Psychiatrists in Washington
![Photo of Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b40c25-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Lawson Telehealth Available
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
I’m a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. I take a holistic approach to mental health focusing on the whole person using an empathic and non-judgmental style. I use evidence-based, complimentary, and integrative approaches to care that include lifestyle and behavioral change, in addition to medications when appropriate and safe. I practice from a client-centered approach in which we work together to make treatment and medication decisions that include your preferences and values.
![Photo of Gurpal Chahal - Clarity Mental Health and Recovery, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79e3387b-2461-46a3-a3d9-e0f147a1df0b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clarity Mental Health and Recovery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Gurpal Chahal and I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. For the fastest response, please send a booking request through provider.kareo.com/gurpal-chahal-1. In my practice, I aim to work with you in managing your mental health medications through a way that works for you. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship and collaborating as a partner with you in your care.
Hi, my name is Gurpal Chahal and I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. For the fastest response, please send a booking request through provider.kareo.com/gurpal-chahal-1. In my practice, I aim to work with you in managing your mental health medications through a way that works for you. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship and collaborating as a partner with you in your care.
![Photo of Christopher A Schuman, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/521aaa1a-948f-4064-994b-0661b2af29c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher A Schuman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98409 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Over 10+ yrs experience in public service (911 dispatcher) and healthcare (ICU nurse). Are you struggling with a depressed mood, anxiety, insomnia, or nightmares? Has your therapist recommended medication? Are you worried about side effects or being on medications forever? I can help you answer these questions. I provide conservative medication management and supportive psychotherapy. I can also help patients STOP medication.
Over 10+ yrs experience in public service (911 dispatcher) and healthcare (ICU nurse). Are you struggling with a depressed mood, anxiety, insomnia, or nightmares? Has your therapist recommended medication? Are you worried about side effects or being on medications forever? I can help you answer these questions. I provide conservative medication management and supportive psychotherapy. I can also help patients STOP medication.
![Photo of Brett Lee Wadsworth - Wadsworth Psychiatric Services PLLC, MSN, JD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4540e7c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wadsworth Psychiatric Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, JD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
Accepting new patients with appointments available in the same week. Treatment for children and adults with various conditions. Conditions treated but not limited to are: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD (children and adults), Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Suboxone Treatment for Opioid Dependence, and Dementia.
Accepting new patients with appointments available in the same week. Treatment for children and adults with various conditions. Conditions treated but not limited to are: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD (children and adults), Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Suboxone Treatment for Opioid Dependence, and Dementia.
![Photo of Steven K Elrod, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f964041-b3df-42c8-87f8-0acbe717823a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Anger? A psychiatric evaluation and research backed treatment could put you back on the right path.
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Anger? A psychiatric evaluation and research backed treatment could put you back on the right path.
![Photo of Daniel Halter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17b9922b-a026-48ae-9579-43da429594d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have treated a diverse group of clients from all races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have found that everyone's needs and goals are different, there is no "ideal client" in my opinion. Half the battle is recognizing there is a problem in your life which could be improved with treatment. A client that is ready to have open communication with their provider and do the work necessary in order to improve the quality of their life, that is whom I wish to work with. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a client's symptoms decrease and their quality of life improve because of the treatment I have provided.
I have treated a diverse group of clients from all races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have found that everyone's needs and goals are different, there is no "ideal client" in my opinion. Half the battle is recognizing there is a problem in your life which could be improved with treatment. A client that is ready to have open communication with their provider and do the work necessary in order to improve the quality of their life, that is whom I wish to work with. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a client's symptoms decrease and their quality of life improve because of the treatment I have provided.
![Photo of Dr. Abebe Belete, D, N, P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/796c9250-d25c-4609-b52b-9d86db6276d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Abebe Belete
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, D, N, P
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I recognize that each individual is unique, and I am committed to providing personalized and compassionate care. Whether managing complex mental health conditions, navigating life transitions, or seeking emotional support. I am here to listen, empathize, and collaborate on a treatment plan that aligns with my client's specific circumstances and goals. I specialize in treating mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders.
