Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN

Photo of Mind Matters Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Mind Matters Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN`, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
My journey began in the ICU, caring for society's most vulnerable as they fought for their lives. Though we saved many, I yearned to do more - to truly improve their quality of life. This calling led me to psychiatry, where I now have the privilege of walking with people on their road to recovery. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I draw on 7 years of nursing experience and 2 years specializing in mental health to meet each person where they are. My goal is not just to prolong life, but to improve it.
My journey began in the ICU, caring for society's most vulnerable as they fought for their lives. Though we saved many, I yearned to do more - to truly improve their quality of life. This calling led me to psychiatry, where I now have the privilege of walking with people on their road to recovery. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I draw on 7 years of nursing experience and 2 years specializing in mental health to meet each person where they are. My goal is not just to prolong life, but to improve it.
(865) 290-7619 View (865) 290-7619
Photo of Dr. Sharon Drummond-Melancon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Sharon Drummond-Melancon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Unique Minds was founded by Sharon Drummond-Melancon, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with Mental Health patients to help them achieve mental wellness. Dr. Sharon believes that client-centered approach empower clients to take control of their mental health and remove the stigma surrounding mental health. Sharon knows that in order to achieve mental wellness, she must work to gain the trust and respect of her clients and provide a nurturing and non-judgmental environment using a holistic approach. Sharon is dedicated to taking every effort to ensure her patients feels comfortable, safe and unjudged.
Unique Minds was founded by Sharon Drummond-Melancon, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with Mental Health patients to help them achieve mental wellness. Dr. Sharon believes that client-centered approach empower clients to take control of their mental health and remove the stigma surrounding mental health. Sharon knows that in order to achieve mental wellness, she must work to gain the trust and respect of her clients and provide a nurturing and non-judgmental environment using a holistic approach. Sharon is dedicated to taking every effort to ensure her patients feels comfortable, safe and unjudged.
(865) 234-3871 View (865) 234-3871
Photo of Dee Brahmbhatt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Dee Brahmbhatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Hello! My name is Dee and I provide psychiatric medication management services for ages 18-45 years old. I particularly enjoy helping young adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, adjusting to college and/or other situations that arise as they enter adulthood. Please visit www.knoxpsychnp.com to learn more about me. Thank you!
Hello! My name is Dee and I provide psychiatric medication management services for ages 18-45 years old. I particularly enjoy helping young adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, adjusting to college and/or other situations that arise as they enter adulthood. Please visit www.knoxpsychnp.com to learn more about me. Thank you!
(865) 224-7024 View (865) 224-7024
Photo of Patti Reposa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Patti Reposa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues by providing assessment and medication management. I serve as the Managing Partner at Knoxville Family Psychiatry and and provide mentoring and guidance to the other nurse practitioners in the practice and how best to serve their patients. In my own practice, I love working with people who are highly motivated and take great joy when they have the opportunity to experience positive change in their lives.
I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues by providing assessment and medication management. I serve as the Managing Partner at Knoxville Family Psychiatry and and provide mentoring and guidance to the other nurse practitioners in the practice and how best to serve their patients. In my own practice, I love working with people who are highly motivated and take great joy when they have the opportunity to experience positive change in their lives.
(865) 269-6729 View (865) 269-6729
Photo of Noelle K. Pease, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Noelle K. Pease
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Noelle received her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan University and MSN from Lincoln Memorial University. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career working with the pediatric population gaining experience with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and family centered approach to patient care. After 7 years in the nursing field she decided to further pursue her education in the mental health field.
Noelle received her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan University and MSN from Lincoln Memorial University. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career working with the pediatric population gaining experience with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and family centered approach to patient care. After 7 years in the nursing field she decided to further pursue her education in the mental health field.
(865) 412-8736 View (865) 412-8736
Photo of Edy Cerone, PMHNP, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Edy Cerone, PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
I am very passionate about providing care to those suffering from symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, ADHD, insomnia, OCD, and other mental disorders. It is important for me to listen to my patient and include their concerns and needs in the plan of care. I started my own business in order to be able to spend time getting to know my patients. My goal is to assist my patients in ways to improve their mental wellbeing and have a more fulfilling life through medication management and counseling.
I am very passionate about providing care to those suffering from symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, ADHD, insomnia, OCD, and other mental disorders. It is important for me to listen to my patient and include their concerns and needs in the plan of care. I started my own business in order to be able to spend time getting to know my patients. My goal is to assist my patients in ways to improve their mental wellbeing and have a more fulfilling life through medication management and counseling.
(865) 213-7363 View (865) 213-7363
Photo of Ladonna Hubbard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Ladonna Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Maybe you’re looking for a change in your circumstances that are causing constant anxiety, or are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions. Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely.
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Maybe you’re looking for a change in your circumstances that are causing constant anxiety, or are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions. Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely.
(865) 344-6110 View (865) 344-6110
Photo of Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am passionate about women's mental health. In today's world, there are many pressures of life that can cause mental health illnesses. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am also a Certified Nurse Midwife. I love working with women who are struggling with mental health needs as well. Breastfeeding is NOT a limiter for medications! Let me help you manage your mental health today!
I am passionate about women's mental health. In today's world, there are many pressures of life that can cause mental health illnesses. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am also a Certified Nurse Midwife. I love working with women who are struggling with mental health needs as well. Breastfeeding is NOT a limiter for medications! Let me help you manage your mental health today!
(865) 302-3722 View (865) 302-3722
Photo of Lisa Kaye Kruger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Lisa Kaye Kruger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Now accepting adult and adolescent patients who are interesting in exploring options for Anxiety disorders, Depression, ADHD, ADD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, adjustment difficulties and child - caregiver difficulties.
Now accepting adult and adolescent patients who are interesting in exploring options for Anxiety disorders, Depression, ADHD, ADD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, adjustment difficulties and child - caregiver difficulties.
