Psychiatrists in Mesa, AZ
![Photo of David Russell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1574b25a-28aa-423b-a0f6-d9a5f16a62d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients are adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD and/or bipolar disorder. They seek a compassionate professional to understand and manage their conditions. Their goals are to improve mental well-being, gain symptom control, and achieve a balanced life. They desire change, understanding, and strategies to enhance personal and professional relationships, driven by a need for empowerment and improved quality of life.
My ideal clients are adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD and/or bipolar disorder. They seek a compassionate professional to understand and manage their conditions. Their goals are to improve mental well-being, gain symptom control, and achieve a balanced life. They desire change, understanding, and strategies to enhance personal and professional relationships, driven by a need for empowerment and improved quality of life.
![Photo of Susan Bowen, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f39f7b6-f0ad-4b60-a90e-42338ceafff3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a seasoned healthcare professional with over 17 years of experience working with a diverse population of clients throughout the lifespan. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and have many years of nursing experience in emergency and trauma as well as inpatient psychiatry. I believe the foundation of all care is the relationship formed between myself and my clients. Brain health is crucial to overall wellness, and deserves the time and attention of a caring provider to address the complexity of treatment.
I am a seasoned healthcare professional with over 17 years of experience working with a diverse population of clients throughout the lifespan. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and have many years of nursing experience in emergency and trauma as well as inpatient psychiatry. I believe the foundation of all care is the relationship formed between myself and my clients. Brain health is crucial to overall wellness, and deserves the time and attention of a caring provider to address the complexity of treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3118dbf5-e07c-4c8a-83ec-cd7d71e0697b/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 Jennifer Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/faf85828-f934-4eb9-8b22-b5d337351978/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting NEW Patients! At Thrive Psychiatry LLC you will be listened to, never rushed, and you will be a partner in planning your treatment. I believe in looking at you as a whole. Medication is a helpful tool that is best partnered with a great therapist. As a previous junior high and high school teacher for 22 years, I have extensive experience working with adolescents, and I love it! Patients of all ages are welcome though. As a solution-focused psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
Now Accepting NEW Patients! At Thrive Psychiatry LLC you will be listened to, never rushed, and you will be a partner in planning your treatment. I believe in looking at you as a whole. Medication is a helpful tool that is best partnered with a great therapist. As a previous junior high and high school teacher for 22 years, I have extensive experience working with adolescents, and I love it! Patients of all ages are welcome though. As a solution-focused psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
![Photo of Ogechi Lebeanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b458274a-4b3d-4626-91c7-3c495ae38c4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ogechi Lebeanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Ogechi Lebeanya , a dedicated doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to serving individuals age 6 and older struggling with chronic mental health issues, aiming to significantly enhance their quality of life through holistic,and evidence-based care.. My practice is centered around a compassionate approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD,ADHD and schizophrenia.
Hello, I'm Ogechi Lebeanya , a dedicated doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to serving individuals age 6 and older struggling with chronic mental health issues, aiming to significantly enhance their quality of life through holistic,and evidence-based care.. My practice is centered around a compassionate approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD,ADHD and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Sylvie Mawoh, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d545db83-23ec-4b19-821c-7512aac4bf19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sylvie Mawoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85209 (Online Only)
I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat Anxiety, Depression, ADHD,Autism spectrum, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, Weight loss, Obesity, and other mental health disorders. I do telehealth services in all parts of Arizona with an accessible and personalized mental health care including prescriptive medication management, psychiatric evaluation, talk therapy and other mental health needs right at the comfort of your own home or wherever you might be via telehealth services.
I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat Anxiety, Depression, ADHD,Autism spectrum, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, Weight loss, Obesity, and other mental health disorders. I do telehealth services in all parts of Arizona with an accessible and personalized mental health care including prescriptive medication management, psychiatric evaluation, talk therapy and other mental health needs right at the comfort of your own home or wherever you might be via telehealth services.
![Photo of Brigham Nicoll, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22f6372f-704d-4642-9fa7-d921b8e459a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with patients wanting to understand the root causes of their mental health challenges. There is rarely a quick fix when it comes to long term mental wellness. My approach is to take a comprehensive approach find and address the many factors contributing to the issue. This may include medication but there is so much more that can be done to optimize mental health. As a part of each treatment plan I offer treatment options using nutraceuticals, nutrition, exercise, psychotherapy, interpersonal interventions, mind-body medicine and of course physical health.
I work with patients wanting to understand the root causes of their mental health challenges. There is rarely a quick fix when it comes to long term mental wellness. My approach is to take a comprehensive approach find and address the many factors contributing to the issue. This may include medication but there is so much more that can be done to optimize mental health. As a part of each treatment plan I offer treatment options using nutraceuticals, nutrition, exercise, psychotherapy, interpersonal interventions, mind-body medicine and of course physical health.
![Photo of Imma Nzomo - Foothills Psychiatric Services PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b49dc26-875a-44dd-95ae-7e8524bbee77/3/320x400.jpeg)
Foothills Psychiatric Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85203
Foothills psychiatric services offer mobile and telepsychiatry services in the valley and surrounding areas. We provide psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, medication management, and therapy. We specialize in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, personality disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, treatment-resistant depression, among others.
