Psychiatrists in Edmonds, WA

Photo of Zachary Mangum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Zachary Mangum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Zach works with his clients to understand their experience and collaboratively determine treatment options. Education & Experience (including licensure, schools, former work experience): Zach earned his BSN at University of Washington, Bothell, earned his MSN at Gonzaga University Inpatient psychiatry settings for 10+ years treating the full spectrum of mental health diagnoses. Zach enjoys Travel, Pickleball, Sports, and being a Foster Parent.
Zach works with his clients to understand their experience and collaboratively determine treatment options. Education & Experience (including licensure, schools, former work experience): Zach earned his BSN at University of Washington, Bothell, earned his MSN at Gonzaga University Inpatient psychiatry settings for 10+ years treating the full spectrum of mental health diagnoses. Zach enjoys Travel, Pickleball, Sports, and being a Foster Parent.
(425) 406-3616 View (425) 406-3616
Photo of Tara Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Tara Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Tara Scott is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her master's degree at Gonzaga University and her nursing and psychology degrees from The University of Montana. Her practice focuses primarily on medication management with supportive therapy. Tara strives to provide a supportive, therapeutic and collaborative approach. She provides patient care in a calm, empathetic, and holistic manner while encouraging joint decision-making with patients to achieve wellness and the best outcomes.
Tara Scott is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her master's degree at Gonzaga University and her nursing and psychology degrees from The University of Montana. Her practice focuses primarily on medication management with supportive therapy. Tara strives to provide a supportive, therapeutic and collaborative approach. She provides patient care in a calm, empathetic, and holistic manner while encouraging joint decision-making with patients to achieve wellness and the best outcomes.
(425) 428-6092 View (425) 428-6092
Photo of Lilia Peng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Lilia Peng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
As a dually licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Naturopathic Physician (ND), I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as complementary/alternative care for mental health. My approach is holistic and integrative, including tools such as laboratory assessment, lifestyle counseling, supportive therapy, natural treatments, and medications. I personalize treatments to the individual and work collaboratively with clients to address goals for care. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.
As a dually licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Naturopathic Physician (ND), I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as complementary/alternative care for mental health. My approach is holistic and integrative, including tools such as laboratory assessment, lifestyle counseling, supportive therapy, natural treatments, and medications. I personalize treatments to the individual and work collaboratively with clients to address goals for care. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.
(425) 470-6421 View (425) 470-6421
Photo of Deonne Brown Benedict, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Deonne Brown Benedict
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Immediate Openings Available! Maybe life feels a little broken right now and you are seeking better for yourself. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed or spending a lot of time worrying. I believe a caring and supportive relationship is the foundation for our work together. I will start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Then, using the latest evidence basis, I will work with you collaboratively to help you achieve your best mental health through education, medications, and psychotherapy.
Immediate Openings Available! Maybe life feels a little broken right now and you are seeking better for yourself. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed or spending a lot of time worrying. I believe a caring and supportive relationship is the foundation for our work together. I will start with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Then, using the latest evidence basis, I will work with you collaboratively to help you achieve your best mental health through education, medications, and psychotherapy.
(425) 406-3106 View (425) 406-3106
Photo of Bluestone Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Bluestone Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Bluestone Psychiatric Services notices you! There's no magic pill to fix it all BUT there's a caring, compassionate, smart psych med provider to be with you every step of the way. Those who are struggling with anxious thoughts, worry, depressive cognitions, inattention, and sad emotions may need an additional intervention. You know the skills but feel too fatigued to use them. Psychiatric medication, natural supplements or nutritional interventions can often be the boost you need to access your skills. Meet with Dr. Peng, Dr. Palmer or Dr. Chaijinda to start your recovery process!
Bluestone Psychiatric Services notices you! There's no magic pill to fix it all BUT there's a caring, compassionate, smart psych med provider to be with you every step of the way. Those who are struggling with anxious thoughts, worry, depressive cognitions, inattention, and sad emotions may need an additional intervention. You know the skills but feel too fatigued to use them. Psychiatric medication, natural supplements or nutritional interventions can often be the boost you need to access your skills. Meet with Dr. Peng, Dr. Palmer or Dr. Chaijinda to start your recovery process!
