Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
Seong-Hun Kim
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in integrated psychiatric treatment that combines biological, social, cultural and psychological perspectives. My practice draws upon various evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I strongly believe that each person has a natural tendency to grow and realize her/his potential, but this process is frequently impeded for a variety of reasons. We will work together to identify those obstacles and to explore and articulate the feelings, thoughts and attitudes that are often not fully recognized. This is a collaborative, shared effort in a professional setting that is safe, open and supportive.
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in integrated psychiatric treatment that combines biological, social, cultural and psychological perspectives. My practice draws upon various evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I strongly believe that each person has a natural tendency to grow and realize her/his potential, but this process is frequently impeded for a variety of reasons. We will work together to identify those obstacles and to explore and articulate the feelings, thoughts and attitudes that are often not fully recognized. This is a collaborative, shared effort in a professional setting that is safe, open and supportive.
Holistic Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
At Holistic Behavioral Health, we embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. Dr. Osakwe, a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, boasts 15+ years of delivering high-quality care. She focuses on holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering enduring improvement. With diverse in-patient and out-patient experiences, Dr. Osakwe tailors treatment plans to your needs.
At Holistic Behavioral Health, we embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. Dr. Osakwe, a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, boasts 15+ years of delivering high-quality care. She focuses on holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering enduring improvement. With diverse in-patient and out-patient experiences, Dr. Osakwe tailors treatment plans to your needs.
Jamie Kanehl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-PC, PMHS, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Hi! My name is Jamie! My goal is to truly get to know you so together we can create the best care plan to fit you or your child's needs for the goal of optimal mental health and wellness. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and holistic therapies for ADHD, anxiety, depression among other conditions for patients age 5-27. In addition to medication management, I incorporate many homeopathic supplements, foods, exercise and alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, guided visualization, deep breathing, sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and heart math into my practice.
Hi! My name is Jamie! My goal is to truly get to know you so together we can create the best care plan to fit you or your child's needs for the goal of optimal mental health and wellness. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and holistic therapies for ADHD, anxiety, depression among other conditions for patients age 5-27. In addition to medication management, I incorporate many homeopathic supplements, foods, exercise and alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, guided visualization, deep breathing, sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and heart math into my practice.
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Arsalan Hamid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Introducing Arsalan, a compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a license to practice in Washington. Arsalan's primary goal is to collaborate with individuals, supporting them on their personal journey towards mental well-being. Recognizing the inherent beauty of the human mind, Arsalan approaches care with gentleness and a holistic perspective. Together, you and Arsalan will create treatment goals and develop personalized pathways tailored to your specific needs.
Introducing Arsalan, a compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a license to practice in Washington. Arsalan's primary goal is to collaborate with individuals, supporting them on their personal journey towards mental well-being. Recognizing the inherent beauty of the human mind, Arsalan approaches care with gentleness and a holistic perspective. Together, you and Arsalan will create treatment goals and develop personalized pathways tailored to your specific needs.
Brian L. Grant
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
My work focuses on helping patients enhance and improve effective functioning and satisfaction in their relationship with themselves and others; at home, work and community. I am flexible in my approach, and let the circumstances and reality of the patient shape our work together. I can prescribe medications when appropriate for my psychotherapy patients, but my primary focus is psychotherapy. I am not available for medication management only. I prefer in person sessions but depending upon circumstances, will consider online or a hybrid of both.
My work focuses on helping patients enhance and improve effective functioning and satisfaction in their relationship with themselves and others; at home, work and community. I am flexible in my approach, and let the circumstances and reality of the patient shape our work together. I can prescribe medications when appropriate for my psychotherapy patients, but my primary focus is psychotherapy. I am not available for medication management only. I prefer in person sessions but depending upon circumstances, will consider online or a hybrid of both.
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Schedule TODAY! Ms. Felicia envisions her ideal client as someone navigating the complexities of mental health, seeking support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, & ADHD. Her clients are individuals striving for a better quality of life, hoping to overcome personal challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness. They value a compassionate and knowledgeable professional like Ms. Felicia, who not only understands their struggles but also empowers them with personalized strategies for growth and resilience. In essence, her ideal clients are motivated individuals aiming for transformative change in their mental health journeys.
Schedule TODAY! Ms. Felicia envisions her ideal client as someone navigating the complexities of mental health, seeking support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, & ADHD. Her clients are individuals striving for a better quality of life, hoping to overcome personal challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness. They value a compassionate and knowledgeable professional like Ms. Felicia, who not only understands their struggles but also empowers them with personalized strategies for growth and resilience. In essence, her ideal clients are motivated individuals aiming for transformative change in their mental health journeys.
David Kelbaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Hello! I am David, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and the creator and owner of Clear Mind Mental Health. My experience is in private practice and acute behavioral health care. I'm passionate about truly listening to you and developing customized treatment plans to address your whole health - mind, body, and spirit. My holistic, personalized approach considers your unique needs and goals, and provides comprehensive mental health care from the comfort of your own home. Presently seeing patients in Washington state and Iowa.
Hello! I am David, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and the creator and owner of Clear Mind Mental Health. My experience is in private practice and acute behavioral health care. I'm passionate about truly listening to you and developing customized treatment plans to address your whole health - mind, body, and spirit. My holistic, personalized approach considers your unique needs and goals, and provides comprehensive mental health care from the comfort of your own home. Presently seeing patients in Washington state and Iowa.
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, bipolar and sleep disorders. She treats patients ages 14-64.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, bipolar and sleep disorders. She treats patients ages 14-64.
Susan Malatesta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
My clients tell me that after starting treatment they feel more like themselves, they are brighter and are confident to reach their wellness goals. I specialize in helping patients experience relief from struggles like depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, constant worry and fear, insomnia, and irritability. Clients often need short and long term solutions to problems that are preventing them from performing at work, having fulfilling relationships and feeling their best.
My clients tell me that after starting treatment they feel more like themselves, they are brighter and are confident to reach their wellness goals. I specialize in helping patients experience relief from struggles like depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, constant worry and fear, insomnia, and irritability. Clients often need short and long term solutions to problems that are preventing them from performing at work, having fulfilling relationships and feeling their best.
15 Second Videos
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Nancy Masters
Albert Quainoo
Victoria Abolarin
Kelsey Knox
Deidre McHugh
MindsMatter LLC
Talia Baruch
Lynn-Marie Peashka
Katharine Frissora
Cate Gerrity
Ike Uzowulu
Alexandra Scott
PsychiatryProvider.com
Transformational Psychiatry NW & TMS Clinic
Mark Ellestad
Shannon Eaton
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care
Jade Goodloe
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Sean Dunn
Jacqueline Marcell-Koledin | TMS
Anna Long
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Honorine Betah
Pw Psych NP Services Pllc
Balance Psychiatric Services
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
John Anthony Meunier
Rachel Ann Jimenes
Talia Baruch
Arezu Piroozmandi
Dao Nguyen
Inno Ogbede
Mental Health For All Services
Raven Young
Hope Mental Health
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Nicholas Hatcher
Casilda Jennings Vigil
Fatima Omar
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness - Debbie Singh
Heather Sanudo
Hannah Cantrell
Tanner Rapp
Grace Martin
Steven Pline
Ashley Cedar
David G Zacharias
Levi Williams
Ann M Griffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I specialize in medication management for adults age 20 and up. I emphasize a holistic approach, focusing on multiple factors that contribute to overall functioning, mental health, and wellbeing. Education is a fundamental component of my approach, so I strongly believe in empowering each client with the knowledge to take an active role in their treatment. The therapeutic alliance I develop with each of my clients is based on trust, open communication, compassion, and respect, which cultivates positive development, recovery, and healing. With this focus, I hope to serve as a guide to help clients meet their goals.
I specialize in medication management for adults age 20 and up. I emphasize a holistic approach, focusing on multiple factors that contribute to overall functioning, mental health, and wellbeing. Education is a fundamental component of my approach, so I strongly believe in empowering each client with the knowledge to take an active role in their treatment. The therapeutic alliance I develop with each of my clients is based on trust, open communication, compassion, and respect, which cultivates positive development, recovery, and healing. With this focus, I hope to serve as a guide to help clients meet their goals.
Shenise Seabrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Do you take time for your mental health care needs? You should never feel alone when it comes to getting mental health treatment. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in providing individualistic and holistic mental health care with compassion. I diagnose and treat patients with anxiety, depression, sleep, and mood disorders while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
Do you take time for your mental health care needs? You should never feel alone when it comes to getting mental health treatment. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in providing individualistic and holistic mental health care with compassion. I diagnose and treat patients with anxiety, depression, sleep, and mood disorders while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
Patrick Eneje
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121
Dr. Patrick Eneje is a doctoral-prepared, licensed and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He sees patients ages 14 to 65 with psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Dr. Eneje's primary practice goal is to provide evidence-based, holistic care by combining psychopharmacology with supportive psychotherapy to enhance each individual’s mental, physical, and emotional state of well-being. He values collaborative relationships and enjoys tailoring care by taking into account one’s unique identity and background.
