Psychiatrists in Tallahassee, FL

Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
(850) 788-7530 View (850) 788-7530
Photo of Sarah Purdy - Today Telemedicine, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Today Telemedicine
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312  (Online Only)
ADD/ADHD computer testing and stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse ect) available for Florida residents via telemedicine. see program details. fully online psychiatry, therapy and urgent care. Genetic testing for psychiatric medication available (nearly all medication available except NO benzodiazepines) . Easy self-scheduling from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and book a session this week! Insurance accepted, self pay rates initial visit $199, follow ups $99, Qb Test for ADD/ADHD $130.
ADD/ADHD computer testing and stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse ect) available for Florida residents via telemedicine. see program details. fully online psychiatry, therapy and urgent care. Genetic testing for psychiatric medication available (nearly all medication available except NO benzodiazepines) . Easy self-scheduling from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and book a session this week! Insurance accepted, self pay rates initial visit $199, follow ups $99, Qb Test for ADD/ADHD $130.
(850) 789-4302 View (850) 789-4302
Photo of Sheila Barthelemy, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Barthelemy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
(850) 397-3354 View (850) 397-3354
Photo of Andrea Sabdull - Today Telemedicine , NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Today Telemedicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32309  (Online Only)
Telemedicine only and specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar. Offering ADHD testing, online stimulant (adderal, vyvance, ect) options available, Gene sight testing and full mediation options. Able to do FMLA and school accommodation forms. Easy book with us today!
Telemedicine only and specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar. Offering ADHD testing, online stimulant (adderal, vyvance, ect) options available, Gene sight testing and full mediation options. Able to do FMLA and school accommodation forms. Easy book with us today!
(850) 905-0679 View (850) 905-0679
Photo of Dr. Ronica Mukerjee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Ronica Mukerjee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301  (Online Only)
Ronica Mukerjee (they/she) is a psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner as well as acupuncturist and herbalist. They are an assistant professor at Columbia University. Dr. Mukerjee is passionate about racial, economic, and healthcare justice. They focus on trauma-informed care for LGBTQIA folks, refugees, migrant communities, people with substance use disorders, and people living with HIV. She is the creator and former coordinator of the Gender and Sexuality Health Justice concentration at Yale School of Nursing.
Ronica Mukerjee (they/she) is a psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner as well as acupuncturist and herbalist. They are an assistant professor at Columbia University. Dr. Mukerjee is passionate about racial, economic, and healthcare justice. They focus on trauma-informed care for LGBTQIA folks, refugees, migrant communities, people with substance use disorders, and people living with HIV. She is the creator and former coordinator of the Gender and Sexuality Health Justice concentration at Yale School of Nursing.
Photo of Brandi Richardson, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandi Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32303
I am the founder of Stay Healthy! I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I am enthusiastic to utilize my experience, skills and knowledge to establish an enduring and trusting relationship with clients and significantly make a difference in the lives of others. As a dual certified nurse practitioner I understand the complexity of mental health, wellness, health promotion, and the effects of stress and chronic illness. My goal is for you to stay healthy to meet your individual needs and goals. Access to quality healthcare is what inspired me to establish my practice
I am the founder of Stay Healthy! I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I am enthusiastic to utilize my experience, skills and knowledge to establish an enduring and trusting relationship with clients and significantly make a difference in the lives of others. As a dual certified nurse practitioner I understand the complexity of mental health, wellness, health promotion, and the effects of stress and chronic illness. My goal is for you to stay healthy to meet your individual needs and goals. Access to quality healthcare is what inspired me to establish my practice
(866) 208-4378 View (866) 208-4378
Photo of Anzola Wiggins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anzola Wiggins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32308  (Online Only)
Anzola is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats multiple areas of mental health including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and coping skills just to name a few. Anzola is hard-working, compassionate, and an advocate for her patients. Since becoming a PMHNP, Anzola has served as a medication manager, counselor/therapist, and advocate.
Anzola is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats multiple areas of mental health including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and coping skills just to name a few. Anzola is hard-working, compassionate, and an advocate for her patients. Since becoming a PMHNP, Anzola has served as a medication manager, counselor/therapist, and advocate.
(850) 378-3231 View (850) 378-3231
Photo of Julianne Kay Fountain - Lifespan Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lifespan Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32308
I have a vast array of knowledge and experience that lends to my ability to treat many conditions. I can prescribe medications to manage Eating Disorders, PTSD, complicated grief, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and insomnia.
I have a vast array of knowledge and experience that lends to my ability to treat many conditions. I can prescribe medications to manage Eating Disorders, PTSD, complicated grief, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and insomnia.
(850) 735-7483 View (850) 735-7483
Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32303
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
(561) 794-3242 View (561) 794-3242
Photo of Pwint Phyu, MD, Psychiatrist
Pwint Phyu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32312  (Online Only)
Dr. Pwint Phyu is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders. She has a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and works diligently to help her patients overcome their struggles and improve their overall well-being. Whether she is providing therapy, medication management, or other forms of treatment, Dr Phyu is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to all of her patients.
Dr. Pwint Phyu is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders. She has a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and works diligently to help her patients overcome their struggles and improve their overall well-being. Whether she is providing therapy, medication management, or other forms of treatment, Dr Phyu is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to all of her patients.
(850) 726-3019 View (850) 726-3019
