Psychiatrists in Sarasota, FL
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd46f6b5-a00c-4768-b475-2cf21367a7c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
![Photo of Marnin Fischbach, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acac4a2e-a0e9-4bdf-a9a4-b259e9f93149/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have had the privilege to treat patients for 49 years. I've learned that investing in a warm and authentic doctor-patient relationship lays the groundwork for lasting healing. Yours will be personal and personable care. My practice is devoted to providing medication management and/or psychodynamic psychotherapy to adults aged 18-65.
I have had the privilege to treat patients for 49 years. I've learned that investing in a warm and authentic doctor-patient relationship lays the groundwork for lasting healing. Yours will be personal and personable care. My practice is devoted to providing medication management and/or psychodynamic psychotherapy to adults aged 18-65.
![Photo of Eduardo La Rosa, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f4fd53a-b834-4e2f-bb29-6f493d06708f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eduardo La Rosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34237
Eduardo obtained his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from State college of Florida, Master of Science in Nursing from Drexel University. Additionally, he is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health NursePractitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center ANCC. In addition to his extensive professional training, Eduardo also brings a unique cultural perspective. As a native of Peru, Eduardo brings unique insight to those who may feel as outsiders, or have experienced moving or adapting to a new environment. Eduardo speaks fluent English and Spanish, and can treat patients in both languages.
Eduardo obtained his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from State college of Florida, Master of Science in Nursing from Drexel University. Additionally, he is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health NursePractitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center ANCC. In addition to his extensive professional training, Eduardo also brings a unique cultural perspective. As a native of Peru, Eduardo brings unique insight to those who may feel as outsiders, or have experienced moving or adapting to a new environment. Eduardo speaks fluent English and Spanish, and can treat patients in both languages.
![Photo of Tracey Rzepka, MS, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1d1382-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tracey Rzepka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34239
Tracey Rzepka is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. She provides management of psychiatric medications along with some therapy. She is great with clients on multiple medications and is able to get clients on the right medication or remodel them as needed or even wean clients off medication if desired. She has a background in general medicine and offers holistic care addressing the body, mind and spirit providing personal, compassionate care. Her visits are longer than most psychiatrists providing more time for counseling and support. Follow up visits are 30 minutes.
Tracey Rzepka is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. She provides management of psychiatric medications along with some therapy. She is great with clients on multiple medications and is able to get clients on the right medication or remodel them as needed or even wean clients off medication if desired. She has a background in general medicine and offers holistic care addressing the body, mind and spirit providing personal, compassionate care. Her visits are longer than most psychiatrists providing more time for counseling and support. Follow up visits are 30 minutes.
![Photo of Jennifer Seay, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04466646-aa79-48ee-b7b3-63ba37cc7df0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Seay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34239 (Online Only)
I like to know what is going on in your life that is a challenge to you, and help you ease those challenges as comfortably as possible. I am absolutely non-judgmental. I care about each person that I treat and will work with you to find the best treatment care plan for you. My goal is to have you feeling like yourself again. I specialize in a variety of areas such as: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, autism, anger issues, addiction and schizophrenia. Using my extensive experience in this field, we will collaborate to find a treatment plan that's right for your unique needs. Reach out today to book your first consultation!
I like to know what is going on in your life that is a challenge to you, and help you ease those challenges as comfortably as possible. I am absolutely non-judgmental. I care about each person that I treat and will work with you to find the best treatment care plan for you. My goal is to have you feeling like yourself again. I specialize in a variety of areas such as: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, autism, anger issues, addiction and schizophrenia. Using my extensive experience in this field, we will collaborate to find a treatment plan that's right for your unique needs. Reach out today to book your first consultation!
![Photo of Jenny Kosman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44bda02e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist, in private practice, who treats adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I specialize in management of mood/ anxiety disorders, PTSD/ trauma, postpartum depression/psychosis, dementia, and helping people through stress associated with life transitions and complicated medical illnesses. I am a believer in building strong, trusting, and supportive relationships by blending conservative medication management with psychotherapy. I create a personalized approach and treatment plan by devoting sufficient time to learn about each person, his/her emotional/ physical conditions, and life situations. I strive to make the journey to healing as smooth and comfortable as possible.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, in private practice, who treats adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I specialize in management of mood/ anxiety disorders, PTSD/ trauma, postpartum depression/psychosis, dementia, and helping people through stress associated with life transitions and complicated medical illnesses. I am a believer in building strong, trusting, and supportive relationships by blending conservative medication management with psychotherapy. I create a personalized approach and treatment plan by devoting sufficient time to learn about each person, his/her emotional/ physical conditions, and life situations. I strive to make the journey to healing as smooth and comfortable as possible.
