Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL
![Photo of Dr. Sanaz Parsa, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0664cb1-684f-4bec-98a0-0e52dd97bf57/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have special expertise in treating individuals who have medical illnesses and are in need of medication support as a component of their care. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address their relationship or career issues. My style is professional, empathic and approachable. Psychoeducation is at the core of my practice. I collaborate regularly with your therapist/PCP to discuss and plan your best, most effective treatment course. Not everyone needs medications.
I have special expertise in treating individuals who have medical illnesses and are in need of medication support as a component of their care. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address their relationship or career issues. My style is professional, empathic and approachable. Psychoeducation is at the core of my practice. I collaborate regularly with your therapist/PCP to discuss and plan your best, most effective treatment course. Not everyone needs medications.
![Photo of Helen Lancy, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72a8ae8f-dbf8-427c-b8f4-95bcd6b16ccc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32209 (Online Only)
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
![Photo of Ashley Chatigny, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88ba6b93-f17d-49c6-962e-908475d8836c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Ashley Chatigny, DO and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to children and adults.I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include PTSD, mood disorders, and ADHD.
My name is Ashley Chatigny, DO and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to children and adults.I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include PTSD, mood disorders, and ADHD.
![Photo of Diane Edgar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf22dfb5-5995-4e4f-9f45-02600e3e6c20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Diane Edgar completed her psychiatry residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, NJ. She received her bachelor's degree in Chemistry at Florida International University in Miami, FL and stayed to complete medical school at their Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. As a South Florida native, she is fluent in English and Spanish and has experience in treating individuals from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
Dr. Diane Edgar completed her psychiatry residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, NJ. She received her bachelor's degree in Chemistry at Florida International University in Miami, FL and stayed to complete medical school at their Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. As a South Florida native, she is fluent in English and Spanish and has experience in treating individuals from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Rishell Tsujimoto-Ryzewski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0b1290e-e66b-42c5-9bab-9dc95de3ec05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. She completed her residency with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine where she served as a chief resident during her last year of training. Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski has treated patients with a wide variety of diagnoses both during her residency and after her training while working at a busy private practice clinic as well as for the Veteran’s Administration.
Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. She completed her residency with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine where she served as a chief resident during her last year of training. Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski has treated patients with a wide variety of diagnoses both during her residency and after her training while working at a busy private practice clinic as well as for the Veteran’s Administration.
![Photo of Bernadine Anderson-Clarke, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19a43cdb-fd0c-4a3a-936b-d409ddd52acd/1/320x400.png)
Bernadine Anderson-Clarke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32211
My Name is Bernadine Anderson-Clarke. I was born on the Island of Jamaica. I migrated to the USA in the late 80's. I immediately Attended Palm Beach College and attained an associate degree in the area of dental hygiene. I worked in that field for 4 years. realized that I wanted to further my education and attended South University in 1999-2003, where I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing. I worked in many areas of nursing including Intensive care, emergency medicine, and recovery. medical surgical, birth and delivery, and postpartum. I re-evaluated myself and decided that I could do better for my patients and myself.
My Name is Bernadine Anderson-Clarke. I was born on the Island of Jamaica. I migrated to the USA in the late 80's. I immediately Attended Palm Beach College and attained an associate degree in the area of dental hygiene. I worked in that field for 4 years. realized that I wanted to further my education and attended South University in 1999-2003, where I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing. I worked in many areas of nursing including Intensive care, emergency medicine, and recovery. medical surgical, birth and delivery, and postpartum. I re-evaluated myself and decided that I could do better for my patients and myself.
![Photo of Emily Goncalves, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d139565-17c3-4e00-973c-1ad2dfa06ad0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Emily Goncalves is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who earned her undergraduate degree at Syracuse University and her medical degree from the American University of Antigua. She holds an MBA from Plymouth State University focusing on health care administration. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, where she was chief resident and completed her fellowship in consultation liaison psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital/University of Miami.
Dr. Emily Goncalves is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who earned her undergraduate degree at Syracuse University and her medical degree from the American University of Antigua. She holds an MBA from Plymouth State University focusing on health care administration. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, where she was chief resident and completed her fellowship in consultation liaison psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital/University of Miami.
![Photo of Joshua Paul Werblin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8606764f-28af-4eb2-a5a1-a58e06ca9618/1/320x400.jpeg)
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
![Photo of James Tully, MSN , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c495476-d17c-4e4e-bf63-908a369d6566/2/320x400.jpeg)
James Tully
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32225
Mr. Tully graduated from Jacksonville University with a Masters in Nursing and is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He currently works full time at an outpatient office, treating adults with mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, thought disorders, abuse, trauma, and behavioral issues.
