Psychiatrists in Brunswick, GA
![Photo of Kourtney Gibson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbdcc1ed-5b07-4e2b-b27c-ec987443b3e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kourtney was born and raised in Pierce County, GA but has called the Golden Isles her home since 2015. She received her Master of Science from Walden University. She has worked in a variety of both inpatient and outpatient settings for over 10 years. Kourtney treats mental health from a complete, holistic, and individualized perspective, offering both psychotherapy and psychiatric services throughout your visit. At this time Kourtney does NOT prescribe any psychostimulants such as Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Vyvanse, etc.
Kourtney was born and raised in Pierce County, GA but has called the Golden Isles her home since 2015. She received her Master of Science from Walden University. She has worked in a variety of both inpatient and outpatient settings for over 10 years. Kourtney treats mental health from a complete, holistic, and individualized perspective, offering both psychotherapy and psychiatric services throughout your visit. At this time Kourtney does NOT prescribe any psychostimulants such as Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Vyvanse, etc.
![Photo of Jessica Coleman, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a83c230-3bae-480d-b960-311e0f380bca/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner accepting new patients. I have worked in both inpatient crisis stabilization units and outpatient psychiatric and substance abuse settings.
I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner accepting new patients. I have worked in both inpatient crisis stabilization units and outpatient psychiatric and substance abuse settings.
![Photo of Lonnie T Scarborough, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468577a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I've been a psychiatrist for over 30 years and have worked in many areas within the field. I trained during the era when psychiatrists still saw people in psychotherapy and treated them with medications when necessary. Gradually, the psychiatrist's role has shifted away from one as a psychotherapist toward one as a specialist in biological interventions, usually medications. Certainly not every patient asking for help from mental health professionals needs medication, but most patients who need medication or who can benefit from medication can also benefit from focused psychotherapy. I still have this perspective and utilize it as much as possible.
I've been a psychiatrist for over 30 years and have worked in many areas within the field. I trained during the era when psychiatrists still saw people in psychotherapy and treated them with medications when necessary. Gradually, the psychiatrist's role has shifted away from one as a psychotherapist toward one as a specialist in biological interventions, usually medications. Certainly not every patient asking for help from mental health professionals needs medication, but most patients who need medication or who can benefit from medication can also benefit from focused psychotherapy. I still have this perspective and utilize it as much as possible.
![Photo of Gloria Chine - Chine mental health services, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb354c12-90f6-494f-931f-d7faa3586d14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chine mental health services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, GA 31520 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental health? Are things becoming overwhelming & unmanageable? My name is Gloria Chine, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of mental health experience. I have extensive inpatient and outpatient experience. I provide comprehensive mental health evaluations, medication management & therapy. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, bipolar, anger issues, ADHD, PTSD (trauma), schizophrenia and not limiting to other mental illness. I have daily appointments. Please schedule your appointment via my website.
Are you struggling to balance your mental health? Are things becoming overwhelming & unmanageable? My name is Gloria Chine, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of mental health experience. I have extensive inpatient and outpatient experience. I provide comprehensive mental health evaluations, medication management & therapy. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, bipolar, anger issues, ADHD, PTSD (trauma), schizophrenia and not limiting to other mental illness. I have daily appointments. Please schedule your appointment via my website.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Kristen Erica Hunkin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75fd3cf-f5d6-46a3-bfe6-df14548b8a8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNPBC) and family nurse practitioner (FNPC), with a PhD in behavioral neuroendocrinology. She is passionate about providing quality, collaborative, and comprehensive mental health services to patients across the life span. Erica possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidencebased guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Erica's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and prescriber.
Erica is a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNPBC) and family nurse practitioner (FNPC), with a PhD in behavioral neuroendocrinology. She is passionate about providing quality, collaborative, and comprehensive mental health services to patients across the life span. Erica possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidencebased guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Erica's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and prescriber.
![Photo of Katrina Denise Scannelli - Current Mind Care, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b2f983-1507-414d-ba30-19e0e2e460f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are seeking expert medication management, you have come to the right place. We put you first, while we focus on quality care and convenience. As a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry, I am not only knowledgeable, I also have a deep personal connection to the challenges of mental health. Growing up with close family and friends who battled depression and anxiety, I witnessed firsthand the impact these conditions can have on you and your loved ones. This experience has ignited my passion for psychiatry and set me on a path to help anyone interested in making a better life for themselves.
If you are seeking expert medication management, you have come to the right place. We put you first, while we focus on quality care and convenience. As a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry, I am not only knowledgeable, I also have a deep personal connection to the challenges of mental health. Growing up with close family and friends who battled depression and anxiety, I witnessed firsthand the impact these conditions can have on you and your loved ones. This experience has ignited my passion for psychiatry and set me on a path to help anyone interested in making a better life for themselves.
