Psychiatrists in 02199
![Photo of Yuan Jia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f45e75b2-c376-4554-9897-2630b6de0229/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yuan has experience working in community mental health, psychiatric consultation, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient practice. Yuan values the importance of understanding the stigma traditionally associated with mental health struggles and wishes to provide the best-individualized care with an evidence-based and effective holistic approach. She provides a thorough diagnostic evaluation to detect patterns in thoughts and behaviors in her patients, and then match them to appropriate diagnoses.
Yuan has experience working in community mental health, psychiatric consultation, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient practice. Yuan values the importance of understanding the stigma traditionally associated with mental health struggles and wishes to provide the best-individualized care with an evidence-based and effective holistic approach. She provides a thorough diagnostic evaluation to detect patterns in thoughts and behaviors in her patients, and then match them to appropriate diagnoses.
![Photo of Karen Greene, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3e660cf-3c03-4b46-85e2-7c52ca3955ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
With more than two decades of experience in healthcare, I've observed that mental health services often do not receive the attention they deserve. Transitioning from family medicine to mental health care has underscored the critical demand for these services among my patients and the limited availability in mental health care open to them. My objective is to ensure that individuals in need receive the support they're entitled to. Through various talk therapies and, when necessary, medication management, I aim to assist you in finding your ideal balance for a successful, fulfilling, and healthy life.
With more than two decades of experience in healthcare, I've observed that mental health services often do not receive the attention they deserve. Transitioning from family medicine to mental health care has underscored the critical demand for these services among my patients and the limited availability in mental health care open to them. My objective is to ensure that individuals in need receive the support they're entitled to. Through various talk therapies and, when necessary, medication management, I aim to assist you in finding your ideal balance for a successful, fulfilling, and healthy life.
![Photo of Dr. Misty Stafford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/584b4cea-dad4-4d7f-be6c-52370a6b5a4e/1/320x400.png)
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
![Photo of Bruce A Fischer - Bruce A Fischer MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc1049b6-97a1-4351-a192-b5c5ab76ee19/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Board Certified in Psychiatry and certified as a Lifestyle Physician by the American and International Boards of Lifestyle Medicine. I've been providing psychiatric evaluations and treatment for adults in Connecticut and Rhode Island for over 35 years before more recently adding online access for adults in Massachusetts. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication management, meditation and applications of mindfulness, positive psychology, diet and exercise.
I'm Board Certified in Psychiatry and certified as a Lifestyle Physician by the American and International Boards of Lifestyle Medicine. I've been providing psychiatric evaluations and treatment for adults in Connecticut and Rhode Island for over 35 years before more recently adding online access for adults in Massachusetts. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication management, meditation and applications of mindfulness, positive psychology, diet and exercise.
![Photo of Dr. Catherine Yu, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdfa971f-ce24-4634-ab2c-5de977f99997/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Catherine Yu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
I am here to listen with compassion and without judgment. Life brings challenges to each of us. Our life circumstances and how we each experience them are part of what makes each of us unique. Initial visit and ongoing individual mental health and health assessments provides key information essential to establishing treatment goals. We will work together toward understanding, creating and achieving your treatment goals These steps are important and essential to provide the support and care for you to improve your health. I look forward to meeting you.
I am here to listen with compassion and without judgment. Life brings challenges to each of us. Our life circumstances and how we each experience them are part of what makes each of us unique. Initial visit and ongoing individual mental health and health assessments provides key information essential to establishing treatment goals. We will work together toward understanding, creating and achieving your treatment goals These steps are important and essential to provide the support and care for you to improve your health. I look forward to meeting you.
![Photo of Molly Sonner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/532c573d-1685-4e1b-b3a9-1cff2c905fe2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Molly, and I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center), with a specialization in child and adolescent mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals across all age ranges and from diverse backgrounds, and I am committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my patients.
Hello, my name is Molly, and I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center), with a specialization in child and adolescent mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals across all age ranges and from diverse backgrounds, and I am committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my patients.
![Photo of Cynthia Beam - Mulberry Tree Integrative Mental Health, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, DC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07c9cbd1-2066-45d6-91b0-41e78826a943/1/320x400.png)
Mulberry Tree Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, DC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
A board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse with the primary role of assessing, diagnosing and treating the mental health needs of patients. PMHNPs prescribe medications and provide support for patients with mental health disorders. Our integrated approach addresses the underlying cause of disease using a patient-centered approach encompassing the whole person, rather than the traditional disease-centered approach of an isolated set of symptoms.
