Psychiatrists in Pulaski, VA

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Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Jenny Wang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Jenny Wang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MA
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
With over 10 years experience, I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and Children/adult/gerontology primary care. I value holistic approach to individual’s physical, emotional, mental, social, and environmental health.
With over 10 years experience, I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and Children/adult/gerontology primary care. I value holistic approach to individual’s physical, emotional, mental, social, and environmental health.
(540) 660-7746 View (540) 660-7746
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist in Pulaski, VA
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Luzangela Rojas-Mogollon, Psychiatrist in Pulaski, VA
Luzangela Rojas-Mogollon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24503
Luzángela Rojas-Mogollón, MD is a fully licensed physician who is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Rojas has 15 years of experience treating patients with psychiatric problems. She completed psychiatry residency training at the Boston Medical Center in Boston, MA.
Luzángela Rojas-Mogollón, MD is a fully licensed physician who is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Rojas has 15 years of experience treating patients with psychiatric problems. She completed psychiatry residency training at the Boston Medical Center in Boston, MA.
(434) 216-6922 View (434) 216-6922
Photo of Apex Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatrist in Pulaski, VA
Apex Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
Dr. Muppa is an Adult, Child and Adolescent Board certified Psychiatrist with more than 15 years experience. Dr. Muppa practices with compassion, empathy and focuses on holistic approach to treat patients. Apex Psychiatry offers expert care to help you overcome challenges and achieve wellness. Comprehensive and personalized treatment plans, expert providers and the convenience of virtual appointments - all designed to meet your unique needs. Apex psychiatry focuses on evidence based medicine. Visit www.apexpsychiatryva.com for additional information.
Dr. Muppa is an Adult, Child and Adolescent Board certified Psychiatrist with more than 15 years experience. Dr. Muppa practices with compassion, empathy and focuses on holistic approach to treat patients. Apex Psychiatry offers expert care to help you overcome challenges and achieve wellness. Comprehensive and personalized treatment plans, expert providers and the convenience of virtual appointments - all designed to meet your unique needs. Apex psychiatry focuses on evidence based medicine. Visit www.apexpsychiatryva.com for additional information.
(540) 501-6378 View (540) 501-6378
Photo of Stephen Narigon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Stephen Narigon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsville, VA 24343  (Online Only)
We are accepting new pediatric and adult clients in North Carolina and Virginia. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in psychiatry treating Autism, personality disorders, and mood disorders. The care provided includes solution-focused therapy, medication support, and psycho-education. My primary areas of interest include positive and supportive psychology, optimizing human performance, and evidence-based methodologies in psychiatry. I collaborate with my clients to help discover personal treatment goals and formulate a mutually agreed-upon strategy for treatment.
We are accepting new pediatric and adult clients in North Carolina and Virginia. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in psychiatry treating Autism, personality disorders, and mood disorders. The care provided includes solution-focused therapy, medication support, and psycho-education. My primary areas of interest include positive and supportive psychology, optimizing human performance, and evidence-based methodologies in psychiatry. I collaborate with my clients to help discover personal treatment goals and formulate a mutually agreed-upon strategy for treatment.
(984) 203-9158 View (984) 203-9158
Photo of Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salem, VA 24153
I have a genuine, realistic approach to psychiatry that relates to a variety of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. I originally graduated with a bachelors in Psychology from Old Dominion University. I later returned to school to become a Registered Nurse in 2006 and eventually circled back into psychiatry via psychiatric home health. I decided to return to school to be a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner after many years of educating and advocating for mental health within the adult and geriatric community. In 2016, I graduated from University of Southern Indiana with a Masters of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and subsequently certified by ANCC to practice and prescribe as a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I continue the rewarding practice of managing adult and geriatric patients with complex medical co-morbities that require additional expertise in managing their mental health needs. I am a family-oriented and spiritually grounded practitioner that seeks to thrive within my calling to provide a holistic and realistic approach to mental health for my patients.
I have a genuine, realistic approach to psychiatry that relates to a variety of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. I originally graduated with a bachelors in Psychology from Old Dominion University. I later returned to school to become a Registered Nurse in 2006 and eventually circled back into psychiatry via psychiatric home health. I decided to return to school to be a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner after many years of educating and advocating for mental health within the adult and geriatric community. In 2016, I graduated from University of Southern Indiana with a Masters of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and subsequently certified by ANCC to practice and prescribe as a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I continue the rewarding practice of managing adult and geriatric patients with complex medical co-morbities that require additional expertise in managing their mental health needs. I am a family-oriented and spiritually grounded practitioner that seeks to thrive within my calling to provide a holistic and realistic approach to mental health for my patients.
