Psychiatrists in 22101
![Photo of Kalkidan Ayalew, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2125677-56a6-4e17-a51f-957d27787e03/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice, empathy and compassion are at the forefront. I believe that effective mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a journey that requires understanding, patience, and a personalized approach. I am committed to delivering comprehensive care tailored to each individual, whether that involves medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. I treat variety of conditions from ADHD to spectrum of anxiety disorders and mood problems. Trauma and autism spectrum are other areas of my focus.
In my practice, empathy and compassion are at the forefront. I believe that effective mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a journey that requires understanding, patience, and a personalized approach. I am committed to delivering comprehensive care tailored to each individual, whether that involves medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. I treat variety of conditions from ADHD to spectrum of anxiety disorders and mood problems. Trauma and autism spectrum are other areas of my focus.
![Photo of Kehinde Oyekan, CRNP , PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3ee058e-6963-471f-a7d7-bc7f99d9e393/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kehinde Oyekan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP , PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
As a Board certified Nurse Practitioner practicing in Psychiatry, my role includes getting to know your whole life story, your current concerns as well as diagnosis, and to figure out together what treatment approach makes most sense for you. My practice approach is a mix of prescribing up to date psychiatric medications and alternative natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification- diet, exercise, etc. I strongly believe a patient and his or her provider need to have a two-way relationship. I will always discuss with you what medication options are available, their risks.
As a Board certified Nurse Practitioner practicing in Psychiatry, my role includes getting to know your whole life story, your current concerns as well as diagnosis, and to figure out together what treatment approach makes most sense for you. My practice approach is a mix of prescribing up to date psychiatric medications and alternative natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification- diet, exercise, etc. I strongly believe a patient and his or her provider need to have a two-way relationship. I will always discuss with you what medication options are available, their risks.
![Photo of Ehsan Habibpour, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40546572-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Child Psychiatrist, also trained in Adult Psychiatry. I can help whether you're a mature adult with problems rooted in your past, or whether you're concerned about one of your children experiencing stress or difficulty, especially adolescents. I have a deep grounding in how we're shaped into the adults we become. I'm familiar with the forces, positive and negative, that operate between children and the significant adults in their lives. I'm interested in and co-wrote a paper about the overlap of Culture and Ethnicity in emotional disturbances.
I'm a Child Psychiatrist, also trained in Adult Psychiatry. I can help whether you're a mature adult with problems rooted in your past, or whether you're concerned about one of your children experiencing stress or difficulty, especially adolescents. I have a deep grounding in how we're shaped into the adults we become. I'm familiar with the forces, positive and negative, that operate between children and the significant adults in their lives. I'm interested in and co-wrote a paper about the overlap of Culture and Ethnicity in emotional disturbances.
![Photo of Shealyn Cyr, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91bd1c1e-3862-49e8-9955-00227be54797/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shealyn Cyr, MD is a board-certified Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2006. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of Texas at San Antonio, her medical school at Texas A&M University, College of Medicine, and her Residency at the University of Texas at Southwestern. Dr. Cyr believes in a balanced approach to psychiatric health through a model that integrates medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and thorough medical evaluation.
Shealyn Cyr, MD is a board-certified Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2006. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of Texas at San Antonio, her medical school at Texas A&M University, College of Medicine, and her Residency at the University of Texas at Southwestern. Dr. Cyr believes in a balanced approach to psychiatric health through a model that integrates medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and thorough medical evaluation.
![Photo of Rosario Nunez Brito, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462a9d0a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nunez Brito is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her training in Adult Psychiatry at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington, DC and completed training in psychotherapy at the Washington Psychoanalytic Institute and the Baltimore Washington Institute. Served as Medical Director of Outpatient Services at Suburban Hospital John Hopkins Medicine. Offers a solid base of vast clinical experience in combination with psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological interventions. Works in a collaborative, warm, and open minded style with her patients. Offers in person and on line appointments.