Foothills psychiatric services offer mobile and telepsychiatry services in the valley and surrounding areas. We provide psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, medication management, and therapy. We specialize in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, personality disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, treatment-resistant depression, among others.
![Photo of Kati Wijdenes - Kati Wijdenes - Madix Clinic, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7b68348-dca0-4804-ab64-d25f3f513de0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kati Wijdenes - Madix Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85213 (Online Only)
Hi! It's nice to meet you, I'm Kati. My goal is simple, to help you feel better through a little humor and a lot of care. I'd love to chat with you about how my tele-psychiatry practice can provide you with exceptional medication management... wherever, and however, you are most comfortable, even in your PJ's. So call, email, send a carrier pigeon, but just get in touch today! Let's get you feeling better, because you're worth it. Find out more at madixclinic.com
Hi! It's nice to meet you, I'm Kati. My goal is simple, to help you feel better through a little humor and a lot of care. I'd love to chat with you about how my tele-psychiatry practice can provide you with exceptional medication management... wherever, and however, you are most comfortable, even in your PJ's. So call, email, send a carrier pigeon, but just get in touch today! Let's get you feeling better, because you're worth it. Find out more at madixclinic.com
![Photo of Beth Howe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dcc42cc-4bea-4db2-aca4-cef69b2818fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Howe, PMHNP-BC is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing treatment in the form of medication management tailored to each individual’s unique needs. She has experience working with diverse populations in the psychiatric field, inpatient and outpatient hospitals, and clinical settings.
Beth Howe, PMHNP-BC is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing treatment in the form of medication management tailored to each individual’s unique needs. She has experience working with diverse populations in the psychiatric field, inpatient and outpatient hospitals, and clinical settings.
![Photo of Josh Hilton, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92a665ce-aff3-4ef6-b4e5-31c55f9e72b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care that fosters mental well-being and holistic health. I am committed to building a therapeutic alliance with each of my patients, understanding their unique needs, and tailoring treatment plans they not only agree with, but actively participate with.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care that fosters mental well-being and holistic health. I am committed to building a therapeutic alliance with each of my patients, understanding their unique needs, and tailoring treatment plans they not only agree with, but actively participate with.
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![Photo of Dr. Joshua Nead, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5833fe36-1003-4580-914f-a8531797e9e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
We strive to provide Arizona with the quality of care we would expect for our own family who were in need of treatment. We feel strongly that the path to mental health does not start by identifying an individual diagnosis, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the individual as a person. As Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrists trained in medical school, residency and several fellowships we are positioned to confidently evaluate and treat all ages. We specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Depression, Disruptive behaviors, Insomnia, OCD, Schizophrenia, Substance or behavioral addiction and many more.
We strive to provide Arizona with the quality of care we would expect for our own family who were in need of treatment. We feel strongly that the path to mental health does not start by identifying an individual diagnosis, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the individual as a person. As Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrists trained in medical school, residency and several fellowships we are positioned to confidently evaluate and treat all ages. We specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Depression, Disruptive behaviors, Insomnia, OCD, Schizophrenia, Substance or behavioral addiction and many more.
![Photo of Donald Mason, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf2e035-2a43-4ac3-b762-021698c82e3e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients. I have over 15 years of experience working with patients who suffer from mental health conditions. I'm looking for patients who prefer more personalized treatment and have a desire for growth and improvement. Whether your suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, OCD, insomnia, PTSD, personality disorder, addiction, grief, chronic pain, or just want to find a happier and healthier you then I believe you would benefit from making an appointment to discuss treatment options. I look forward to working with you to achieve your mental health goals.
Accepting New Patients. I have over 15 years of experience working with patients who suffer from mental health conditions. I'm looking for patients who prefer more personalized treatment and have a desire for growth and improvement. Whether your suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, OCD, insomnia, PTSD, personality disorder, addiction, grief, chronic pain, or just want to find a happier and healthier you then I believe you would benefit from making an appointment to discuss treatment options. I look forward to working with you to achieve your mental health goals.
![Photo of Lindsay S McGinnis - Awaken Telepsychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3d8af58-9a4b-4961-a9b2-194514b56c9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Awaken Telepsychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206 (Online Only)
At Awaken Telepsychiatry, LLC nonprofit organization mental wellness is a personal journey, and we’re here to help you navigate that journey with compassion, support, and personalized care. Our telepsychiatry services provide an integrative approach to mental health care that nurtures the entire person. We embrace holistic wellness at our core. We take a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating alternative therapies into your treatment plan. We aim to help you achieve balance and well-being that encompasses your mind, body, and soul. We recognize that mental health issues are overwhelming and isolating.
At Awaken Telepsychiatry, LLC nonprofit organization mental wellness is a personal journey, and we’re here to help you navigate that journey with compassion, support, and personalized care. Our telepsychiatry services provide an integrative approach to mental health care that nurtures the entire person. We embrace holistic wellness at our core. We take a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating alternative therapies into your treatment plan. We aim to help you achieve balance and well-being that encompasses your mind, body, and soul. We recognize that mental health issues are overwhelming and isolating.
