Psychiatrists in Louisiana
![Photo of Florence C 'crissi' Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa2b4884-b954-42c2-9d85-5f11114c0f18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Florence C 'crissi' Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201
My name is Crissi Brooks, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have worked with people of all ages from many different backgrounds. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, and treatments including medications for many different mental health issues including trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My compassionate approach embraces the diversity of mental health experiences by offering a supportive environment where my patients can find new avenues of growth and healing. My goal is to foster transformative changes that ripple through individuals, families, and communities, resulting in collective healing.
My name is Crissi Brooks, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have worked with people of all ages from many different backgrounds. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, and treatments including medications for many different mental health issues including trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My compassionate approach embraces the diversity of mental health experiences by offering a supportive environment where my patients can find new avenues of growth and healing. My goal is to foster transformative changes that ripple through individuals, families, and communities, resulting in collective healing.
![Photo of Bradley Thomas Landwehr, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5613e116-3480-4b1e-a1cf-a9592a2eb283/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist located in New Orleans. I provide expert evaluations and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse, gambling & technological addictions.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist located in New Orleans. I provide expert evaluations and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse, gambling & technological addictions.
![Photo of Addie Snyder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/892f746c-64fa-4e13-891e-11be0c2c1a5b/2/320x400.png)
Willow Mental Wellness & Recovery offers outpatient mental health services treating psychiatric disorders, such as, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and Substance abuse disorders. We have licensed psychiatric nurse practitioners who offer medication management. Most private insurances accepted. Opioid addiction treatment and Suboxone treatment offered. Now offering in-house Spravato Treatment.
Willow Mental Wellness & Recovery offers outpatient mental health services treating psychiatric disorders, such as, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and Substance abuse disorders. We have licensed psychiatric nurse practitioners who offer medication management. Most private insurances accepted. Opioid addiction treatment and Suboxone treatment offered. Now offering in-house Spravato Treatment.
![Photo of Ashifur Rahman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df5c95ac-b76a-46e7-8173-0bb3c20bd86b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Is your child or teenager struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior problems, or mental instability? I will do what it takes to understand your concerns, make the correct diagnosis, and determine the right treatment to help him or her feel and perform better. My goal is to provide a warm, trusting environment where your child and family can actively participate and collaborate in treatment.
Is your child or teenager struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior problems, or mental instability? I will do what it takes to understand your concerns, make the correct diagnosis, and determine the right treatment to help him or her feel and perform better. My goal is to provide a warm, trusting environment where your child and family can actively participate and collaborate in treatment.
![Photo of Jennifer Imbraguglio, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ee86c8c-9990-4308-97e1-67b1137f9ba5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Imbraguglio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
Have you been struggling with attention and behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, mood, or trauma symptoms? I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I provide individualized and holistic care to improve your mental health through lifestyle changes, supportive therapy, and pharmacological approach.
Have you been struggling with attention and behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, mood, or trauma symptoms? I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I provide individualized and holistic care to improve your mental health through lifestyle changes, supportive therapy, and pharmacological approach.
![Photo of Latoya Mason - Always Hope LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfddda9f-43d7-4a26-a008-3ae6379307d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prairieville, LA 70769
My name is LaToya Mason, a passionate healthcare professional. Originating from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, my academic journey led me to Dillard University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Over the span of a decade, the fast-paced world of the emergency room became my professional home.Here, amidst the chaos, I honed my skills and embraced the challenges that came with providing crucial healthcare services. The experiences in the emergency room not only sharpened my clinical expertise but also fueled my desire to delve deeper into mental health care.
My name is LaToya Mason, a passionate healthcare professional. Originating from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, my academic journey led me to Dillard University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Over the span of a decade, the fast-paced world of the emergency room became my professional home.Here, amidst the chaos, I honed my skills and embraced the challenges that came with providing crucial healthcare services. The experiences in the emergency room not only sharpened my clinical expertise but also fueled my desire to delve deeper into mental health care.
![Photo of Michael Santone - Always Hope LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ed4e8d1-e4ac-409a-a1d6-bf3ae7d725cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. D. Santone has over 25 years experience in behavioral health and chemical dependency. He works with the adult population 18-70 years old and treats all Mood and Thought Disorders. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. D. Santone has over 25 years experience in behavioral health and chemical dependency. He works with the adult population 18-70 years old and treats all Mood and Thought Disorders. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Treatment and Testing for ADHD, fulfilling most school requirements to help with receiving extra resources and accommodations while also offering Medication management for multiple Mental Health and Behavioral disorders. Pharmacogenomic Genetics test offered.
