Psychiatrists in 21224
![Photo of Michelle Blackston, CRNP, FNP, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b22b1fe6-32cc-41c0-89f2-6eb9224c0101/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Blackston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, FNP, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
Catering to the adults and adolescents in the Baltimore Metropolitan area, we work with individuals suffering from mental health issues, as well as patients struggling with substance use disorders. Our mission is to provide professional, compassionate care for people battling mental health or substance use issues by employing a holistic approach to treatment.
Catering to the adults and adolescents in the Baltimore Metropolitan area, we work with individuals suffering from mental health issues, as well as patients struggling with substance use disorders. Our mission is to provide professional, compassionate care for people battling mental health or substance use issues by employing a holistic approach to treatment.
![Photo of Tammy Parks - Wealthie Therapy, DNP, PMHNP, PMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72655878-7705-4ecc-a5e5-5e8b4312ada2/1/320x400.png)
Wealthie Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224
At Wealthie Therapy you will have an experience unlike most traditional approaches to mental health and wellness. We take an evidence based and holistic approach to caring for clients. Common issues that bring people to reaching out to us are: workplace stress, academic issues, financial distress, grief, anxiety, situational depression, and grief. We offer therapy and coaching. Coaching is ideal for clients who want the most modern and hands on interventions which insurance may not cover. Reach out, you are worthy and we are worthy to care for you.
At Wealthie Therapy you will have an experience unlike most traditional approaches to mental health and wellness. We take an evidence based and holistic approach to caring for clients. Common issues that bring people to reaching out to us are: workplace stress, academic issues, financial distress, grief, anxiety, situational depression, and grief. We offer therapy and coaching. Coaching is ideal for clients who want the most modern and hands on interventions which insurance may not cover. Reach out, you are worthy and we are worthy to care for you.
![Photo of Christopher Bertsch - Baltimore Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5385b3c5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Baltimore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Online Only)
FAST evaluations as early as same-day (when available) and we can work with ALL private insurance! Fast: Book on our website www.BaltimorePsychiatry.com 24/7. Convenient: Evening & weekend appointments with e-prescriptions. Genuine care: It's easy to make bold claims or promises and many practices do. Instead, we demonstrate our commitment to meeting our patient's needs with appointment lengths 50% longer than the typical public practice (and without added cost). Affordable: We accept some insurance in-network, we can help you submit out-of-network claims, or offer you our low cash pricing - whichever is most beneficial for you.
FAST evaluations as early as same-day (when available) and we can work with ALL private insurance! Fast: Book on our website www.BaltimorePsychiatry.com 24/7. Convenient: Evening & weekend appointments with e-prescriptions. Genuine care: It's easy to make bold claims or promises and many practices do. Instead, we demonstrate our commitment to meeting our patient's needs with appointment lengths 50% longer than the typical public practice (and without added cost). Affordable: We accept some insurance in-network, we can help you submit out-of-network claims, or offer you our low cash pricing - whichever is most beneficial for you.
![Photo of Victoria Adaramaja, DNP, PNHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a55f1f7f-38a9-40b6-978c-2c9627b53544/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Adaramaja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PNHNP-B
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
I am a doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized mental health treatment plan. I strive to provide quality care in a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgment manner. Like I always tell my primary care patients; Life is full of seasons and each season prepare you for the next! My approach is very warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and kindness. I will tailor our sessions and your treatment plan to your individual needs and meeting you where you are in life.
I am a doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized mental health treatment plan. I strive to provide quality care in a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgment manner. Like I always tell my primary care patients; Life is full of seasons and each season prepare you for the next! My approach is very warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and kindness. I will tailor our sessions and your treatment plan to your individual needs and meeting you where you are in life.
![Photo of Joyce Nguyen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57425a51-6517-4a95-8fdf-36153b12df43/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! I am a Brown and Georgetown-trained psychiatrist with a special interest in treating mood & anxiety disorders in adults. As a physician, I believe that treating the whole person & promoting wellness can increase the joy in one's life. I treat women’s mental health throughout the reproductive life cycle, using medications, psychotherapy, & lifestyle modifications. I help women make the best decisions for themselves & their families by giving evidence-based recommendations informed by research. Similarly, I enjoy working with young adults as they navigate the many life transitions that come with adulthood.