Dr. Patrick Eneje is a doctoral-prepared, licensed and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He sees patients ages 14 to 65 with psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Dr. Eneje's primary practice goal is to provide evidence-based, holistic care by combining psychopharmacology with supportive psychotherapy to enhance each individual’s mental, physical, and emotional state of well-being. He values collaborative relationships and enjoys tailoring care by taking into account one’s unique identity and background.
Carrie Wu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 21 years. I work with my clients who suffer from a wide range of Mental Health Disorders, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, and Psychosis. I provide expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 21 years. I work with my clients who suffer from a wide range of Mental Health Disorders, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, and Psychosis. I provide expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
Jaimee L Brielmaier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience in ICU nursing and mental health. I believe mental wellness is achieved through a balance of the mind and the body. My process is holistic, collaborative, and person-centered. My goal as your provider will be to help you reach your personal mental health goals through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience in ICU nursing and mental health. I believe mental wellness is achieved through a balance of the mind and the body. My process is holistic, collaborative, and person-centered. My goal as your provider will be to help you reach your personal mental health goals through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy.
Michelle Zipperman
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Dr. Zipperman is a Board Certified Psychiatrist graduating from the University of Washington Psychiatry Residency and Loma Linda School of Medicine. Balanced Living Psychiatry is built on the understanding that happiness, peace of mind, and overall wellness is found at the intersection of healthy living, strong coping skills/ self-care, insight oriented therapy and psychiatric medications. Dr. Zipperman adopts the approach of integrative psychiatry, providing medication management and psychotherapy interventions but also building a team of providers for her patients including highly specialized psychotherapists, yoga/mindfulness/meditation teachers, Naturopathic Doctors, and the patient's own Primary Care Physicians.
Dr. Zipperman is a Board Certified Psychiatrist graduating from the University of Washington Psychiatry Residency and Loma Linda School of Medicine. Balanced Living Psychiatry is built on the understanding that happiness, peace of mind, and overall wellness is found at the intersection of healthy living, strong coping skills/ self-care, insight oriented therapy and psychiatric medications. Dr. Zipperman adopts the approach of integrative psychiatry, providing medication management and psychotherapy interventions but also building a team of providers for her patients including highly specialized psychotherapists, yoga/mindfulness/meditation teachers, Naturopathic Doctors, and the patient's own Primary Care Physicians.
Albert Quainoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Albert and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management/Impulse Disorders, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Albert and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management/Impulse Disorders, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Kristina Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
I am so glad you're here. It is brave to seek out help for mental health. I'm Kristina, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am passionate about improving the quality of life of those who struggle mentally. This passion originated from my personal experiences with mental health. During our time together, my primary goal is to create a safe atmosphere for you to express and share your concerns. Together, we will design a plan guided by evidence-based practices, which we will monitor throughout for your most effective outcomes. I work remotely and am licensed in Minnesota, Arizona, and Washington.
I am so glad you're here. It is brave to seek out help for mental health. I'm Kristina, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am passionate about improving the quality of life of those who struggle mentally. This passion originated from my personal experiences with mental health. During our time together, my primary goal is to create a safe atmosphere for you to express and share your concerns. Together, we will design a plan guided by evidence-based practices, which we will monitor throughout for your most effective outcomes. I work remotely and am licensed in Minnesota, Arizona, and Washington.
Lindsey Mills
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Ruby Therapeutics is dedicated to providing comprehensive care that is tailored to each individual. We strive to create a warm atmosphere that is inclusive and supportive. This practice is committed to understanding each patient's unique needs and providing high quality, evidence-based treatment. We offer a direct care approach, meaning your care relationship exists solely between you and your provider. Our goal is to provide a greater level of flexibility and collaboration for care that educates, empowers, and best meets your individual needs. Visit www.rubytherapeutics.com for more information and convenient scheduling options.
Ruby Therapeutics is dedicated to providing comprehensive care that is tailored to each individual. We strive to create a warm atmosphere that is inclusive and supportive. This practice is committed to understanding each patient's unique needs and providing high quality, evidence-based treatment. We offer a direct care approach, meaning your care relationship exists solely between you and your provider. Our goal is to provide a greater level of flexibility and collaboration for care that educates, empowers, and best meets your individual needs. Visit www.rubytherapeutics.com for more information and convenient scheduling options.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
85% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | Premera |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.