Psychiatrists in Gadsden County, FL
![Photo of Abiodun Oluwole Ogunremi - Mindplus Mental Health Services, DNP , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b683f92e-5c0a-4ab3-a9a1-d73efed123f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindplus Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP , APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Quincy, FL 32351 (Online Only)
Our mission is to reduce the gap in mental health services through evidence based mental health services leveraging on advance technology. Call us today to schedule your appointment or visit our website (www.mindplusmentalhealth.com) to schedule your appointment. Dr. Abiodun Ogunremi is a dual board-certified Nurse practitioner in Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family practice. He completed his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Post Masters Certificate from the Florida State University (FSU). He has been practicing since 2021.
Our mission is to reduce the gap in mental health services through evidence based mental health services leveraging on advance technology. Call us today to schedule your appointment or visit our website (www.mindplusmentalhealth.com) to schedule your appointment. Dr. Abiodun Ogunremi is a dual board-certified Nurse practitioner in Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family practice. He completed his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Post Masters Certificate from the Florida State University (FSU). He has been practicing since 2021.
![Photo of Latisha Blanchard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e554545a-06dc-4359-b4dd-68fe8dbb7b1d/2/320x400.png)
Latisha Blanchard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Quincy, FL 32353 (Online Only)
My mental health care experience has varied in everything from child-adolescent care, to dual diagnosis, as well as treating veterans with PTSD.
My mental health care experience has varied in everything from child-adolescent care, to dual diagnosis, as well as treating veterans with PTSD.
![Photo of Anne Ananga - Ability Plus Mental Health LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc0b9d69-2012-4299-8606-93a629b1f629/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ability Plus Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Quincy, FL 32352 (Online Only)
Visit us at https://www.abilityplusmentalhealthllc.com/**Dr. Anne Ananga is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner working for Ability Plus Mental Health LLC in Tallahassee Florida. She completed her doctorate and master’s degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham. We provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, and emotional health. Get the help you need; we work collaboratively with you as a patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs.
Visit us at https://www.abilityplusmentalhealthllc.com/**Dr. Anne Ananga is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner working for Ability Plus Mental Health LLC in Tallahassee Florida. She completed her doctorate and master’s degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham. We provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, and emotional health. Get the help you need; we work collaboratively with you as a patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Kimberly Clayton, FNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5817136f-8f6f-489b-87e0-1ea60ddf278a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32401 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
![Photo of Lyssa Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba6c3d13-f30e-456a-a89b-7c5bba7338c1/2/320x400.png)
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
![Photo of Kiumars Shams - Sunshine Behavioral Medicine, M, D, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea1a6191-6e08-4289-ad75-f6bb599d94ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wherever you go Mental Health or Illnes will follow… Sunshine Behavioral Medicine provides the Tri-state area with Excellence in Psychiatry and Mental Health Services. We are discreetly located at our Graceville, FL facility. As a private mental health facility, we frequently treat conditions including: Addiction Disorder, Alzheimer Disease, Anxiety, Panic, Fears and Phobias, Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). We also provide specialized psychiatric programs. Please visit us sunshine2000.com
Wherever you go Mental Health or Illnes will follow… Sunshine Behavioral Medicine provides the Tri-state area with Excellence in Psychiatry and Mental Health Services. We are discreetly located at our Graceville, FL facility. As a private mental health facility, we frequently treat conditions including: Addiction Disorder, Alzheimer Disease, Anxiety, Panic, Fears and Phobias, Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). We also provide specialized psychiatric programs. Please visit us sunshine2000.com
![Photo of Daniel B Wright - Daniel B Wright DNP LLC., DNP, APRN, MSA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35100868-d7ed-47ba-9550-dbebddf481a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel B Wright DNP LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MSA
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
![Photo of Timothy Gooden - JourneyPure Behavioral Health Counseling, Alcohol, & Drugs, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ad2e68-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
JourneyPure Behavioral Health Counseling
Psychiatrist, Alcohol, & Drugs
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
SUBOXONE® helps you accept treatment when it feels like living without drugs is impossible. The medication is coupled with therapy that fits into your everyday schedule, an iPhone app with games that reinforce healthy habits and your personal Recovery Coach available 24/7. You'll get down to the core of what's fueling the drugs and alcohol use, including issues like depression and anxiety.
SUBOXONE® helps you accept treatment when it feels like living without drugs is impossible. The medication is coupled with therapy that fits into your everyday schedule, an iPhone app with games that reinforce healthy habits and your personal Recovery Coach available 24/7. You'll get down to the core of what's fueling the drugs and alcohol use, including issues like depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Lorraine Black, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eefe59bd-2b2c-4f8a-b345-42ec43ccfd26/4/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Have you ever felt like your mental health needs more attention, support, or understanding than it's currently receiving?
Have you ever felt like your mental health needs more attention, support, or understanding than it's currently receiving?
![Photo of Sarah Purdy - Today Telemedicine, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fabeaece-7565-4898-905e-08e0ff87a94d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Full virtual telemedicine medical office specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD stimulant & non stimulant care (Adderall, concerta, strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (birth control, blood work ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing and much more! Self-schedule from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and be seen this week!
Full virtual telemedicine medical office specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD stimulant & non stimulant care (Adderall, concerta, strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (phentermine, semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (birth control, blood work ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing and much more! Self-schedule from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and be seen this week!