Mr. Tully graduated from Jacksonville University with a Masters in Nursing and is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He currently works full time at an outpatient office, treating adults with mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, thought disorders, abuse, trauma, and behavioral issues.
![Photo of Julie Rodriguez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eeac089-d0a2-4e53-ba9e-f7eaa22e60f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Julie Rodriguez is an ABPN boarded adult psychiatrist with clinical experience of over 15 years. Dr. Rodriguez practice focuses on medication management which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy. Dr. Rodriguez obtained her medical degree from the Universidad Catholic Madre y Maestra Dominican Republic. She then completed her residency in adult psychiatry at the University of Florida, in Gainesville.
Dr. Julie Rodriguez is an ABPN boarded adult psychiatrist with clinical experience of over 15 years. Dr. Rodriguez practice focuses on medication management which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy. Dr. Rodriguez obtained her medical degree from the Universidad Catholic Madre y Maestra Dominican Republic. She then completed her residency in adult psychiatry at the University of Florida, in Gainesville.
![Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3b22e6b-3703-4e8a-a77b-86ad0e4a0390/2/320x400.png)
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
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![Photo of Ahmed Valdes, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d03373b-4879-4a9d-af3c-060060f91b16/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ahmed Valdes is a board certified adult psychiatrist and burgeoning Geriatric Psychiatrist. After completing his undergraduate education at Florida State University, he attended medical school at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine where he graduated with a combined M.D./M.S. in Genomic Medicine. He subsequently completed psychiatry residency at Jackson Health System/University of Miami and further subspecialized with a fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry.
Dr. Ahmed Valdes is a board certified adult psychiatrist and burgeoning Geriatric Psychiatrist. After completing his undergraduate education at Florida State University, he attended medical school at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine where he graduated with a combined M.D./M.S. in Genomic Medicine. He subsequently completed psychiatry residency at Jackson Health System/University of Miami and further subspecialized with a fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry.
![Photo of Julouse Etienne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f6318a9-06df-42ca-ab55-52db51e6fafd/1/320x400.png)
Julouse Etienne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257 (Online Only)
Julouse Etienne is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in the state of Florida. She has experience working with individuals who have various mental health concerns including ADHD, depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues. Julouse also provides spiritual support if the patient requires it.
Julouse Etienne is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in the state of Florida. She has experience working with individuals who have various mental health concerns including ADHD, depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues. Julouse also provides spiritual support if the patient requires it.
![Photo of Bruce Brian Beardsley, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0ac6d7e-d8c7-484f-a6b9-372539bee3a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bruce Brian Beardsley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Hi, I'm Brian, Nurse Practitioner and founder of Introspect Mental Health. We offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy via secure video sessions (telehealth), or in-person at our Jacksonville office located in Mandarin. Our caring and highly skilled nurse practitioners are board certified in psychiatry and primary care. We specialize in diagnosing and treating primary mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, adult ADHD, and bipolar disorder, as well as substance use disorders in adults ages 18 and older.
Hi, I'm Brian, Nurse Practitioner and founder of Introspect Mental Health. We offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy via secure video sessions (telehealth), or in-person at our Jacksonville office located in Mandarin. Our caring and highly skilled nurse practitioners are board certified in psychiatry and primary care. We specialize in diagnosing and treating primary mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, adult ADHD, and bipolar disorder, as well as substance use disorders in adults ages 18 and older.
![Photo of Phillip Azouz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e0c383b-ab4f-4420-b648-101f10a340c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phillip Azouz is a general adult psychiatrist. His approach encompasses a relaxed, conversational, and non-judgmental space for clients to reflect on and integrate all aspects of their lives. He believes that vulnerability is the key to healing and growth and works with anyone looking to lift mood, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, boost attention, or heal from trauma. Dr. Azouz strives to help each client unlock their true potential. Dr. Azouz’s psychiatric practice blends the latest research in medical treatment with insights from psychotherapy and coaching.
Dr. Phillip Azouz is a general adult psychiatrist. His approach encompasses a relaxed, conversational, and non-judgmental space for clients to reflect on and integrate all aspects of their lives. He believes that vulnerability is the key to healing and growth and works with anyone looking to lift mood, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, boost attention, or heal from trauma. Dr. Azouz strives to help each client unlock their true potential. Dr. Azouz’s psychiatric practice blends the latest research in medical treatment with insights from psychotherapy and coaching.