I recognize that each individual is unique, and I am committed to providing personalized and compassionate care. Whether managing complex mental health conditions, navigating life transitions, or seeking emotional support. I am here to listen, empathize, and collaborate on a treatment plan that aligns with my client's specific circumstances and goals. I specialize in treating mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders.
![Photo of Ferdinand Akoko - Safe Space psychiatry group, PMHNP, Freddy, Akoko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4086efa0-673f-4606-8b75-be9b6759f55a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Safe Space psychiatry group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Freddy, Akoko
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Welcome to Safe Space Clinic, where compassionate care meets expertise in psychiatric and family medicine. As co-owners, Ferdinand Akoko (Freddy) PMHNP-BC and Nadege Akoko (Nadi) FNP-BC are committed to providing a holistic approach to healthcare. Freddy specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, bringing years of experience and dedication to helping patients achieve mental wellness. Nadi specializes in family practice, offering comprehensive care for patients of all ages
Welcome to Safe Space Clinic, where compassionate care meets expertise in psychiatric and family medicine. As co-owners, Ferdinand Akoko (Freddy) PMHNP-BC and Nadege Akoko (Nadi) FNP-BC are committed to providing a holistic approach to healthcare. Freddy specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, bringing years of experience and dedication to helping patients achieve mental wellness. Nadi specializes in family practice, offering comprehensive care for patients of all ages
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a886743d-d473-428d-9ab2-e5cf64f3db85/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Ethiopia Zerfu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5855741f-051d-4eeb-900b-b71d73b15877/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ethiopia Zerfu is a Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with two decades of experience providing high-impact healthcare in Washington. The inclusiveness of her care is furthered by her bilingualism in English and Amharic. Ms. Zerfu earned her bachelor's from the University of Washington and her master's degree from Walden University. She is an active member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Within healthcare, she has worked in various specialties and has found her passion in psychiatry.
Ethiopia Zerfu is a Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with two decades of experience providing high-impact healthcare in Washington. The inclusiveness of her care is furthered by her bilingualism in English and Amharic. Ms. Zerfu earned her bachelor's from the University of Washington and her master's degree from Walden University. She is an active member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Within healthcare, she has worked in various specialties and has found her passion in psychiatry.
![Photo of Helen Ezinne Mettu, MSN, CRNP , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/110baaed-301f-4fc1-9e83-669dcca58472/2/320x400.jpeg)
Helen Ezinne Mettu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner currently accepting new clients, I've been in clinical practice since 2010. Specializing in understanding the unique challenges patients face. My expertise includes addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, medication management, and more. My goal is to provide the support and guidance necessary for clients to achieve a happier, healthier life.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner currently accepting new clients, I've been in clinical practice since 2010. Specializing in understanding the unique challenges patients face. My expertise includes addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, medication management, and more. My goal is to provide the support and guidance necessary for clients to achieve a happier, healthier life.
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![Photo of Molly Dutton, MS, MN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9565d08a-fdf3-4d48-87e9-99477fd55435/1/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Dutton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98506 (Online Only)
I would like to thank you for already getting this far. You’ve found this website and started the journey of asking for help and feeling better. Let’s see what we can do together. Now that you’re here, know you are in a safe place. My passion is working to help people process the trauma life can bring. I strive to help anyone who has been through life’s trials and isn’t sure what to do from here. There will never be any judgment on where you are today and what your life has looked like to get here.
I would like to thank you for already getting this far. You’ve found this website and started the journey of asking for help and feeling better. Let’s see what we can do together. Now that you’re here, know you are in a safe place. My passion is working to help people process the trauma life can bring. I strive to help anyone who has been through life’s trials and isn’t sure what to do from here. There will never be any judgment on where you are today and what your life has looked like to get here.
