Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in San Antonio, TX
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
(726) 227-2116 View (726) 227-2116
Photo of Dr. Elena Gherman - Full Moon Behavioral, Psychiatrist in San Antonio, TX
Dr. Elena Gherman - Full Moon Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
Dr. Elena Gherman is a spectacular Leader and Psychiatrist in our community for more than 13 years. She is also an amazing mother of 3 beautiful children. She is Board certified in Adult Psychiatry & Neurology, with specialty fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr G's training and professional experiences will allow her to offer you and your family the best care and treatment plans with safety and well-being in mind. The ONLY Psychiatrist doing PharmacoGenomic Testing in the office in San Antonio!
Dr. Elena Gherman is a spectacular Leader and Psychiatrist in our community for more than 13 years. She is also an amazing mother of 3 beautiful children. She is Board certified in Adult Psychiatry & Neurology, with specialty fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr G's training and professional experiences will allow her to offer you and your family the best care and treatment plans with safety and well-being in mind. The ONLY Psychiatrist doing PharmacoGenomic Testing in the office in San Antonio!
(726) 204-4619 View (726) 204-4619
Photo of Ann Torres, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Ann Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Immediate Appointments Available! Evenings & some Weekend appointments available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Immediate Appointments Available! Evenings & some Weekend appointments available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
(210) 972-8488 View (210) 972-8488
Photo of Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in San Antonio, TX
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
(210) 940-0924 View (210) 940-0924
Photo of Luis Valdez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Luis Valdez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Luis Javier Valdez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over one year of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Javier treats clients between the ages of 5 and 64 utilizing a biopsychosocial treatment approach, meaning that I will attempt to understand you as a whole individual including biological processes, your psychological approaches to coping, as well as your support system/family, and work systems to create a tailored treatment plan that is evidenced-based and unique for you.
Luis Javier Valdez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over one year of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Javier treats clients between the ages of 5 and 64 utilizing a biopsychosocial treatment approach, meaning that I will attempt to understand you as a whole individual including biological processes, your psychological approaches to coping, as well as your support system/family, and work systems to create a tailored treatment plan that is evidenced-based and unique for you.
(210) 361-4207 View (210) 361-4207
Photo of Victoria Walter-Etoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Victoria Walter-Etoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Victoria Walter-Etoh is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. Victoria utilizes a compassionate and empathetic approach in treating her patients. Building rapport and establishing a strong therapeutic working relationship is very important to her. Victoria believes in developing and implementing a treatment plan for each patient using a patient-centered and evidence-based model. And most importantly, she strives to treat each person with strict confidentiality, dignity, and respect. Outside of work, Victoria enjoys traveling, watching movies, and reading.
Victoria Walter-Etoh is a Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. Victoria utilizes a compassionate and empathetic approach in treating her patients. Building rapport and establishing a strong therapeutic working relationship is very important to her. Victoria believes in developing and implementing a treatment plan for each patient using a patient-centered and evidence-based model. And most importantly, she strives to treat each person with strict confidentiality, dignity, and respect. Outside of work, Victoria enjoys traveling, watching movies, and reading.
(210) 942-7877 View (210) 942-7877
Photo of Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in San Antonio, TX
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
(210) 361-6840 View (210) 361-6840
Photo of Aktsa Simon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Aktsa Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78206  (Online Only)
www.celestialmh.com
www.celestialmh.com
(503) 437-9548 View (503) 437-9548
Photo of Caroline Horton, Physician Assistant in San Antonio, TX
Caroline Horton
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Caroline is a Physician Assistant, nationally certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She received a Master in Physician Assistant Studies at James Madison University in Virginia and is licensed to practice in the state of TX by the Texas Medical Board. She has experience in Emergency Medicine and the care of adults and children with acute and chronic mental health disorders in the ER setting. She is committed to helping provide mental health services to the people of San Antonio and surrounding communities that allows more people to access the care they need in an outpatient setting.
Caroline is a Physician Assistant, nationally certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She received a Master in Physician Assistant Studies at James Madison University in Virginia and is licensed to practice in the state of TX by the Texas Medical Board. She has experience in Emergency Medicine and the care of adults and children with acute and chronic mental health disorders in the ER setting. She is committed to helping provide mental health services to the people of San Antonio and surrounding communities that allows more people to access the care they need in an outpatient setting.
(210) 774-6364 View (210) 774-6364
Photo of Anthony Okafor, Physician Assistant in San Antonio, TX
Anthony Okafor
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
NOW Accepting NEW Patients! PA Okafor is a fully licensed Physician Assistant in the State of Texas. My goal and passion are to help individuals (18 and above) find and regain their sense of self again using my extensive background & experiences I've encountered in the field of medicine and also working as a PA in San Antonio Behavioral Hospital. Those experiences & exposures to different kinds of people from the underserved to suburban areas prepared me well to be in-tune with others' feelings emotionally, cognitively & physically.
NOW Accepting NEW Patients! PA Okafor is a fully licensed Physician Assistant in the State of Texas. My goal and passion are to help individuals (18 and above) find and regain their sense of self again using my extensive background & experiences I've encountered in the field of medicine and also working as a PA in San Antonio Behavioral Hospital. Those experiences & exposures to different kinds of people from the underserved to suburban areas prepared me well to be in-tune with others' feelings emotionally, cognitively & physically.
(210) 964-3661 View (210) 964-3661
Photo of Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse in San Antonio, TX
Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, CC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments. Your feelings of being all alone in a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, uncontrolled diabetes, infertility, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging. Fifty precent of most effective treatment for mental illness is therapy and mindset change. The other fifty percent of most individuals can benefit from a combination of therapy, life coaching, medication management and herbal supplements. If you have been suffering for a long time in a negative season, remember you are NOT Bound!
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments. Your feelings of being all alone in a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, uncontrolled diabetes, infertility, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging. Fifty precent of most effective treatment for mental illness is therapy and mindset change. The other fifty percent of most individuals can benefit from a combination of therapy, life coaching, medication management and herbal supplements. If you have been suffering for a long time in a negative season, remember you are NOT Bound!