(540) 302-5712 View (540) 302-5712
Photo of Caretouch Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Caretouch Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Accepting New Patients all over Washington. Call for an appointment Now. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and family Nurse Practitioner. She has years of experience in her field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Affiliated with Mindful Therapy Group.
Accepting New Patients all over Washington. Call for an appointment Now. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and family Nurse Practitioner. She has years of experience in her field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Affiliated with Mindful Therapy Group.
(509) 348-4366 View (509) 348-4366
Center for Care and Resiliency, PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Types of Services Offered: Psychiatric Diagnostic, Assessment Psychiatric Medication Management, Ketamine treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Marriage and family counseling, Group Counseling, Guidance and career counseling, Mental health counseling, Substance abuse counseling, Educational Counseling, Parenting Counseling, Infectious Disease counseling, Eating disorder counseling, Grief counseling, and Trauma counseling
Types of Services Offered: Psychiatric Diagnostic, Assessment Psychiatric Medication Management, Ketamine treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Marriage and family counseling, Group Counseling, Guidance and career counseling, Mental health counseling, Substance abuse counseling, Educational Counseling, Parenting Counseling, Infectious Disease counseling, Eating disorder counseling, Grief counseling, and Trauma counseling
(540) 384-4630 View (540) 384-4630
Photo of Lisa Anne Youngblood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Lisa Anne Youngblood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073  (Online Only)
What sets my practice apart from other providers is my specialty in women mental health needs as they navigate the hormonal changes through each phase of their lives. These transitions and conditions include PMDD, PMS pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. My dual degree as a family nurse practitioner has allowed me the expertise in this area and to offer a unique servce to all my clients. I offer an integrated and holistic approach that is dedicated to helping you create an emotionally balanced life.
What sets my practice apart from other providers is my specialty in women mental health needs as they navigate the hormonal changes through each phase of their lives. These transitions and conditions include PMDD, PMS pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. My dual degree as a family nurse practitioner has allowed me the expertise in this area and to offer a unique servce to all my clients. I offer an integrated and holistic approach that is dedicated to helping you create an emotionally balanced life.
(561) 418-6374 View (561) 418-6374
Photo of Direct Mental Wellness, Psychiatrist in Pulaski, VA
Direct Mental Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
If you’re looking for a psychiatrist who listens to you, who is respectful the human rights and dignity of minorities, women and LGBTQ+ people, who enjoys helping people with autism, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, developmental and complex trauma, ME-CFS and other chronic developmental or medical conditions, who offers evidence based care while being open to your experiences with complimentary and alternative treatments, who empowers you with quality information to make the best choices for you personally, we may be a good fit. I offer in-person Ketamine Assisted Therapy at your home or therapist's office in northeast TN and southwest VA.
If you’re looking for a psychiatrist who listens to you, who is respectful the human rights and dignity of minorities, women and LGBTQ+ people, who enjoys helping people with autism, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, developmental and complex trauma, ME-CFS and other chronic developmental or medical conditions, who offers evidence based care while being open to your experiences with complimentary and alternative treatments, who empowers you with quality information to make the best choices for you personally, we may be a good fit. I offer in-person Ketamine Assisted Therapy at your home or therapist's office in northeast TN and southwest VA.
(540) 755-0098 View (540) 755-0098
Photo of Maggie Oliver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Maggie Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014  (Online Only)
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
(703) 997-1744 View (703) 997-1744
Photo of Marlene Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Marlene Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, VA 24151
Welcome, glad to see you’re reaching out for support; a sign of positive mental health! I have over 30 years’ experience in mental, physical and spiritual health care. I am certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice philosophy is holistic, embracing body, mind and spirit to allow for maximum well-being.
Welcome, glad to see you’re reaching out for support; a sign of positive mental health! I have over 30 years’ experience in mental, physical and spiritual health care. I am certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice philosophy is holistic, embracing body, mind and spirit to allow for maximum well-being.
(540) 402-1719 View (540) 402-1719
Photo of Lisa Clement-DeFalco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Lisa Clement-DeFalco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503  (Online Only)
Many years of providing mental health care to families, children and adults in community health centers, outpatient clinics and inpatient mental health units have given me vast experience with various mental health diagnoses and treatment modalities. I have appreciated working with clients with depression, anxiety/trauma, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. I also appreciate the struggles that people diagnosed with personality disorders (truly a relational experience) especially Borderline and Antisocial Personality Disorders. Further, the influences of mind-altering substances on mental health must always be considered and address