![Photo of Erin S McManus - McPsych, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c01fa719-bd72-4736-a85d-f84babef6dc3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I start with a psychiatric evaluation to better understand my patients and make an informed decision when it comes to diagnosis. After this, therapy and/or medication management are options. I see ages 10-55. I have worked with patients with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism, DMDD, Bipolar, PTSD, and Psychosis. I offer in person and telehealth appointments. In person available Tuesday and Wednesdays only. Telehealth Tuesday-Friday. I do not do testing for Autism. I have a colleague I use for ADHD testing.
I start with a psychiatric evaluation to better understand my patients and make an informed decision when it comes to diagnosis. After this, therapy and/or medication management are options. I see ages 10-55. I have worked with patients with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism, DMDD, Bipolar, PTSD, and Psychosis. I offer in person and telehealth appointments. In person available Tuesday and Wednesdays only. Telehealth Tuesday-Friday. I do not do testing for Autism. I have a colleague I use for ADHD testing.
![Photo of Dr. Celina Egemasi, DNP, NP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5122302b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Celina Egemasi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, NP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yakima, WA 98902 (Online Only)
Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults and elderly. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree and Brandman University with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Post Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. Dr. Egemasi is part of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society and Golden Key International
Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults and elderly. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree and Brandman University with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Post Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. Dr. Egemasi is part of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society and Golden Key International
![Photo of Rozina Lakhani, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d344403-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
![Photo of Behavioral Health Solutions, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/904cf5a2-e3bc-4c25-9b4f-9ca8f2bb730b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate Availabilitiy! Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. We would love to help you understand how to address your concerns. We provide a safe environment that allows you to discuss your problems without feeling shame or judgement. Your help is just an email or phone call away!
Immediate Availabilitiy! Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. We would love to help you understand how to address your concerns. We provide a safe environment that allows you to discuss your problems without feeling shame or judgement. Your help is just an email or phone call away!
![Photo of Adam Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bb59a4e-48b0-4079-91e7-392f57f53624/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660 (Online Only)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
![Photo of Jan Gullette, MN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/184f26ca-5a73-4754-b074-2fac814e5f4d/7/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to therapy is to acknowledge and respect that this is a collaborative process where we together explore how your beliefs, thoughts, and unique chemistry, along with your physical health, social and spiritual experiences affect who you are and how satisfied you are with your life. In a safe and comfortable environment we can learn what it is you are want to understand and what you wish to accomplish in our work together. I provide counseling, therapy, medication management and alternatives to medication when indicated. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families.
My approach to therapy is to acknowledge and respect that this is a collaborative process where we together explore how your beliefs, thoughts, and unique chemistry, along with your physical health, social and spiritual experiences affect who you are and how satisfied you are with your life. In a safe and comfortable environment we can learn what it is you are want to understand and what you wish to accomplish in our work together. I provide counseling, therapy, medication management and alternatives to medication when indicated. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families.
![Photo of Lindsay Nourse, DMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3851b09-5410-47a2-a8b6-f43f3976e7e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Nourse
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
Lacey, WA 98516
Not accepting new clients
I have 12 years of experience working in family medicine. While working in family medicine, I developed a passion for treating those with mental health conditions and decided I wanted to practice in this area of medicine full time. I am a native of the Pacific Northwest, and earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Oregon. I earned her master’s degree and P.A. education at Rocky Mountain College in Billings, MT.
I have 12 years of experience working in family medicine. While working in family medicine, I developed a passion for treating those with mental health conditions and decided I wanted to practice in this area of medicine full time. I am a native of the Pacific Northwest, and earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Oregon. I earned her master’s degree and P.A. education at Rocky Mountain College in Billings, MT.
![Photo of Mercy Itesa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eda46aa9-ddd4-4035-a034-01ab51421c22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Experience in working with individuals across the life span, struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, psychotic disorders, and other diagnoses.
Experience in working with individuals across the life span, struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, psychotic disorders, and other diagnoses.
See more therapy options for Washington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Washington who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
81% | Medication Management |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | ADHD |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Washington see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
29% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Washington?
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.