Psychiatrists in Gilbert, AZ
![Photo of Albert Quainoo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4beb210b-ee39-4183-a702-e3689f174ab9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09b50293-6137-4ea6-8853-ef3e81679477/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Jerica Lim - Unchained Wellness Clinic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6411030f-c17f-442e-998e-14f3a63f9e20/1/320x400.png)
Our Ideal client is someone that has struggled with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, or addictions. They want to be heard and their specific story heard and understood. They want to be seen as an individual and be treated as a unique person, not just another prescription to fill. Our clients want richer and more vibrant lives. They want to wake up with Hope, looking forward to seeing their family, friends and co workers. They want to feel like they did before...
Our Ideal client is someone that has struggled with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, or addictions. They want to be heard and their specific story heard and understood. They want to be seen as an individual and be treated as a unique person, not just another prescription to fill. Our clients want richer and more vibrant lives. They want to wake up with Hope, looking forward to seeing their family, friends and co workers. They want to feel like they did before...
![Photo of Irene Shah Curry, FNP-C, , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7272a4e6-7511-4d8b-9280-491c998c3ea7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a decade of Family Practice experience. I have been seeing patients with Substance abuse disorders in rehab and I see them in clinic post discharge, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorders etc for more than 2 years now. I love to help my patients to live a productive life as much as possible.
I am a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a decade of Family Practice experience. I have been seeing patients with Substance abuse disorders in rehab and I see them in clinic post discharge, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorders etc for more than 2 years now. I love to help my patients to live a productive life as much as possible.
![Photo of Danielle Orr, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dcd64d9-fff2-4e9c-8d28-4af6f0f67540/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Orr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85297
My passion is to help treat those individuals with intellectual, development and behavior disabilities along with treating a variety of other mental health needs including ADHD, depression, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Autism Spectrum, sensory processing disorders. I believe that children are not just smaller adults, they will need their care to be uniquely tailored towards them and what works best. I believe to be successful, we need to work with the whole family unit to ensure long term sustainable success for both child and parents. WE are now offering ADHD testing along with cognitive assessments.
My passion is to help treat those individuals with intellectual, development and behavior disabilities along with treating a variety of other mental health needs including ADHD, depression, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Autism Spectrum, sensory processing disorders. I believe that children are not just smaller adults, they will need their care to be uniquely tailored towards them and what works best. I believe to be successful, we need to work with the whole family unit to ensure long term sustainable success for both child and parents. WE are now offering ADHD testing along with cognitive assessments.
![Photo of Shannon Crawford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d734cef-6b0f-4f59-a77c-3631bfe0cd4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
You are not broken! You may be feeling stuck or tired of the same level of inadequate relief from your symptoms. At Rooted Mental Health Solutions, LLC, we focus on helping you differentiate your symptoms from who you are! Negative emotions can really hold you back when you don't have the right tools for living the joyful life you deserve. If you're not sure where to start or you want a fresh approach to dealing with personal struggles, then we want to partner with you! From depression, overthinking, negative self talk, unhealthy habits, anxiety, and traumatic events, there is nothing you can't achieve when you're ROOTED.
You are not broken! You may be feeling stuck or tired of the same level of inadequate relief from your symptoms. At Rooted Mental Health Solutions, LLC, we focus on helping you differentiate your symptoms from who you are! Negative emotions can really hold you back when you don't have the right tools for living the joyful life you deserve. If you're not sure where to start or you want a fresh approach to dealing with personal struggles, then we want to partner with you! From depression, overthinking, negative self talk, unhealthy habits, anxiety, and traumatic events, there is nothing you can't achieve when you're ROOTED.
![Photo of Jamie Gustafson - Jamie Gustafson; AZ Holistic Anxiety Treatment, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64043592-3cd1-4cce-83d0-a2bf72246abe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Gustafson; AZ Holistic Anxiety Treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Are you tired of psychiatrists prescribing multiple medications and therapists telling you to just breath through your anxiety? Do you struggle with fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty concentrating? Do you want to discover and heal the root cause of your symptoms? Are you ready to transform chronic emotional, mental, and physical suffering into life purpose? Jamie Gustafson PMHNP-BC founded Az Holistic Anxiety Treatment as an evidence-based, systematic, integrative mental wellness program for adults. We design individualized treatment plans incorporating mind, body, and spirit for lasting results.
Are you tired of psychiatrists prescribing multiple medications and therapists telling you to just breath through your anxiety? Do you struggle with fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty concentrating? Do you want to discover and heal the root cause of your symptoms? Are you ready to transform chronic emotional, mental, and physical suffering into life purpose? Jamie Gustafson PMHNP-BC founded Az Holistic Anxiety Treatment as an evidence-based, systematic, integrative mental wellness program for adults. We design individualized treatment plans incorporating mind, body, and spirit for lasting results.
