Psychiatrists in Honolulu, HI
![Photo of Joan Parker Dias - Xplor Counseling, MSN, APRN, CNS, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48cd3665-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joan Parker Dias - Xplor Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNS, RN
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96821
If you or your child/adolescent are struggling to overcome/manage anxiety, depression, or trauma, then you know how easy it can be to get "stuck" in behavior patterns that keep you from living the life you want. At times, it may even seem impossible to gain traction and move forward. But, with the right help, you CAN start to make positive behavior changes and actually shift the way you view the world around you. That's where I can help--when I work with clients, I consider it a "team effort," during which we work together to find a way forward. Former clients would say I'm warm, trustworthy, and professional--and always have the best interests of my clients in mind.
If you or your child/adolescent are struggling to overcome/manage anxiety, depression, or trauma, then you know how easy it can be to get "stuck" in behavior patterns that keep you from living the life you want. At times, it may even seem impossible to gain traction and move forward. But, with the right help, you CAN start to make positive behavior changes and actually shift the way you view the world around you. That's where I can help--when I work with clients, I consider it a "team effort," during which we work together to find a way forward. Former clients would say I'm warm, trustworthy, and professional--and always have the best interests of my clients in mind.
![Photo of Ksenia Pillai, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ac42c47-5980-425d-b65d-838f1ce968a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I want you to know that your well-being is my priority. Feel free to share what you need – I'm here to support you every step of the way. Whether it's medication management or therapy tailored to your unique experiences, I'm dedicated to crafting a plan that suits you best. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am deeply committed to understanding and addressing the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys. Let's work together towards your mental wellness, empowering you to thrive in every aspect of your life. I accept insurances.
I want you to know that your well-being is my priority. Feel free to share what you need – I'm here to support you every step of the way. Whether it's medication management or therapy tailored to your unique experiences, I'm dedicated to crafting a plan that suits you best. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am deeply committed to understanding and addressing the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys. Let's work together towards your mental wellness, empowering you to thrive in every aspect of your life. I accept insurances.
![Photo of Ethan Pien, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19e008f7-f542-43de-a94a-d24ba2415b30/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new patients. I have 17 years of experience serving individuals ages 18+. Common problems I help with include depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, and bipolar disorders. Services may include both psychiatric medications and counseling. I graduated from Punahou and finished medical school at UH in the top 10% of my class there.
I am accepting new patients. I have 17 years of experience serving individuals ages 18+. Common problems I help with include depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, and bipolar disorders. Services may include both psychiatric medications and counseling. I graduated from Punahou and finished medical school at UH in the top 10% of my class there.
![Photo of Thomas Cook, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ed1a37b-e8e8-4912-a62f-4331bb420694/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
![Photo of George Mackel - Ohanapsych, MSN, APRN-RX, NP-C, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ebed3ef-9a20-4536-9a9f-c6449ff8f585/2/320x400.jpeg)
George Mackel - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-RX, NP-C, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817 (Online Only)
After 38 years of nursing experience, George completed advanced training at North Georgia College and State University where he earned a Master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. George worked for several years with indigenous people on the Cherokee Indian reservation where he found a calling to help people with mental health and addiction issues. He completed a Post-Master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at East Carolina University and a certification as a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advance Practice.
After 38 years of nursing experience, George completed advanced training at North Georgia College and State University where he earned a Master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. George worked for several years with indigenous people on the Cherokee Indian reservation where he found a calling to help people with mental health and addiction issues. He completed a Post-Master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at East Carolina University and a certification as a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advance Practice.
![Photo of Tara Valenzuela, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b069f1c-d4af-4424-894a-c223a4e0707d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a mental health enthusiast, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a professor of psychiatric nursing. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, and person-focused. This involves customized strategies for medication management. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a mental health enthusiast, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a professor of psychiatric nursing. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, and person-focused. This involves customized strategies for medication management. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy.
![Photo of Hyesu Shin, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90c50116-ca20-4859-b353-803186165de7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hyesu Shin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813
Aloha! I am Hyesu(HEY-SU), Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Health NP in Hawaii. With over 10 years of dedicated practice, I’ve gained diverse experience, serving the underprivileged population in the Bronx, NY to Medicare Kapuna in Hawaii. I aspire to be an advocate and reduce the stigma surrounding Psychiatry. My goal is to contribute to my community by promoting serene and contented mental health, helping individuals achieve their goals, and fostering meaningful life experiences.
Aloha! I am Hyesu(HEY-SU), Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Health NP in Hawaii. With over 10 years of dedicated practice, I’ve gained diverse experience, serving the underprivileged population in the Bronx, NY to Medicare Kapuna in Hawaii. I aspire to be an advocate and reduce the stigma surrounding Psychiatry. My goal is to contribute to my community by promoting serene and contented mental health, helping individuals achieve their goals, and fostering meaningful life experiences.
![Photo of Holly Holbrooks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5379468b-869d-478e-a3fb-eb6c34bb01c9/5/320x400.jpeg)
I have particular interest in working with individuals whose mental health has been impacted by marginalization, discrimination, racism, historical and cultural trauma, and other forms of oppression. Encountering the mental health care system has been and continues to be difficult and traumatic for many, and I deeply appreciate the opportunity to work with those who are willing to engage with me.
