Psychiatrists in Westport, CT

Photo of Randi Cohen, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Randi Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, negativity, or a sense of worthlessness? Do you find yourself cut off from feelings or going in circles in your current relationship? Do you have trouble focusing and staying organized? Is it hard for you to get past things that bother you? I am extensively trained in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness-based, and somatic awareness techniques to help you feel comfortable in your skin. I also offer an option for medications. I work with individuals or with couples. I specialize in addressing OCD, PTSD, Asperger's, ADHD, depression, anxiety, life issues, and relationship stressors.
Do you struggle with anxiety, negativity, or a sense of worthlessness? Do you find yourself cut off from feelings or going in circles in your current relationship? Do you have trouble focusing and staying organized? Is it hard for you to get past things that bother you? I am extensively trained in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness-based, and somatic awareness techniques to help you feel comfortable in your skin. I also offer an option for medications. I work with individuals or with couples. I specialize in addressing OCD, PTSD, Asperger's, ADHD, depression, anxiety, life issues, and relationship stressors.
(203) 490-4503 View (203) 490-4503
Photo of Tasneem Khan, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Tasneem Khan
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I am a board certified psychiatrist trained at New York Medical College. I have 26 years of experience treating major psychiatric and substance abuse disorders. I am also a certified SUBOXONE prescriber. I am very compassionate and will pay close attention to your issues. If you want a different experience in your treatment then please give me a call. You will be seen very quickly in a warm and welcoming environment that is very private and confidential.
I am a board certified psychiatrist trained at New York Medical College. I have 26 years of experience treating major psychiatric and substance abuse disorders. I am also a certified SUBOXONE prescriber. I am very compassionate and will pay close attention to your issues. If you want a different experience in your treatment then please give me a call. You will be seen very quickly in a warm and welcoming environment that is very private and confidential.
(475) 219-6903 View (475) 219-6903
Photo of Jonathan M Horowitz, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Jonathan M Horowitz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working as a psychiatrist for over thirty years growing my skills in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and in medication treatments for adults and adolescents (over age 12). Many psychiatrists only prescribe medications. I can provide both the psychotherapy, and when indicated, I prescribe medications. I use my training as a physician and a psychotherapist to reduce symptoms and promote resolution of emotional distress. A unique area of my practice developed from my experience as the CEO of a Boston Hosp followed by 10 years consulting to executives from major corporations regarding career stress and leadership skills.
I have been working as a psychiatrist for over thirty years growing my skills in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and in medication treatments for adults and adolescents (over age 12). Many psychiatrists only prescribe medications. I can provide both the psychotherapy, and when indicated, I prescribe medications. I use my training as a physician and a psychotherapist to reduce symptoms and promote resolution of emotional distress. A unique area of my practice developed from my experience as the CEO of a Boston Hosp followed by 10 years consulting to executives from major corporations regarding career stress and leadership skills.
(203) 993-0024 View (203) 993-0024
Photo of Martie A Boulton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Westport, CT
Martie A Boulton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, EdD, APRN, PMHCNS, LADC
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
As a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 20 years’ experience, I offer a unique ability to provide comprehensive, holistic care to individuals and couples experiencing acute and chronic emotional distress. I can provide Psychiatric and Substance Misuse Evaluations and medication management if needed.
As a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 20 years’ experience, I offer a unique ability to provide comprehensive, holistic care to individuals and couples experiencing acute and chronic emotional distress. I can provide Psychiatric and Substance Misuse Evaluations and medication management if needed.
(475) 271-2064 x1 View (475) 271-2064 x1
Photo of Marsha Charlton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Westport, CT
Marsha Charlton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and skilled PMHNP with dual-board certifications in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I obtained my BSN from the University of Massachusetts Boston. I then received a MSN specializing in family medicine from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. I earned a Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Massachusetts Worcester Medical School. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in diverse healthcare settings, including primary care, surgical, psychiatric, and within the VA healthcare system, where I dedicated my services to veterans.