![Photo of Toni Crawford-Jonas - Rooted Mental Health Solutions, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c96ecdd7-64ff-4b30-9760-8a7550e68968/1/320x400.png)
Rooted Mental Health Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85297
You are not broken! You may be feeling stuck or tired of the same level of inadequate relief from your symptoms. At Rooted Mental Health Solutions, LLC, we focus on helping you differentiate your symptoms from who you are! Negative emotions can really hold you back when you don't have the right tools for living the joyful life you deserve. If you're not sure where to start or you want a fresh approach to dealing with personal struggles, then we want to partner with you! From depression, overthinking, negative self talk, unhealthy habits, anxiety, and traumatic events, there is nothing you can't achieve when you're ROOTED.
You are not broken! You may be feeling stuck or tired of the same level of inadequate relief from your symptoms. At Rooted Mental Health Solutions, LLC, we focus on helping you differentiate your symptoms from who you are! Negative emotions can really hold you back when you don't have the right tools for living the joyful life you deserve. If you're not sure where to start or you want a fresh approach to dealing with personal struggles, then we want to partner with you! From depression, overthinking, negative self talk, unhealthy habits, anxiety, and traumatic events, there is nothing you can't achieve when you're ROOTED.
![Photo of Dr. Akosua A Mensah - Genesis of Peace Integrated Health LLC, PMHNP-C, DNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06dcfa8d-250f-4a64-9fd1-fe2f3e780647/1/320x400.jpeg)
Genesis of Peace Integrated Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85297
Dr. Akosua A. Mensah holds a dual degree as a mental health and family nurse practitioner. She brings with her 17 plus years of professional experience in various fields of nursing and advanced practice. She prides herself as very friendly and approachable to all her patients. She has worked with clients of all ages and background. She feels it is important in this era to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. Therefore, this integrated practice brings to our clients both mental health and primary care services, and we work around all related conditions that impedes your overall health, bringing you holistic peace.
Dr. Akosua A. Mensah holds a dual degree as a mental health and family nurse practitioner. She brings with her 17 plus years of professional experience in various fields of nursing and advanced practice. She prides herself as very friendly and approachable to all her patients. She has worked with clients of all ages and background. She feels it is important in this era to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. Therefore, this integrated practice brings to our clients both mental health and primary care services, and we work around all related conditions that impedes your overall health, bringing you holistic peace.
![Photo of Michelle Fulp, PMHNP-C, FNP-C , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80595ca3-ee92-48bf-9d3d-17f1be57db06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Fulp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296 (Online Only)
I work with patients who primarily have depression and anxiety. I build trust by listening without intent of answering until patient is ready for recommendations. Encourage healthy lifestyle, inner growth and self-esteem. Techniques for anxiety and treatment with appropriate medications if needed.
I work with patients who primarily have depression and anxiety. I build trust by listening without intent of answering until patient is ready for recommendations. Encourage healthy lifestyle, inner growth and self-esteem. Techniques for anxiety and treatment with appropriate medications if needed.
![Photo of Bree Scott, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16f5ebb8-735c-4600-8d64-f3ec4ab3e954/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a highly trained psychiatric nurse practitioner at the Estrella community office of Serenity Mental Health Centers in Goodyear, Arizona. I have over seven years of medical experience and believe everyone deserves a chance to live their absolute best life. I love helping patients take back their lives after mental illness, and I understand that mental health care is an ongoing process. Sharing my knowledge with patients who need a place to turn gives me great joy, as I realize that mental health impacts every aspect of life. I enjoy being part of the solution to the mental health needs of my patients.
I am a highly trained psychiatric nurse practitioner at the Estrella community office of Serenity Mental Health Centers in Goodyear, Arizona. I have over seven years of medical experience and believe everyone deserves a chance to live their absolute best life. I love helping patients take back their lives after mental illness, and I understand that mental health care is an ongoing process. Sharing my knowledge with patients who need a place to turn gives me great joy, as I realize that mental health impacts every aspect of life. I enjoy being part of the solution to the mental health needs of my patients.
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![Photo of LaShaun Perry - Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness , APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d389dee-fa47-4aff-88ac-779aa55d69a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Now Accepting New Patients! Most Major Insurances Accepted Our Clinic offers General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! Most Major Insurances Accepted Our Clinic offers General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
![Photo of Toni Crawford-Jonas, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bfb1585-8eb9-4d51-845a-9b3effd7e67f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a compassionate, quality mental health care provider to explore medication concerns and inquiries with? Seeking mental health services can be intimidating and overwhelming. Through my work at Rooted Mental Health Solutions, I strive to create a supportive, judgment-free environment for all those I serve.