![Photo of Alexa Reames - Coastal Behavioral Health Outpatient Program, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e69f26ca-610e-44f9-af16-9534a64788fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Coastal Behavioral Health provides outpatient services designed to meet the unique needs of adults 18 and older who experience substance use problems, psychiatric symptoms and dual diagnosis of both conditions, but do not require an inpatient level of care. Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) utilize evidence-based methodologies and provide comprehensive treatment to target specific disorders and are provided as part of the continuum of care at Coastal Behavioral Health. Outpatient services are available to clients who need counseling but do not require 24-hour inpatient care.
Coastal Behavioral Health provides outpatient services designed to meet the unique needs of adults 18 and older who experience substance use problems, psychiatric symptoms and dual diagnosis of both conditions, but do not require an inpatient level of care. Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) utilize evidence-based methodologies and provide comprehensive treatment to target specific disorders and are provided as part of the continuum of care at Coastal Behavioral Health. Outpatient services are available to clients who need counseling but do not require 24-hour inpatient care.
![Photo of Caroline DeRosa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14347e8b-07e6-470f-ac39-000fc0d9f3c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline DeRosa, PMHNP Caroline DeRosa is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who started practicing in 2015. She has a BA in Psychology from Sewanee: University of the South, an MSN from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, and an M.Ed. in Human Development Counseling from Vanderbilt University Peabody College. Caroline believes in working collaboratively with her patients in developing and implementing their unique treatment plans.
Caroline DeRosa, PMHNP Caroline DeRosa is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who started practicing in 2015. She has a BA in Psychology from Sewanee: University of the South, an MSN from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, and an M.Ed. in Human Development Counseling from Vanderbilt University Peabody College. Caroline believes in working collaboratively with her patients in developing and implementing their unique treatment plans.
![Photo of Edyn McKinnon, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19a7a4ef-78b7-47c8-bf61-3d6e83d3b390/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edyn McKinnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Axson, GA 31624 (Online Only)
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
I work with individuals from the age of 6 to geriatrics. I have had the pleasure to work on several inpatient crisis stability units for adult age patients 18-55 years old as well as geriatric units for patients ages 55 years and older. I have also worked in a private practice setting for the past 3 years that I just recently left. I felt it was time to move out more on my own. So here I am, I have come to realize when you love what you do it no longer truly is work.
![Photo of Karen Brazell, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11a05281-b9a1-4b15-91e2-aed41bd2a8c5/4/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Brazell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Statesboro, GA 30458 (Online Only)
Good day! I'm Karen, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with training in both psychiatry and family medicine. I'm passionate about truly listening and helping you develop an individualized treatment plan that provides a brighter solution for your mental wellness and overall health. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. I offer holistic and collaborative treatment options at convenient times, all from the comfort of your home.
Good day! I'm Karen, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with training in both psychiatry and family medicine. I'm passionate about truly listening and helping you develop an individualized treatment plan that provides a brighter solution for your mental wellness and overall health. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. I offer holistic and collaborative treatment options at convenient times, all from the comfort of your home.
![Photo of Kasara Helou, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, MPH, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1c28346-8393-4c08-940f-e91996e1cc4c/2/320x400.png)
Kasara provides effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults, adolescents and children. She treats a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, ADHD and autism. She coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. She has a strong background working with children and adolescents alongside Dr. Julie Jensen, but also has a longstanding history caring for adults, the elderly and underserved.
Kasara provides effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults, adolescents and children. She treats a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, ADHD and autism. She coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. She has a strong background working with children and adolescents alongside Dr. Julie Jensen, but also has a longstanding history caring for adults, the elderly and underserved.
![Photo of Whitney Krawczyk, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1da09ce7-1617-4224-a1af-30a5c356e47d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney works with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder. She has 7 years of nursing experience in hospital and outpatient settings, working with patients from various backgrounds with chronic medical and mental health conditions. She develops clear concise treatment plans through a patient-centered approach, utilizing medications, lifestyle changes, and supportive psychotherapy as needed.
Whitney works with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder. She has 7 years of nursing experience in hospital and outpatient settings, working with patients from various backgrounds with chronic medical and mental health conditions. She develops clear concise treatment plans through a patient-centered approach, utilizing medications, lifestyle changes, and supportive psychotherapy as needed.
![Photo of Joseph Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3983d74a-1aae-4f38-b7b0-efb6ac1b2111/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Walker is welcoming new patients for video appointments. It is easy to make an appointment simply go to his website and click book appointment at the top of the screen. As a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner he specializes in the treatment of anxiety and depression for both children and adults. He has treated children and adults in inpatient crisis stabilization units, community mental health centers, small group practice, and in private practice.
Joseph Walker is welcoming new patients for video appointments. It is easy to make an appointment simply go to his website and click book appointment at the top of the screen. As a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner he specializes in the treatment of anxiety and depression for both children and adults. He has treated children and adults in inpatient crisis stabilization units, community mental health centers, small group practice, and in private practice.
![Photo of Kevin Winders, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c9b6ec4-b3fa-45f4-b62e-369460a5fb22/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Winders is Board Certified in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He specializes in the evaluation and medication management of psychiatric disorders as well as brief supportive therapy. He works mostly with children and young to middle-aged adults.
