Psychiatrists in Montgomery, AL

Photo of Caroline Abolade - Grace Point Behavioral, Psychiatrist
Grace Point Behavioral
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
Grace Point Behavioral provides medication management & counseling services to Montgomery & its surrounding counties. We treat Anxiety, Panic, OCD, Depression, Bipolar & ADHD. Ready to try a new treatment option for anxiety after trauma as in PTSD? We offer Yoga somatic classes to guide you through gentle Yoga & Deep breathing exercises, using your body & mind for self healing. We see all age groups seen from age 4. Play Therapist available on site. We are on a mission to deliver compassionate, high quality, behavioral health care. We focus on your needs, we meet them & hope to exceed your expectations. We do it better.
Grace Point Behavioral provides medication management & counseling services to Montgomery & its surrounding counties. We treat Anxiety, Panic, OCD, Depression, Bipolar & ADHD. Ready to try a new treatment option for anxiety after trauma as in PTSD? We offer Yoga somatic classes to guide you through gentle Yoga & Deep breathing exercises, using your body & mind for self healing. We see all age groups seen from age 4. Play Therapist available on site. We are on a mission to deliver compassionate, high quality, behavioral health care. We focus on your needs, we meet them & hope to exceed your expectations. We do it better.
(334) 384-6354 View (334) 384-6354
Photo of Clemmie Lee Palmer III, MD, Psychiatrist
Clemmie Lee Palmer III
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36116
I am a private practice Psychiatrist along with Rachael Williams, a Nurse Practitioner, treat patients in Alabama, Georgia, Florida & California. We treat Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Opiate addiction with Suboxone, and Psychosis. We specialize in General Psychiatry. Please go to www.drcpalmer.com and complete an Intake form for an appointment.
I am a private practice Psychiatrist along with Rachael Williams, a Nurse Practitioner, treat patients in Alabama, Georgia, Florida & California. We treat Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Opiate addiction with Suboxone, and Psychosis. We specialize in General Psychiatry. Please go to www.drcpalmer.com and complete an Intake form for an appointment.
(334) 259-7983 View (334) 259-7983
Photo of Dr. Nicholas Choy - Neural Health Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Nicholas Choy - Neural Health Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36116  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Nicholas Choy, a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist licensed in the states of AL, FL, CO, IN, IL, KS, MI, NY and OH. I want to first welcome you to my practice! I understand that seeking help can be a scary and vulnerable experience, which is why I strive to create a space that feels comfortable, compassionate, and empowering. One of the most important things to me is providing you a safe and supportive environment. My ultimate goal is to help you improve your mental health and general well-being, to increase resiliency, and achieve the best possible quality of life.
Hello! My name is Dr. Nicholas Choy, a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist licensed in the states of AL, FL, CO, IN, IL, KS, MI, NY and OH. I want to first welcome you to my practice! I understand that seeking help can be a scary and vulnerable experience, which is why I strive to create a space that feels comfortable, compassionate, and empowering. One of the most important things to me is providing you a safe and supportive environment. My ultimate goal is to help you improve your mental health and general well-being, to increase resiliency, and achieve the best possible quality of life.
(334) 463-3812 View (334) 463-3812
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117  (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.
(334) 402-3185 View (334) 402-3185
Photo of Ashley Dumas - Alabama Psychiatry Montgomery, MD, Psychiatrist
Alabama Psychiatry Montgomery
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36117
We hear at Alabama Psychiatry welcome patients of all ages and treat most all mental health issues. We have a dynamic team of Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers to help you find the best you. We believe YOU ARE IMPORTANT and we can help.
We hear at Alabama Psychiatry welcome patients of all ages and treat most all mental health issues. We have a dynamic team of Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers to help you find the best you. We believe YOU ARE IMPORTANT and we can help.
(334) 239-2622 View (334) 239-2622
Photo of Shawn Howard, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36130  (Online Only)
I am currently an ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more. My philosophy is focused on caring for patients in a holistic approach, which ensures their mental health needs are met. This helps patients and their families reach optimal mental health outcomes. I am licensed and currently accepting patients in Oregon and Colorado.
I am currently an ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more. My philosophy is focused on caring for patients in a holistic approach, which ensures their mental health needs are met. This helps patients and their families reach optimal mental health outcomes. I am licensed and currently accepting patients in Oregon and Colorado.
(334) 401-1146 View (334) 401-1146
Photo of Yulanda Renee King - Hope Psychiatric Consultants, Yulanda, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hope Psychiatric Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Yulanda, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36116
From the moment I enrolled in Jacksonville State University where I eventually earned both my master’s and Doctorate of Nursing with a specialty in Adult Gerontology Acute Care to my travels to the University of Texas where I earned my specialty in Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As the proud owner of Hope Psychiatric Consultants. The “Hope” in Hope Psychiatric Consultants happily stands for “Handing Out Positive Energy.” I ideated and implemented this telehealth psych platform to give those in need the medical attention and listening ear they need for their mental health.
From the moment I enrolled in Jacksonville State University where I eventually earned both my master’s and Doctorate of Nursing with a specialty in Adult Gerontology Acute Care to my travels to the University of Texas where I earned my specialty in Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As the proud owner of Hope Psychiatric Consultants. The “Hope” in Hope Psychiatric Consultants happily stands for “Handing Out Positive Energy.” I ideated and implemented this telehealth psych platform to give those in need the medical attention and listening ear they need for their mental health.
(334) 454-3099 View (334) 454-3099
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36104  (Online Only)
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.
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Photo of Christopher Fan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Fan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36104  (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christopher and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christopher has had a passion for treating mental health since his time working as a registered nurse at UCSD in San Diego. His mission is to assist patients in living their best life. He believes having strong mental health is a key to this. Christopher is ready to partner with you on your mental health journey! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christopher and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christopher has had a passion for treating mental health since his time working as a registered nurse at UCSD in San Diego. His mission is to assist patients in living their best life. He believes having strong mental health is a key to this. Christopher is ready to partner with you on your mental health journey! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
(323) 922-4189 View (323) 922-4189
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36104
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.
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Photo of Alexis Allen, FNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36109  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
(251) 766-5603 View (251) 766-5603
Photo of Mildred Blandamer - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117  (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.
(918) 719-2801 View (918) 719-2801

