Psychiatrists in Crofton, MD
![Photo of Tarek Kronfli, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27eb0635-5351-46f0-a2d7-8cf705786616/2/320x400.jpeg)
He works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults coping with a wide range of psychological conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, crisis management, suicidal ideation and behaviors, interpersonal difficulties, and loss and trauma. He adopts an integrative psychotherapy approach in order to shape each treatment experience to meet the needs of each person, and does psychological testing. Dr. Kronfli completed his Pre-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology at Canvas Health in Oakdale, Minnesota.
He works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults coping with a wide range of psychological conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, crisis management, suicidal ideation and behaviors, interpersonal difficulties, and loss and trauma. He adopts an integrative psychotherapy approach in order to shape each treatment experience to meet the needs of each person, and does psychological testing. Dr. Kronfli completed his Pre-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology at Canvas Health in Oakdale, Minnesota.
![Photo of Ethel Elad, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0131b1e0-226c-4f24-be95-8af32b71f5ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ethel Elad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114 (Online Only)
Ms. Elad is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with her Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio University where she graduated with honors. She also obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Akron. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, she worked as a Registered Nurse for over seven years in different disciplines to include but not limited to psychiatric, neuro, cardiac, and surgical intensive care units. While working in psychiatric units she developed more compassion and empathy for her patients suffering from mental health problems as she understood their concerns and how the
Ms. Elad is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with her Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio University where she graduated with honors. She also obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Akron. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, she worked as a Registered Nurse for over seven years in different disciplines to include but not limited to psychiatric, neuro, cardiac, and surgical intensive care units. While working in psychiatric units she developed more compassion and empathy for her patients suffering from mental health problems as she understood their concerns and how the
![Photo of Ugo O Azuewah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8842aae4-8fc2-4e22-b4b5-0bd52540a92b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ugo O Azuewah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114 (Online Only)
My ideal clients are clients with depression, Anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorder and panic attack. I will ensure that my patients understand all the pathophysiology behind their diagnoses. I will listen to every client to understand their needs, through utilizing individualized patient approach. At this practice, I understand that no two persons are the same, therefore, every one will be treated as such. We will set a measurable, realistic goal and will always reassess goals for possible change and adjustment as needed.
My ideal clients are clients with depression, Anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorder and panic attack. I will ensure that my patients understand all the pathophysiology behind their diagnoses. I will listen to every client to understand their needs, through utilizing individualized patient approach. At this practice, I understand that no two persons are the same, therefore, every one will be treated as such. We will set a measurable, realistic goal and will always reassess goals for possible change and adjustment as needed.
![Photo of Cynthia Folsome, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62df19f9-95d7-48d8-a947-2cb0eccfa428/1/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment approach is holistic. I focus on providing personalized care that incorporates biological, psychological and social factors that may impact one's ability to function at their best. I believe treatment is a collaborative process and work with patients to find the best approach to suit their needs as they journey toward emotional wellness. My experience includes employment in private, public and government sectors. I have worked with people from all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds and have treated conditions across the mental health spectrum. I specialize in depressive, anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
My treatment approach is holistic. I focus on providing personalized care that incorporates biological, psychological and social factors that may impact one's ability to function at their best. I believe treatment is a collaborative process and work with patients to find the best approach to suit their needs as they journey toward emotional wellness. My experience includes employment in private, public and government sectors. I have worked with people from all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds and have treated conditions across the mental health spectrum. I specialize in depressive, anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
![Photo of Anyinke Atabong - Capital Multi Health Group INC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/090ca290-5bca-425a-988a-31ea29de06dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Capital Multi Health Group INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
We are professionals dedicated to providing optimal patient care at all times. We provide services at affordable rates in a customer friendly and stigma free environment. We value our patients by showing them our commitment to their individualized needs in a culturally competent fashion.
We are professionals dedicated to providing optimal patient care at all times. We provide services at affordable rates in a customer friendly and stigma free environment. We value our patients by showing them our commitment to their individualized needs in a culturally competent fashion.
![Photo of Sarah Langham, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b76b5217-094a-4982-8c9f-a7e48edb5b63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Langham is a Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2016. Sarah provides compassionate, person centered care and individualized treatment plans incorporating the patient’s desires. Sarah has experience in treating a wide range of mental health issues. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys traveling, reading, and community service.
Sarah Langham is a Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2016. Sarah provides compassionate, person centered care and individualized treatment plans incorporating the patient’s desires. Sarah has experience in treating a wide range of mental health issues. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys traveling, reading, and community service.
![Photo of Atina Sullivan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dd9fbf3-5f7a-4d23-bacc-240b6f60e2dd/5/320x400.png)
She has put into practice not only her clinical, but also her bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural skills, working in community mental health, school-based programs, an international eating disorders clinic, an immigration program, treatment-oriented foster care, private practice, and inpatient medical and mental health care at Walter Reed Military Medical Center. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, geriatric care, couples, and families.