Dr. Winders is Board Certified in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He specializes in the evaluation and medication management of psychiatric disorders as well as brief supportive therapy. He works mostly with children and young to middle-aged adults.
![Photo of Pamela Mokoko - Dr. Pamela Mokoko, LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c515ce1-3c03-4f20-b99e-1890ebda115f/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Pamela Mokoko, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31419
I am a board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of various mental health disorder across life span, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, substance abuse, oppositional defiant disorder and antisocial personality. Collaborating with other clinicians , I also provide Individual, Couples and Family psychotherapy. My approach is Patient Centered and Comprehensive. I will take the time to get to know you and understand your specific concerns and goals. Using motivational interview, together we will work to address your goals so that you can have a more fulfilling relationships and life experiences.
I am a board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of various mental health disorder across life span, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, substance abuse, oppositional defiant disorder and antisocial personality. Collaborating with other clinicians , I also provide Individual, Couples and Family psychotherapy. My approach is Patient Centered and Comprehensive. I will take the time to get to know you and understand your specific concerns and goals. Using motivational interview, together we will work to address your goals so that you can have a more fulfilling relationships and life experiences.
![Photo of Sheeba Samuel, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4291b28a-72ef-4bab-9003-e4ea21b2c87a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheeba Samuel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31415 (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Psychiatrist Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in nursing and a deep passion for mental health, I bring a unique blend of skills and experiences to my practice. Having spent many years as a nurse, I have seen the profound impact that mental health struggles can have on individuals and their families. My passion for mental health is not just a profession; it's a deeply personal commitment.
As a Board Certified Psychiatrist Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in nursing and a deep passion for mental health, I bring a unique blend of skills and experiences to my practice. Having spent many years as a nurse, I have seen the profound impact that mental health struggles can have on individuals and their families. My passion for mental health is not just a profession; it's a deeply personal commitment.
![Photo of Keldreca Thomas, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e24106a2-a5fa-43dc-831e-d635272eea2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Keldreca Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Savannah, GA 31401 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sexual disorders, intimacy concerns, trauma and behavioral issues. I understand that it can be difficult to make positive changes in your life, but I am here to support you. My focus is on serving clients who are open-minded, solution-focused, and ready to take control of their personal growth and development.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sexual disorders, intimacy concerns, trauma and behavioral issues. I understand that it can be difficult to make positive changes in your life, but I am here to support you. My focus is on serving clients who are open-minded, solution-focused, and ready to take control of their personal growth and development.
![Photo of Windy Meadows, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/765268fc-6c47-4e88-84a3-1ed97a6599e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Windy Meadows is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2015. She has an ASN in Sociology, a BSN from College of Coastal Georgia, an MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgia Southern University, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Georgia Southern University. Windy's treatment philosophy is patient centered. She meets the patient where they are in life and treats the patient as a whole. All aspects of the person's life effect mental health and mental health effects all aspects of their life.
Windy Meadows is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Georgia who has been practicing since 2015. She has an ASN in Sociology, a BSN from College of Coastal Georgia, an MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgia Southern University, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Georgia Southern University. Windy's treatment philosophy is patient centered. She meets the patient where they are in life and treats the patient as a whole. All aspects of the person's life effect mental health and mental health effects all aspects of their life.
![Photo of Dr. Tyquitta Perrier, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe6469f1-f380-4adf-90ea-c31dd25b4807/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tyquitta Perrier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hinesville, GA 31313
At Livality Integrated Health, we employ a non-judgmental and welcoming approach to hold space for healing. With a background in physical health, but also extensively mental health & Addictions for more than 15 years, I fully recognize the complex interplay between mind and body. I welcome clients that are curious about what may lie ahead in terms of improving their health circumstances. I offer inclusive, integrated modalities dedicated to individuals reaching the best versions of themselves. I strive for each client to leave feeling heard and valued.
At Livality Integrated Health, we employ a non-judgmental and welcoming approach to hold space for healing. With a background in physical health, but also extensively mental health & Addictions for more than 15 years, I fully recognize the complex interplay between mind and body. I welcome clients that are curious about what may lie ahead in terms of improving their health circumstances. I offer inclusive, integrated modalities dedicated to individuals reaching the best versions of themselves. I strive for each client to leave feeling heard and valued.
![Photo of Alivia McMahan, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bcaa6ef-2ec3-4378-8250-f2a7af71d224/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alivia McMahan is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology at Georgia Southern University and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at South University in Savannah, Georgia. She is a member of the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants and American Academy of Physician Assistants. Alivia specializes in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions and is passionate about helping patients to feel their best and improve their quality of life.
Alivia McMahan is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology at Georgia Southern University and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at South University in Savannah, Georgia. She is a member of the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants and American Academy of Physician Assistants. Alivia specializes in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions and is passionate about helping patients to feel their best and improve their quality of life.
See more therapy options for Brunswick
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Brunswick, GA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Brunswick, GA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Addiction |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
44 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Brunswick, GA see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Brunswick?
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.