Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
![Photo of Jackie Cole, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d255cdc9-4030-4ce4-9eff-e161b53684d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jackie Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I appreciate employing a collaborative approach that actively cultivates an empowering environment for my patients. My goal is to inspire self-compassion and achieve lasting results. This approach is firmly grounded in evidence-based practices and is deeply intersectional, taking into account the myriad identities and sociocultural contexts that shape each person's lived experience. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive support that addresses your specific needs and helps you navigate life's challenges with resilience and well-being.
I appreciate employing a collaborative approach that actively cultivates an empowering environment for my patients. My goal is to inspire self-compassion and achieve lasting results. This approach is firmly grounded in evidence-based practices and is deeply intersectional, taking into account the myriad identities and sociocultural contexts that shape each person's lived experience. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive support that addresses your specific needs and helps you navigate life's challenges with resilience and well-being.
![Photo of Anicka Oyer Meyers, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c2471a5-e688-49c6-a0fd-707394489a11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anicka Oyer Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and through gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and through gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
![Photo of Travis Damico - Travis Damico | TMS Clinic, ARNP, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da9303be-a288-48b3-a5b3-3299141aac99/2/320x400.jpeg)
Travis Damico | TMS Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
Our anxiety about the state of the world is a normal response to the abnormal stressors facing so many of us. The collective concerns that we all face coupled with our own individual worries can make life feel overwhelming. I have worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2007 and my private practice is focused on looking within. Working with individuals to focus and heal the one person we can control: ourselves. I am a strong proponent of meditation and medication. My approach is to align my work according to YOUR values.
Our anxiety about the state of the world is a normal response to the abnormal stressors facing so many of us. The collective concerns that we all face coupled with our own individual worries can make life feel overwhelming. I have worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2007 and my private practice is focused on looking within. Working with individuals to focus and heal the one person we can control: ourselves. I am a strong proponent of meditation and medication. My approach is to align my work according to YOUR values.
![Photo of Philip Hennessey, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18cf476f-4b8f-4d4b-97c2-4f1236843772/3/320x400.jpeg)
Let's Build Your Better Tomorrow! As a mood and attentional disorder specialist, I am here first and foremost to listen and serve as your advocate and guide to healing. Whether you are seeking mental health care for the first time or looking for the perspective of a different provider, my approach combines medication management, focused cognitive therapy, laboratory testing, neuroimaging and neuropsychological testing if needed. If you are concerned you may have ADHD, I offer a comprehensive assessment process. If you have a complex or chronic illness, I can serve as the psychiatric leader of your care team.
Let's Build Your Better Tomorrow! As a mood and attentional disorder specialist, I am here first and foremost to listen and serve as your advocate and guide to healing. Whether you are seeking mental health care for the first time or looking for the perspective of a different provider, my approach combines medication management, focused cognitive therapy, laboratory testing, neuroimaging and neuropsychological testing if needed. If you are concerned you may have ADHD, I offer a comprehensive assessment process. If you have a complex or chronic illness, I can serve as the psychiatric leader of your care team.
![Photo of Steven Pline, DNP, ANRP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26c3b296-6e16-4573-92bc-2caa72215b99/2/320x400.jpeg)
All are welcome here. We all live with problems: and they need not define us. I provide proven treatments to help patients access wellness and recovery. You have choices here. Since there are many paths of wellness and recovery, I recommend evidence-proven options to help you experience health, hope, and meaning your way.
All are welcome here. We all live with problems: and they need not define us. I provide proven treatments to help patients access wellness and recovery. You have choices here. Since there are many paths of wellness and recovery, I recommend evidence-proven options to help you experience health, hope, and meaning your way.
![Photo of Ashley Cedar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/967af247-21e3-4683-a992-6c827f37c07a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley specializes in ADHD, PTSD and C-PTSD, mood disorders, and anxiety across the life span. She spent her career working in an inpatient substance abuse program and in an inpatient psychiatric hospital. In her free time, Ashley volunteers as a victim advocate for victims of domestic violence, homicide, and sexual assault. Ashley understands that each person has different physical, mental, and spiritual needs and each visit will focus on addressing these issues. Visits will include therapy, medication management, collaboration with treatment team and reviewing progress.
Ashley specializes in ADHD, PTSD and C-PTSD, mood disorders, and anxiety across the life span. She spent her career working in an inpatient substance abuse program and in an inpatient psychiatric hospital. In her free time, Ashley volunteers as a victim advocate for victims of domestic violence, homicide, and sexual assault. Ashley understands that each person has different physical, mental, and spiritual needs and each visit will focus on addressing these issues. Visits will include therapy, medication management, collaboration with treatment team and reviewing progress.