She has put into practice not only her clinical, but also her bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural skills, working in community mental health, school-based programs, an international eating disorders clinic, an immigration program, treatment-oriented foster care, private practice, and inpatient medical and mental health care at Walter Reed Military Medical Center. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, geriatric care, couples, and families.
![Photo of Elizabeth Middle Name Adeyemi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfd9869f-4ad7-41c1-93b4-e2e1dec69fb9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Proximity Health Care Services is a mental health clinic supporting kids, teen, young adults, caregivers and parents struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. At our practice, we provide different kinds of mental health services at your comfort. We work to enhance the quality of life of our patients by enabling them to maintain their health, well-being, independence, and participation in the community.
Proximity Health Care Services is a mental health clinic supporting kids, teen, young adults, caregivers and parents struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. At our practice, we provide different kinds of mental health services at your comfort. We work to enhance the quality of life of our patients by enabling them to maintain their health, well-being, independence, and participation in the community.
![Photo of Kimberly Vargo, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57b8185a-9ed1-4b53-bcd6-20e1f089dc40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Vargo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
Accepting NEW Patients 13+. Trained in the newest and most advanced treatments available, Kim Vargo provides specifically tailored treatment options to clients ages 13 through adulthood with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. She approaches every case in a calming and professional manner and nurtures supportive relationships with clients and families. She works closely with referring providers and psychotherapists to not only improve overall mental health and well-being, but to help clients live their best lives.
Accepting NEW Patients 13+. Trained in the newest and most advanced treatments available, Kim Vargo provides specifically tailored treatment options to clients ages 13 through adulthood with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. She approaches every case in a calming and professional manner and nurtures supportive relationships with clients and families. She works closely with referring providers and psychotherapists to not only improve overall mental health and well-being, but to help clients live their best lives.
![Photo of Selam Tekie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cbfafd5-66ab-4e79-b6f3-c1ea4d64cf31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
![Photo of Olukemi Omogoke - Zenith Mental Health Services, DNP, PMHNP-B, MSc, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/192930d6-79e8-430d-88e6-079c25e2c3df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zenith Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, MSc, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
Dr. Olukemi Omogoke is a doctoral-prepared Board-certified Psychiatric NP with over 8 years of psych/mental healthcare experience. She is a graduate of Bowie State University and she received her MSN and DNP at Walden University.
Dr. Olukemi Omogoke is a doctoral-prepared Board-certified Psychiatric NP with over 8 years of psych/mental healthcare experience. She is a graduate of Bowie State University and she received her MSN and DNP at Walden University.
![Photo of Bolaji Olugboja, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1454d6e1-668f-4596-b1c8-1a6012df74c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trained family and mental healthcare provider who believes in patient-centered care despite cultural diversities. I have my specializations in primary/family care as well as mental and behavioral health medications management. I am mostly referred to as Dr. B. I started my medical career as a registered nurse and worked in different capacities, as a nursing home nurse, various hospitals, dialysis nurse, and an advocate for the proper health and well-being of diverse people requiring adequate healthcare.
I am a trained family and mental healthcare provider who believes in patient-centered care despite cultural diversities. I have my specializations in primary/family care as well as mental and behavioral health medications management. I am mostly referred to as Dr. B. I started my medical career as a registered nurse and worked in different capacities, as a nursing home nurse, various hospitals, dialysis nurse, and an advocate for the proper health and well-being of diverse people requiring adequate healthcare.
![Photo of Kikelomo Adewunmi - Remarkable Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e67e12e-bf9e-4d2c-bb8c-111c2bc9665e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Remarkable Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114 (Online Only)
We are a provider of behavioral healthcare services through telehealth. We take pride and joy in supporting every individual by providing them with the tools and imparting to them the skills to cope with their behavioral health issues. Remarkable Behavioral Health believes in the combined efforts with its clients, their families, and other healthcare providers in managing the presented behavioral health concern. You can trust our behavioral health experts to lead you to live better and healthier lives because they are all licensed, proficient professionals in their field.
We are a provider of behavioral healthcare services through telehealth. We take pride and joy in supporting every individual by providing them with the tools and imparting to them the skills to cope with their behavioral health issues. Remarkable Behavioral Health believes in the combined efforts with its clients, their families, and other healthcare providers in managing the presented behavioral health concern. You can trust our behavioral health experts to lead you to live better and healthier lives because they are all licensed, proficient professionals in their field.
![Photo of Tamia Musgrave - Five Star Integrated Health Services, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bbbb87c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Five Star Integrated Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
![Photo of Ogo Tunde-Sanya - Metrix Healthcare llc, CRNP, PMH-BC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f886c00-65d7-4161-9250-8ce5ea953ceb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Metrix Healthcare llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH-BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Hello, I am Ogo Tunde-Sanya and I am dual-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children and adults. With a deep understanding of pharmacology and psychological conditions, I can carefully evaluate patients' needs and provide them with appropriate treatment options. By staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in the field, I strive to offer the best possible care to my patients, ensuring their well-being and optimal health outcomes.