Treatment and Testing for ADHD, fulfilling most school requirements to help with receiving extra resources and accommodations while also offering Medication management for multiple Mental Health and Behavioral disorders. Pharmacogenomic Genetics test offered.
![Photo of Ashley Clark - Serenity Mental Health Services, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74fccb90-5022-4271-90e7-3df679b9ca64/1/320x400.jpeg)
Serenity Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70827 (Online Only)
Serenity Mental Health Services provides telehealth/virtual mental health consultations to individuals across Louisiana. Specializing in medication management, our services cater to patients aged 8 and above facing emotional or behavioral challenges. We welcome individuals seeking evaluation and medical treatment for psychiatric disorders. It's important to note that we do not typically prescribe benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, etc.).
Serenity Mental Health Services provides telehealth/virtual mental health consultations to individuals across Louisiana. Specializing in medication management, our services cater to patients aged 8 and above facing emotional or behavioral challenges. We welcome individuals seeking evaluation and medical treatment for psychiatric disorders. It's important to note that we do not typically prescribe benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, etc.).
![Photo of Mikayel Currim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59a48dc1-5ca6-4336-ada1-992a03a15b74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mikayel Currim is a Staff Psychiatrist for Talkiatry. Previously, he was the Medical Director and Attending Psychiatrist for the 509th Medical Group at Whiteman Air Force Base, where he was an Active-Duty Medical Corps officer and separated at the rank of Major. Prior to that, Dr. Currim completed medical school and residency at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Stanford University.
Dr. Mikayel Currim is a Staff Psychiatrist for Talkiatry. Previously, he was the Medical Director and Attending Psychiatrist for the 509th Medical Group at Whiteman Air Force Base, where he was an Active-Duty Medical Corps officer and separated at the rank of Major. Prior to that, Dr. Currim completed medical school and residency at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Stanford University.
![Photo of Yesenia Sanchez, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3e0cc30-c6a7-48eb-bff0-2437175e8d3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yesenia Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115 (Online Only)
Born and raised in the vibrant city of New Orleans and deeply rooted in her Hispanic heritage, Yesenia epitomizes cultural sensitivity and empathy. Her unwavering dedication to providing equitable and top-notch healthcare reflects her profound commitment to improving the well-being of her patients and the community as a whole. With over ten years of specialized experience in Psychiatry and Addiction Recovery, Yesenia emerges as a trailblazing and empathetic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering innovative solutions and compassionate care to those in need.
Born and raised in the vibrant city of New Orleans and deeply rooted in her Hispanic heritage, Yesenia epitomizes cultural sensitivity and empathy. Her unwavering dedication to providing equitable and top-notch healthcare reflects her profound commitment to improving the well-being of her patients and the community as a whole. With over ten years of specialized experience in Psychiatry and Addiction Recovery, Yesenia emerges as a trailblazing and empathetic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering innovative solutions and compassionate care to those in need.
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![Photo of Natalie Blanchard, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7ab1d7a-7015-4e8b-80e2-ede55825cda3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Blanchard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Broussard, LA 70518
Your mental health matters. I am here to assist you in reaching your goals for emotional well-being.
Your mental health matters. I am here to assist you in reaching your goals for emotional well-being.
![Photo of Alison D Mitchell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6414193-b924-453c-b467-2d1c436d4016/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patients come to my practice for help with their daily mental health issues. They have reached the point of dysfunction and dissatisfaction with their ability to successfully and happily go through life. At times this may mean medication is indicated for treatment and other times breakthroughs can happen with in office psychotherapy. Together we work as a team to assess and work towards your daily, weekly, and life goals.
Patients come to my practice for help with their daily mental health issues. They have reached the point of dysfunction and dissatisfaction with their ability to successfully and happily go through life. At times this may mean medication is indicated for treatment and other times breakthroughs can happen with in office psychotherapy. Together we work as a team to assess and work towards your daily, weekly, and life goals.
![Photo of Mary Braud Hill, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58861178-0781-484b-aed8-c9130686fa79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Braud Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70130
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com to learn more about my services.
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com to learn more about my services.
![Photo of Liz Gage, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d79bbcc-6fe0-4ec8-964f-1c6bad782dbd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Liz Gage
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70119
Not accepting new clients
Have you trialed multiple medications without lasting benefit? Are you interested in treating symptoms with minimal use of pharmaceuticals? Or seeking more comprehensive and approachable psychiatric care? I am committed to providing personalized and holistic psychiatry to improve outcomes. Functional medicine treats root biological causes for symptoms. Treatment includes assessment of individual genetics, nutritional deficiencies, infections, and toxins guided by lab testing; and methodical intervention with supplements, medications, and lifestyle guidance. This method moves beyond symptom management to offer recovery and healing.
