Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN

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 Brock Carter, Physician Assistant in Knoxville, TN
Brock Carter
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37929
I work with patients who are usually struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. If you are seeking help to manage stress, improve your overall well-being, and find ways to achieve a better life balance, let's work together. We can find effective treatments and coping strategies to support your mental health challenges and improve your quality of life, so you can achieve mental and emotional stability, happiness, and fulfillment in your personal and professional lives. My goal is to empower you to take control of your mental health, and overcome your challenges.
I work with patients who are usually struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. If you are seeking help to manage stress, improve your overall well-being, and find ways to achieve a better life balance, let's work together. We can find effective treatments and coping strategies to support your mental health challenges and improve your quality of life, so you can achieve mental and emotional stability, happiness, and fulfillment in your personal and professional lives. My goal is to empower you to take control of your mental health, and overcome your challenges.
(865) 345-5353 View (865) 345-5353
Photo of Shannon Leah Hutchison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Shannon Leah Hutchison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of nursing experience. I am accepting new patients ages 18 and older and have experience treating anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of nursing experience. I am accepting new patients ages 18 and older and have experience treating anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
(865) 290-7471 View (865) 290-7471
Photo of Lori Jane Holt, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Lori Jane Holt
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients in the state of Tennessee for virtual medication management appointments with affordable fees and immediate availability. I offer 15 years of experience treating patients with various mental health issues. I have worked in many different settings with multiple populations throughout my career and believe in holistic patient-centered care.
Now accepting new patients in the state of Tennessee for virtual medication management appointments with affordable fees and immediate availability. I offer 15 years of experience treating patients with various mental health issues. I have worked in many different settings with multiple populations throughout my career and believe in holistic patient-centered care.
(865) 448-7332 View (865) 448-7332
Photo of Michelle Wojciechowski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Michelle Wojciechowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909  (Online Only)
Michelle Wojciechowski, a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee, specializes in teletherapy, providing comprehensive mental health support. With a focus on aiding individuals facing the challenges of addiction and depression, Michelle is dedicated to guiding her clients toward achieving their goals. Drawing from her extensive experience, she employs integrated therapeutic approaches to address the complexities of mental health. Having recognized the profound impact of addiction and depression on individuals, Michelle tailors her teletherapy sessions to empower clients to navigate these struggles effectively. Her compa
Michelle Wojciechowski, a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee, specializes in teletherapy, providing comprehensive mental health support. With a focus on aiding individuals facing the challenges of addiction and depression, Michelle is dedicated to guiding her clients toward achieving their goals. Drawing from her extensive experience, she employs integrated therapeutic approaches to address the complexities of mental health. Having recognized the profound impact of addiction and depression on individuals, Michelle tailors her teletherapy sessions to empower clients to navigate these struggles effectively. Her compa
(865) 424-6235 View (865) 424-6235
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
Photo of Scott Baymiller, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Scott Baymiller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Scott Baymiller, M. D, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in the field of medication management for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. "š He graduated medical school at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been on faculty at multiple universities and has worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and community mental health settings. He has also served as medical director of multiple psychiatric hospitals.
Scott Baymiller, M. D, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in the field of medication management for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. "š He graduated medical school at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been on faculty at multiple universities and has worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and community mental health settings. He has also served as medical director of multiple psychiatric hospitals.
(865) 290-2334 View (865) 290-2334
Photo of Kelsey Wallace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Kelsey Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
I am nurse practitioner board certified in adult primary care and psychiatry. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and supportive psychotherapy for patients 13 years old and above, focusing on trauma-related disorders, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in survivors of sexual violence and first responders.
I am nurse practitioner board certified in adult primary care and psychiatry. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and supportive psychotherapy for patients 13 years old and above, focusing on trauma-related disorders, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in survivors of sexual violence and first responders.
(865) 674-1682 View (865) 674-1682
Photo of Katy Nottingham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Katy Nottingham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I have more than a decade of experience in evaluating and treating patients across the lifespan, but I have special expertise in the pediatric and young-adult populations (ages 4-30). My practice focus includes anxiety, depression, impulse control disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I have more than a decade of experience in evaluating and treating patients across the lifespan, but I have special expertise in the pediatric and young-adult populations (ages 4-30). My practice focus includes anxiety, depression, impulse control disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(865) 568-8007 View (865) 568-8007
Photo of Hannah Braden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Hannah Braden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Hannah Braden is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Lincoln Memorial University in 2015 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2018. She has experience in caring for patients across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients 18 years and older. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and attention deficit disorder.
Hannah Braden is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Lincoln Memorial University in 2015 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2018. She has experience in caring for patients across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients 18 years and older. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and attention deficit disorder.
(865) 432-0119 View (865) 432-0119