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b94f056-8957-4785-a3e9-56297c86d1cd/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 Islam Ganie - TCL Medical, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ea85e40-e71a-422c-9425-4b2a9ff7c1d7/1/320x400.png)
TCL Medical
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32404
I am a dual certified NP in psychiatry and family medicine. I have integrative and holistic psychiatry and medical experience! I have spent the last 17 years caring for patients in all different walks of life. I have 12 years of education post high school to improve and/or enhance patient’s mental and psychical health and well-being. My comprehensive nurse practitioner experience is in psychiatry, naturopathic, integrative, holistic medicine, addiction medicine (in and outpatient) and internal medicine, urgent care, walk-in clinic, pulmonology and pediatric rehab medicine.
I am a dual certified NP in psychiatry and family medicine. I have integrative and holistic psychiatry and medical experience! I have spent the last 17 years caring for patients in all different walks of life. I have 12 years of education post high school to improve and/or enhance patient’s mental and psychical health and well-being. My comprehensive nurse practitioner experience is in psychiatry, naturopathic, integrative, holistic medicine, addiction medicine (in and outpatient) and internal medicine, urgent care, walk-in clinic, pulmonology and pediatric rehab medicine.
![Photo of Kathryn Werner, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4784de79-fede-43fe-af0e-60402f7faafe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32304 (Online Only)
OCD, anxiety, and depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tag, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
OCD, anxiety, and depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tag, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
![Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb3aa629-2809-4cbc-b357-1222cdf332b1/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
![Photo of Brandi Richardson, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adcf58fe-5f57-4d9e-b655-49204f66c797/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am the founder of Stay Healthy! I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I am enthusiastic to utilize my experience, skills and knowledge to establish an enduring and trusting relationship with clients and significantly make a difference in the lives of others. As a dual certified nurse practitioner I understand the complexity of mental health, wellness, health promotion, and the effects of stress and chronic illness. My goal is for you to stay healthy to meet your individual needs and goals. Access to quality healthcare is what inspired me to establish my practice
I am the founder of Stay Healthy! I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I am enthusiastic to utilize my experience, skills and knowledge to establish an enduring and trusting relationship with clients and significantly make a difference in the lives of others. As a dual certified nurse practitioner I understand the complexity of mental health, wellness, health promotion, and the effects of stress and chronic illness. My goal is for you to stay healthy to meet your individual needs and goals. Access to quality healthcare is what inspired me to establish my practice
![Photo of Emani Cheng, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc3c5d02-d336-4c3c-87b7-d9bc7c98494c/1/320x400.png)
Emani Cheng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32312
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
![Photo of Sandra Denise Percy-Smith - MindRest Psychiatry and Mental Health Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a68db7c9-f882-44e2-9968-e4350e0606a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
MindRest Psychiatry and Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32401
Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD or behavioral problems? Are you motivated to improve your mental wellbeing, and open to therapy and medication options if necessary? Are you looking for a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss your feelings, thoughts and experiences; to develop coping strategies, and work towards improved emotional stability and overall life satisfaction?
Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD or behavioral problems? Are you motivated to improve your mental wellbeing, and open to therapy and medication options if necessary? Are you looking for a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss your feelings, thoughts and experiences; to develop coping strategies, and work towards improved emotional stability and overall life satisfaction?
![Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b7234d5-46a0-4752-ba9e-14d4266cf94a/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32304 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Virtual Psychiatric Care offers affordable personalized services to everyone. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting Medicare and insurances
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Virtual Psychiatric Care offers affordable personalized services to everyone. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting Medicare and insurances
![Photo of Joanne Patterson - Integrative Mental Wellness & ReLeaf Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/992629c1-a425-4a1a-81ff-2f6f41f46645/1/320x400.png)
Integrative Mental Wellness & ReLeaf Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312 (Online Only)
A virtual clinic offering a holistic, medication free approach to mental health care. Treatment is available in Maryland, DC, Florida, Georgia, Nevada and the US Virgin Islands.
A virtual clinic offering a holistic, medication free approach to mental health care. Treatment is available in Maryland, DC, Florida, Georgia, Nevada and the US Virgin Islands.
![Photo of Thea Brubaker, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba81e601-3c99-4659-a310-9dde3efe54b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I want to be part of the light shinning in on those with mental health struggles. Are you looking for a new psychiatry provider? Unsure about starting medication? Recently received a psychological test, and unsure where to go next? Schedule an appointment so we can have a conversation. I offer tele-psych medication services in Pensacola, and surrounding areas, and tele-psych and in person in Tallahassee and surrounding areas. I am located in Eastern Standard Time. (Please be mindful when making appointments. Appointments are made in the provider's time zone)
I want to be part of the light shinning in on those with mental health struggles. Are you looking for a new psychiatry provider? Unsure about starting medication? Recently received a psychological test, and unsure where to go next? Schedule an appointment so we can have a conversation. I offer tele-psych medication services in Pensacola, and surrounding areas, and tele-psych and in person in Tallahassee and surrounding areas. I am located in Eastern Standard Time. (Please be mindful when making appointments. Appointments are made in the provider's time zone)
See more therapy options for Gadsden County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gadsden County, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Gadsden County, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Psychosis |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Humana |
How Psychiatrists in Gadsden County, FL see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gadsden 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.