Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

Photo of Kelli Bernier - North Star Wellness, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
North Star Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
(860) 851-4494 View (860) 851-4494
Photo of Bassam Awwa - Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC, MD, Psychiatrist
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
(860) 406-7650 x206 View (860) 406-7650 x206
Photo of George J Costanzo, DC APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George J Costanzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DC APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489  (Online Only)
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
(203) 680-0030 View (203) 680-0030
Photo of Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Southington, CT 06489
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890
Photo of Kary Krochko, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Kary Krochko
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Verified Verified
Southington, CT 06489
We are currently accepting new clients. We offer Medical Marijuana Treatments for adults in the State of Connecticut.
We are currently accepting new clients. We offer Medical Marijuana Treatments for adults in the State of Connecticut.
(203) 408-7805 View (203) 408-7805

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gladys Quinones - Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06050  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients who are struggling with a broad range of psychiatric issues including Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD Bipolar Disorder, Sleeping Disorders and other mental health conditions. I treat clients throughout the life span.
I have experience working with clients who are struggling with a broad range of psychiatric issues including Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD Bipolar Disorder, Sleeping Disorders and other mental health conditions. I treat clients throughout the life span.
(860) 845-0989 View (860) 845-0989
Photo of Messan Lawson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Messan Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Berlin, CT 06023  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Genesis Therapeutics, LLC who provides medication management and talk therapy to adults of all demographics. My goal is to work collaboratively with clients to understand their individual stories and create comprehensive and holistic treatment plans. Every factor is considered, including a spiritual one, during the assessment. Virtual appointments available at this time.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Genesis Therapeutics, LLC who provides medication management and talk therapy to adults of all demographics. My goal is to work collaboratively with clients to understand their individual stories and create comprehensive and holistic treatment plans. Every factor is considered, including a spiritual one, during the assessment. Virtual appointments available at this time.
(860) 248-7114 View (860) 248-7114
Photo of Meesha Jemison - MJ Psychiatry LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MJ Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010  (Online Only)
I am Meesha Jemison, a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience and expertise in mental health. I am licensed in CT and NY. I specialize in providing comprehensive care for individuals aged 21 and over, focusing on conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, and addressing various life stressors & changes.
I am Meesha Jemison, a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience and expertise in mental health. I am licensed in CT and NY. I specialize in providing comprehensive care for individuals aged 21 and over, focusing on conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, and addressing various life stressors & changes.
(860) 901-1502 View (860) 901-1502
Photo of Dr. Debra Forrest, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Debra Forrest
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06030
If you find yourself retreating from your usual activities and you want to get back to truly living, I'd like to help. I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, and I am looking for patients who are ready to work on themselves. I enjoy working closely with people, and getting to know their preferences and needs before beginning treatment. Since medications can have risks and benefits, I am always very mindful and careful. Let's see if we can work together to get your life back on track!
If you find yourself retreating from your usual activities and you want to get back to truly living, I'd like to help. I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, and I am looking for patients who are ready to work on themselves. I enjoy working closely with people, and getting to know their preferences and needs before beginning treatment. Since medications can have risks and benefits, I am always very mindful and careful. Let's see if we can work together to get your life back on track!
(959) 335-9257 View (959) 335-9257
Photo of Georgina Twumasi - Psych On Demand, & Man Up Wellness, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psych On Demand, & Man Up Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06011  (Online Only)
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am an expert in clinical psychopharmacology and I treat all adult and pediatric disorders I see individuals from their early teens through middle age and beyond...
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am an expert in clinical psychopharmacology and I treat all adult and pediatric disorders I see individuals from their early teens through middle age and beyond...
(860) 530-4191 View (860) 530-4191
Photo of Lukasz Junger - Leading Psychiatry of Connecticut, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leading Psychiatry of Connecticut
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, CT 06034  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in medication management and treatment planning. Experienced in psychiatry and addiction, but also having worked in medicine and surgery, provides me with a unique skill set and ability to incorporate knowledge from multiple specialties when developing a targeted and personalized treatment plan.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in medication management and treatment planning. Experienced in psychiatry and addiction, but also having worked in medicine and surgery, provides me with a unique skill set and ability to incorporate knowledge from multiple specialties when developing a targeted and personalized treatment plan.
(860) 431-3521 View (860) 431-3521
Photo of Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, MSN,, APRN, FNP-C, PMHPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN,, APRN, FNP-C, PMHPBC
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06030
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
(860) 775-6069 View (860) 775-6069
Photo of Betsy LaRose, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Betsy LaRose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06702
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
(860) 813-3562 View (860) 813-3562
Photo of Kary Krochko - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06704  (Online Only)
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? We are here to help you and your family. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner since 2001. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? We are here to help you and your family. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner since 2001. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
(475) 242-0923 View (475) 242-0923
Photo of Bridgitte F Ackeifi - Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06053  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
(860) 846-3775 View (860) 846-3775
Professional Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Professional Nurse Practitioner offers affordable tele-psych services to everyone with busy demanding lifestyles. Make an appointment today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting most insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Professional Nurse Practitioner offers affordable tele-psych services to everyone with busy demanding lifestyles. Make an appointment today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting most insurances.
(860) 947-4065 View (860) 947-4065
Photo of Paul Furino, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paul Furino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06050
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
(860) 390-4126 View (860) 390-4126
Photo of Diana Lankenau, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diana Lankenau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010
Diana Lankenau graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor's in psychology and University of Miami bachelor's in nursing. She has a master's degree in nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate and Nursing Education Certificate. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She has proudly served the community by providing nursing services to children in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Diana Lankenau graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor's in psychology and University of Miami bachelor's in nursing. She has a master's degree in nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate and Nursing Education Certificate. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She has proudly served the community by providing nursing services to children in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
(475) 255-2568 View (475) 255-2568
Photo of Chidinma Gubor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chidinma Gubor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010  (Online Only)
Chidinma Gubor is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Broadly trained in general neuropsychiatry, her framework of treatment is centered on the biopsychosocial model and a holistic perspective. She specializes in psychopharmacological interventions to alleviate symptoms, behavioral management strategies to support stabilization, and supportive psychotherapy. Clinically trained to serve clients across every age and demographic, services include evaluating, diagnosing, and educating the client and family regarding mental health treatments/illnesses utilizing modern approaches.
Chidinma Gubor is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Broadly trained in general neuropsychiatry, her framework of treatment is centered on the biopsychosocial model and a holistic perspective. She specializes in psychopharmacological interventions to alleviate symptoms, behavioral management strategies to support stabilization, and supportive psychotherapy. Clinically trained to serve clients across every age and demographic, services include evaluating, diagnosing, and educating the client and family regarding mental health treatments/illnesses utilizing modern approaches.
(475) 291-4577 View (475) 291-4577
Photo of Dr. Amy R. Salerno - Dr. Amy R. Salerno, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Amy R. Salerno
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, CT 06030
PLEASE note: I am taking a limited number of new patients at this time. I am a Board Certified Physician with extensive experience in mental health issues across all life stages. I am Fellowship trained in both Integrative Psychiatry and Maternal Child Health. I offer holistic, culturally competent care, in both English and Spanish.
PLEASE note: I am taking a limited number of new patients at this time. I am a Board Certified Physician with extensive experience in mental health issues across all life stages. I am Fellowship trained in both Integrative Psychiatry and Maternal Child Health. I offer holistic, culturally competent care, in both English and Spanish.
(860) 935-6556 View (860) 935-6556

See more therapy options for Southington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Southington, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Medication Management
60% Addiction

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Optum
75% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Southington, CT see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Southington?

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.