A board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse with the primary role of assessing, diagnosing and treating the mental health needs of patients. PMHNPs prescribe medications and provide support for patients with mental health disorders. Our integrated approach addresses the underlying cause of disease using a patient-centered approach encompassing the whole person, rather than the traditional disease-centered approach of an isolated set of symptoms.
![Photo of Corrine Potter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81eeb7ec-5079-47f1-a954-8ead0b24fe9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Corrine Potter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years experience in nursing. I believe in providing individualized care specific to each patient and their needs. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy during appointments for optimal patient outcomes. I specialize in Anxiety, Panic disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, Adjustment disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating disorders, ADHD, ADD, OCD, Stress and Psychotic disorders.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years experience in nursing. I believe in providing individualized care specific to each patient and their needs. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy during appointments for optimal patient outcomes. I specialize in Anxiety, Panic disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, Adjustment disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating disorders, ADHD, ADD, OCD, Stress and Psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Brittany Palacios, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ba20f7-7b2c-4ded-a751-edac5b28449e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Palacios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Welcome to Grow Therapy. My name is Brittany Palacios and am currently a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Massachusetts. Establishing a therapeutic alliance with clients is essential. I prioritize an individual's ability to listen and receive feedback. I have over 10 years of clinical experience working as a registered nurse at the bedside. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Worcester State University in 2011. I graduated from Regis College in 2018 where I received my Master’s degree in advanced psychiatric nursing.
Welcome to Grow Therapy. My name is Brittany Palacios and am currently a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Massachusetts. Establishing a therapeutic alliance with clients is essential. I prioritize an individual's ability to listen and receive feedback. I have over 10 years of clinical experience working as a registered nurse at the bedside. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Worcester State University in 2011. I graduated from Regis College in 2018 where I received my Master’s degree in advanced psychiatric nursing.
![Photo of Dr. Fey Ramey, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a18afed6-9187-4ade-8c34-d3c6be110129/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Fey Ramey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Dr. Fey Ramey, a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of nursing experience and a doctorate from Duke University. Specializing in evidence-based mental health and substance use disorder treatment for over 2 years, I'm here to support individuals like you in your mental health journey. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I provide a safe, empathetic space tailored to meet your unique needs. My collaborative approach encompasses personalized treatment plans and a commitment to your empowerment.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Fey Ramey, a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of nursing experience and a doctorate from Duke University. Specializing in evidence-based mental health and substance use disorder treatment for over 2 years, I'm here to support individuals like you in your mental health journey. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I provide a safe, empathetic space tailored to meet your unique needs. My collaborative approach encompasses personalized treatment plans and a commitment to your empowerment.
![Photo of Andrietta Barnett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef1fa3f1-46e7-4389-9548-f244ae6fc85c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrietta Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
As an advanced practice family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she is certified to treat chronic diseases and mental health disorders using evidence-based pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions across all age groups. Andrietta prioritizes patient-centered care and employs diverse educational techniques to promote health behavior change. Her holistic approach to patient care aims to restore patients to optimal health in a timely manner.
As an advanced practice family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she is certified to treat chronic diseases and mental health disorders using evidence-based pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions across all age groups. Andrietta prioritizes patient-centered care and employs diverse educational techniques to promote health behavior change. Her holistic approach to patient care aims to restore patients to optimal health in a timely manner.
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![Photo of Lisa Rullie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efd602d1-34ce-4ad0-9b6f-118e846280e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to foster a collaborative relationship with my patients to develop the best treatment plan to fit your unique needs. You know you best after all. I feel that movement is medicine for both physical and mental health, and will do my best to help guide and encourage all to make healthy behavioral changes to support your overall well-being.
My goal is to foster a collaborative relationship with my patients to develop the best treatment plan to fit your unique needs. You know you best after all. I feel that movement is medicine for both physical and mental health, and will do my best to help guide and encourage all to make healthy behavioral changes to support your overall well-being.
![Photo of Kelechi Job, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86bcafbc-bea2-4289-a3b8-cd5fe40b62a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 5 years experience, providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health problems.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 5 years experience, providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health problems.
![Photo of Kenneth Collins Kavanagh, PMHNP-C, ANP-C, MSN, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47c73a3e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kenneth Collins Kavanagh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, ANP-C, MSN, MPH
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric care, including diagnosis, medication management, consultations, and supportive counseling. I have enjoyed worked with many diverse groups, including members of the LGBTQ community, college students and professionals on all levels, individuals adjusting to cultural changes, persons in life-stage transitions, and those living with chronic disease. My interaction style ranges from supportive, directive, or challenging depending on the client's needs and goals. I maintain a collaborative and respectful approach, and establish a safe therapeutic environment with compassion, empathy, and significant dose of humor.