![Photo of Safir Azam Md Telpsychiatry Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0152ca-1ab8-4028-b349-e5972ae8e920/3/320x400.png)
Safir Azam Md Telpsychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34234 (Online Only)
In my care will mean you have direct access to me 24/7 (except when I am asleep). I beleive in seamless communication and excellence in providing treatment . I completed my Residency trainings at Royal London Hospital UK , SUNY Downstate Medical Center Brooklyn NY , and a fellowship year at UF. Please make sure you are choosing the best educated doctor for your care bc Psychiatry Physicians have the most extensive training to treat Anxiety, ADHD depressed. Mood , PMS, Bipolar, Sleep issues &most Psychiatric conditions. I believe in the Science of medications and the Arts of Psychotherapy. I believe in enhancing the productivity.
In my care will mean you have direct access to me 24/7 (except when I am asleep). I beleive in seamless communication and excellence in providing treatment . I completed my Residency trainings at Royal London Hospital UK , SUNY Downstate Medical Center Brooklyn NY , and a fellowship year at UF. Please make sure you are choosing the best educated doctor for your care bc Psychiatry Physicians have the most extensive training to treat Anxiety, ADHD depressed. Mood , PMS, Bipolar, Sleep issues &most Psychiatric conditions. I believe in the Science of medications and the Arts of Psychotherapy. I believe in enhancing the productivity.
![Photo of Jordana Hollen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be029625-a9ee-4df0-a8ca-d63fd3387455/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jordana Hollen is Board Certified by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; and she specializes in providing outpatient Psychiatric care for adults. Dr. Hollen has experience treating a variety of mental health concerns with a special focus on Mood and Anxiety disorders, as well as a particular interest in Women’s Health. She treats a range of conditions including Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
Dr. Jordana Hollen is Board Certified by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; and she specializes in providing outpatient Psychiatric care for adults. Dr. Hollen has experience treating a variety of mental health concerns with a special focus on Mood and Anxiety disorders, as well as a particular interest in Women’s Health. She treats a range of conditions including Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
![Photo of Rochelle Carson, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7aaa1d2-4bb0-4148-be67-da66583a30d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rochelle Carson
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34233 (Online Only)
I offer Telehealth appointments using a HIPAA compliant platform.
I offer Telehealth appointments using a HIPAA compliant platform.
![Photo of Bryan Espinet, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39cbb9b5-3038-49c0-8bae-2a368f646390/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bryan Espinet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34232 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you struggle with this constant heaviness inside of you? Do you carry what feels like the weight of the world on your shoulders? Have you struggled with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, trouble concentrating, struggling to sleep, and just never feeling “just right” for a long time with little relief? Do you feel like no matter how hard you try; your voice is never truly heard?
Do you feel like you struggle with this constant heaviness inside of you? Do you carry what feels like the weight of the world on your shoulders? Have you struggled with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, trouble concentrating, struggling to sleep, and just never feeling “just right” for a long time with little relief? Do you feel like no matter how hard you try; your voice is never truly heard?
![Photo of Renee Novak, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e56b099-10c7-4ddb-a73e-041961775622/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee has worked in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, school clinics, community health centers, correction facilities, and tele-health. Renee treats patients across the lifespan who have a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD, psychosis, OCD, and insomnia. Renee includes a wholistic and individualized approach with each patient.
Renee has worked in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, school clinics, community health centers, correction facilities, and tele-health. Renee treats patients across the lifespan who have a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD, psychosis, OCD, and insomnia. Renee includes a wholistic and individualized approach with each patient.
15 Second Videos
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Dinar Sajan
Morgan Alexander
Robert A Dugger II
Dinar Sajan
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60f78d17-0abb-430f-8ad0-860e30d7e38c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54bfa919-8eb3-42da-9415-fe78a364883c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Adair Lynne Deicke, MS, APRN, PMHNP, , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9d2d43c-ed36-4fc0-b700-7b93eca7ec4a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Adair Lynne Deicke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP,
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34239 (Online Only)
Adair is accepting a few new patients at this time, she will no longer be accepting, any United/Optum/Umr , Oscar or MUedicare Adv. She is not a therapist. She is providing Video Conferencing appointments only at this time. Adair is Board certified by the ANCC as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. A highly proficient and dedicated professional with a 20-year progressive history in the field of psychiatry and mental health. Possessing excellent diagnostic skills; she been has successful in treating a number of patients with a wide range of acute and chronic psychiatric disorders. Reviews Adair Deicke APRN Healthgrades
Adair is accepting a few new patients at this time, she will no longer be accepting, any United/Optum/Umr , Oscar or MUedicare Adv. She is not a therapist. She is providing Video Conferencing appointments only at this time. Adair is Board certified by the ANCC as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. A highly proficient and dedicated professional with a 20-year progressive history in the field of psychiatry and mental health. Possessing excellent diagnostic skills; she been has successful in treating a number of patients with a wide range of acute and chronic psychiatric disorders. Reviews Adair Deicke APRN Healthgrades
![Photo of Rachel Morgan Williams, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19a35009-d2c7-4d8e-b334-1c687b215659/1/320x400.png)
Rachel Morgan Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243
Hi! My name is Rachel Morgan Williams, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA Behavioral Health - Sarasota, with more than 16 years of psychiatric experience. My goal as a provider is to work with you to achieve optimal mental health functioning in all areas of your life. I see patients of all ages across the lifespans, including children, adults and seniors. I attended Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, and have a Bachelors and Masters of Nursing. Services are available in-person in Sarasota and Telehealth across Florida.