![Photo of Michelle Hardenbrook, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77c0eee5-12d2-4d63-8021-219d471319c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Hardenbrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Unfortunately I am not accepting new clients at this time. I have more than 25 years of experience working every level of psychiatric treatment. I specializes in diagnosing and treating autism but am skilled in all childhood and adult psychiatric disorders. My goal is to help you understand how your, or your child's brain, functions and to give you the tools to improve your life. If you are struggling with day to day function due to symptoms of psychiatric illness, call me today. Psychiatric illness is treatable and recovery is possible for everybody.
Unfortunately I am not accepting new clients at this time. I have more than 25 years of experience working every level of psychiatric treatment. I specializes in diagnosing and treating autism but am skilled in all childhood and adult psychiatric disorders. My goal is to help you understand how your, or your child's brain, functions and to give you the tools to improve your life. If you are struggling with day to day function due to symptoms of psychiatric illness, call me today. Psychiatric illness is treatable and recovery is possible for everybody.
![Photo of Marlen Lukatsky, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa6a9cd7-380c-4012-a929-61345facd107/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marlen Lukatsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed and practicing in the states of Colorado and Washington. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults (ages 10-64) with a passion for providing clients with the best possible comprehensive care while focusing on their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy. At this time, I am accepting new clients for medication management with supportive therapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed and practicing in the states of Colorado and Washington. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults (ages 10-64) with a passion for providing clients with the best possible comprehensive care while focusing on their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy. At this time, I am accepting new clients for medication management with supportive therapy.
![Photo of Kelly Schorling Brewer, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99afccab-e2c2-4d45-a73d-ebd8ddf20c04/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Schorling Brewer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
My practice is anchored in a trauma-informed approach. I collaborate closely with adult patients to evaluate their needs and develop personalized treatment plans, aiming to alleviate mental health symptoms while minimizing side effects. Every patient is unique and deserves treatment options tailored to fit their preferences and lifestyles.
My practice is anchored in a trauma-informed approach. I collaborate closely with adult patients to evaluate their needs and develop personalized treatment plans, aiming to alleviate mental health symptoms while minimizing side effects. Every patient is unique and deserves treatment options tailored to fit their preferences and lifestyles.
![Photo of Mary Opara, DNP, MS, BSc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1545ad7-030f-494c-ab1d-10863c4055c5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MS, BSc
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), licensed, and Board Certified, in Psychiatry/Mental Health as a Clinical Nurse Specialist. My Philosophy is "Let all you do be done with love." If a client for instance, has depression and anxiety, we will discuss how it affects their life. Talk about what triggers make it worse, and how they handle the symptoms. For compliance, we collaborate on the best plan of care. I present the options for medications, benefits, alternatives, side effects, and encourage therapy as a great combination with the medication. The ultimate goal is to return the client to be healthy, happy and enjoy life again.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), licensed, and Board Certified, in Psychiatry/Mental Health as a Clinical Nurse Specialist. My Philosophy is "Let all you do be done with love." If a client for instance, has depression and anxiety, we will discuss how it affects their life. Talk about what triggers make it worse, and how they handle the symptoms. For compliance, we collaborate on the best plan of care. I present the options for medications, benefits, alternatives, side effects, and encourage therapy as a great combination with the medication. The ultimate goal is to return the client to be healthy, happy and enjoy life again.
![Photo of Kathryn (Kat) McNeil, DNP, FNPc, PMHNPbc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66dca131-80ec-4ab3-9bb1-36c9224c683b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNPc, PMHNPbc
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ, NV, OR and insurance-pay patients/consults for WA.
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ, NV, OR and insurance-pay patients/consults for WA.
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![Photo of Daniel Halter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17b9922b-a026-48ae-9579-43da429594d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have treated a diverse group of clients from all races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have found that everyone's needs and goals are different, there is no "ideal client" in my opinion. Half the battle is recognizing there is a problem in your life which could be improved with treatment. A client that is ready to have open communication with their provider and do the work necessary in order to improve the quality of their life, that is whom I wish to work with. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a client's symptoms decrease and their quality of life improve because of the treatment I have provided.
I have treated a diverse group of clients from all races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have found that everyone's needs and goals are different, there is no "ideal client" in my opinion. Half the battle is recognizing there is a problem in your life which could be improved with treatment. A client that is ready to have open communication with their provider and do the work necessary in order to improve the quality of their life, that is whom I wish to work with. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a client's symptoms decrease and their quality of life improve because of the treatment I have provided.
