Psychiatrists in 75034
![Photo of Scheena Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b984c15-d1fa-42a6-987c-7213507bf93b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scheena Williams is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Baylor University and Walden University. Scheena is relatable, caring, and compassionate about helping patients reach their most optimal level. Outside of work, Scheena enjoys spending time with her twins, traveling, baking, and listening to many genres of music.
Scheena Williams is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Baylor University and Walden University. Scheena is relatable, caring, and compassionate about helping patients reach their most optimal level. Outside of work, Scheena enjoys spending time with her twins, traveling, baking, and listening to many genres of music.
![Photo of Cathrine Odim-Eluebo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aad84a74-742d-444b-85ac-0b2dc2447acf/2/320x400.png)
Cathrine Odim-Eluebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
”Mind is full of energy, so health of the mind matters first”- Hira Ratan Manek. HI.. I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner qualified to practice in psychiatry, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Some practice specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, Panic disorder, Mood disorder, and PTSD.
”Mind is full of energy, so health of the mind matters first”- Hira Ratan Manek. HI.. I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner qualified to practice in psychiatry, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Some practice specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, Panic disorder, Mood disorder, and PTSD.
![Photo of Tonia Ajamu - Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bacc599b-b952-47dd-96c4-0583109a5dcd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Your mental well-being matters. Discover a safe space where healing begins, Empathetic support, personalized strategies, and a journey towards a brighter tomorrow await you at our practice. Take the first step towards a healthier mind. You deserve the care you need. Together, let's unlock your potential. I am a dedicated patient focused provider that will always seek to embrace and utilize traditional as well as innovative treatments to help you live an optimal life. I will also encourage you to participate in your treatment goals, which will enhance your mental, physical, and social wellness.
Your mental well-being matters. Discover a safe space where healing begins, Empathetic support, personalized strategies, and a journey towards a brighter tomorrow await you at our practice. Take the first step towards a healthier mind. You deserve the care you need. Together, let's unlock your potential. I am a dedicated patient focused provider that will always seek to embrace and utilize traditional as well as innovative treatments to help you live an optimal life. I will also encourage you to participate in your treatment goals, which will enhance your mental, physical, and social wellness.
![Photo of Adeleye Ogunlade, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4e69c37-7482-4b1d-a211-67f2a5142e29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adeleye Ogunlade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
Accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
![Photo of Nelson Chiakpo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b972d53-b72e-485a-97af-3f44f2c198c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked as a registered nurse in a variety of settings including the ICU, PCU, med-surg, psych, and ER. In my current role as a PMHNP, I provide outpatient mental health care for patients with a range of diagnoses including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders, ADHD, and eating disorders.
I have worked as a registered nurse in a variety of settings including the ICU, PCU, med-surg, psych, and ER. In my current role as a PMHNP, I provide outpatient mental health care for patients with a range of diagnoses including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders, ADHD, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Aminur Rahman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8be1533b-10e9-4084-afd0-d9f3ebe084e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health is essential for leading a happy life. As a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, I work with patients and their families to help alleviate suffering and improve quality of life so they are able to function at their full potential. My background includes understanding family functioning, development, social, academic, occupational functioning and psychiatric challenges. I aim to understand my patients so that I can help improve their mental conditions. My approach is to discuss with my patient and their family treatment options based on the biopsychosocial model.
Mental health is essential for leading a happy life. As a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, I work with patients and their families to help alleviate suffering and improve quality of life so they are able to function at their full potential. My background includes understanding family functioning, development, social, academic, occupational functioning and psychiatric challenges. I aim to understand my patients so that I can help improve their mental conditions. My approach is to discuss with my patient and their family treatment options based on the biopsychosocial model.