I have particular interest in working with individuals whose mental health has been impacted by marginalization, discrimination, racism, historical and cultural trauma, and other forms of oppression. Encountering the mental health care system has been and continues to be difficult and traumatic for many, and I deeply appreciate the opportunity to work with those who are willing to engage with me.
![Photo of Jacob Lee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2accc7b7-b907-4d1f-a226-1c3d9bf3a5d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jacob Lee is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who earned his M.D. and completed Psychiatry Residency at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. He served as Chief Fellow for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Hawai’i John A. Burns School of Medicine. He works with children, teens, adults, and their families to navigate mental illness, life stage transitions, and issues of identity including gender and sexual minority care.
Dr. Jacob Lee is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who earned his M.D. and completed Psychiatry Residency at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. He served as Chief Fellow for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Hawai’i John A. Burns School of Medicine. He works with children, teens, adults, and their families to navigate mental illness, life stage transitions, and issues of identity including gender and sexual minority care.
![Photo of Colleen Sanders Alford, MSN, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/202b3179-fec8-4271-9305-1220c5d0f50a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen Sanders Alford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Are you struggling with mental health issues related to periods, menopause or getting pregnant, pregnancy and postpartum? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of these life changes. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Honolulu,with an additional certification in perinatal mental health through postpartum support international
Are you struggling with mental health issues related to periods, menopause or getting pregnant, pregnancy and postpartum? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of these life changes. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Honolulu,with an additional certification in perinatal mental health through postpartum support international
![Photo of Alan Wolfson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/397223cd-0c28-4a08-b7f5-ae104affd1e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why do you have anxiety or depression? Where does the anger come from? How will this discomfort be alleviated? Why are you unhappy in the relationship? Why does the pattern continue to repeat itself? You want answers and you want to feel better, but in order to do so, we must look at every part of YOU, not just medication management.
Why do you have anxiety or depression? Where does the anger come from? How will this discomfort be alleviated? Why are you unhappy in the relationship? Why does the pattern continue to repeat itself? You want answers and you want to feel better, but in order to do so, we must look at every part of YOU, not just medication management.
15 Second Videos
Alan Wolfson
Gretchen Gavero- Mindhealthspace
SynCare Behavioral Health
Jeffrey Wright Bayless
Bradley Kuo
AtYourServicePsychiatry.com
Carter Doyle
Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness
Pacific Academy of the Healing Arts
![Photo of Dr. Jay Nichols, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/159a1edc-8439-4388-8c70-8e60d88cba2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, I invite you to take the first step towards a brighter future! I specialize in helping professionals who are experiencing burnout in their careers due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and have extensive experience working with professionals such as CEO’s, lawyers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to find renewed balance and reconnect with purpose in their lives. I also have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community who might be struggling with sexual identity and are ready to start experiencing their true authentic life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, I invite you to take the first step towards a brighter future! I specialize in helping professionals who are experiencing burnout in their careers due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and have extensive experience working with professionals such as CEO’s, lawyers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to find renewed balance and reconnect with purpose in their lives. I also have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community who might be struggling with sexual identity and are ready to start experiencing their true authentic life.
![Photo of Peter G Collori, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce01160-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I understand therapies - biological, psychological and mindfulness-based treatments - as ways to help you be more present in your life, face challenges in work and in love with confidence and feel secure enough to play. I understand feelings are not just symptoms but signals to be listened too and understood in their context. I also understand patients are people, not just victims of biology or inconvenient containers for medications. Our physical state is of great importance and still, it does not exist in a vacuum. It is intimately intertwined with our DNA, life circumstances, relationships, culture and past experiences.
I understand therapies - biological, psychological and mindfulness-based treatments - as ways to help you be more present in your life, face challenges in work and in love with confidence and feel secure enough to play. I understand feelings are not just symptoms but signals to be listened too and understood in their context. I also understand patients are people, not just victims of biology or inconvenient containers for medications. Our physical state is of great importance and still, it does not exist in a vacuum. It is intimately intertwined with our DNA, life circumstances, relationships, culture and past experiences.
![Photo of Suzzane Culliver - Ohanapsych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d01a5b3-7651-4a31-af51-cd1ceb506993/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzzane Culliver - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817 (Online Only)
Suzanne treats her patients with dignity and respect so that a therapeutic relationship can grow and flourish between them. She provides patient education and encourages patient participation in their plan of care with the shared goal of improving their symptoms.
Suzanne treats her patients with dignity and respect so that a therapeutic relationship can grow and flourish between them. She provides patient education and encourages patient participation in their plan of care with the shared goal of improving their symptoms.
![Photo of Amanda Nall - Ohanapsych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b82eada1-c12c-480a-a445-613cf480693e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Nall - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817 (Online Only)
Amanda has experience treating patients across the lifespan, from toddlers to geriatric patients. She is driven to improve everyday life for those struggling with or affected by mental illness. Amanda’s treatment approach is client-centered and holistic with the goal of reducing or eliminating concerning symptoms.