Dr. Nunez Brito is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her training in Adult Psychiatry at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington, DC and completed training in psychotherapy at the Washington Psychoanalytic Institute and the Baltimore Washington Institute. Served as Medical Director of Outpatient Services at Suburban Hospital John Hopkins Medicine. Offers a solid base of vast clinical experience in combination with psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological interventions. Works in a collaborative, warm, and open minded style with her patients. Offers in person and on line appointments.
![Photo of Bobby W Nelson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d40e107-4e94-4fe8-a2bd-430de9810335/2/320x400.jpeg)
None of us was prepared for a time like this. We were raised with expectations of a predictable environment and future. These current stressors markedly strain the coping skills that we were taught or saw demonstrated in our childhood. Isolation and loneliness are leading stressors. As social creatures, to now be treated as "The Other" and avoided as though we were not there, often increases resentment,anxiety,depression and relationship dysfunction. To borrow from William James, we may experience it as "fiendish punishment". Effective communication can reduce the pain of isolation and powerlessness.
None of us was prepared for a time like this. We were raised with expectations of a predictable environment and future. These current stressors markedly strain the coping skills that we were taught or saw demonstrated in our childhood. Isolation and loneliness are leading stressors. As social creatures, to now be treated as "The Other" and avoided as though we were not there, often increases resentment,anxiety,depression and relationship dysfunction. To borrow from William James, we may experience it as "fiendish punishment". Effective communication can reduce the pain of isolation and powerlessness.
![Photo of Sara M. Bahraini, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d0510e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara M. Bahraini
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, offering culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed, LGBT-inclusive and highly-individualized care to children, adolescents and young adults. I work with individuals to build treatment plans that play to their strengths, address everyday challenges and achieve their goals. I treat a range of concerns through a tailored combination of individual therapy and/or medications. My particular strengths and areas of interest include anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, ADHD, insomnia and gender dysphoria among many others.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, offering culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed, LGBT-inclusive and highly-individualized care to children, adolescents and young adults. I work with individuals to build treatment plans that play to their strengths, address everyday challenges and achieve their goals. I treat a range of concerns through a tailored combination of individual therapy and/or medications. My particular strengths and areas of interest include anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, ADHD, insomnia and gender dysphoria among many others.
![Photo of Denise Crosson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f25f8ccc-4b57-40c8-a341-f9b4d803650d/1/320x400.png)
Denise Crosson is a nurse practitioner board certified in family and psychiatric mental health. I work with children and adults to provide medication management and therapy to address all general psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, functional limitations, and thought disorders. I most enjoy being able to assist people to achieve optimal mental health wellness and stability. I have a lifelong interest in better understanding people in order to better help them meet their own goals for themselves. When it comes to working with patients, I am passionate about providing care to improve access to care.
Denise Crosson is a nurse practitioner board certified in family and psychiatric mental health. I work with children and adults to provide medication management and therapy to address all general psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, functional limitations, and thought disorders. I most enjoy being able to assist people to achieve optimal mental health wellness and stability. I have a lifelong interest in better understanding people in order to better help them meet their own goals for themselves. When it comes to working with patients, I am passionate about providing care to improve access to care.
![Photo of Dr. Fatima Noorani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a19b5bf-24ee-419b-8e4d-ca743fe66164/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Fatima Noorani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes due to a diagnosis or circumstance, you may find yourself stuck, unable to perform, unhappy, or unfulfilled. I'm here to help you bounce back through treatments supported by scientific evidence, which may include medication, therapy, or both. Unlike many psychiatrists, I also offer psychotherapy. I collaborate with patients to integrate their life story, strengths, and values to support them in their unique journey toward personal growth and healing. While adults of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, I specialize in supporting multicultural and BIPOC clients, as well as pregnant and postpartum clients.
Sometimes due to a diagnosis or circumstance, you may find yourself stuck, unable to perform, unhappy, or unfulfilled. I'm here to help you bounce back through treatments supported by scientific evidence, which may include medication, therapy, or both. Unlike many psychiatrists, I also offer psychotherapy. I collaborate with patients to integrate their life story, strengths, and values to support them in their unique journey toward personal growth and healing. While adults of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, I specialize in supporting multicultural and BIPOC clients, as well as pregnant and postpartum clients.