![Photo of Kelsey Pope, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f820ac-29ea-48cc-8b1a-2c428a168972/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 10+ years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide evidence-based, holistic care by combining psychopharmacology with supportive psychotherapy to enhance each individual’s mental, physical, and emotional state of well-being. I value collaborative relationships and enjoy tailoring care by taking into account one’s unique identities, background, and environment. I am passionate about social justice and equality, learning about the cultural underpinnings that comprise each unique identity, and reducing the stigma of mental illnesses.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 10+ years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide evidence-based, holistic care by combining psychopharmacology with supportive psychotherapy to enhance each individual’s mental, physical, and emotional state of well-being. I value collaborative relationships and enjoy tailoring care by taking into account one’s unique identities, background, and environment. I am passionate about social justice and equality, learning about the cultural underpinnings that comprise each unique identity, and reducing the stigma of mental illnesses.
![Photo of Frederick Duennebier - Frederick Duennebier, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/485cc64f-393e-4392-afc1-d7c3d9c393ae/2/320x400.png)
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
![Photo of Jenny Brady, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97578081-cedb-4415-a526-132eae48bef7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Brady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Mental clarity, strength and resilience have become passions of mine, driving me to perfect an integrated approach to practice. I want to meet you where you are, regardless of where that is mentally and physically, and together we will work to improve your well-being. I will listen carefully to ensure I understand your concerns and goals; and together we will develop a treatment plan you are comfortable with. This may include medication management, counseling, or both.
Mental clarity, strength and resilience have become passions of mine, driving me to perfect an integrated approach to practice. I want to meet you where you are, regardless of where that is mentally and physically, and together we will work to improve your well-being. I will listen carefully to ensure I understand your concerns and goals; and together we will develop a treatment plan you are comfortable with. This may include medication management, counseling, or both.
![Photo of Charles Anstett, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df82281-566c-428a-8f86-1b3c95dca5af/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed to practice in the State of Washington. I have experience working with children, teens and adults. I have also worked with acutely ill adult clients in a number of inpatient facilities. I hold Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Nursing from the University of Southern Indiana, and have worked in the nursing profession since 1998. I am currently not accepting new patients for ADHD treatment.
As a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed to practice in the State of Washington. I have experience working with children, teens and adults. I have also worked with acutely ill adult clients in a number of inpatient facilities. I hold Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Nursing from the University of Southern Indiana, and have worked in the nursing profession since 1998. I am currently not accepting new patients for ADHD treatment.
![Photo of Claire Whitehead, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f284b7b-7682-4a7b-b442-9ffaf6eb1a63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Claire Whitehead
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Claire Whitehead is a dually board certified nurse practitioner with specialties in psychiatry and family practice. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Claire is skilled in psychiatric assessment and diagnosis and can provide medication management and psychotherapy. She completed undergraduate training at Tulane University in New Orleans and nursing school at Columbia University in New York.
Claire Whitehead is a dually board certified nurse practitioner with specialties in psychiatry and family practice. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Claire is skilled in psychiatric assessment and diagnosis and can provide medication management and psychotherapy. She completed undergraduate training at Tulane University in New Orleans and nursing school at Columbia University in New York.
![Photo of Arezu Piroozmandi, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ea4979-37d5-401a-81f8-fd320ae57cba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arezu Piroozmandi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I believe mental health is an artifact of both personal and cultural background, and upbringing. My diverse background and encounters have taught me that psychological illnesses are just as critical as physical illnesses. I acknowledge and appreciate diversity and multi-cultured backgrounds and believe this to be an influential asset in my ability to connect with and assist individuals from a holistic standpoint. During our sessions, you will be met with sincere empathy, respect and compassion.
I believe mental health is an artifact of both personal and cultural background, and upbringing. My diverse background and encounters have taught me that psychological illnesses are just as critical as physical illnesses. I acknowledge and appreciate diversity and multi-cultured backgrounds and believe this to be an influential asset in my ability to connect with and assist individuals from a holistic standpoint. During our sessions, you will be met with sincere empathy, respect and compassion.
I am a board certified forensic psychiatrist specializing in civil and criminal forensic assessments.
I am a board certified forensic psychiatrist specializing in civil and criminal forensic assessments.
![Photo of Kyl Dinsio - Kyl Dinsio, MD, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bade06c-27c8-4ef2-9300-1ce6e686d6f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$210
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
84% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
65% | Premera Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
29% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.