Psychiatrists in Fort Payne, AL
![Photo of Mary Evans - Vision Behavioral Health Services , MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520c2fe7-0bd5-407c-847b-a6ca5e4ea1cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vision Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Hello. My name is Mary but my friends and family call me Polli. I look forward to getting to know you and working together to meet your mental health goals. I have been working in the psychiatric field for 20 years and have experience in helping people get through issues with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder (I&II), PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more. I practice integrative psychiatry where your input is important and necessary for the success of your treatment. With me, you will know you're being heard and that we're working together to meet your needs.
Hello. My name is Mary but my friends and family call me Polli. I look forward to getting to know you and working together to meet your mental health goals. I have been working in the psychiatric field for 20 years and have experience in helping people get through issues with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder (I&II), PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more. I practice integrative psychiatry where your input is important and necessary for the success of your treatment. With me, you will know you're being heard and that we're working together to meet your needs.
![Photo of Nakeetsha Dryer - Vision Behavioral Health Services, MSN, RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4860ebfd-4d18-4ffb-a0fa-6b5e9ae6b6a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vision Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Are you exhausted, lack motivation, or can't seem to find joy in any of things that previously brought you hope and excitement? Does anxiety and worrying keep you up at night? Or maybe you've been secretly dealing with an addiction. There is hope! We have helped hundreds in your situation to find healing and enjoy the life that they desire!
Are you exhausted, lack motivation, or can't seem to find joy in any of things that previously brought you hope and excitement? Does anxiety and worrying keep you up at night? Or maybe you've been secretly dealing with an addiction. There is hope! We have helped hundreds in your situation to find healing and enjoy the life that they desire!
![Photo of Nakeetsha Dryer - Vision Behavioral Health Services, MSN, RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edab2d7f-0948-493e-9601-2ee31d028d3d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vision Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Payne, AL 35967 (Online Only)
Maybe it started with an injury, back pain, or a car accident...now it's an addiction. You are tired of struggling with cravings and suffering with the shame of your addiction. You want your life back! You want to feel hopeful about your future again. You're also tired of hiding the physical and mental pain of your addiction. Alcohol and opioid addiction steals your future. It's time to take it back!
Maybe it started with an injury, back pain, or a car accident...now it's an addiction. You are tired of struggling with cravings and suffering with the shame of your addiction. You want your life back! You want to feel hopeful about your future again. You're also tired of hiding the physical and mental pain of your addiction. Alcohol and opioid addiction steals your future. It's time to take it back!
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Violet Gilbert, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a153b9ec-88b6-4eac-b6d5-e69319508b6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help restore mental balance through psychological therapy and medication management when needed. I believe in a holistic approach to meet the spiritual, physical and emotional need of every client and their family.
My goal is to help restore mental balance through psychological therapy and medication management when needed. I believe in a holistic approach to meet the spiritual, physical and emotional need of every client and their family.
![Photo of Michelle Pratt, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4705a2b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you get back on an even playing field with the rest of the world through better mental health. I welcome diversity of cultures and lifestyles. My part of treatment can be considered treating the brain & symptoms, whereas the psychotherapist could be seen as tending more to the mind and coping strategies for situations. Ultimately, I believe you should have some sense of control in managing your treatment. I will work with you to find a balance in medication and your personal needs. Treatment shouldn't have to be unpleasant.
My goal is to help you get back on an even playing field with the rest of the world through better mental health. I welcome diversity of cultures and lifestyles. My part of treatment can be considered treating the brain & symptoms, whereas the psychotherapist could be seen as tending more to the mind and coping strategies for situations. Ultimately, I believe you should have some sense of control in managing your treatment. I will work with you to find a balance in medication and your personal needs. Treatment shouldn't have to be unpleasant.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/227573ed-c799-4ba9-b6f3-7dd19138fbe4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Krystal Patrick, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42ad58e8-4289-4924-9f92-1916a27ffd6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krystal Patrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
My name is Krystal Patrick & I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my MSN from The University of Alabama at Birmingham & I am board certified through ANCC. In 2011, I began working in the mental health field. Since then, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, and veterans. Currently, I treat individuals 18 and older. I have experience treating individuals with ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder.
My name is Krystal Patrick & I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my MSN from The University of Alabama at Birmingham & I am board certified through ANCC. In 2011, I began working in the mental health field. Since then, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, and veterans. Currently, I treat individuals 18 and older. I have experience treating individuals with ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder.
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/824f7be0-cbd6-470b-ba95-fd69a59d761d/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Jessica Davis - Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/142125ea-a5b4-4b47-a0c3-2d1323248a04/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Attalla, AL 35954
At Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, YOU are important! Our office of mental health professionals is ready and here to help you. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or Covid has you out of sorts, let the professionals at Alabama Psychiatry help you, because YOU ARE IMPORTANT!
At Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, YOU are important! Our office of mental health professionals is ready and here to help you. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or Covid has you out of sorts, let the professionals at Alabama Psychiatry help you, because YOU ARE IMPORTANT!
![Photo of Judy N Clark, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/781637fa-acc1-4ccc-880a-0c03cf68be51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're a teen grappling with the pressures of school and social expectations, a college student facing the challenges of independence and academic stress, or a young or middle-aged adult juggling the responsibilities of work, relationships, and personal growth, we recognize the unique difficulties you're facing. Your concerns are legitimate, and your challenges are real. We tailor your care. You don't have to take time off from work. We provide lunchtime, evening, and alternate Saturday appointments to accommodate your schedule.