![Photo of Alexandru Serghi, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a5dc478-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Serghi’s approach to the medical act is built around the central concept of biological, psychological and social determinants to human illness. The core principle of his practice is based on the application of the scientific method to the most current medical evidence for both the diagnosis and the treatment of brain disorders. In addition to expertise in neuropsychiatric diagnoses, Dr Serghi offers both brief psychotherapeutic interventions as well as long term psychodynamic psychotherapy, in combination with medication treatment only if indicated, within the absolute privacy and comfort of the patient-doctor therapeutic space.
Dr Serghi’s approach to the medical act is built around the central concept of biological, psychological and social determinants to human illness. The core principle of his practice is based on the application of the scientific method to the most current medical evidence for both the diagnosis and the treatment of brain disorders. In addition to expertise in neuropsychiatric diagnoses, Dr Serghi offers both brief psychotherapeutic interventions as well as long term psychodynamic psychotherapy, in combination with medication treatment only if indicated, within the absolute privacy and comfort of the patient-doctor therapeutic space.
![Photo of Seeta Patel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f9890cb-f069-4f7a-9960-d6d2dd19b178/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Seeta Patel is a Harvard-trained, board-certified adult psychiatrist. She provides evidence-based medication management for adults (18 years and older). She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma related concerns. She works with clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds and have seen how trauma can cause lifelong suffering. We often do not reach out until aspects of our life have already been affected in a negative way - for instance, when our relationships have fallen apart, or when we have lost a job. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather it is a sign of strength.
Dr. Seeta Patel is a Harvard-trained, board-certified adult psychiatrist. She provides evidence-based medication management for adults (18 years and older). She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma related concerns. She works with clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds and have seen how trauma can cause lifelong suffering. We often do not reach out until aspects of our life have already been affected in a negative way - for instance, when our relationships have fallen apart, or when we have lost a job. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather it is a sign of strength.
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![Photo of Edward Gelber, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74e05ff7-2c53-4940-9af9-de129ee3fa99/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am seeing patients in my Rockville office located at 11119 Rockville Pike, Suite 200, and by videoconference (Zoom). I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and pre-teens. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity.
I am seeing patients in my Rockville office located at 11119 Rockville Pike, Suite 200, and by videoconference (Zoom). I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and pre-teens. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity.
![Photo of Lucie S. Greenblum, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c84db25-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
. I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I work in a safe, accepting, confidential setting to help you address the difficult challenges that life can throw your way: relationships that have not worked, a sense that you are not achieving your potential at work or in your personal life, chronic feelings of low self esteem and anxiety that hold you back.
. I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I work in a safe, accepting, confidential setting to help you address the difficult challenges that life can throw your way: relationships that have not worked, a sense that you are not achieving your potential at work or in your personal life, chronic feelings of low self esteem and anxiety that hold you back.
![Photo of Ella Peresechenski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b9ad099-b5a2-4e0d-8c38-6b390bc6f2c3/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Ella Peresechenski, and I attended New York University for an undergraduate degree in Biology, followed by a Master of Science degree in Nutrition Sciences from Columbia University. I then attended Eastern Virginia Medical School in my beautiful home state of Virginia, followed by Adult Psychiatry residency training at the University of Miami/Jackson Health System.
My name is Dr. Ella Peresechenski, and I attended New York University for an undergraduate degree in Biology, followed by a Master of Science degree in Nutrition Sciences from Columbia University. I then attended Eastern Virginia Medical School in my beautiful home state of Virginia, followed by Adult Psychiatry residency training at the University of Miami/Jackson Health System.