(425) 470-5511 View (425) 470-5511
Photo of Jennifer O'Hare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Jennifer O'Hare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients / request an appointment at www.psychnorthwest.com. My care approach is client-centered. Services are holistic, blending conventional evidenced-based practices with complementary methodologies. These include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, symptom history review, medication management, genetic testing, and supplement guidance as indicated.
Now accepting new clients / request an appointment at www.psychnorthwest.com. My care approach is client-centered. Services are holistic, blending conventional evidenced-based practices with complementary methodologies. These include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, symptom history review, medication management, genetic testing, and supplement guidance as indicated.
(206) 823-1243 View (206) 823-1243
Photo of Jonnae Tillman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Jonnae Tillman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Dr. Jonnae Tillman is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a doctoral degree as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Her training allows her to conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, prescribe medication, and provide psychotherapy services. Dr. Tillman provides services to adults ages 23-65.
Dr. Jonnae Tillman is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a doctoral degree as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Her training allows her to conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, prescribe medication, and provide psychotherapy services. Dr. Tillman provides services to adults ages 23-65.
(206) 823-1724 View (206) 823-1724
Photo of Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Edmonds, WA
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(425) 600-1669 View (425) 600-1669
Photo of Neupathway ( Mirandine Fitchette ), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Neupathway ( Mirandine Fitchette )
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BC, MSN/DNP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ......... Mirandine is a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides psychiatric/mental health services to clients across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children as young as six years old). Our utmost dedication lies in offering exceptional in-person and tele-psychiatry services that encompass comprehensive care and prioritize the delivery of high-quality healthcare. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, we kindly invite you to visit our website at neupathway.com/appointments.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ......... Mirandine is a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides psychiatric/mental health services to clients across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children as young as six years old). Our utmost dedication lies in offering exceptional in-person and tele-psychiatry services that encompass comprehensive care and prioritize the delivery of high-quality healthcare. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, we kindly invite you to visit our website at neupathway.com/appointments.
(425) 793-2267 View (425) 793-2267
Photo of Simone Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Simone Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
It is my intention to learn your unique story and collaborate with you on a solution-focused treatment plan incorporating the specific goals you have in mind. This process includes assisting you in building awareness around triggers of symptoms and practices that reduce and prevent recurrence. A focus of treatment is creating lasting change through building healthy habits and routines for optimization of well-being. Currently, I am working with adults that have depressive, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma related disorders; and are devoted to their own healing and well-being.
It is my intention to learn your unique story and collaborate with you on a solution-focused treatment plan incorporating the specific goals you have in mind. This process includes assisting you in building awareness around triggers of symptoms and practices that reduce and prevent recurrence. A focus of treatment is creating lasting change through building healthy habits and routines for optimization of well-being. Currently, I am working with adults that have depressive, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma related disorders; and are devoted to their own healing and well-being.
(425) 615-6328 View (425) 615-6328
Photo of Monty Owens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Monty Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
04/17/24- Telehealth offered. New patient appointments available in four weeks. No in person appointment required. I provide medication management for clients with ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD and psychotic disorders. I can help you improve your life and get you back on track at work, home and in your relationships. Please reach out today for an appointment or if you have any questions!
04/17/24- Telehealth offered. New patient appointments available in four weeks. No in person appointment required. I provide medication management for clients with ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD and psychotic disorders. I can help you improve your life and get you back on track at work, home and in your relationships. Please reach out today for an appointment or if you have any questions!
(425) 307-4499 View (425) 307-4499