Are you looking for a compassionate, quality mental health care provider to explore medication concerns and inquiries with? Seeking mental health services can be intimidating and overwhelming. Through my work at Rooted Mental Health Solutions, I strive to create a supportive, judgment-free environment for all those I serve.
![Photo of Susan Chacko - Summit Psychiatry, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/712ce954-0a53-459a-87fa-0ab0e3031632/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Summit Psychiatry! I'm Susan, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 7 years of mental health experience. I strive to empower clients in overcoming psychological and addiction challenges by utilizing modern medicine, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications.
Welcome to Summit Psychiatry! I'm Susan, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 7 years of mental health experience. I strive to empower clients in overcoming psychological and addiction challenges by utilizing modern medicine, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications.
![Photo of Caroline Miya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68cbe6f9-47ed-4775-b0e7-6342553066e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Miya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85233 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I prioritize your well-being through empathy, respect, and collaboration. Beyond diagnosis and prescription, I'm here to truly listen, understand, and guide you towards holistic wellness. My goal is to empower you to lead a fulfilling life aligned with your values and aspirations. We all need validation, coping strategies, and tailored interventions to improve our well-being with the goal of mental clarity, emotional stability, and resilience, aspiring to live authentically with positive changes. Let's embark on this journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth together.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I prioritize your well-being through empathy, respect, and collaboration. Beyond diagnosis and prescription, I'm here to truly listen, understand, and guide you towards holistic wellness. My goal is to empower you to lead a fulfilling life aligned with your values and aspirations. We all need validation, coping strategies, and tailored interventions to improve our well-being with the goal of mental clarity, emotional stability, and resilience, aspiring to live authentically with positive changes. Let's embark on this journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth together.
![Photo of Dana-Jean S La Haie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebc5b5eb-1a34-42ca-838c-c5280bd67834/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. La Haie is a native of Arizona who completed undergraduate degrees at Arizona State University in Tempe and a medical degree at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Tucson. She is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and completed her General Psychiatry residency training at Banner Good Samaritan in Phoenix, Arizona.
Dr. La Haie is a native of Arizona who completed undergraduate degrees at Arizona State University in Tempe and a medical degree at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Tucson. She is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and completed her General Psychiatry residency training at Banner Good Samaritan in Phoenix, Arizona.
![Photo of David Chong - Arizona Restorative Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44be9256-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Arizona Restorative Psychiatry we seek to get to know each patient on an individualized level and develop a treatment plan using our four core values to fully restore physical and mental health. We have 4 providers at our office. David Chong M.D and Josi Bernal PA-C who enjoy working with general mental health (Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mood Disorder, ADHD) and Brad Zehring D.O and Erica Neal PA-C who specialize in Eating Disorder.
At Arizona Restorative Psychiatry we seek to get to know each patient on an individualized level and develop a treatment plan using our four core values to fully restore physical and mental health. We have 4 providers at our office. David Chong M.D and Josi Bernal PA-C who enjoy working with general mental health (Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mood Disorder, ADHD) and Brad Zehring D.O and Erica Neal PA-C who specialize in Eating Disorder.
![Photo of Patrick Testa, MS, MHA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b657113-7c6d-4fca-b0bd-6dc588925d0a/1/320x400.png)
Patrick Testa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MHA
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. I have experience helping adults and teenagers with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and other psychiatric issues.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. I have experience helping adults and teenagers with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and other psychiatric issues.
![Photo of Teejay Tripp, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ac42209-6655-4efb-941b-d0c001acfc41/2/320x400.jpeg)
As Medical Director at Serenity Mental Health Centers, Dr. Tripp leads our staff in staying up-to-date on the most advanced uses of TMS therapy, ketamine treatment and other outpatient mental health treatment options to help our patients achieve the best possible outcomes and take back their lives from mental illness.
As Medical Director at Serenity Mental Health Centers, Dr. Tripp leads our staff in staying up-to-date on the most advanced uses of TMS therapy, ketamine treatment and other outpatient mental health treatment options to help our patients achieve the best possible outcomes and take back their lives from mental illness.
![Photo of Suzanne Tariot Sheard, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a9c3526-68ab-414e-831f-0fa2b3997f79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to the healing journey with me! I am a compassionate and board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. One strong area of specialty for me is ketamine-assisted psychotherapy services for eligible patients. I am certified through the Integrative Psychiatric Institute for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
Welcome to the healing journey with me! I am a compassionate and board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. One strong area of specialty for me is ketamine-assisted psychotherapy services for eligible patients. I am certified through the Integrative Psychiatric Institute for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
See more therapy options for Gilbert
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gilbert, AZ
100+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Gilbert, AZ who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | ADHD |
79% | Medication Management |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | Aetna |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Gilbert, AZ see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gilbert?
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.