![Photo of Arif Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4365532a-dfff-426d-b205-aeb056bb53a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![Photo of Tayo Olotewo - Tayo Olotewo @ Thrive Psychiatry,PLLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f8f620f-d4ce-4aff-ac58-180e00da3acb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tayo Olotewo @ Thrive Psychiatry,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Are you ready to take the first step in getting the help you desire? At Thrive Psychiatry, PLLC, we provide virtual psychiatric treatments. We incorporate holistic, individualized treatment to each client's treatment. If you are looking for a safe, compassionate judgment free zone, we are here to assist you.
Are you ready to take the first step in getting the help you desire? At Thrive Psychiatry, PLLC, we provide virtual psychiatric treatments. We incorporate holistic, individualized treatment to each client's treatment. If you are looking for a safe, compassionate judgment free zone, we are here to assist you.
![Photo of April Monarrez Parker - EZ Mind Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30724db4-ad0c-460f-af21-65b5fb6c899a/3/320x400.jpeg)
EZ Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
Are you someone who has been struggling to cope with day to day stressors? Do you feel like your moods, anxiety or poor sleep are keeping you from feeling like your best self? Are you a parent with concerns about the behaviors or moods of your teenager? Do you find yourself wanting to seek help but are feeling overwhelmed by the process? Let us help you on your journey as you transform into a better you.
![Photo of Dianne Fontaine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e72000d5-b9e5-42ee-a402-d0e8c326503b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dianne Fontaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
My name is Dianne Fontaine and I am a psychiatric Nurse practitioner. I'm glad you have taken the steps towards seeking help and support for your mental health. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to help you manage your symptoms, achieve your goals, and improve your overall well-being. My approach is collaborative, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I believe in empowering you with knowledge and tools you need to take control of your mental health journey. I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and valued.
My name is Dianne Fontaine and I am a psychiatric Nurse practitioner. I'm glad you have taken the steps towards seeking help and support for your mental health. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to help you manage your symptoms, achieve your goals, and improve your overall well-being. My approach is collaborative, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I believe in empowering you with knowledge and tools you need to take control of your mental health journey. I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and valued.
![Photo of Omotayo Gbengaojo - Holistic Health and Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f79707a2-08e6-47f0-bffa-f8752cd391a7/2/320x400.png)
Holistic Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
Omotayo Gbengaojo is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC). She obtained her bachelor's in nursing from Grand Canyon University and master's degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. Omotayo or "Tayo" as she is fondly called, clinical experience span medical and psychiatry nursing.
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![Photo of Dr. Farah Ali, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/481ff528-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified psychiatrist, I provide psychiatric care for individual adults and adolescents between ages 16 to 65, in a safe and welcoming private office. My work is devoted to helping people like you improve relationships with yourself, family, colleagues, and community. My services include a thorough evaluation, medication management, and patient education. I begin the initial assessment by review of your current physical, mental, and relationship strengths and areas of potential improvement.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I provide psychiatric care for individual adults and adolescents between ages 16 to 65, in a safe and welcoming private office. My work is devoted to helping people like you improve relationships with yourself, family, colleagues, and community. My services include a thorough evaluation, medication management, and patient education. I begin the initial assessment by review of your current physical, mental, and relationship strengths and areas of potential improvement.
![Photo of Jacinta Madu - GOFAN Healthcare Services - Psychiatry , APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ec8460-9654-46c7-b2cc-c5628e202406/3/320x400.jpeg)
GOFAN Healthcare Services - Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently practicing in Frisco TX. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illness including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health sigma.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently practicing in Frisco TX. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illness including but not limited to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health sigma.
![Photo of Dr. Zishan Khan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f4156de-2949-49de-8419-68a0290c015b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Zishan Khan is board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. Dr. Khan primarily treats children, adolescents, and young adults suffering from ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues that cause hindrances. He works with patients of various cultural and professional backgrounds to help them improve their lives and conquer their struggles. Dr. Khan’s focus is to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Every human is unique, with differing circumstances, motivations, experiences, and life factors.