Hello, I am Ogo Tunde-Sanya and I am dual-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children and adults. With a deep understanding of pharmacology and psychological conditions, I can carefully evaluate patients' needs and provide them with appropriate treatment options. By staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in the field, I strive to offer the best possible care to my patients, ensuring their well-being and optimal health outcomes.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kandice King, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fa4e44b-9f9b-4ecd-a328-1761d8215e17/2/320x400.png)
Kandice King is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in working with children and adults with various struggles like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral health concerns. She works with the patient to give them the reassurance and support they need to establish a medication regimen that helps them cope with different mental health concerns. She understands the importance of being one’s best self in today's world and works hard to customize the most effective individualized treatment plan.
Kandice King is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in working with children and adults with various struggles like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral health concerns. She works with the patient to give them the reassurance and support they need to establish a medication regimen that helps them cope with different mental health concerns. She understands the importance of being one’s best self in today's world and works hard to customize the most effective individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Nkiru Ndukwe Smith - Horizon Wellness Services LLC, DNP, FNP-BC, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc156f5c-6b6b-4a48-b9f0-79692485e000/2/320x400.jpeg)
Horizon Wellness Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Odenton, MD 21113
Dr. Nkiru Smith, DNP FNB-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for the past two decades. I have worked in different healthcare settings, including critical care units, medical-surgical units, MAT, and outpatient, residential psychiatric mental facilities. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I aim to ease suffering and pain. Each patient requires an individualized treatment approach. I provide warm, friendly, competent, and compassionate care in the office or tele-health.
Dr. Nkiru Smith, DNP FNB-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for the past two decades. I have worked in different healthcare settings, including critical care units, medical-surgical units, MAT, and outpatient, residential psychiatric mental facilities. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I aim to ease suffering and pain. Each patient requires an individualized treatment approach. I provide warm, friendly, competent, and compassionate care in the office or tele-health.
![Photo of Nicholas Scotto - The Mood Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe2b91e2-4ae4-49b9-bc6a-d34a7846545b/1/320x400.png)
The Mood Center blends tried-and-true methods with cutting-edge science and wellness practices to create the ultimate healing experience. Our highly trained medical professionals deliver unsurpassed care tailor-made for each patient. We recognize the importance of restoring the architecture of the mind through medical treatment with spiritual and emotional therapeutic support. We specialize in treating Depression, MDD, TRD, Suicidal Ideation, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Chronic Pain, Migraines, and many other conditions.
The Mood Center blends tried-and-true methods with cutting-edge science and wellness practices to create the ultimate healing experience. Our highly trained medical professionals deliver unsurpassed care tailor-made for each patient. We recognize the importance of restoring the architecture of the mind through medical treatment with spiritual and emotional therapeutic support. We specialize in treating Depression, MDD, TRD, Suicidal Ideation, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Chronic Pain, Migraines, and many other conditions.
![Photo of Alice Harvey, MSN, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44947c52-a6c4-470d-8f45-c985965e1db0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alice Harvey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am passionate about empowering individuals to discover their best version of themselves, whether that be with medication management, psychotherapy or other wellness interventions such as medical weight loss.
I am passionate about empowering individuals to discover their best version of themselves, whether that be with medication management, psychotherapy or other wellness interventions such as medical weight loss.
![Photo of Jason R. Brody, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a385ad4c-d874-492a-a1c6-caac52ee143f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jason R. Brody
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401 (Online Only)
Jason Brody grew up in Queens, NY and completed his BA in Religious Studies at Yale University and his MDiv at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He became interested in medicine while working as a Medical Scribe and graduated from Chatham University’s Physician Assistant Program in Pittsburgh. As a Psychiatric PA, he enjoys getting to know his patients and hearing their stories. He believes in collaborative decision making when prescribing medications and caring for people. He is also involved in Clinical Trial Research for new psychiatric and neurological medications.
Jason Brody grew up in Queens, NY and completed his BA in Religious Studies at Yale University and his MDiv at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He became interested in medicine while working as a Medical Scribe and graduated from Chatham University’s Physician Assistant Program in Pittsburgh. As a Psychiatric PA, he enjoys getting to know his patients and hearing their stories. He believes in collaborative decision making when prescribing medications and caring for people. He is also involved in Clinical Trial Research for new psychiatric and neurological medications.
See more therapy options for Crofton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Crofton, MD
10+
Average cost per session
$125
Psychiatrists in Crofton, MD who prioritize treating:
80% | Depression |
80% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
53% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Aetna |
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Crofton, MD see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
91% | Female | |
9% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Crofton?
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.