I provide psychiatric care, including diagnosis, medication management, consultations, and supportive counseling. I have enjoyed worked with many diverse groups, including members of the LGBTQ community, college students and professionals on all levels, individuals adjusting to cultural changes, persons in life-stage transitions, and those living with chronic disease. My interaction style ranges from supportive, directive, or challenging depending on the client's needs and goals. I maintain a collaborative and respectful approach, and establish a safe therapeutic environment with compassion, empathy, and significant dose of humor.
![Photo of Chidinma Onyegwu - Equilibrium Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1e50072-dcf1-4670-bce8-b6bf0619eab0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Equilibrium Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Our licensed and board-certified psychiatric mental health providers are experienced in providing diagnostic evaluation and treatment, including medication management for client ages 10 and up with Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, and Alcohol use disorders
Our licensed and board-certified psychiatric mental health providers are experienced in providing diagnostic evaluation and treatment, including medication management for client ages 10 and up with Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, and Alcohol use disorders
![Photo of Joy O'Brien, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29fe156e-0e6b-4a2c-b797-3642b62467ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dually board certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry. I have over a decade of experience working across the lifespan helping people find their way to the healthy life that they desire.
I am a dually board certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry. I have over a decade of experience working across the lifespan helping people find their way to the healthy life that they desire.
![Photo of Rachel Zagarella, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53b0c62c-f234-4bb8-8d1c-f304bc63a616/1/320x400.png)
Rachel Zagarella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate care for individuals seeking support with their mental health.
Hello and welcome! I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate care for individuals seeking support with their mental health.
![Photo of Frank Tengey, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4423e109-22bb-4eca-8fd3-06c8b5389b27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Frank Tengey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in treating and managing a wide array of psychiatric and mental health conditions. With my dual license as an Adult and Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, I am well equipped to manage my clients holistically, bringing them utmost relief. I am currently licensed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire and have specialized interest in treating and managing individuals with severe to mild psychosis, a variety of mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in treating and managing a wide array of psychiatric and mental health conditions. With my dual license as an Adult and Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, I am well equipped to manage my clients holistically, bringing them utmost relief. I am currently licensed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire and have specialized interest in treating and managing individuals with severe to mild psychosis, a variety of mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
![Photo of Marsha Charlton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb4a194-ec65-4714-9399-017f9a566678/1/320x400.png)
Marsha Charlton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Marsha Charlton is a highly skilled and compassionate Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), holding dual board certifications and boasting over ten years of medical expertise aims to provide accessible and comprehensive mental healthcare to individuals from all walks of life. Marsha has a wealth of experience caring for patients with diverse backgrounds in different settings, including primary care, surgical, psychiatric, and veterans throughout Boston. She approaches her work with a culturally attuned, down-to-earth style that helps her clients feel comfortable and at ease.
Marsha Charlton is a highly skilled and compassionate Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), holding dual board certifications and boasting over ten years of medical expertise aims to provide accessible and comprehensive mental healthcare to individuals from all walks of life. Marsha has a wealth of experience caring for patients with diverse backgrounds in different settings, including primary care, surgical, psychiatric, and veterans throughout Boston. She approaches her work with a culturally attuned, down-to-earth style that helps her clients feel comfortable and at ease.
![Photo of Stephanie Ann Randazzo, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e95ab10e-9d4e-4823-8e78-166063d6024a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Ann Randazzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) since 2017. I received my Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2016 from Northeastern University in Boston. As a Registered Nurse, the majority of my past nursing experience is with women and children. In the realm of school nursing I have served children with special needs, first at the Cotting School in Lexington, then shared between Arlington School and Pathways Academy, both of McLean Hospital, becoming full time at Arlington School of McLean.
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) since 2017. I received my Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2016 from Northeastern University in Boston. As a Registered Nurse, the majority of my past nursing experience is with women and children. In the realm of school nursing I have served children with special needs, first at the Cotting School in Lexington, then shared between Arlington School and Pathways Academy, both of McLean Hospital, becoming full time at Arlington School of McLean.
See more therapy options for 02199
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 02199
40+
Average cost per session
$170
Psychiatrists in 02199 who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
56% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Optum |
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
95% | Harvard Pilgrim |
How Psychiatrists in 02199 see their clients
86% | Online Only | |
14% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 02199?
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.