I am a compassionate and skilled PMHNP with dual-board certifications in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I obtained my BSN from the University of Massachusetts Boston. I then received a MSN specializing in family medicine from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. I earned a Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Massachusetts Worcester Medical School. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in diverse healthcare settings, including primary care, surgical, psychiatric, and within the VA healthcare system, where I dedicated my services to veterans.
(475) 252-4435 View (475) 252-4435
Photo of Dr. Patricia Hardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Westport, CT
Dr. Patricia Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
I work with children, teens, women, and families, focusing on how behavioral changes (sometimes coupled with medication) can improve their psychological & physical well-being. When addressing the concerns of a child, I include the whole family system. I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner who has a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. My practice focuses include emergency psychiatry, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
I work with children, teens, women, and families, focusing on how behavioral changes (sometimes coupled with medication) can improve their psychological & physical well-being. When addressing the concerns of a child, I include the whole family system. I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner who has a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. My practice focuses include emergency psychiatry, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
(475) 897-5611 View (475) 897-5611
Photo of Elevate Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Westport, CT
Elevate Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
I am an ANCC board-certified Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of adolescents and adults. Our practice combines both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on each person's desired goals and outcomes. We are here to help you achieve those goals that you have for yourself.
I am an ANCC board-certified Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of adolescents and adults. Our practice combines both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on each person's desired goals and outcomes. We are here to help you achieve those goals that you have for yourself.
(475) 224-4594 View (475) 224-4594
Photo of Collaborative Approach in Treatment, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Westport, CT
Collaborative Approach in Treatment, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
Are you considering medication for your mental health? Do you struggle with symptoms of overthinking and worry? Have you been feeling depressed? I can provide psychiatric evaluations and prescribe medication in collaboration with your current therapist!
Are you considering medication for your mental health? Do you struggle with symptoms of overthinking and worry? Have you been feeling depressed? I can provide psychiatric evaluations and prescribe medication in collaboration with your current therapist!
(475) 207-4994 View (475) 207-4994
Photo of Kym D'Agostino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Westport, CT
Kym D'Agostino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I'm Kym D’Agostino, a double board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Specialist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing. With over 25 years of dedicated experience, I've had the privilege of providing high-quality care to individuals of all ages, particularly children, adolescents, and young adults. As an APRN, I have the advantage of being both a psycho-pharmacologist and and a psycho-therapist. I provide holistic and empathic care to my clients within a psychodynamic framework which recognizes the profound impact of one's history and relationships on their well being.
I'm Kym D’Agostino, a double board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Specialist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing. With over 25 years of dedicated experience, I've had the privilege of providing high-quality care to individuals of all ages, particularly children, adolescents, and young adults. As an APRN, I have the advantage of being both a psycho-pharmacologist and and a psycho-therapist. I provide holistic and empathic care to my clients within a psychodynamic framework which recognizes the profound impact of one's history and relationships on their well being.
(203) 457-8243 View (203) 457-8243
Photo of Joan F Poll, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Joan F Poll
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry and Psychoanalysis
Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry and Psychoanalysis
(203) 584-9478 View (203) 584-9478
Photo of Nicole Feagin, Physician Assistant in Westport, CT
Nicole Feagin
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Reflective Minds Mental Health is a private mental health practice currently accepting NEW patients. Our mission is to reduce the stigma of mental illness and provide patients and their families tools (education, psychotherapy, and medication management) to improve their quality of life and maximize their joy. Co-founder, Nicole Feagin, PA-C, is a board-certified psychiatric physician assistant who brings empathy, compassion and an individualized approach in conjunction with evidence-based psychiatric medication management services to help her patients obtain wellness in their lives.
Reflective Minds Mental Health is a private mental health practice currently accepting NEW patients. Our mission is to reduce the stigma of mental illness and provide patients and their families tools (education, psychotherapy, and medication management) to improve their quality of life and maximize their joy. Co-founder, Nicole Feagin, PA-C, is a board-certified psychiatric physician assistant who brings empathy, compassion and an individualized approach in conjunction with evidence-based psychiatric medication management services to help her patients obtain wellness in their lives.