(210) 775-0323 View (210) 775-0323
Photo of Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Aura Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
(210) 864-8172 View (210) 864-8172
Photo of Precious Chandler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Precious Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry, PLLC our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Immediate Appointments Available! Evenings & some Weekend appointments available. For more details, visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry, PLLC our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Immediate Appointments Available! Evenings & some Weekend appointments available. For more details, visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
(210) 985-7202 View (210) 985-7202
Photo of Northridge Behavioral Health PLLC, Psychiatrist in San Antonio, TX
Northridge Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
Dr Ajufo is fully licensed in state of Texas and accepting NEW patients. She is experienced in working with a diverse population of motivated patients. She provides high quality, comprehensive, compassionate and patient focused care for patients 6yrs AND ABOVE Focusing on the whole person Dr Ajufo works with the patient to develop individualized treatment plans. Our clinic treats patients with Anxiety,ADHD, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, , Depression, Postpartum Depression, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia , Schizoaffective Disorder and Sleep Disorders ,
Dr Ajufo is fully licensed in state of Texas and accepting NEW patients. She is experienced in working with a diverse population of motivated patients. She provides high quality, comprehensive, compassionate and patient focused care for patients 6yrs AND ABOVE Focusing on the whole person Dr Ajufo works with the patient to develop individualized treatment plans. Our clinic treats patients with Anxiety,ADHD, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, , Depression, Postpartum Depression, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia , Schizoaffective Disorder and Sleep Disorders ,
(210) 361-8427 View (210) 361-8427
Photo of Brittany Manor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Brittany Manor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78218  (Online Only)
Brittany Manor is the founder and owner of Manor Behavioral Health. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience in assessing & treating adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and personality disorders. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings helping client feel safe and empowered to achieve mental freedom.
Brittany Manor is the founder and owner of Manor Behavioral Health. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience in assessing & treating adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and personality disorders. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings helping client feel safe and empowered to achieve mental freedom.
(346) 248-2567 View (346) 248-2567
Photo of Munira Jiwani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Munira Jiwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78215  (Online Only)
Hi there! If you're reading this, I hope I can assist you on your mental health journey. I'm Munira Jiwani, a board-certified psychiatric specialist. I've recently made some room in my practice for new patients. I work with most major insurance providers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United, because I believe everyone should have access to affordable, quality care. My schedule tends to fill up quickly, but as of now, I have some appointment slots available as early as next week.
Hi there! If you're reading this, I hope I can assist you on your mental health journey. I'm Munira Jiwani, a board-certified psychiatric specialist. I've recently made some room in my practice for new patients. I work with most major insurance providers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United, because I believe everyone should have access to affordable, quality care. My schedule tends to fill up quickly, but as of now, I have some appointment slots available as early as next week.
(210) 972-8638 View (210) 972-8638
Photo of Olufunke Mercy-Grace Jinadu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Olufunke Mercy-Grace Jinadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78234  (Online Only)
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
(210) 985-7217 View (210) 985-7217
Photo of Shawna Deeves, Psychiatrist in San Antonio, TX
Shawna Deeves
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Dr. Deeves is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in San Antonio, Texas. She earned her Medical Degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio and has been in practice for more than 20 years.. She leads our team and makes sure all our backgrounds work together to help support your mental health goals. Dr. Deeves is an adjunct assistant professor with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She believes in education and training of new professionals.
Dr. Deeves is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in San Antonio, Texas. She earned her Medical Degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio and has been in practice for more than 20 years.. She leads our team and makes sure all our backgrounds work together to help support your mental health goals. Dr. Deeves is an adjunct assistant professor with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She believes in education and training of new professionals.
(210) 750-6879 View (210) 750-6879
Photo of Aaron Cummins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Aaron Cummins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my professional experience. My name is Aaron Cummins, and I am a PMHNP and LCSW. Working in psychiatry and behavioral health is an honor for me. I am dedicated to helping people meet their personal, relationship, academic and career health and wellness goals. I subscribe to an individualized and holistic approach to healthcare and recognize we all have personal preferences and beliefs that should be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Your stories, experiences, struggles and successes deserve to be seen, heard, and validated.
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and my professional experience. My name is Aaron Cummins, and I am a PMHNP and LCSW. Working in psychiatry and behavioral health is an honor for me. I am dedicated to helping people meet their personal, relationship, academic and career health and wellness goals. I subscribe to an individualized and holistic approach to healthcare and recognize we all have personal preferences and beliefs that should be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Your stories, experiences, struggles and successes deserve to be seen, heard, and validated.
(210) 972-0736 View (210) 972-0736
Photo of Steve Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Antonio, TX
Steve Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
Mental health problems are challenging in so many ways. I can help you navigate evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management in a patient-centered manner. I am passionate about treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) including Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and Mood Disorders like Depression, Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Depression. I also diagnose and treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Personality disorders.
Mental health problems are challenging in so many ways. I can help you navigate evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management in a patient-centered manner. I am passionate about treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) including Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and Mood Disorders like Depression, Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Depression. I also diagnose and treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Personality disorders.
(726) 224-7384 View (726) 224-7384

See more therapy options for San Antonio

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
80% Trauma and PTSD
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Medication Management
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in San Antonio?

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.