Accepting New Patients! I am a Brown and Georgetown-trained psychiatrist with a special interest in treating mood & anxiety disorders in adults. As a physician, I believe that treating the whole person & promoting wellness can increase the joy in one's life. I treat women’s mental health throughout the reproductive life cycle, using medications, psychotherapy, & lifestyle modifications. I help women make the best decisions for themselves & their families by giving evidence-based recommendations informed by research. Similarly, I enjoy working with young adults as they navigate the many life transitions that come with adulthood.
![Photo of Asia Douglas - Oriented Healthcare, MS, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/853faa68-e761-4367-b061-2c837decdc9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oriented Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
We are accepting new patients! Services designed for, directed towards, and motivated by your needs
We are accepting new patients! Services designed for, directed towards, and motivated by your needs
![Photo of Aderonke Omotade - Omi Psychiatry and TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b95642f8-904d-42af-bbc1-289773f63a70/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life knocks you off your feet. Not necessarily due to any innate deficiency but sometimes circumstances can get the best of you. Whether it be depression, anxiety, or just not feeling like yourself. I can help. I believe that you have what it takes but sometimes you may need help to remind you or to give you space to breath and reflect. I am here to facilitate discovery and healing. I believe in medications in certain circumstances but also that medications are only part of the treatment. In order to restore you
Sometimes life knocks you off your feet. Not necessarily due to any innate deficiency but sometimes circumstances can get the best of you. Whether it be depression, anxiety, or just not feeling like yourself. I can help. I believe that you have what it takes but sometimes you may need help to remind you or to give you space to breath and reflect. I am here to facilitate discovery and healing. I believe in medications in certain circumstances but also that medications are only part of the treatment. In order to restore you
![Photo of Amanda Berger, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfa0e40f-cbdb-4fc0-b008-62512598a0d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Berger is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to creating a safe and empathetic space to enhance mental well-being. With a background in nursing, she has dedicated her career to the field of psychiatric mental health. Since 2006, she has gained valuable clinical experience to address a diverse range of mental health concerns. Amanda believes in tailoring treatment plans to each individual's unique needs to promote a collaborative approach that empowers clients in their mental health journey.
Amanda Berger is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to creating a safe and empathetic space to enhance mental well-being. With a background in nursing, she has dedicated her career to the field of psychiatric mental health. Since 2006, she has gained valuable clinical experience to address a diverse range of mental health concerns. Amanda believes in tailoring treatment plans to each individual's unique needs to promote a collaborative approach that empowers clients in their mental health journey.
![Photo of Angela D Long - Long Integrated Psychiatric Services, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5295324-e496-43ed-97d3-a7863aa9088c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Long Integrated Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
We understand that health and wellness is particularly difficult with all the struggles we face today. Long Integrated hopes to provide behavioral health care to adolescents and adults suffering from depression, insomnia, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. We currently have five psychiatric nurse practitioners that are working to help you on your journey to be the best version of your self.
We understand that health and wellness is particularly difficult with all the struggles we face today. Long Integrated hopes to provide behavioral health care to adolescents and adults suffering from depression, insomnia, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. We currently have five psychiatric nurse practitioners that are working to help you on your journey to be the best version of your self.
![Photo of Wunmi Sokan - Pure-Ivy Health Care, Inc , DNP PMH, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/900d39a6-feeb-4336-985f-cec1e38fd4be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pure-Ivy Health Care, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP PMH, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Online Only)
Dr. Wunmi Sokan is a doctoral-trained, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC) with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. She treats Adolescents and Adults. Dr. Sokan has experience in various settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and intensive outpatient care. She approaches her patients with a focus on understanding their psychiatric & mental health needs. Her goal is to ensure her patients live healthier and meaningful lives.
Dr. Wunmi Sokan is a doctoral-trained, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC) with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. She treats Adolescents and Adults. Dr. Sokan has experience in various settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and intensive outpatient care. She approaches her patients with a focus on understanding their psychiatric & mental health needs. Her goal is to ensure her patients live healthier and meaningful lives.
