Psychiatrists in Pembroke Pines, FL
![Photo of Lisa B Marshall - Memorial Mental Health of South Florida, LLC, DMSc, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/192d2ec2-df74-4953-8395-f7d43b190e7e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Memorial Mental Health of South Florida, LLC
Psychiatrist, DMSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pembroke Pines, FL 33027 (Online Only)
There are times you may not feel “ok.” That could mean emotionally, psychologically, or even socially. You may feel like you can handle the dips in your emotions and even believe you do not need help. But just like needing a doctor for persistent abdominal pain, or for a rash that won’t go away or to help with an unstable blood pressure, you may need someone with experience to assist and to help alleviate or resolve the issue. The brain needs assistance also, especially when we are feeling overwhelmed.
There are times you may not feel “ok.” That could mean emotionally, psychologically, or even socially. You may feel like you can handle the dips in your emotions and even believe you do not need help. But just like needing a doctor for persistent abdominal pain, or for a rash that won’t go away or to help with an unstable blood pressure, you may need someone with experience to assist and to help alleviate or resolve the issue. The brain needs assistance also, especially when we are feeling overwhelmed.
![Photo of Ana Binder - Psych 4 U, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef92aa16-dd59-4300-8390-18cfc3ca47d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
![Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c60e617e-958e-4b04-95aa-e314f64b9f68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
![Photo of Xochil Echeona - My Spa Studio, ARNP, PA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/717a01ab-71a2-42a1-adc9-265f3c7016e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a PA for 10 years and am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I offer in person and telehealth services for Psychiatry and Weight Loss Management using Semiglutide.
I have been a PA for 10 years and am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I offer in person and telehealth services for Psychiatry and Weight Loss Management using Semiglutide.
![Photo of Evelio Estrada Molina, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b619cc27-47b6-4593-aade-eba9696c9054/1/320x400.jpeg)
Evelio Estrada Molina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Florida with a Foreign Physician background. I received my Post Master in Psychiatry from St. Thomas University and have been practicing for 4 years. I help persons of 18 years old and older that struggle with mental health issues to recover the control of their lives, to feel better, and to function properly.
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Florida with a Foreign Physician background. I received my Post Master in Psychiatry from St. Thomas University and have been practicing for 4 years. I help persons of 18 years old and older that struggle with mental health issues to recover the control of their lives, to feel better, and to function properly.
![Photo of Bernadette Ranieri - Bernadette, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afd8c08f-e3fc-48e7-b802-442a480f630b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bernadette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028 (Online Only)
They may struggle with conditions but thy are motivated to make positive changes. They need support, guidance, and encouragement to adopt healthier habits and manage their conditions effectively. Their Goals include improving their quality of life, reducing the risk of complications, and feeling more in control. They want to be able to enjoy life to the fullest and be there for their loved ones. Their motivation stems from a desire for longevity, happiness, and the ability to pursue their passions without limitations imposed by health issues.
They may struggle with conditions but thy are motivated to make positive changes. They need support, guidance, and encouragement to adopt healthier habits and manage their conditions effectively. Their Goals include improving their quality of life, reducing the risk of complications, and feeling more in control. They want to be able to enjoy life to the fullest and be there for their loved ones. Their motivation stems from a desire for longevity, happiness, and the ability to pursue their passions without limitations imposed by health issues.
![Photo of Dr. Urmene Pierre - Good Shepherd Psychiatric Consultant, INC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, AAPRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28d439dc-c47c-4b13-869f-c0f22268fa1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Good Shepherd Psychiatric Consultant, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, AAPRN, BC
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to individuals suffering from mental illness. Treatments include diagnostic evaluations, medication management, integrative interventions and genetic testing.
Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to individuals suffering from mental illness. Treatments include diagnostic evaluations, medication management, integrative interventions and genetic testing.
![Photo of Kalvin K Kapoor, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b346ce22-aecf-4dd3-b374-e1e8b6145966/3/320x400.jpeg)
SHEDULING TIP: PLEASE CLICK WEBSITE BUTTON ON THE LEFT TO SCHEDULE. I am dual board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. People come to treatment for all sorts of reasons — ADHD, anxiety, depression, difficulty functioning at work or school, family conflict, challenges in relationships, low self-esteem, or simply a desire to learn more about themselves. As a psychiatrist with expertise in both medication management and psychotherapy, I can help patients develop a treatment plan that meets their needs. My style is guided by warmth and flexibility, with the goals of helping patients build insight and reduce symptoms.