(475) 323-6626 View (475) 323-6626
Photo of Dr. Nayla Hariz, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Dr. Nayla Hariz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I am accepting new patients and I take the following insurances: Aetna, United Healthcare and Husky. Anyone with no insurance or any other insurance will have to pay out of pocket. If you would like to schedule an appointment for yourself or your child please go to mindfulpsychiatry.as.me/new-appointment.
I am accepting new patients and I take the following insurances: Aetna, United Healthcare and Husky. Anyone with no insurance or any other insurance will have to pay out of pocket. If you would like to schedule an appointment for yourself or your child please go to mindfulpsychiatry.as.me/new-appointment.
Photo of Jimena Tuis, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Jimena Tuis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Hi, I am a Yale-trained double-board certified psychiatrist. I specialize in Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I provide evidence-based treatments with therapy and medication management if needed. I enjoy working closely with my patients and families to create a comprehensive treatment plan that best addresses their needs and treatment goals. Please contact me by filling out the form at my webpage: seasidemh.com/contact
Hi, I am a Yale-trained double-board certified psychiatrist. I specialize in Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I provide evidence-based treatments with therapy and medication management if needed. I enjoy working closely with my patients and families to create a comprehensive treatment plan that best addresses their needs and treatment goals. Please contact me by filling out the form at my webpage: seasidemh.com/contact
(203) 349-9254 View (203) 349-9254
Photo of Frank S. K. Appah Jr., Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Frank S. K. Appah Jr.
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Hello and thank you for your interest. I am a Columbia University trained MD PhD and a Yale trained board certified adult psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, unusual perceptions and distressful voice hearing. In addition to my private practice, I am the unit chief of a psychiatric inpatient unit at a medical center. I am also a clinical instructor with the Yale School of Medicine and the Frank H. Netter School of Medicine.
Hello and thank you for your interest. I am a Columbia University trained MD PhD and a Yale trained board certified adult psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, unusual perceptions and distressful voice hearing. In addition to my private practice, I am the unit chief of a psychiatric inpatient unit at a medical center. I am also a clinical instructor with the Yale School of Medicine and the Frank H. Netter School of Medicine.
(203) 528-0916 View (203) 528-0916
Photo of Aaron J. Roberto, M.D., Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Aaron J. Roberto, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
**Tele-Health Available. I am a dedicated, Harvard and Yale-trained child/adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. Each patient is a unique individual, exerting particular strengths and resilience through situations. I create an individualized treatment plan utilizing high-level, evidenced-based treatment including involvement of parents, counselors, and outside therapists for those already in therapy. Medication, when indicated, is offered, as well as evidence-based therapeutic interventions (CBT, supportive) and lifestyle modifications. Expertise in adult and pediatric ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic, and mood disorders.
**Tele-Health Available. I am a dedicated, Harvard and Yale-trained child/adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. Each patient is a unique individual, exerting particular strengths and resilience through situations. I create an individualized treatment plan utilizing high-level, evidenced-based treatment including involvement of parents, counselors, and outside therapists for those already in therapy. Medication, when indicated, is offered, as well as evidence-based therapeutic interventions (CBT, supportive) and lifestyle modifications. Expertise in adult and pediatric ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic, and mood disorders.
(203) 408-6156 View (203) 408-6156
Photo of Deirdre Murty, Psychiatric Nurse in Westport, CT
Deirdre Murty
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MSN, APRN, CS
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
I am a board certified child and adolescent Clinical Nurse Specialist providing diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, psychopharmacological interventions, psycho-education, family therapy and couples work. I seek to help individuals understand and cope with their current emotions, stressors and life changes through what is known as the therapist/client connection. This is often over looked. It is a powerful and necessary component to a clients' progress. Now, more than ever I work hard to provide a relatable environment for my clients to feel comfortable, heard and empowered to make changes in their lives.