Many years of providing mental health care to families, children and adults in community health centers, outpatient clinics and inpatient mental health units have given me vast experience with various mental health diagnoses and treatment modalities. I have appreciated working with clients with depression, anxiety/trauma, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. I also appreciate the struggles that people diagnosed with personality disorders (truly a relational experience) especially Borderline and Antisocial Personality Disorders. Further, the influences of mind-altering substances on mental health must always be considered and address
(434) 830-5306 View (434) 830-5306
Photo of Ileana Asanache, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Ileana Asanache
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504  (Online Only)
Ileana is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and other mental health issues that may be interfering with normal daily functioning. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Ileana's view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where she takes things at your pace. She prioritizes patient-focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs.
Ileana is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and other mental health issues that may be interfering with normal daily functioning. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Ileana's view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where she takes things at your pace. She prioritizes patient-focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs.
(434) 505-4924 View (434) 505-4924
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist in Pulaski, VA
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Patrick Crook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Patrick Crook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marion, VA 24354  (Online Only)
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, based in South Carolina. I received my Masters in Nursing from Duquesne University (Forensic Nursing), Post-Masters in Nursing from University of Virginia (PMHNP). I served in both U.S. Navy and U.S. Public Health Service, retired in 2019. I have been practicing for 12 yrs. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, based in South Carolina. I received my Masters in Nursing from Duquesne University (Forensic Nursing), Post-Masters in Nursing from University of Virginia (PMHNP). I served in both U.S. Navy and U.S. Public Health Service, retired in 2019. I have been practicing for 12 yrs. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(276) 296-6544 View (276) 296-6544
Photo of Mending Minds Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Mending Minds Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
At Mending Minds, we believe in providing individualized, holistic care. Tracy Ann Reid-Saunders is a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes in knowing each client on a personal level and working harmoniously to achieve optimal outcomes. I believe in providing care to each individual, how I would want myself or my family to be cared for.
At Mending Minds, we believe in providing individualized, holistic care. Tracy Ann Reid-Saunders is a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes in knowing each client on a personal level and working harmoniously to achieve optimal outcomes. I believe in providing care to each individual, how I would want myself or my family to be cared for.
(757) 260-5745 View (757) 260-5745
Photo of Mindful Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Mindful Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Abingdon, VA 24211
Easily schedule appointment online today 24/7 @ www.mindfulmh.com
Easily schedule appointment online today 24/7 @ www.mindfulmh.com
(276) 208-9462 View (276) 208-9462
Photo of Easy-Access Behavioral & Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Easy-Access Behavioral & Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Covington, VA 24426  (Online Only)
Building effective therapeutic relationship with our patient's is the bedrock of our practice. Our passion for treatment of all forms is centered on individualize treatment model where the client's need is our priority. We inculcate culture diversity, evidence-based model of treatment and the prioritization of patient's concerns and needs. New Client's and established clients are all given the trustworthy care to the best of our ability.
Building effective therapeutic relationship with our patient's is the bedrock of our practice. Our passion for treatment of all forms is centered on individualize treatment model where the client's need is our priority. We inculcate culture diversity, evidence-based model of treatment and the prioritization of patient's concerns and needs. New Client's and established clients are all given the trustworthy care to the best of our ability.
(540) 358-8746 View (540) 358-8746
Photo of Cheryl R Zupancic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Pulaski, VA
Cheryl R Zupancic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540  (Online Only)
Cheryl Zupancic is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, licensed to practice in both Virginia and Maryland. With nearly two decades of specialized healthcare experience, she brings unique and enriching skills to her mental health clinical practice, facilitating her ability to serve her clients with compassionate, and effective care. Propelled by her commitment to assist clients on their unique journeys to mental health recovery and wellness, Cheryl is excited to serve a diverse client base at Epic Health Partners LLC and to meet them where they are.
Cheryl Zupancic is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, licensed to practice in both Virginia and Maryland. With nearly two decades of specialized healthcare experience, she brings unique and enriching skills to her mental health clinical practice, facilitating her ability to serve her clients with compassionate, and effective care. Propelled by her commitment to assist clients on their unique journeys to mental health recovery and wellness, Cheryl is excited to serve a diverse client base at Epic Health Partners LLC and to meet them where they are.
(434) 278-7963 View (434) 278-7963

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Number of Psychiatrists in Pulaski, VA

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How Psychiatrists in Pulaski, VA see their clients

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FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Pulaski?

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.