Photo of Karla Carroll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Karla Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Karla Carroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She has a Masters in Nursing from Lincoln Memorial University. Karla has experience with interventional psych in major depressive disorder, personality disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, ODD, DMDD, and substance use disorders. Outside of work, Karla enjoys walking with her two dachshunds, working out, and baking cakes.
Karla Carroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She has a Masters in Nursing from Lincoln Memorial University. Karla has experience with interventional psych in major depressive disorder, personality disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, ODD, DMDD, and substance use disorders. Outside of work, Karla enjoys walking with her two dachshunds, working out, and baking cakes.
(865) 412-4044 View (865) 412-4044
Photo of Down To Earth Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Down To Earth Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Down To Earth Services is actively accepting new clients for medication management ! Sometimes, no matter how independent we are, we need help. We have a passion for supporting people who are seeking help managing high stress, life changes, anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms through outpatient therapy sessions and medication management. We currently have five medication management providers in our practice: Adam Ballintoy, APRN, Susan Barner, APRN, Jennifer Phillips, APRN, Dr. Lisa Pullen, APRN, and Samuel Wood, APRN. We also offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy and group therapy sessions.
Down To Earth Services is actively accepting new clients for medication management ! Sometimes, no matter how independent we are, we need help. We have a passion for supporting people who are seeking help managing high stress, life changes, anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms through outpatient therapy sessions and medication management. We currently have five medication management providers in our practice: Adam Ballintoy, APRN, Susan Barner, APRN, Jennifer Phillips, APRN, Dr. Lisa Pullen, APRN, and Samuel Wood, APRN. We also offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy and group therapy sessions.
(865) 800-4063 View (865) 800-4063
Photo of Resa Noe-Norman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Resa Noe-Norman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Resa Noe-Norman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Resa offers her clients unconditional positive regard. Outside of work, Resa enjoys spending time with her animals, including 3 dogs, 7 bunnies and fish. She enjoys working out, dancing and gymnastics.
Resa Noe-Norman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Resa offers her clients unconditional positive regard. Outside of work, Resa enjoys spending time with her animals, including 3 dogs, 7 bunnies and fish. She enjoys working out, dancing and gymnastics.
(865) 375-8727 View (865) 375-8727
Photo of Melinda Kiser, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Melinda Kiser
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Melinda Kiser is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with all age groups to provide a psychiatric evaluation and medication management for mental health struggles. She earned a bachelor and master's degree from the University of Tennessee- Knoxville and then completed a post master's certificate for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at The Ohio State University. She has 40 years of experience in healthcare and over 8 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the outpatient, day treatment, school, and residential settings.
Melinda Kiser is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with all age groups to provide a psychiatric evaluation and medication management for mental health struggles. She earned a bachelor and master's degree from the University of Tennessee- Knoxville and then completed a post master's certificate for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at The Ohio State University. She has 40 years of experience in healthcare and over 8 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the outpatient, day treatment, school, and residential settings.
(865) 345-3299 View (865) 345-3299
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 Suzanne Winzenburg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Suzanne Winzenburg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Dr. Suzanne Winzenburg is a dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She has been in nursing since 1991 and has practiced as an advanced practice nurse since 2011. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Southern Indiana, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University, and a Post-Master Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from King University. Dr. Winzenburg is an Associate Professor of Nursing at King University in the graduate nursing program.
Dr. Suzanne Winzenburg is a dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She has been in nursing since 1991 and has practiced as an advanced practice nurse since 2011. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Southern Indiana, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University, and a Post-Master Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from King University. Dr. Winzenburg is an Associate Professor of Nursing at King University in the graduate nursing program.
(865) 590-4948 View (865) 590-4948
Photo of Amy Rosenbalm, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Amy Rosenbalm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
(865) 375-9194 View (865) 375-9194
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 Toksy Akinleye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Toksy Akinleye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Looking for someone who provides non-rushed appointments or someone who’s not looking to just provide a quick prescription. I understand that mental health issues can be debilitating and that seeking mental health care can be challenging. I work closely with individuals who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, OCD, PTSD, sleep issues, perinatal issues, and more. My passion is to help my patients achieve and improve their mental well-being. My goal is equitable and inclusive care for every individual I care for. You have taken the first step toward mental health and emotional wellness!
Accepting new clients! Looking for someone who provides non-rushed appointments or someone who’s not looking to just provide a quick prescription. I understand that mental health issues can be debilitating and that seeking mental health care can be challenging. I work closely with individuals who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, OCD, PTSD, sleep issues, perinatal issues, and more. My passion is to help my patients achieve and improve their mental well-being. My goal is equitable and inclusive care for every individual I care for. You have taken the first step toward mental health and emotional wellness!
(865) 351-6256 View (865) 351-6256
Photo of Kellye Hudson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Kellye Hudson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I am here to help you determine if medication is needed as part of your treatment. There are many pathways to healing and medication can be one small part of this journey. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
I am here to help you determine if medication is needed as part of your treatment. There are many pathways to healing and medication can be one small part of this journey. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
(865) 276-7690 View (865) 276-7690

Nearby Searches for Knoxville

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.