I am a board certified child and adolescent Clinical Nurse Specialist providing diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, psychopharmacological interventions, psycho-education, family therapy and couples work. I seek to help individuals understand and cope with their current emotions, stressors and life changes through what is known as the therapist/client connection. This is often over looked. It is a powerful and necessary component to a clients' progress. Now, more than ever I work hard to provide a relatable environment for my clients to feel comfortable, heard and empowered to make changes in their lives.
(203) 635-8676 View (203) 635-8676
Photo of Evelyn Afif Stephens MD PC, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Evelyn Afif Stephens MD PC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and psychotherapy. The treatment I provide is often a unique combination which pulls from several different types of therapies, including interpersonal psychodynamic, supportive, DBT and CBT. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and psychotherapy. The treatment I provide is often a unique combination which pulls from several different types of therapies, including interpersonal psychodynamic, supportive, DBT and CBT. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
(347) 632-9626 View (347) 632-9626
Taylor Gaglia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Be Well Mental Health Services, LLC is a private psychiatry practice dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and empathetic mental health care. It is run by Taylor Gaglia, APRN who specializes in psychiatric medication services across the lifespan. Taylor completed her training at Yale School of Nursing and has served the past 8 years working in the Yale New Haven Health System in varying capacities.
Be Well Mental Health Services, LLC is a private psychiatry practice dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and empathetic mental health care. It is run by Taylor Gaglia, APRN who specializes in psychiatric medication services across the lifespan. Taylor completed her training at Yale School of Nursing and has served the past 8 years working in the Yale New Haven Health System in varying capacities.
(475) 234-2532 x1 View (475) 234-2532 x1
Photo of Michele Feinberg, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Michele Feinberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Dr. Feinberg  will collaborate with your child's school, pediatrician, therapist, and other professionals that are involved in their treatment when needed so that there can be a team approach for your child's treatment. Dr. Feinberg conducts diagnostic evaluations  to provide a diagnosis  and recommendations,  and medication management when needed, gene testing when requested to determine what medication may be effective for your child. Dr. Feinberg conducts school psychiatric consultations for school districts, as well as presentations on specific topics to pediatricians, schools & other groups interested in the mental health
Dr. Feinberg  will collaborate with your child's school, pediatrician, therapist, and other professionals that are involved in their treatment when needed so that there can be a team approach for your child's treatment. Dr. Feinberg conducts diagnostic evaluations  to provide a diagnosis  and recommendations,  and medication management when needed, gene testing when requested to determine what medication may be effective for your child. Dr. Feinberg conducts school psychiatric consultations for school districts, as well as presentations on specific topics to pediatricians, schools & other groups interested in the mental health
(475) 262-9536 View (475) 262-9536
Photo of Jessica Chaudhary, MD, Psychiatrist in Westport, CT
Jessica Chaudhary, MD
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Jessica Chaudhary is a Board Certified psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her undergraduate studies at Wellesley College with Honors. Being a Seattle native, she returned to medical school at the University of Washington School of Medicine and then completed her residency in psychiatry at Yale University. She completed a fellowship in psychosomatic medicine at Harvard Medical School, where she gained special expertise in treating co-morbid complex medical conditions and psychiatric disorders. In addition to her private practice, she is on staff at Yale New Haven Hospital.
Dr. Jessica Chaudhary is a Board Certified psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her undergraduate studies at Wellesley College with Honors. Being a Seattle native, she returned to medical school at the University of Washington School of Medicine and then completed her residency in psychiatry at Yale University. She completed a fellowship in psychosomatic medicine at Harvard Medical School, where she gained special expertise in treating co-morbid complex medical conditions and psychiatric disorders. In addition to her private practice, she is on staff at Yale New Haven Hospital.
(206) 929-4849 View (206) 929-4849

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Westport, CT

50+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Westport, CT who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
85% Medication Management
76% ADHD
68% Bipolar Disorder
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Westport, CT see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Westport?

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.