Psychiatrists in Shelby County, AL
![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 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.
Jarrett Mental Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, AL 35043 (Online Only)
Jarrett Mental Health & Wellness is a psychiatry clinic providing mental health & addiction services for adults and children, court mandated evaluations, and court mandated online classes. Lea Jarrett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-C. Lea has many years of psychiatric experience which began with working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2017. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in both inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities. Lea also has experience treating addiction in outpatient and inpatient detox programs.
Jarrett Mental Health & Wellness is a psychiatry clinic providing mental health & addiction services for adults and children, court mandated evaluations, and court mandated online classes. Lea Jarrett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-C. Lea has many years of psychiatric experience which began with working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2017. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in both inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities. Lea also has experience treating addiction in outpatient and inpatient detox programs.
![Photo of Miranda Hobbs - The Jackson Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f298d89-f2c6-4069-bcd7-7fd269513720/1/320x400.png)
Miranda Hobbs is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated from University of Alabama at Birmingham with her bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2018 and worked as an RN at UAB Hospital. She obtained her masters of nursing practice degree at UAB in 2020, going on to practice psychiatric medicine in the outpatient setting.
Miranda Hobbs is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated from University of Alabama at Birmingham with her bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2018 and worked as an RN at UAB Hospital. She obtained her masters of nursing practice degree at UAB in 2020, going on to practice psychiatric medicine in the outpatient setting.
![Photo of Dr. Phillip Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/427caffe-76c5-4631-8d82-76afa0289b50/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist medical doctor (MD). I will offer you my approach as a physician throughout your treatment journey. I understand the difficulties you face, whether it's battling depression, can't sleep, struggling with inattention, coping with psychosis, or fighting substance use disorders. If your goal is to find relief from these acute and chronic mental health conditions, and I am here to prioritize your journey towards remission.
I am a psychiatrist medical doctor (MD). I will offer you my approach as a physician throughout your treatment journey. I understand the difficulties you face, whether it's battling depression, can't sleep, struggling with inattention, coping with psychosis, or fighting substance use disorders. If your goal is to find relief from these acute and chronic mental health conditions, and I am here to prioritize your journey towards remission.
![Photo of Amin Gilani - Alabama Psychiatry Pelham, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25aecb10-bd73-4669-a69b-d740c73420b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![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 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
Birmingham, AL 35242 (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 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 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 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 35242
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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Kathryn Werner, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd31e59b-e90b-4070-bd1d-5f46700a284d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36067 (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression or OCD 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 tags, 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, depression or OCD 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 tags, 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.
![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 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 Saydie Marshall, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f4ee35-8345-490b-9b01-593f57c28184/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
![Photo of Dr. Laura Montgomery-Barefield - Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f3fc2ff-6ab9-4772-9291-cc980317d4c8/4/320x400.jpeg)
Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
![Photo of Latashia Jones-Rowell - Jones-Rowell Telehealth Services, LLC , MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/154d9f15-8ec4-4baa-b2db-bed842cb8100/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jones-Rowell Telehealth Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36116
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my expertise lies in delivering specialized medical care that combines psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I possess a strong command over the art and science of psychotherapy and physical assessment, enabling me to effectively assist vulnerable populations and promote mental well-being throughout their lives. Moreover, I have the capability to offer psychiatric services to individuals of all age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly, through telehealth guidance and my own independent practice.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my expertise lies in delivering specialized medical care that combines psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I possess a strong command over the art and science of psychotherapy and physical assessment, enabling me to effectively assist vulnerable populations and promote mental well-being throughout their lives. Moreover, I have the capability to offer psychiatric services to individuals of all age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly, through telehealth guidance and my own independent practice.
![Photo of Yulanda Renee King - Hope Psychiatric Consultants, Yulanda, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92086bf8-b01c-4dbe-9681-52db58660609/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Shawn Howard, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bb528e4-cfe3-4c16-aeb4-71adcdb7bd89/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![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.
See more therapy options for Shelby County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Shelby County, AL
10+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Shelby County, AL who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
91% | Trauma and PTSD |
82% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Sleep or Insomnia |
73% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Shelby County, AL see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Shelby County?
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.