Dr. Zishan Khan is board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. Dr. Khan primarily treats children, adolescents, and young adults suffering from ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues that cause hindrances. He works with patients of various cultural and professional backgrounds to help them improve their lives and conquer their struggles. Dr. Khan’s focus is to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Every human is unique, with differing circumstances, motivations, experiences, and life factors.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdbc33a8-6f0b-4f51-be92-c4415ba9184b/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Milka Kamau, MSN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ae8741-3db8-4fd3-ba6a-06114c060993/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy treating patients aged 16 and older. I treat all mental health conditions, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD and Bipolar disorder. My non-judgmental approach helps individuals and families understand that there should be no shame or guilt associated with mental illness.
I enjoy treating patients aged 16 and older. I treat all mental health conditions, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD and Bipolar disorder. My non-judgmental approach helps individuals and families understand that there should be no shame or guilt associated with mental illness.
![Photo of Rose Ijioma, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10b2533f-b997-4b93-ac41-0424cfb39488/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you meet your goals. I want to hear what is causing your discomfort, how long you have been experiencing your challenges and then I will collaborate with you, your family and medical providers if appropriate to develop the best treatment plan for you to meet your goals and provide you with relief.
My goal is to help you meet your goals. I want to hear what is causing your discomfort, how long you have been experiencing your challenges and then I will collaborate with you, your family and medical providers if appropriate to develop the best treatment plan for you to meet your goals and provide you with relief.
![Photo of Oladele A Adebogun - PsychiatryMD - Frisco & Flower Mound, MD, FAPA, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19cf1b7b-1383-45ea-999b-4b4e67db0f33/3/320x400.jpeg)
PsychiatryMD - Frisco & Flower Mound
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Mind Matters PsychiatryMD brings forth Interventional Psychiatry & Evidence Based Psychiatric Treatments in ADHD in Adult and Children, Neuro-Addiction, Ketamine & TMS Neuro-Stimulation. Dr. Oladele Adebogun, Medical Director of Mind Matters PsychiatryMD, partnered management by his wife Ashley Adebogun. He moved from England to complete Residency at Menninger Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. He holds distinguished appointments as Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and Fellow American Society of Addiction Medicine.
Mind Matters PsychiatryMD brings forth Interventional Psychiatry & Evidence Based Psychiatric Treatments in ADHD in Adult and Children, Neuro-Addiction, Ketamine & TMS Neuro-Stimulation. Dr. Oladele Adebogun, Medical Director of Mind Matters PsychiatryMD, partnered management by his wife Ashley Adebogun. He moved from England to complete Residency at Menninger Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. He holds distinguished appointments as Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and Fellow American Society of Addiction Medicine.
![Photo of Fredric Matthew Johnson, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7fa96a-9c4f-4ba6-8fbf-66bac8337b66/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patients that I see want to get better and find out why they are having problems. My practice is largely devoted to mood and thought disorders. I am a minimalist when it comes to using psychiatric medications. I am often seeing folks who are either over-medicated and/or on the wrong types of medications. The 2 letters after my surname are M and D. To me, these letters not only stand for Medical Doctor, but almost more important to me, is they stand for Medical Detective.
Patients that I see want to get better and find out why they are having problems. My practice is largely devoted to mood and thought disorders. I am a minimalist when it comes to using psychiatric medications. I am often seeing folks who are either over-medicated and/or on the wrong types of medications. The 2 letters after my surname are M and D. To me, these letters not only stand for Medical Doctor, but almost more important to me, is they stand for Medical Detective.
![Photo of Mayra Koedam, MSN, FNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ac83baa-6e8d-4354-b89f-f15d09845b16/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mayra Koedam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a family nurse practitioner (FNP-C). I currently have a virtual platform where I work with young adolescents and adults. I strive to work with you individually to identify areas of focus and help bring out your best version. Please go to my website to book an appointment directly. I look forward to working with you!
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a family nurse practitioner (FNP-C). I currently have a virtual platform where I work with young adolescents and adults. I strive to work with you individually to identify areas of focus and help bring out your best version. Please go to my website to book an appointment directly. I look forward to working with you!
See more therapy options for 75034
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 75034
80+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 75034 who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Aetna |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 75034 see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 75034?
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.