Amanda has experience treating patients across the lifespan, from toddlers to geriatric patients. She is driven to improve everyday life for those struggling with or affected by mental illness. Amanda’s treatment approach is client-centered and holistic with the goal of reducing or eliminating concerning symptoms.
![Photo of Betty King - Ohanapsych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da286c4a-8906-43f6-a5f1-50692317d638/3/320x400.jpeg)
Betty King - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817 (Online Only)
Since 1983 Betty has devoted her life to nursing. Her education includes double Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Since becoming Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Betty has worked with children and adolescents in psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings in Arkansas. Betty has additional training as an Addiction Professional and a Christian Counselor, and she has volunteered at a substance abuse program for homeless adults.
Since 1983 Betty has devoted her life to nursing. Her education includes double Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Since becoming Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Betty has worked with children and adolescents in psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings in Arkansas. Betty has additional training as an Addiction Professional and a Christian Counselor, and she has volunteered at a substance abuse program for homeless adults.
![Photo of Dr. Gretchen Gavero- Mindhealthspace, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0361e5d-196d-4450-8c6c-09f671508abc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gretchen Gavero- Mindhealthspace
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813 (Online Only)
Tailored care is essential to understand your unique biological, cultural, and psychological makeup to improve your health and develop the skills to overcome your life challenges. Your body and mind change when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Past experiences and anxieties about the future can keep you from living your best life now. I combine expert medical knowledge with real-life talk and individualized treatment to help you feel better and thrive. We'll address your health and emotional needs by working together.
Tailored care is essential to understand your unique biological, cultural, and psychological makeup to improve your health and develop the skills to overcome your life challenges. Your body and mind change when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Past experiences and anxieties about the future can keep you from living your best life now. I combine expert medical knowledge with real-life talk and individualized treatment to help you feel better and thrive. We'll address your health and emotional needs by working together.
![Photo of Tara Knight - Ohanapsych, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af0bf1ff-a5b8-4bd2-a9fe-fcae1fd68b2c/1/320x400.png)
Tara Knight - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
Tara has completed a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and became nationally board certified as a PMHNP in 2019. Prior to that, she has 12 years of nursing experience including trauma, progressive care nursing, and psychiatric emergencies before graduating with a Master of Science (MSN) advanced training at the University of San Diego. She also served in the United States Air Force as a flight nurse and nursing services instructor and manager.
Tara has completed a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and became nationally board certified as a PMHNP in 2019. Prior to that, she has 12 years of nursing experience including trauma, progressive care nursing, and psychiatric emergencies before graduating with a Master of Science (MSN) advanced training at the University of San Diego. She also served in the United States Air Force as a flight nurse and nursing services instructor and manager.
![Photo of Daniel Mattox - ADHD Wellness Hawai'i, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d28a4856-e042-4941-88e3-9189e8cf3a1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Text or call: 808-563-4128. At ADHD Wellness Hawai'i our unwavering commitment is to cater to the unique needs of adults grappling with ADHD. We understand that navigating daily life with ADHD can be challenging, impacting not only personal well-being but also interpersonal relationships and professional pursuits. Our clinic stands out as a beacon of understanding and support, offering a personalized approach that goes beyond mere diagnosis and med management. We pride ourselves on being readily available to YOU when you need a last minute appointment, forgot to request that med refill, or don't want to wait months for an appt.
Text or call: 808-563-4128. At ADHD Wellness Hawai'i our unwavering commitment is to cater to the unique needs of adults grappling with ADHD. We understand that navigating daily life with ADHD can be challenging, impacting not only personal well-being but also interpersonal relationships and professional pursuits. Our clinic stands out as a beacon of understanding and support, offering a personalized approach that goes beyond mere diagnosis and med management. We pride ourselves on being readily available to YOU when you need a last minute appointment, forgot to request that med refill, or don't want to wait months for an appt.
![Photo of Henry Lou-Goode - SynCare Behavioral Health, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e60a00a-0f74-4c67-86cd-2a0be3bb8a5c/2/320x400.jpeg)
SynCare Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816
Accepting New Patients! To get started, please complete Registration Form on our website: www.syncarebh.com/new-patient-registration. Aloha! My name is Henry and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of psychiatric medication management experience. My practice, SynCare Behavioral Health, is an outpatient mental health private practice with a mission to provide high quality mental health care. We are located in Oahu but delivering care via telehealth. We treat adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, insomnia, and personality disorders. Visit www.syncarebh.com for more information.
Accepting New Patients! To get started, please complete Registration Form on our website: www.syncarebh.com/new-patient-registration. Aloha! My name is Henry and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of psychiatric medication management experience. My practice, SynCare Behavioral Health, is an outpatient mental health private practice with a mission to provide high quality mental health care. We are located in Oahu but delivering care via telehealth. We treat adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, insomnia, and personality disorders. Visit www.syncarebh.com for more information.
See more therapy options for Honolulu
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Honolulu, HI
40+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Honolulu, HI who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
84% | Medication Management |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | ADHD |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
71% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
69% | Hawaii Medical Services Association |
57% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Honolulu, HI see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Honolulu?
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.