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Tevon Dubois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
I believe you are the leading expert on yourself. I take the time to get to know you, providing individualized care guided by your values and goals.
I believe you are the leading expert on yourself. I take the time to get to know you, providing individualized care guided by your values and goals.
View
Photo of Nicholas Kenneth Garmon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Nicholas Kenneth Garmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Do you often feel that it's impossible to keep up? Ever find yourself watching others seemingly handle work, school, and personal responsibilities effortlessly? The pressure from the world outside, combined with the inner critic, can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling down, discouraged, and even hopeless. But here's the good news: this feeling does not have to be permanent. With the appropriate support, it can fade away. You can regain control over your everyday life while nurturing a positive outlook on yourself and your future.
Do you often feel that it's impossible to keep up? Ever find yourself watching others seemingly handle work, school, and personal responsibilities effortlessly? The pressure from the world outside, combined with the inner critic, can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling down, discouraged, and even hopeless. But here's the good news: this feeling does not have to be permanent. With the appropriate support, it can fade away. You can regain control over your everyday life while nurturing a positive outlook on yourself and your future.
(425) 517-3416 View (425) 517-3416
Photo of Gabriel Obu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
(425) 517-1711 View (425) 517-1711
Photo of Rozina Lakhani, Psychiatrist in Edmonds, WA
Rozina Lakhani
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
(425) 654-3508 View (425) 654-3508
Photo of Glory Nwankwo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Glory Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
Dr. Nwankwo is a doctoral prepared and licensed dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California, and Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, Minnesota. Dr. Nwankwo provides her clients with empathetic, evidence-based, patient-centered care with the goal of restoring health and balance. She assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders using pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions.
Dr. Nwankwo is a doctoral prepared and licensed dual board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California, and Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, Minnesota. Dr. Nwankwo provides her clients with empathetic, evidence-based, patient-centered care with the goal of restoring health and balance. She assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders using pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions.
(425) 386-5331 View (425) 386-5331
Photo of Michael Ramsey, Psychiatrist in Edmonds, WA
Michael Ramsey
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I specialize in treatment and services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-18). I am interested in assessing both the patient and family dynamics to create a holistic and behavioral approach to Psychiatry. Treatment modalities include medication management, partnering with therapists and schools, and building stronger families. In addition, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults with Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I am an avid science fiction aficionado, Star Trek enthusiast, and friend to animals.
I specialize in treatment and services for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 6-18). I am interested in assessing both the patient and family dynamics to create a holistic and behavioral approach to Psychiatry. Treatment modalities include medication management, partnering with therapists and schools, and building stronger families. In addition, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults with Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I am an avid science fiction aficionado, Star Trek enthusiast, and friend to animals.
(206) 558-0264 View (206) 558-0264
Photo of George Attobrah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
George Attobrah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I offer quality and affordable mental/psychiatric services to adolescent and adult patients. I believe the foundation to living and maintaining a healthy living is your mental health. I take time to listen to each patient to understand their unique needs to come up with an effective treatment plan
I offer quality and affordable mental/psychiatric services to adolescent and adult patients. I believe the foundation to living and maintaining a healthy living is your mental health. I take time to listen to each patient to understand their unique needs to come up with an effective treatment plan
(253) 480-6819 View (253) 480-6819
Photo of Allison Cothern, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Allison Cothern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing. Since completing my graduate studies and residencies, I have specialized in treating adults with mental health difficulties and concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and other challenges. I will make it my priority to help you feel comfortable while performing thorough assessments to better diagnose and develop a treatment plan. I believe in a holistic approach to maximize wellbeing and to help you attain the best results.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing. Since completing my graduate studies and residencies, I have specialized in treating adults with mental health difficulties and concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and other challenges. I will make it my priority to help you feel comfortable while performing thorough assessments to better diagnose and develop a treatment plan. I believe in a holistic approach to maximize wellbeing and to help you attain the best results.
(206) 752-9926 View (206) 752-9926
Photo of Emmanuel M Metayer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Edmonds, WA
Emmanuel M Metayer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FEP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
E. Metayer, a licensed Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Wahington, is a gifted child raised in a Christian family. As a devoted christian with strong ethical and moral values, he displayed a strong self-confidence, and calm demeanor. His positive and optimistic attitude secured his career achievement. He is a Doctorate in Medicine from Haiti, a graduate in BSN, and MSN in Nursing. His experience in the medical field is very rich, and his passion to a patient centered care as well as evidence-based drive his practice for more than 7 years. Mr. Metayer provides in multiple healthcare settings in the US.
E. Metayer, a licensed Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Wahington, is a gifted child raised in a Christian family. As a devoted christian with strong ethical and moral values, he displayed a strong self-confidence, and calm demeanor. His positive and optimistic attitude secured his career achievement. He is a Doctorate in Medicine from Haiti, a graduate in BSN, and MSN in Nursing. His experience in the medical field is very rich, and his passion to a patient centered care as well as evidence-based drive his practice for more than 7 years. Mr. Metayer provides in multiple healthcare settings in the US.
(425) 406-3761 View (425) 406-3761

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Edmonds, WA

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Edmonds, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Medication Management
82% Trauma and PTSD
82% Bipolar Disorder
73% Sleep or Insomnia
64% ADHD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% First Choice Health | FCH
90% Regence
80% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Edmonds, WA see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Edmonds?

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.