![Photo of LOUKISHA Roberts, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/573b78f7-a240-4bd2-8933-30e3285561bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
LOUKISHA Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210 (Online Only)
Dr Roberts began in Emergency Medicine providing excellent, high-quality patient care on a holistic level. During this time,her passion for psychiatry and mental health was discovered. Her dedication and committment to providing excellent mental health care services, health promotion, and disease prevention care to all ages. Prism Behavioral health provide telepsychiatry services for all ages that include psychological evaluations, medications management, follow ups, crisis intervention, and therapy.
Dr Roberts began in Emergency Medicine providing excellent, high-quality patient care on a holistic level. During this time,her passion for psychiatry and mental health was discovered. Her dedication and committment to providing excellent mental health care services, health promotion, and disease prevention care to all ages. Prism Behavioral health provide telepsychiatry services for all ages that include psychological evaluations, medications management, follow ups, crisis intervention, and therapy.
![Photo of Jessica Faltinowski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff119564-46dd-442f-84d4-bb40d3c5e983/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Faltinowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Are you overwhelmed with life's challenges? Do you wake up each morning feeling like every step is a struggle, every moment an uphill battle? Are you looking for a provider who will listen to you; take the time to understand your struggles and not just hurry you along like just another appointment on their schedule? If your goal is to stop just surviving, and begin to thrive, then look no further. Through a blend of psychotherapy, holistic medication, and traditional medication management, Jessica will partner with you on the journey towards well-being.
Are you overwhelmed with life's challenges? Do you wake up each morning feeling like every step is a struggle, every moment an uphill battle? Are you looking for a provider who will listen to you; take the time to understand your struggles and not just hurry you along like just another appointment on their schedule? If your goal is to stop just surviving, and begin to thrive, then look no further. Through a blend of psychotherapy, holistic medication, and traditional medication management, Jessica will partner with you on the journey towards well-being.
![Photo of Mohammad Reza Karami-Sichani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3efcdf49-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a medical doctor trained in the specialty of psychiatry I am able to diagnose and treat a broad range of psychiatric disorders in adults. But as a mental health professional I like to see myself as a specialist in the promotion of what fundamentally makes life a wonderful and fulfilling experience-being mentally healthy! We do not treat any type of dual diagnosis (substance abuse along with a mental health condition)
As a medical doctor trained in the specialty of psychiatry I am able to diagnose and treat a broad range of psychiatric disorders in adults. But as a mental health professional I like to see myself as a specialist in the promotion of what fundamentally makes life a wonderful and fulfilling experience-being mentally healthy! We do not treat any type of dual diagnosis (substance abuse along with a mental health condition)
![Photo of Irene Wanjiku Njenga, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/130a6a8d-a2bc-4384-bdfe-b1dc62dcebad/1/320x400.png)
Irene Wanjiku Njenga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206 (Online Only)
I am a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am dedicated in providing comprehensive and personalized care to treatment for mental health challenges to patients 10 years and older. . I process strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families empowering them to make the best treatment choices. We will evaluate your specific needs and work with you to develop a clear plan and support you through the process of improving your life. My goal is to help you achieve balanced mental health and function at your best.
I am a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am dedicated in providing comprehensive and personalized care to treatment for mental health challenges to patients 10 years and older. . I process strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families empowering them to make the best treatment choices. We will evaluate your specific needs and work with you to develop a clear plan and support you through the process of improving your life. My goal is to help you achieve balanced mental health and function at your best.
![Photo of Nicholas C. Eisemann-Astone, PMHNP, MSN, BS, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/883db2f5-403b-43dd-abd6-4aca5276dc75/1/320x400.png)
Nicholas C. Eisemann-Astone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BS, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85207 (Online Only)
The brain is a complex and fragile organ, affected by nearly all facets of human existence. Childhood upbringing, exposure to trauma, environment, genetics, biological makeup, diet, and individual and collective experiences are just a few of the vital influences on brain development, function, and mental health. You are a unique individual who deserves to be heard and listened to in an affirming, non-judgmental and safe environment. I pledge to meet you where you are in life’s journey and provide the compassionate and individualized care needed to foster your personal growth and healing.
The brain is a complex and fragile organ, affected by nearly all facets of human existence. Childhood upbringing, exposure to trauma, environment, genetics, biological makeup, diet, and individual and collective experiences are just a few of the vital influences on brain development, function, and mental health. You are a unique individual who deserves to be heard and listened to in an affirming, non-judgmental and safe environment. I pledge to meet you where you are in life’s journey and provide the compassionate and individualized care needed to foster your personal growth and healing.
![Photo of April Aranda, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f1390de-9951-47ef-8366-9a0997857362/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help those searching for help with their mental health regarding depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more.
I help those searching for help with their mental health regarding depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more.
See more therapy options for Mesa
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mesa, AZ
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Mesa, AZ who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | ADHD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Medication Management |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | Aetna |
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Mesa, AZ see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mesa?
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.