SHEDULING TIP: PLEASE CLICK WEBSITE BUTTON ON THE LEFT TO SCHEDULE. I am dual board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. People come to treatment for all sorts of reasons — ADHD, anxiety, depression, difficulty functioning at work or school, family conflict, challenges in relationships, low self-esteem, or simply a desire to learn more about themselves. As a psychiatrist with expertise in both medication management and psychotherapy, I can help patients develop a treatment plan that meets their needs. My style is guided by warmth and flexibility, with the goals of helping patients build insight and reduce symptoms.
![Photo of Dr. Shirley English, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b36dd7d-2a9b-472d-8fca-7ac692052b9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shirley English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024 (Online Only)
I help adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and burnout to have more energy, improve family relationships, improve work performance, increase sex drive, boost self-image, and feel happier and more content. I partner together with my patients to do this by integrating nutrition, supplementations, exercise, therapy with medication management. I also specialize in counseling family members and caregivers of elderly patients with dementia and other complex diagnoses.
I help adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and burnout to have more energy, improve family relationships, improve work performance, increase sex drive, boost self-image, and feel happier and more content. I partner together with my patients to do this by integrating nutrition, supplementations, exercise, therapy with medication management. I also specialize in counseling family members and caregivers of elderly patients with dementia and other complex diagnoses.
![Photo of William Hyman - Psych 4 U, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81ad1439-c888-4715-b299-0f03e1540086/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mr. Hyman has been a mental health provider for approximately twenty years. He earned his master’s degree at Boston College and is ANCC certified in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has a great deal of experience working with special populations.
Mr. Hyman has been a mental health provider for approximately twenty years. He earned his master’s degree at Boston College and is ANCC certified in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has a great deal of experience working with special populations.
![Photo of William Hyman - Psych4U Pembroke Pines, ARNP, PMHNP-B, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e93530d-2da4-47d8-999d-3e6541a6c1a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psych4U Pembroke Pines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-B, RN
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
Mr. Hyman has been a mental health provider for approximately twenty years. He earned his master’s degree at Boston College and is ANCC certified in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has a great deal of experience working with special populations.
Mr. Hyman has been a mental health provider for approximately twenty years. He earned his master’s degree at Boston College and is ANCC certified in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has a great deal of experience working with special populations.
15 Second Videos
Psych 4 U
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Kalvin K Kapoor
Shirley English
Psych 4 U
Psych4U Pembroke Pines
Psych 4 U
Psych 4 U
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
New Age Psychiatry - Low Dose Ketamine Solutions
Morgan Alexander
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Rochelle Bradley
Anahi Munoz
Leonie Sistrat
![Photo of Anna Binder-Baskina - Psych 4 U, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eb061d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of American Psychiatric Association. I am fully trained in Adult, Child and Adolescent, Geriatric, Emergency and Addiction Psychiatry. I received my general and adult psychiatry training at University of Maryland/ Sheppard Pratt and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training from Johns Hopkins Medical Institution. I was selected as a Top Psychiatrist in Stamford, CT by the International Association of Health Care Professionals (IAHCP) and spotlighted in the publication The Leading Physicians of the World 2014 Ed
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of American Psychiatric Association. I am fully trained in Adult, Child and Adolescent, Geriatric, Emergency and Addiction Psychiatry. I received my general and adult psychiatry training at University of Maryland/ Sheppard Pratt and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training from Johns Hopkins Medical Institution. I was selected as a Top Psychiatrist in Stamford, CT by the International Association of Health Care Professionals (IAHCP) and spotlighted in the publication The Leading Physicians of the World 2014 Ed
![Photo of Melanio Bruceta, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd3c9dce-d09a-468c-b51b-3b8a2a5d88fc/1/320x400.png)
Melanio Bruceta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
Dr. Melanio Bruceta is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of Florida. Dr. Melanio has been in the medical field for over 25 years and has been practicing psychiatry for the past eight years. He is certified to treat clients across the lifespan. Dr. Melanio embrace in helping clients with a variety of psychiatric illnesses including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more.
Dr. Melanio Bruceta is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of Florida. Dr. Melanio has been in the medical field for over 25 years and has been practicing psychiatry for the past eight years. He is certified to treat clients across the lifespan. Dr. Melanio embrace in helping clients with a variety of psychiatric illnesses including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more.