Hi! My name is Rachel Morgan Williams, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA Behavioral Health - Sarasota, with more than 16 years of psychiatric experience. My goal as a provider is to work with you to achieve optimal mental health functioning in all areas of your life. I see patients of all ages across the lifespans, including children, adults and seniors. I attended Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, and have a Bachelors and Masters of Nursing. Services are available in-person in Sarasota and Telehealth across Florida.
![Photo of Kinshuk Bose, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d93d82d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bose is a Board Certified Child, Adult and Adolescent Psychiatrist with Comprehensive MedPsych Systems (CMPS). He completed his internship, residency and fellowship at the University of South Florida. His practice interests include, but are not limited to, ADHD and other impulse control or behavioral disorders; Autism and other developmental disorders; depression; Bipolar Disorder; Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders; anxiety disorders such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; substance use disorders, etc. I OFFER SERVICES IN OUR SARASOTA OFFICE.
Dr. Bose is a Board Certified Child, Adult and Adolescent Psychiatrist with Comprehensive MedPsych Systems (CMPS). He completed his internship, residency and fellowship at the University of South Florida. His practice interests include, but are not limited to, ADHD and other impulse control or behavioral disorders; Autism and other developmental disorders; depression; Bipolar Disorder; Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders; anxiety disorders such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; substance use disorders, etc. I OFFER SERVICES IN OUR SARASOTA OFFICE.
![Photo of Stephanie Katz Lirio, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50dfc77a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, with over 10 years' experience. In addition to treating ADHD, mood, and anxiety disorders in children, teenagers, and adults, I have expertise in managing eating disorders as well as co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions.
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, with over 10 years' experience. In addition to treating ADHD, mood, and anxiety disorders in children, teenagers, and adults, I have expertise in managing eating disorders as well as co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Steven Stein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04cea330-b3de-4044-97e7-f90b9fc9e7c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified general psychiatrist who works with adolescents, adults and geriatric patients. I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of psychiatric conditions including depressive and mood disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, personality disorders, and bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum illnesses. I can provide psychopharmacological interventions, implement supportive and motivational psychotherapies, and provide comprehensive care with a patient-centered approach that is tailored to each patient's biological dispositions, as well as their psychological factors and social stressors.
I am a board-certified general psychiatrist who works with adolescents, adults and geriatric patients. I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of psychiatric conditions including depressive and mood disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, personality disorders, and bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum illnesses. I can provide psychopharmacological interventions, implement supportive and motivational psychotherapies, and provide comprehensive care with a patient-centered approach that is tailored to each patient's biological dispositions, as well as their psychological factors and social stressors.
![Photo of Michele Privette, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07120e15-c14d-459d-8949-501562f9f5fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Privette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34237
Michele Privette has over 25 years of experience in treating a variety of psychiatric diagnosis which includes: Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD and Bipolar disorders. Her experience ranges from inpatient/outpatient settings, as well as providing psychiatric consultation to Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities.
Michele Privette has over 25 years of experience in treating a variety of psychiatric diagnosis which includes: Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD and Bipolar disorders. Her experience ranges from inpatient/outpatient settings, as well as providing psychiatric consultation to Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities.
![Photo of Barbara Por Srur, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b86fa0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a dedicated commitment spanning 35 years in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, my unwavering mission is to deliver superlative care to children, adults, and seniors. Guided by the principle of judicious medication use, I advocate for the minimal necessary dosage, ensuring treatment aligns precisely with clinical needs. My overarching objective is to facilitate the return to and sustained maintenance of each individual's optimal level of functioning. Emphasizing a holistic approach, I integrate medications with therapy, fostering the potential for supervised tapering or discontinuation when feasible.
With a dedicated commitment spanning 35 years in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, my unwavering mission is to deliver superlative care to children, adults, and seniors. Guided by the principle of judicious medication use, I advocate for the minimal necessary dosage, ensuring treatment aligns precisely with clinical needs. My overarching objective is to facilitate the return to and sustained maintenance of each individual's optimal level of functioning. Emphasizing a holistic approach, I integrate medications with therapy, fostering the potential for supervised tapering or discontinuation when feasible.
See more therapy options for Sarasota
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sarasota, FL
50+
Average cost per session
$185
Psychiatrists in Sarasota, FL who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | ADHD |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Medication Management |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
77% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
74% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Sarasota, FL see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sarasota?
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.