![Photo of Nikita Richardson - Superior Health and Wellness Group , DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8ef42cf-b2cc-4c29-ae41-1a1dd4453eb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Superior Health and Wellness Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32244
I specialize in assisting individuals facing challenges with various mental health conditions. With expertise in trauma, anxiety, depression, & ADHD, I'm dedicated to making a difference. At Superior Health and Wellness, we provide comprehensive psychotherapy using diverse therapeutic techniques. Additionally, we offer expert medication management for all psychiatric concerns. Our team comprises skilled psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, and counselors. As a client-centered private practice, we prioritize your needs, ensuring top-tier personalized care. Reach out today to embark on your journey towards improved well-being.
I specialize in assisting individuals facing challenges with various mental health conditions. With expertise in trauma, anxiety, depression, & ADHD, I'm dedicated to making a difference. At Superior Health and Wellness, we provide comprehensive psychotherapy using diverse therapeutic techniques. Additionally, we offer expert medication management for all psychiatric concerns. Our team comprises skilled psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, and counselors. As a client-centered private practice, we prioritize your needs, ensuring top-tier personalized care. Reach out today to embark on your journey towards improved well-being.
![Photo of Soufyane Bourass - Elite Psychiatry Specialist, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd97f313-03d5-4eae-9a21-6a0ab248b016/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elite Psychiatry Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Seeking mental health treatment is not easy and requires courage. Our practice is aware of the challenges and barriers that prevent people from inquiring about treatment options. At ElitePsych, we provide personalized care that is customized to the individual’s need. We strive to maintain mutually respectful treatment relationships with every one of our patients.
Seeking mental health treatment is not easy and requires courage. Our practice is aware of the challenges and barriers that prevent people from inquiring about treatment options. At ElitePsych, we provide personalized care that is customized to the individual’s need. We strive to maintain mutually respectful treatment relationships with every one of our patients.
![Photo of Geraldine Rodrigues-Pratt, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ecd8ad9-3e3f-4e21-addd-872f1f36e4aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Geraldine Rodrigues-Pratt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246 (Online Only)
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from being the best version of yourself? Have you been a victim of a traumatic event? Is your child having academic or interpersonal struggles at school? Or do you feel stuck in your life and need assistance? I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience. I enjoy working with patients throughout the life span from 5 years of age and beyond. I provide medication management, psycho-education and counseling to address a wide variety of psychiatric conditions in my office or conveniently through teleconferencing using Doxy.me or FaceTime.
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from being the best version of yourself? Have you been a victim of a traumatic event? Is your child having academic or interpersonal struggles at school? Or do you feel stuck in your life and need assistance? I am a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience. I enjoy working with patients throughout the life span from 5 years of age and beyond. I provide medication management, psycho-education and counseling to address a wide variety of psychiatric conditions in my office or conveniently through teleconferencing using Doxy.me or FaceTime.
![Photo of Emily Komarczyk, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b63bf7c-cd02-43b2-8db4-d81ccc2611c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Komarczyk is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist. She takes a special interest in developing the therapeutic alliance with each patient by providing an informative, encouraging, and holistic approach to mental health. At the heart of her practice is creating a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space that allows her to work collaboratively with her patients to help them achieve their goals. Her treatment plans include evidence-based medication management as well as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Dr. Komarczyk is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist. She takes a special interest in developing the therapeutic alliance with each patient by providing an informative, encouraging, and holistic approach to mental health. At the heart of her practice is creating a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space that allows her to work collaboratively with her patients to help them achieve their goals. Her treatment plans include evidence-based medication management as well as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
![Photo of Bridget Straub - Pacifica Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46cb4945-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Located in Jacksonville FL, Pacifica Care offers Psychiatry Services, Professional Counselors and Medication Management. Our trained medical and therapy staff provide medical screening medication management services and counseling. Our intent is to provide services that help each individual achieve their optimal mental health and peace of mind. Our goal is to help our patients effectively deal with life's challenges and move forward.
Located in Jacksonville FL, Pacifica Care offers Psychiatry Services, Professional Counselors and Medication Management. Our trained medical and therapy staff provide medical screening medication management services and counseling. Our intent is to provide services that help each individual achieve their optimal mental health and peace of mind. Our goal is to help our patients effectively deal with life's challenges and move forward.
See more therapy options for Duval County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL
200+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | Aetna |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Duval 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.