Have you trialed multiple medications without lasting benefit? Are you interested in treating symptoms with minimal use of pharmaceuticals? Or seeking more comprehensive and approachable psychiatric care? I am committed to providing personalized and holistic psychiatry to improve outcomes. Functional medicine treats root biological causes for symptoms. Treatment includes assessment of individual genetics, nutritional deficiencies, infections, and toxins guided by lab testing; and methodical intervention with supplements, medications, and lifestyle guidance. This method moves beyond symptom management to offer recovery and healing.
![Photo of Brittany Johnson, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d91d67a-2a7f-4b98-9ba6-4be9f433f6ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gonzales, LA 70737 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Dr. Brittany Johnson. I specialize in supporting clients dealing with ADHD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I am thankful and excited that you chose to entrust me with your peace of mind. My goal is to bring you quality mental healthcare right from the comfort of your home using telemedicine ONLY. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
Hi, my name is Dr. Brittany Johnson. I specialize in supporting clients dealing with ADHD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I am thankful and excited that you chose to entrust me with your peace of mind. My goal is to bring you quality mental healthcare right from the comfort of your home using telemedicine ONLY. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
![Photo of Sreelatha Pulakhandam, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/418d2661-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Twelve-Step programs are sometimes critical of medication-assisted treatment, discouraging members by saying they are not really sober if they are taking prescription drugs for their dependency. Despite the evidence that medication-assisted treatment help patients with chemical dependency, using drugs carries a stigma. Many Professional scoff at medication-assisted treatment, dismissing it as a temporary fix or taking the easy way out. This is so disheartening to those that it has helped stay sober. Rather, the physician will coordinate the use of medication with other facets of care to ensure that it is used effectively.
Twelve-Step programs are sometimes critical of medication-assisted treatment, discouraging members by saying they are not really sober if they are taking prescription drugs for their dependency. Despite the evidence that medication-assisted treatment help patients with chemical dependency, using drugs carries a stigma. Many Professional scoff at medication-assisted treatment, dismissing it as a temporary fix or taking the easy way out. This is so disheartening to those that it has helped stay sober. Rather, the physician will coordinate the use of medication with other facets of care to ensure that it is used effectively.
![Photo of Dominque Jones, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8e3790d-e779-4916-bef1-9a0a04deecc3/2/320x400.png)
Dominque Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70501
With over 15+ years of experience in healthcare, I am dual-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have the unique ability to listen empathetically, provide education you can understand, and the willingness to collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan. My work experience includes women's health and outpatient psychiatry.
With over 15+ years of experience in healthcare, I am dual-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have the unique ability to listen empathetically, provide education you can understand, and the willingness to collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan. My work experience includes women's health and outpatient psychiatry.
![Photo of Robert Allen Green, PMHNP-B, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29cad037-c341-48f8-92a5-9e1a6b84ebef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Allen Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MBA
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70508
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialize in medication management of psychiatric disorders I am highly motivated and passionate about delivering the highest quality of mental health care.. I am currently accepting new adult patients in Lafayette and telehealth throughout Louisiana. I believe in individualized treatment for all patients and will work with you and your other providers to ensure the proper plan is established.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialize in medication management of psychiatric disorders I am highly motivated and passionate about delivering the highest quality of mental health care.. I am currently accepting new adult patients in Lafayette and telehealth throughout Louisiana. I believe in individualized treatment for all patients and will work with you and your other providers to ensure the proper plan is established.
![Photo of Raymond Pregeant, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503454c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Raymond Pregeant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70118
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health and seeks evaluation and treatment of anxiety, depression and ADHD through medication management. They may have been to other psychiatric providers and are looking for an alternative option with flexible availability. They may also be dealing with a difficult life situation and are seeking guidance and professional support in a timely manner to help move into a better place mentally and emotionally.
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health and seeks evaluation and treatment of anxiety, depression and ADHD through medication management. They may have been to other psychiatric providers and are looking for an alternative option with flexible availability. They may also be dealing with a difficult life situation and are seeking guidance and professional support in a timely manner to help move into a better place mentally and emotionally.
See more therapy options for Louisiana
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Louisiana who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
58% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
81% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Louisiana see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Louisiana?
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.