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Tyler Byrd, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tyler Byrd
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I’m a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management for psychiatric conditions utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. I provide a concierge level of care, ensuring maximum privacy and thorough attention to detail. We may choose to opt out of psychiatric medications altogether if you wish - based on the patients beliefs and preferences. Personalized approach can include (but not limited to) addressing diet, exercise, sleep cycles and quality, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and bolstering spiritual and/or social support as needed for a treatment tailored to you.
I’m a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management for psychiatric conditions utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. I provide a concierge level of care, ensuring maximum privacy and thorough attention to detail. We may choose to opt out of psychiatric medications altogether if you wish - based on the patients beliefs and preferences. Personalized approach can include (but not limited to) addressing diet, exercise, sleep cycles and quality, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and bolstering spiritual and/or social support as needed for a treatment tailored to you.
(205) 964-8241 View (205) 964-8241
Photo of Krystal Patrick, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krystal Patrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35473
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.
(205) 553-9171 View (205) 553-9171
Photo of Ioana N Shirley, MD, Psychiatrist
Ioana N Shirley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
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.
(205) 624-0062 View (205) 624-0062
Photo of Leticia Ball, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leticia Ball
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35203
Mental health care is important for individuals of all backgrounds and from all walks of life. Whether it is focusing on your depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder - medication management and therapy are tools useful in enhancing your quality of life.
Mental health care is important for individuals of all backgrounds and from all walks of life. Whether it is focusing on your depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder - medication management and therapy are tools useful in enhancing your quality of life.
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Photo of Amin Gilani - Alabama Psychiatry Pelham, MD, Psychiatrist
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pelham, AL 35124
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham we believe you are important. We are a dynamic office of highly qualified mental health professionals. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important.
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham we believe you are important. We are a dynamic office of highly qualified mental health professionals. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important.
(205) 255-3828 View (205) 255-3828
Photo of Meagan Carson - Nfinite Healthcare Services, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(323) 334-0599 View (323) 334-0599
Photo of Kathryn Werner, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36067  (Online Only)
Anxiety, OCD or depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tag, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
Anxiety, OCD or depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tag, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
(208) 565-2439 View (208) 565-2439
Photo of Valisia Davis, DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valisia Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
My expertise is working with patients who are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Patients need a trusting place to be honest about their mental health concerns and the confidence they will receive quality care. I have clinical concentration of more than 15 years in pediatric psychiatry. I believe my years of experience working with child psychiatrists and psychologists allows me provide this level care..
My expertise is working with patients who are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Patients need a trusting place to be honest about their mental health concerns and the confidence they will receive quality care. I have clinical concentration of more than 15 years in pediatric psychiatry. I believe my years of experience working with child psychiatrists and psychologists allows me provide this level care..
(205) 882-3011 View (205) 882-3011

See more therapy options for Montgomery

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery, AL

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Montgomery, AL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Medication Management
75% Grief
75% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Montgomery, AL see their clients

58% Online Only
42% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Montgomery?

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.