![Photo of Farha Motiwala, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8701bdb-7187-4a08-9ef5-d1e21016cc03/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Motiwala likes to know her patients well, so she can understand which part of their history, including trauma or medical issues, are playing a role in their current symptomology and treats them accordingly. Outside of work, Dr. Motiwala likes to cook/ bake, play badminton, sketch, travel, and watch movies
Dr. Motiwala likes to know her patients well, so she can understand which part of their history, including trauma or medical issues, are playing a role in their current symptomology and treats them accordingly. Outside of work, Dr. Motiwala likes to cook/ bake, play badminton, sketch, travel, and watch movies
At Sound Body & Mind Psychiatric Services, we recognize that both emotional and physical factors contribute to the development of psychiatric symptoms. Genetics, environment and specific stressors or traumatic events can also play an important role. Finally, an individual's character, personality, temperament, and resilence all contribute to the clinical picture, and can shape the types of symptoms we see and the prognosis. No two individuals are exactly alike and therefore, no two individuals experience psychiatric symptoms in the exact same way. This is why we create a unique treatment plan to target your specific experience.
At Sound Body & Mind Psychiatric Services, we recognize that both emotional and physical factors contribute to the development of psychiatric symptoms. Genetics, environment and specific stressors or traumatic events can also play an important role. Finally, an individual's character, personality, temperament, and resilence all contribute to the clinical picture, and can shape the types of symptoms we see and the prognosis. No two individuals are exactly alike and therefore, no two individuals experience psychiatric symptoms in the exact same way. This is why we create a unique treatment plan to target your specific experience.
![Photo of Dr. Richard K. Kim, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e192a4f5-4e39-4474-b29f-b4cd5e790265/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Kim is an experienced board-certified psychiatrist who provides compassionate, personal care through counseling and medication management. He received his BA with Honors in the Philosophy of Science and Medicine from the University of Chicago, his MD from the University of Illinois, and his psychiatry residency at the Loyola University Medical Center where he was Chief Resident. Dr. Kim has expertise in both psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and telemedicine. Dr. Kim is offers online appointments.
Dr. Kim is an experienced board-certified psychiatrist who provides compassionate, personal care through counseling and medication management. He received his BA with Honors in the Philosophy of Science and Medicine from the University of Chicago, his MD from the University of Illinois, and his psychiatry residency at the Loyola University Medical Center where he was Chief Resident. Dr. Kim has expertise in both psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and telemedicine. Dr. Kim is offers online appointments.
![Photo of Aazaz Ul Haq - McLean Neuropsychiatric Treatment Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a464de-91f0-4f27-80b8-937c5e9b8bbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
More than thirty percent of people with depression do not respond to medication management and psychotherapy. In these cases, where it feels like hope is lost, we can help.
More than thirty percent of people with depression do not respond to medication management and psychotherapy. In these cases, where it feels like hope is lost, we can help.
![Photo of Susan Kinkead-Acree, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef3bf28-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a holistic physician, I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimum mental and physical health. My treatment approach considers the interrelationships of body, mind, and spirit. In formulating a treatment plan, I work collaboratively with my patients to incorporate the most effective, evidence-based treatment options to meet their unique needs. These options may include psychotherapy and traditional medication management, as well as lifestyle modifications and complimentary treatment approaches.
As a holistic physician, I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimum mental and physical health. My treatment approach considers the interrelationships of body, mind, and spirit. In formulating a treatment plan, I work collaboratively with my patients to incorporate the most effective, evidence-based treatment options to meet their unique needs. These options may include psychotherapy and traditional medication management, as well as lifestyle modifications and complimentary treatment approaches.
![Photo of Thomas J Pillion, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/112754b9-09d3-4227-b05c-5e6846e9dc02/2/320x400.png)
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or problems with interpersonal relationships, I would like to help you to restore a sense of balance in your life. Using either medication or psychotherapy, we can work together toward identifying and removing the obstacles that interfere with living a more happy and satisfying life. I trained in general adult psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and received my MD from the University of Texas. I see primarily adults and am not taking new child or adolescent patients at this time.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or problems with interpersonal relationships, I would like to help you to restore a sense of balance in your life. Using either medication or psychotherapy, we can work together toward identifying and removing the obstacles that interfere with living a more happy and satisfying life. I trained in general adult psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and received my MD from the University of Texas. I see primarily adults and am not taking new child or adolescent patients at this time.
See more therapy options for 22101
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 22101
60+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 22101 who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
75% | ADHD |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Elevance |
81% | Aetna |
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 22101 see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 22101?
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.