![Photo of Vani Rao - Dr. Vani Rao MD, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce53f53-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine. I am also the Director of Behavioral Neurology & Neuropsychiatry Fellowship program at Hopkins. In April 2013 I was inducted into the Miller Coulson Academy of Clinical Excellence. This honor is given to the physicians who are "committed to excellence in patient care". My research interest is on psychiatric aspects of Traumatic Brain Injury (Pl read Traumatized Brain: Amazon) and made significant contributions to this field. I am currently have a private practice in Washington DC. I am board certified in Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry.
I am currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine. I am also the Director of Behavioral Neurology & Neuropsychiatry Fellowship program at Hopkins. In April 2013 I was inducted into the Miller Coulson Academy of Clinical Excellence. This honor is given to the physicians who are "committed to excellence in patient care". My research interest is on psychiatric aspects of Traumatic Brain Injury (Pl read Traumatized Brain: Amazon) and made significant contributions to this field. I am currently have a private practice in Washington DC. I am board certified in Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry.
![Photo of Dr. Temi Akinpetide, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aff95d4-f9cd-4d03-9f44-b55caa76cb19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Temi Akinpetide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Online Only)
Mental health issues are a part of us. This doesn't make you weak, it just makes you human and what's important is that we get help and keep moving forward. Remember, you don't have to hold it all in, you're not alone in this journey. We are here to help, and you can share your experience with us anytime by scheduling a session with us.
Mental health issues are a part of us. This doesn't make you weak, it just makes you human and what's important is that we get help and keep moving forward. Remember, you don't have to hold it all in, you're not alone in this journey. We are here to help, and you can share your experience with us anytime by scheduling a session with us.
![Photo of Dr. David Mathai, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a92d0f48-03cf-4afd-b1fa-cf0f78392861/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychotherapy- and psychedelic therapy-trained psychiatrist who treats individuals struggling with a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is broadly informed and focused most on helping people cultivate deeper relationships with themselves and others, so they can live in ways that feel resilient, vibrant, and true.
I am a psychotherapy- and psychedelic therapy-trained psychiatrist who treats individuals struggling with a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is broadly informed and focused most on helping people cultivate deeper relationships with themselves and others, so they can live in ways that feel resilient, vibrant, and true.
![Photo of Natalie Beaty, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48353379-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Johns Hopkins trained Psychiatrist in Baltimore, MD who focuses on careful evaluation and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and attention deficient disorders. I do evaluation, management and planning for mental health treatment during pregnancy, as well as for changes experienced in perimenopause and menopause. Ages 14+ are welcome.
I am an Johns Hopkins trained Psychiatrist in Baltimore, MD who focuses on careful evaluation and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and attention deficient disorders. I do evaluation, management and planning for mental health treatment during pregnancy, as well as for changes experienced in perimenopause and menopause. Ages 14+ are welcome.
![Photo of Shailoah Wilson, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b923b23-ddff-493c-9f9e-2048883e24c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shailoah Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a prescriber who will see you and evaluate you as whole person? Here at Rooted and Grounded Wellness Services we are dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey to wellness. We use a holistic approach and integrate therapy techniques/modalities in order to create the best treatment plan for you.
Are you looking for a prescriber who will see you and evaluate you as whole person? Here at Rooted and Grounded Wellness Services we are dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey to wellness. We use a holistic approach and integrate therapy techniques/modalities in order to create the best treatment plan for you.
![Photo of Chiamaka Nnah - Serenity Wellness Mental Health Clinic, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4501070e-ca5f-4741-ab51-50367942b064/1/320x400.jpeg)
Serenity Wellness Mental Health Clinic, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Online Only)
Feeling emotionally down, unhappy, sad, or discouraged? Look No Further, Serenity Wellness Mental Health Clinic is the platform for you. We have providers ranging in different ages ready to assist your mental health desires. At Serenity Wellness Mental Health Clinic, we tailor your emotional concerns to your treatment needs using screening tools and comprehensive evaluation to help with your diagnosis and treatment. The psychiatric mental health knowledge has enhanced my understanding of behavioral concerns and emotional and mental conditions.