Photo of Shaquitia Jones, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shaquitia Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32303  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Shaquitia, owner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for Hopeful Harmony Mental Health LLC. Devoted to your mental well-being, I bring over two decades of clinical experience. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a particular focus on mental healthcare for the past six years, my commitment is to use my wealth of experience to nurture the mental and physical health of those navigating mental health challenges throughout the diverse communities across the state of Florida.
Hello, I’m Shaquitia, owner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for Hopeful Harmony Mental Health LLC. Devoted to your mental well-being, I bring over two decades of clinical experience. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a particular focus on mental healthcare for the past six years, my commitment is to use my wealth of experience to nurture the mental and physical health of those navigating mental health challenges throughout the diverse communities across the state of Florida.
(850) 493-7378 View (850) 493-7378
Photo of Magenta Hall - Healthy Self Mental Wellness, DNP, PMHNP , APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healthy Self Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32308  (Online Only)
I am the founder of Healthy Self Mental Wellness. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health setting. My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Florida State University, a Masters of Science in Nursing, psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization, from The University of South Alabama, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from The University of South Alabama.
I am the founder of Healthy Self Mental Wellness. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health setting. My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Florida State University, a Masters of Science in Nursing, psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization, from The University of South Alabama, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from The University of South Alabama.
(850) 813-0663 View (850) 813-0663
Photo of Emani Cheng, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emani Cheng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32312
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(850) 409-8168 View (850) 409-8168
Photo of Dr. Gregory Hutton - Advanced Psychiatry PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Advanced Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Board-certified psychiatrist in Tallahassee, FL specializing in integrative psychiatry. At Advanced Psychiatry, we blend evidence-based psychiatric treatment with therapy and holistic approaches to provide comprehensive mental health care. Customized treatment including medication, nutrition, mindfulness, and lifestyle modifications address not just symptoms, but the whole person. We offer flexibility with both in-office and telehealth options, after-hours availability, and prompt appointment scheduling. Our unhurried visits ensure all your concerns are addressed thoroughly.
Board-certified psychiatrist in Tallahassee, FL specializing in integrative psychiatry. At Advanced Psychiatry, we blend evidence-based psychiatric treatment with therapy and holistic approaches to provide comprehensive mental health care. Customized treatment including medication, nutrition, mindfulness, and lifestyle modifications address not just symptoms, but the whole person. We offer flexibility with both in-office and telehealth options, after-hours availability, and prompt appointment scheduling. Our unhurried visits ensure all your concerns are addressed thoroughly.
(850) 771-2132 View (850) 771-2132
Photo of Anne Ananga - Ability Plus Mental Health LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ability Plus Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312  (Online Only)
Visit us at https://www.abilityplusmentalhealthllc.com/**Dr. Anne Ananga is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner working for Ability Plus Mental Health LLC in Tallahassee Florida. She completed her doctorate and master’s degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham. We provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, and emotional health. Get the help you need; we work collaboratively with you as a patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs.
Visit us at https://www.abilityplusmentalhealthllc.com/**Dr. Anne Ananga is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner working for Ability Plus Mental Health LLC in Tallahassee Florida. She completed her doctorate and master’s degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham. We provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, and emotional health. Get the help you need; we work collaboratively with you as a patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs.
(850) 750-9441 View (850) 750-9441
Photo of Kathleen M Johnson - Psychiatry 360, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatry 360
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32306
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
(850) 613-1636 View (850) 613-1636
Photo of Mary Kathryn Parham, FNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Kathryn Parham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32313  (Online Only)
I’m a dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing patients via secure online video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in primary care at the University of South Carolina and in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, my board certifications are in family medicine and in general child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking mental health care, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
I’m a dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing patients via secure online video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in primary care at the University of South Carolina and in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, my board certifications are in family medicine and in general child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking mental health care, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
(850) 750-8768 View (850) 750-8768
Photo of Daniel B Wright - Daniel B Wright DNP LLC., DNP, APRN, MSA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel B Wright DNP LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MSA
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
(850) 331-0104 View (850) 331-0104
Photo of Shaquitia Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shaquitia Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32303  (Online Only)
Devoted to your mental well-being, I bring over two decades of clinical experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a particular focus on mental healthcare for the past six years.
Devoted to your mental well-being, I bring over two decades of clinical experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a particular focus on mental healthcare for the past six years.
(850) 754-4493 View (850) 754-4493
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(850) 816-3285 View (850) 816-3285
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Tallahassee, FL

50+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in Tallahassee, FL who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
94% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder
75% Trauma and PTSD
68% ADHD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
81% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Tallahassee, FL see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

82% Female
16% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Tallahassee?

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.