deficit disorder/attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder, personality disorders, trauma-related disorders, sleep disorders, and psychotic illnesses. My approach is inviting and curious, and I value humor and candor in a therapeutic relationship.
As your psychiatrist, I work hard to understand the history and circumstances that have led you to seek help. Accurate diagnosis is important, but many issues we face are not captured by diagnosis alone. I aim to create a treatment plan that suits your unique needs. Using psychotherapy and medication, I treat mood disorders (such as depression or bipolar), anxiety disorders, attention-deficit disorder/attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder, personality disorders, trauma-related disorders, sleep disorders, and psychotic illnesses. My approach is inviting and curious, and I value humor and candor in a therapeutic relationship.
Total Mental Healing, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11213 (Online Only)
Rosario Fernandez is the founder of Total Mental Healing, LLC, a mental health practice. She is a board-certified mental health psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specialized in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety/Panic disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Insomnia, and Addiction medicine. She has worked in the mental health care field for over 15 years as a psychiatric nurse in outpatient clinics, private practice, and hospital settings. Rosario is a bilingual (fluent in Spanish), multicultural provider who enjoys working with people of diverse ethnic backgrounds and cultures.
Rosario Fernandez is the founder of Total Mental Healing, LLC, a mental health practice. She is a board-certified mental health psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specialized in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety/Panic disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Insomnia, and Addiction medicine. She has worked in the mental health care field for over 15 years as a psychiatric nurse in outpatient clinics, private practice, and hospital settings. Rosario is a bilingual (fluent in Spanish), multicultural provider who enjoys working with people of diverse ethnic backgrounds and cultures.
Jessica Parente
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Hi, I'm Jess! I am an ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, an ICF & CPD Accredited Somatic Trauma-Informed Coach, and a Level IV Brainspotting Provider. I believe the attunement and therapeutic alliance between the provider and the client to be the most crucial part of mental health care. I make it my goal to foster a non-judgmental environment of safety, one where you feel comfortable to “come exactly as you are,” regardless of what that means.
Hi, I'm Jess! I am an ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, an ICF & CPD Accredited Somatic Trauma-Informed Coach, and a Level IV Brainspotting Provider. I believe the attunement and therapeutic alliance between the provider and the client to be the most crucial part of mental health care. I make it my goal to foster a non-judgmental environment of safety, one where you feel comfortable to “come exactly as you are,” regardless of what that means.
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: Specialize in treating adults and children with mental health conditions, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15-minute consult, visit our website, www.idealmentalcare.com
Accepting New Clients: Specialize in treating adults and children with mental health conditions, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15-minute consult, visit our website, www.idealmentalcare.com
Park Slope Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
Mariya Shavulskiy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with ADHD, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am currently accepting new clients and provide medication management services, first time consultations to discuss treatment plans, and medication review/ discussion of options.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with ADHD, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am currently accepting new clients and provide medication management services, first time consultations to discuss treatment plans, and medication review/ discussion of options.
Psychiatric services NYC, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions and addiction issues. I have completed fellowship at the Institute of Psychoanalytic Education. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and am committed to providing compassionate, top quality mental health care and addiction problems that is customized to meet each of my patient's individual needs. Initial consultation consists of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. I will also carefully screen for commonly missed coexisting conditions.
I am board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions and addiction issues. I have completed fellowship at the Institute of Psychoanalytic Education. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and am committed to providing compassionate, top quality mental health care and addiction problems that is customized to meet each of my patient's individual needs. Initial consultation consists of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. I will also carefully screen for commonly missed coexisting conditions.
Lissa Edmond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215 (Online Only)
Lissa (she/they) is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) as well as a certified yoga, qigong, and meditation teacher. Lissa provides psychiatric evaluation, psychopharmacology, and body-centered and mindfulness-based psychotherapy to those who are aged 15 and older. Lissa works collaboratively with each client to find a supportive holistic and integrative approach. Lissa specializes in treating anxiety, depression, mood, shame, grief, difficulties with life transitions and interpersonal challenges, and trauma including complex, race-based, and intergenerational trauma.
Lissa (she/they) is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) as well as a certified yoga, qigong, and meditation teacher. Lissa provides psychiatric evaluation, psychopharmacology, and body-centered and mindfulness-based psychotherapy to those who are aged 15 and older. Lissa works collaboratively with each client to find a supportive holistic and integrative approach. Lissa specializes in treating anxiety, depression, mood, shame, grief, difficulties with life transitions and interpersonal challenges, and trauma including complex, race-based, and intergenerational trauma.
Toba Omidiji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212 (Online Only)
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
See more therapy options for Brooklyn
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY
500+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
85% | Medication Management |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
35% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Brooklyn?
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.