Feeling emotionally down, unhappy, sad, or discouraged? Look No Further, Serenity Wellness Mental Health Clinic is the platform for you. We have providers ranging in different ages ready to assist your mental health desires. At Serenity Wellness Mental Health Clinic, we tailor your emotional concerns to your treatment needs using screening tools and comprehensive evaluation to help with your diagnosis and treatment. The psychiatric mental health knowledge has enhanced my understanding of behavioral concerns and emotional and mental conditions.
![Photo of Brittany R Johnson-Ta - Speak Easy Mental Health Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/812a480d-d6d9-4d31-8238-7dab4679a9c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Speak Easy Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Online Only)
I strongly believe that mental health treatment relies on acceptance and openness, so we plan to use our credentials to not only care for patients, but share good practices of empathy and understanding. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner serving Maryland communities, it will be my goal to advocate and care for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion and understanding. With Speak Easy Mental Health Services by your side, you will never have to worry about feeling alone, ashamed, or afraid, while I support you through your mental health journey.
I strongly believe that mental health treatment relies on acceptance and openness, so we plan to use our credentials to not only care for patients, but share good practices of empathy and understanding. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner serving Maryland communities, it will be my goal to advocate and care for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion and understanding. With Speak Easy Mental Health Services by your side, you will never have to worry about feeling alone, ashamed, or afraid, while I support you through your mental health journey.
![Photo of Sasha Nanji, DNP, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6eb3626-9d66-4deb-ad65-001d524432ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sasha Nanji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in medication management with an emphasis on holistic and patient centered care. I aim to develop therapeutic relationships with my patients in order to provide the best treatment for the patient. I am empathetic and work with patients to achieve their goals. I educated patients about all treatment options available to ensure they make informed decisions. I provide psychiatric care to patients ages 16 and older with a variety of mental health illnesses. I have practiced in an array of different settings including inpatient psychiatric units, emergency departments, and substance use.
I specialize in medication management with an emphasis on holistic and patient centered care. I aim to develop therapeutic relationships with my patients in order to provide the best treatment for the patient. I am empathetic and work with patients to achieve their goals. I educated patients about all treatment options available to ensure they make informed decisions. I provide psychiatric care to patients ages 16 and older with a variety of mental health illnesses. I have practiced in an array of different settings including inpatient psychiatric units, emergency departments, and substance use.
![Photo of Rosemary Okpulor - Sitas Mental Health Services, PMHNP, CRNP-F, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8bb3ebf-6f70-476c-ab48-ae5bd95bdbf2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sitas Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP-F
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224
Are you looking for mental health care that is built on core principles of empathy, respect, and professionalism, Sitas Mental Health Services is the right place for you. At Sitas, we believe in the power of compassion and positive support to help individuals manage mental health challenges. We see our clients as partners with the provider in designing a client-centered plan of care that fosters mental wellbeing.
Are you looking for mental health care that is built on core principles of empathy, respect, and professionalism, Sitas Mental Health Services is the right place for you. At Sitas, we believe in the power of compassion and positive support to help individuals manage mental health challenges. We see our clients as partners with the provider in designing a client-centered plan of care that fosters mental wellbeing.
Sweetie H Doychinov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, BC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with seven years of extensive experience in psychiatric nursing. My background includes working in both child and adult inpatient settings, as well as providing care in community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment programs. After earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, I immediately began my career in psychiatric nursing at an inpatient hospital. I am the Medical Director at a community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment center and the Outpatient Mental Health Center.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with seven years of extensive experience in psychiatric nursing. My background includes working in both child and adult inpatient settings, as well as providing care in community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment programs. After earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, I immediately began my career in psychiatric nursing at an inpatient hospital. I am the Medical Director at a community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment center and the Outpatient Mental Health Center.
See more therapy options for 21224
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 21224
20+
Average cost per session
$205
Psychiatrists in 21224 who prioritize treating:
88% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
58% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
72% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
72% | CareFirst |
How Psychiatrists in 21224 see their clients
54% | Online Only | |
46% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
90% | Female | |
10% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 21224?
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.