(865) 345-5937 View (865) 345-5937
Photo of Tonya McCarroll, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Tonya McCarroll
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Tonya McCarroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2023. Tonya approaches each patient with empathy and active listening. She embraces patient-centered care by involving the patient in their care plan and respecting their autonomy. Tonya maintains clear communication and fosters a non-judgmental atmosphere. Outside of work, Tonya loves to watch movies and read mystery books. She also loves spending time with her family and her dogs!
Tonya McCarroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2023. Tonya approaches each patient with empathy and active listening. She embraces patient-centered care by involving the patient in their care plan and respecting their autonomy. Tonya maintains clear communication and fosters a non-judgmental atmosphere. Outside of work, Tonya loves to watch movies and read mystery books. She also loves spending time with her family and her dogs!
(865) 424-1283 View (865) 424-1283
Photo of Meredith Simmons, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Meredith Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
Meredith Simmons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescribing privileges in the state of Tennessee. She obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Studies as well as a bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As an RN, Meredith worked on a senior behavioral unit. She then obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Meredith Simmons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescribing privileges in the state of Tennessee. She obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Studies as well as a bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As an RN, Meredith worked on a senior behavioral unit. She then obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(865) 685-8847 View (865) 685-8847
Photo of Sarah Bannister, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Sarah Bannister
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37921
For families and individuals struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, addiction, or any number of issues; Sarah desires to offer a place of care, wisdom, and support through assessment, medication support, and connection to other mental health services such as counselors, support groups, related medical services.
For families and individuals struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, addiction, or any number of issues; Sarah desires to offer a place of care, wisdom, and support through assessment, medication support, and connection to other mental health services such as counselors, support groups, related medical services.
(865) 344-0846 View (865) 344-0846
Photo of Rachel Tamaroff, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Rachel Tamaroff
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Many of us struggle with depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and joy from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve a sense of contentedness and fulfillment.
Many of us struggle with depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and joy from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve a sense of contentedness and fulfillment.
(347) 657-7182 View (347) 657-7182
Photo of Jennifer Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Jennifer Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Jennifer M. Thomas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Jennifer believes her role as an PMHNP is to use her 22 years of nursing experience along with her higher education to assess patients for various mental health disorders and implement medications to help manage their symptoms. She feels it is important as a provider to make sure we have a great provider-client relationship that is based on trust, compassion, empathy, and no judgement regarding their mental health issues.
Jennifer M. Thomas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Jennifer believes her role as an PMHNP is to use her 22 years of nursing experience along with her higher education to assess patients for various mental health disorders and implement medications to help manage their symptoms. She feels it is important as a provider to make sure we have a great provider-client relationship that is based on trust, compassion, empathy, and no judgement regarding their mental health issues.
(865) 328-4732 View (865) 328-4732
Photo of Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-CNL
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
(865) 213-7490 View (865) 213-7490
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37902
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Sarah Koberlein, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Sarah Koberlein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Hello! My name is Sarah Koberlein, and I am an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2020. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support to individuals ages 12 years and older with a focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychotic disorders, including those with co-morbid medical issues. My nursing journey began in various intensive care units, where I realized that mental health is often overlooked and undervalued. My passion is to bring mental health to the forefront and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Hello! My name is Sarah Koberlein, and I am an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2020. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support to individuals ages 12 years and older with a focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychotic disorders, including those with co-morbid medical issues. My nursing journey began in various intensive care units, where I realized that mental health is often overlooked and undervalued. My passion is to bring mental health to the forefront and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
(865) 234-9605 View (865) 234-9605
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Ault, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Elizabeth Ault
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909  (Online Only)
I specialize in guiding young and middle-aged adults through difficult life transitions. Facing new academic or work demands, becoming a parent, or navigating relationship dynamics can present many challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, insomnia, or a variety of other mental health symptoms, I want to guide you through these difficult times by building a supportive, non-judgmental relationship through which to collaborate to discover your ideal self. Psychiatry should not be one-size fits all. It is a dynamic art that takes time, attention to detail, and passion.
I specialize in guiding young and middle-aged adults through difficult life transitions. Facing new academic or work demands, becoming a parent, or navigating relationship dynamics can present many challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, insomnia, or a variety of other mental health symptoms, I want to guide you through these difficult times by building a supportive, non-judgmental relationship through which to collaborate to discover your ideal self. Psychiatry should not be one-size fits all. It is a dynamic art that takes time, attention to detail, and passion.
(865) 351-0119 View (865) 351-0119
Photo of Dr. Jill Powell, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Jill Powell
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I bring a unique educational and relational approach to treatment that differs from psychiatry. With a back ground in nursing, I believe in the principles of collaborative care, holism and fully understand that medication is simply one of many tools in addressing mental health issues. I value interdisciplinary care, including other heath care providers, views of family members but most importantly - I focus on you and your source of suffering.
I bring a unique educational and relational approach to treatment that differs from psychiatry. With a back ground in nursing, I believe in the principles of collaborative care, holism and fully understand that medication is simply one of many tools in addressing mental health issues. I value interdisciplinary care, including other heath care providers, views of family members but most importantly - I focus on you and your source of suffering.
(865) 312-7701 View (865) 312-7701
Photo of Healthy Living Medical Services LLC, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Healthy Living Medical Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
(865) 276-7022 View (865) 276-7022

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
90% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
92% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Knoxville?

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.