Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL
![Photo of Melinda Braswell, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b283220c-ce41-43b8-99fa-78b146bbe3b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Braswell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or lost your zest for life? Do you feel alone with nowhere else to turn? Are your problems adversely affecting your personal relationships or job success? If this sounds like you, it’s time to get help. Let’s work together to recapture the joy and happiness you desire.
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or lost your zest for life? Do you feel alone with nowhere else to turn? Are your problems adversely affecting your personal relationships or job success? If this sounds like you, it’s time to get help. Let’s work together to recapture the joy and happiness you desire.
![Photo of Adam Horn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98591dc0-b647-41e6-95e6-66ff705e2880/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32225 (Online Only)
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
![Photo of Megan Blevins, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e81eded-403b-4ce8-ad1e-bfa207bae6d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Blevins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I am a compassionate, energetic, and knowledgeable psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management with supportive therapy. I listen, asks questions, and listen again to understand my clients and their struggles. I want you as my client to feel comfortable, heard, and understood.
I am a compassionate, energetic, and knowledgeable psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management with supportive therapy. I listen, asks questions, and listen again to understand my clients and their struggles. I want you as my client to feel comfortable, heard, and understood.
![Photo of Dr. Paula Parsons, DNP, MSHL, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c23e2b7a-90cb-4114-bee6-87c9cc22bd13/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Paula Parsons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSHL, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32205
Life's journey and sometimes trying to navigate through its challenges can feel overwhelming. Perhaps you are a single parent, a grandparent, or someone who is experiencing a major life transition. As a doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health (PMHNP-BC) and primary care nurse practitioner (FNP-C), I apply integrative knowledge in physical and mental health to help synergize your path to wellness. I believe that each day is an opportunity to live authentically and on purpose. Thank you for taking the first steps towards allowing me to walk alongside you through this holistic journey towards wellness. Let's Go!
Life's journey and sometimes trying to navigate through its challenges can feel overwhelming. Perhaps you are a single parent, a grandparent, or someone who is experiencing a major life transition. As a doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health (PMHNP-BC) and primary care nurse practitioner (FNP-C), I apply integrative knowledge in physical and mental health to help synergize your path to wellness. I believe that each day is an opportunity to live authentically and on purpose. Thank you for taking the first steps towards allowing me to walk alongside you through this holistic journey towards wellness. Let's Go!
![Photo of Anisha Gulati, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cc843cc-5a41-42b4-9afb-9b3de394a383/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gulati is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 10 years. She has worked in inpatient units, private practice, and community mental health, as well as served as Chief Medical Officer of a large psychiatric hospital. In 2018 she was awarded the Charleston Choice Award for Best Psychiatrist in Charleston, South Carolina. She currently resides in South Florida. Dr. Gulati's practice centers around treating the whole patient: mind, body, and spirit. She believes the judicious use of psychiatric medications, coupled with psychotherapy and alternative treatments such as meditation and yoga, can bring a
Dr. Gulati is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 10 years. She has worked in inpatient units, private practice, and community mental health, as well as served as Chief Medical Officer of a large psychiatric hospital. In 2018 she was awarded the Charleston Choice Award for Best Psychiatrist in Charleston, South Carolina. She currently resides in South Florida. Dr. Gulati's practice centers around treating the whole patient: mind, body, and spirit. She believes the judicious use of psychiatric medications, coupled with psychotherapy and alternative treatments such as meditation and yoga, can bring a
![Photo of Soufyane Bourass - Elite Psychiatry Specialist, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd97f313-03d5-4eae-9a21-6a0ab248b016/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elite Psychiatry Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Seeking mental health treatment is not easy and requires courage. Our practice is aware of the challenges and barriers that prevent people from inquiring about treatment options. At ElitePsych, we provide personalized care that is customized to the individual’s need. We strive to maintain mutually respectful treatment relationships with every one of our patients.
Seeking mental health treatment is not easy and requires courage. Our practice is aware of the challenges and barriers that prevent people from inquiring about treatment options. At ElitePsych, we provide personalized care that is customized to the individual’s need. We strive to maintain mutually respectful treatment relationships with every one of our patients.
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc4766db-65e9-4d96-b490-edb568875203/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
![Photo of Rishell Tsujimoto-Ryzewski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0b1290e-e66b-42c5-9bab-9dc95de3ec05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. She completed her residency with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine where she served as a chief resident during her last year of training. Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski has treated patients with a wide variety of diagnoses both during her residency and after her training while working at a busy private practice clinic as well as for the Veteran’s Administration.
Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. She completed her residency with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine where she served as a chief resident during her last year of training. Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski has treated patients with a wide variety of diagnoses both during her residency and after her training while working at a busy private practice clinic as well as for the Veteran’s Administration.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4a71b3a-fc92-47a3-b2cf-5a22bede77e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients! Welcome to Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group, an Integrative Psychiatry Practice founded on the belief that healing is a holistic process. We help children, adults, elders, and veterans with depression, anxiety, untreated ADHD, trauma, addictions, aging concerns, and life transitions build self-confidence, clarify their inner purpose, establish calmness of mind, and find fulfillment in life and love. Our goal is not just to prescribe you a medication and send you on your way. It is a long-term, trusted partner in helping you achieve a happy and fulfilling life. we believe in high-quality, affordable care.
Accepting NEW Patients! Welcome to Advanced Medical Psychiatry Group, an Integrative Psychiatry Practice founded on the belief that healing is a holistic process. We help children, adults, elders, and veterans with depression, anxiety, untreated ADHD, trauma, addictions, aging concerns, and life transitions build self-confidence, clarify their inner purpose, establish calmness of mind, and find fulfillment in life and love. Our goal is not just to prescribe you a medication and send you on your way. It is a long-term, trusted partner in helping you achieve a happy and fulfilling life. we believe in high-quality, affordable care.
![Photo of Michelle Zaydlin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e8ac5bc-8276-48f0-aa31-8bb329c53656/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michelle Zaydlin has experience in caring for diverse patient populations presenting with an array of diagnoses. Her interests include neurodevelopmental disorders (autism, ADHD), mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and comorbid medical conditions. She has completed internships in pediatric neuropsychology and worked as a behavior therapist, delivering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, enriching her understanding of development and neurocognitive functioning.
Dr. Michelle Zaydlin has experience in caring for diverse patient populations presenting with an array of diagnoses. Her interests include neurodevelopmental disorders (autism, ADHD), mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and comorbid medical conditions. She has completed internships in pediatric neuropsychology and worked as a behavior therapist, delivering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, enriching her understanding of development and neurocognitive functioning.
![Photo of Millian Okafor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15fc4e6b-6cf1-4331-bdc2-f86e83ed577c/1/320x400.png)
Millian Okafor, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am focused on becoming a change agent to provide the best possible care to enable and equip patients to attain optimal mental health and wellness. I am family-oriented and believe in the importance and strength of family and the social support system. I provide individualized, holistic care, combining evidence-based therapeutic interventions, medication management, and psychotherapy.
Millian Okafor, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am focused on becoming a change agent to provide the best possible care to enable and equip patients to attain optimal mental health and wellness. I am family-oriented and believe in the importance and strength of family and the social support system. I provide individualized, holistic care, combining evidence-based therapeutic interventions, medication management, and psychotherapy.
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![Photo of Margaret Olivero Pachiano, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0990c57-af2b-44d1-bfb9-b5794748c003/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Olivero Pachiano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210 (Online Only)
I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Dementia Provider. I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from St. Thomas University Miami Gardens Florida, and a Bachelor of Science from Pasco Hernando State College. In my nursing career, I have seen firsthand the harmful impact of social stigma associated with mental illness. This is one of the reasons, I have pursued this journey in hopes that I can be a part of reducing the social stigma that is all too often associated with mental health.
I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Dementia Provider. I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from St. Thomas University Miami Gardens Florida, and a Bachelor of Science from Pasco Hernando State College. In my nursing career, I have seen firsthand the harmful impact of social stigma associated with mental illness. This is one of the reasons, I have pursued this journey in hopes that I can be a part of reducing the social stigma that is all too often associated with mental health.
![Photo of Kelly Anderson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29c13d93-b9ef-4e83-8ff3-f771c139da88/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I am most passionate about working with all-inclusive clientele within a wide-range of mental health needs. My experience includes depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, C-PTSD/trauma, bipolar disorder (d/o), autism, BPD, other personality d/o, OCD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective d/o, psychosis, AVH (hallucinations), conversion or somatization d/o, eating d/o, adjustment d/o, self-harm, SI/HI, alcohol/opiate/benzo use d/o, women's issues, intellectual disabilities, LGBTQIA2S+, military/vets, 1st responders & more. I am very easy to talk to & look forward to us concluding all encounters, with you much more at ease every time we meet.
I am most passionate about working with all-inclusive clientele within a wide-range of mental health needs. My experience includes depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, C-PTSD/trauma, bipolar disorder (d/o), autism, BPD, other personality d/o, OCD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective d/o, psychosis, AVH (hallucinations), conversion or somatization d/o, eating d/o, adjustment d/o, self-harm, SI/HI, alcohol/opiate/benzo use d/o, women's issues, intellectual disabilities, LGBTQIA2S+, military/vets, 1st responders & more. I am very easy to talk to & look forward to us concluding all encounters, with you much more at ease every time we meet.