![Photo of Anna Binder - Baskina - Psych 4 U, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ede2fbb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best. We have appointments right now available for you or your loved one.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best. We have appointments right now available for you or your loved one.
![Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c614aa52-ba96-4abf-9087-2d1e9da6bd58/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
![Photo of Rochenel Pierre - Good Shepherd Psychiatric & Medical Center, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/407ad5b4-0a19-44e4-93eb-f3070660a82b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Good Shepherd Psychiatric & Medical Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
At Good Shepherd Psychiatric & Medical Center, we believe health is not just the absence of disease, but a state of immense vitality. Our mission is to help you feel better, live longer, and become the best possible you! We tailor a unique approach to best serve each needs and goals. Our clinicians are Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Family Nurse Practitioners and License Clinical Social Workers. Our services are designed for individuals who prefer to receive psychiatric care, Primary Medical Care, and Counseling services in Assisted Living Facilities, Nursing Home Facilities, or via telehealth.
At Good Shepherd Psychiatric & Medical Center, we believe health is not just the absence of disease, but a state of immense vitality. Our mission is to help you feel better, live longer, and become the best possible you! We tailor a unique approach to best serve each needs and goals. Our clinicians are Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Family Nurse Practitioners and License Clinical Social Workers. Our services are designed for individuals who prefer to receive psychiatric care, Primary Medical Care, and Counseling services in Assisted Living Facilities, Nursing Home Facilities, or via telehealth.
![Photo of William Hyman - Psych4U, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c67e4eec-d7d8-47d0-889b-8644e9d6c79e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mr. Hyman has been a mental health provider for approximately twenty years. He earned his master’s degree at Boston College and is ANCC certified in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has a great deal of experience working with special populations.
Mr. Hyman has been a mental health provider for approximately twenty years. He earned his master’s degree at Boston College and is ANCC certified in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has a great deal of experience working with special populations.
![Photo of Keith Wasserman - Caring Therapists, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b4f5fa7-73d1-4942-8779-0c7c392d4a91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caring Therapists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
Welcome to Caring Therapist, a compassionate mental health practice dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric services and medication management for children, teenagers, and adults. Led by our experienced Psychiatrist ARNP, we offer personalized care and evidence-based treatments to support individuals in Broward and Palm Beach County. Our goal is to help you achieve optimal mental well-being and lead a fulfilling life.
Welcome to Caring Therapist, a compassionate mental health practice dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric services and medication management for children, teenagers, and adults. Led by our experienced Psychiatrist ARNP, we offer personalized care and evidence-based treatments to support individuals in Broward and Palm Beach County. Our goal is to help you achieve optimal mental well-being and lead a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Justin Nepa - Refresh Psychiatry and Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fee801b-016e-493f-84f8-7b266f3bf0f7/1/320x400.png)
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We strive to provide the highest quality evidence-based, compassionate care through a combination of medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients/families overcome their most difficult challenges and achieve their greatest goals to lead their most joyful, fulfilling lives.
![Photo of Roberto Carmona, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b2590e-7b92-4ecd-ab90-16350172f1be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Roberto Carmona
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33025
Born and raised in Cuba, Dr. Carmona received his Doctorate of Medicine (MD) in GI & Family Medicine at the Havana Medical School, and practiced as a physician from 2002 to 2009. In 2007, Dr. Carmona moved to the Republic of Namibia in Southern Africa, where for two years he provided critical medical services to roughly twenty-five thousand people living in rural villages and isolated areas.
Born and raised in Cuba, Dr. Carmona received his Doctorate of Medicine (MD) in GI & Family Medicine at the Havana Medical School, and practiced as a physician from 2002 to 2009. In 2007, Dr. Carmona moved to the Republic of Namibia in Southern Africa, where for two years he provided critical medical services to roughly twenty-five thousand people living in rural villages and isolated areas.
See more therapy options for Pembroke Pines
Nearby Searches for Pembroke Pines
- Cooper City
- Davie
- Hallandale
- Hallandale Beach
- Hollywood
- Miami Gardens
- Miami Lakes
- Miramar
- North Miami Beach
- Plantation
- Sunrise
- Weston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pembroke Pines, FL
40+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Pembroke Pines, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
98% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | ADHD |
81% | Medication Management |
64% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Aetna |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Pembroke Pines, FL see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pembroke Pines?
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.