Whether you're a teen grappling with the pressures of school and social expectations, a college student facing the challenges of independence and academic stress, or a young or middle-aged adult juggling the responsibilities of work, relationships, and personal growth, we recognize the unique difficulties you're facing. Your concerns are legitimate, and your challenges are real. We tailor your care. You don't have to take time off from work. We provide lunchtime, evening, and alternate Saturday appointments to accommodate your schedule.
![Photo of Autumn Stanford, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8940ca0-c547-4ce6-8519-b7fffe57ce31/3/320x400.jpeg)
Autumn Stanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I see the whole-person, not just the symptoms. It is my passion to educate, empower, and support women & adolescents (ages 14 and up) in their journey to optimal mental wellness.
Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I see the whole-person, not just the symptoms. It is my passion to educate, empower, and support women & adolescents (ages 14 and up) in their journey to optimal mental wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e98e89a-fc75-4ab0-884b-120322fe4d07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Stacy E Stuart, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d50a18d1-a2da-45fe-964b-417b62c65fb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy E Stuart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35613 (Online Only)
I have years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about all mental health conditions, but I have specialized training in perinatal psychiatry. I utilize the telehealth platform to accommodate the busy lives of my patients and provide mental health treatment all across the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as a team to create and implement an individualized treatment plan to improve your mental, and therefore, overall health. My motto is, “mental health is not a sprint, it is a lifelong journey.”
I have years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about all mental health conditions, but I have specialized training in perinatal psychiatry. I utilize the telehealth platform to accommodate the busy lives of my patients and provide mental health treatment all across the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as a team to create and implement an individualized treatment plan to improve your mental, and therefore, overall health. My motto is, “mental health is not a sprint, it is a lifelong journey.”
![Photo of Meagan Carson - Nfinite Healthcare Services, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bf808c9-9ccb-4255-9228-fd9ee001b282/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nfinite Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
![Photo of Ioana N Shirley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb18a58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Ioana Shirley, medical doctor board certified in Child and Adult Psychiatry. I have 30 years of daily experience in the outpatient treatment of all psychiatric disorders, using a variety of modalities that include therapy, medications, family interventions, TMS, Esketamine etc. I believe that the success of all psychiatric and psychological interventions depends on the provider's training and skills, but also on the relationship between you and this provider. I offer a one stop safe, private and respectful place for psychoeducation, counseling and complex treatments. Healing is the goal in our partnership.
Hello, I am Ioana Shirley, medical doctor board certified in Child and Adult Psychiatry. I have 30 years of daily experience in the outpatient treatment of all psychiatric disorders, using a variety of modalities that include therapy, medications, family interventions, TMS, Esketamine etc. I believe that the success of all psychiatric and psychological interventions depends on the provider's training and skills, but also on the relationship between you and this provider. I offer a one stop safe, private and respectful place for psychoeducation, counseling and complex treatments. Healing is the goal in our partnership.
![Photo of Quratulain Agha, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e9ecdd9-71e8-4a06-a805-790d5116d20f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Quratulain Agha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
Waitlist for new clients
My practice offers an approach that combines both psychopharmacology and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I am relatively conservative in the use of medication and prefer engaging patients' use of insight to help relieve them of their symptoms and mental anguish.
My practice offers an approach that combines both psychopharmacology and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I am relatively conservative in the use of medication and prefer engaging patients' use of insight to help relieve them of their symptoms and mental anguish.
![Photo of Mildred Blandamer - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d195fd3-e2fd-4af5-a7b1-628e8ce84e71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35235 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Jarrett Mental Health Wellness, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1b2eafe-54b3-4a2a-9c39-f9c2e9dfba3f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jarrett Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Chelsea, AL 35043 (Online Only)
A quote by Mariel Hemingway states, "Mental Health and Mental Balance is critical to leading a Healthy Life." In my practice, I believe mental health and addiction treatment should be free from stigma and disability. With telemedicine services you can get the mental health or addiction treatment you need in the privacy of your home.
A quote by Mariel Hemingway states, "Mental Health and Mental Balance is critical to leading a Healthy Life." In my practice, I believe mental health and addiction treatment should be free from stigma and disability. With telemedicine services you can get the mental health or addiction treatment you need in the privacy of your home.
![Photo of Summyji Groom - Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinical, PLLC, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9a01e40-51c6-4754-a9a5-c9ebdf2eb137/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinical, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35235 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
![Photo of Maranda Hansley, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17d17197-a587-45ca-993d-6a9f1cf31137/1/320x400.png)
Hi! I am Maranda Hansley, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have worked in psychiatry as a registered nurse for nearly half a decade. My experiences have been in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have worked with patients with mood disorders, psychotic spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, trauma/stress related conditions, eating disorders, etc. I have a passion for preventative care services, and that is what I believe to be the purpose of outpatient psychiatric services. I want to be part of the solution before it becomes a higher level crisis.
Hi! I am Maranda Hansley, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have worked in psychiatry as a registered nurse for nearly half a decade. My experiences have been in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have worked with patients with mood disorders, psychotic spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, trauma/stress related conditions, eating disorders, etc. I have a passion for preventative care services, and that is what I believe to be the purpose of outpatient psychiatric services. I want to be part of the solution before it becomes a higher level crisis.
See more therapy options for Fort Payne
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Payne, AL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Fort Payne, AL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
50% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Fort Payne, AL see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Payne?
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.