![Photo of Imtiaz Rasul - Jacksonville Psychiatric Association, Inc., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b348ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacksonville Psychiatric Association, Inc.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
New Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist in Jacksonville, FL. Same day appointments are available. Dr. Imtiaz Rasul is specialized both in Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatry. We are located just across from The Avenues mall. We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care.
New Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist in Jacksonville, FL. Same day appointments are available. Dr. Imtiaz Rasul is specialized both in Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatry. We are located just across from The Avenues mall. We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care.
![Photo of Shelby Goicochea, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89bae7c2-b520-4890-b082-6b01033b86dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Goicochea is Peruvian and speaks Spanish fluently. She is a “triple Gator” having completed her undergraduate and medical degree at the University of Florida (UF) and psychiatric training at UF Jacksonville. She was recognized by the Gold Humanism Honor Society for exemplary service, integrity, clinical excellence and compassion and awarded Resident of the Year for exceptional clinical skills and commitment to patients.
Dr. Goicochea is Peruvian and speaks Spanish fluently. She is a “triple Gator” having completed her undergraduate and medical degree at the University of Florida (UF) and psychiatric training at UF Jacksonville. She was recognized by the Gold Humanism Honor Society for exemplary service, integrity, clinical excellence and compassion and awarded Resident of the Year for exceptional clinical skills and commitment to patients.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist Medical Director of Craft Behavioral Health LLC and Clinical Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. We treat Patients in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. Most insurances accepted as well as cash patients. Treating all Psychiatric conditions and addiction. We accept Children, Adolescents, Adults and Senior Adults. If you are new patient you can click on "website" icon at top left corner. It will take you to appointment site. We also offer Medical Marijuana Treatment for eligible patients as well.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist Medical Director of Craft Behavioral Health LLC and Clinical Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. We treat Patients in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. Most insurances accepted as well as cash patients. Treating all Psychiatric conditions and addiction. We accept Children, Adolescents, Adults and Senior Adults. If you are new patient you can click on "website" icon at top left corner. It will take you to appointment site. We also offer Medical Marijuana Treatment for eligible patients as well.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9489148c-b690-4782-b82f-93ba6299d6a3/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Rashan Jones, PhD, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f89ae097-16bc-4bf1-872c-2e22e40baad8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rashan Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, CCM
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32217
Complete Dimensions Behavioral Health promote the well-being of the individuals and families in Florida communities by providing accessible, quality mental health and substance abuse/addiction care for children, adolescent ,adults, veterans, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes trust, respect, confidentiality, and compassion. We are commited to quality mental health care that is provided in a collaborative effort with consumers overall health strategies array of medical services. We further committed to philosophy that we exist for the customer.
Complete Dimensions Behavioral Health promote the well-being of the individuals and families in Florida communities by providing accessible, quality mental health and substance abuse/addiction care for children, adolescent ,adults, veterans, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes trust, respect, confidentiality, and compassion. We are commited to quality mental health care that is provided in a collaborative effort with consumers overall health strategies array of medical services. We further committed to philosophy that we exist for the customer.
![Photo of Blanca Osorio Candelaria, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/641ed53f-3bb7-44b2-9773-566bee4beef8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Blanca Osorio-Candelaria is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, which she typically combines with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Osorio-Candelaria feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction to medication management, she welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome.
Dr. Blanca Osorio-Candelaria is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, which she typically combines with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Osorio-Candelaria feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction to medication management, she welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome.
![Photo of Elliott Richelson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb8cf01-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Richelson is a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in clinical and basic neuropsychopharmacology. He provides psychiatric assessment and medication management to adults, with a focus on patients with mood, anxiety, and thought disorders. Dr. Richelson is a part of the Comprehensive MedPsych Systems (CMPS) team, a private interdisciplinary behavioral health practice that offers a broad range individualized and empirically-based psychiatric, evaluation, and therapeutic services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. I OFFER SERVICES IN OUR JACKSONVILLE BEACH OFFICE.
Dr. Richelson is a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in clinical and basic neuropsychopharmacology. He provides psychiatric assessment and medication management to adults, with a focus on patients with mood, anxiety, and thought disorders. Dr. Richelson is a part of the Comprehensive MedPsych Systems (CMPS) team, a private interdisciplinary behavioral health practice that offers a broad range individualized and empirically-based psychiatric, evaluation, and therapeutic services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. I OFFER SERVICES IN OUR JACKSONVILLE BEACH OFFICE.
See more therapy options for Duval County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL
200+
Average cost per session
$159
Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | Aetna |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
29% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Duval County?
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.