Psychiatrists in Phoenix, AZ
![Photo of Amy M Porter, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/301c0f44-95f1-497b-8985-0710d802dc47/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Connect Mental Health and Wellness, we are dedicated to supporting each client with a blend of professionalism, loyalty, and warmth. Serving clients from age 6 onwards, our team passionately works to resolve a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether managing mood disorders, relationship conflicts, or life transitions, we approach each situation with encouragement and unwavering support, focusing on enhancing your overall well-being.
At Connect Mental Health and Wellness, we are dedicated to supporting each client with a blend of professionalism, loyalty, and warmth. Serving clients from age 6 onwards, our team passionately works to resolve a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether managing mood disorders, relationship conflicts, or life transitions, we approach each situation with encouragement and unwavering support, focusing on enhancing your overall well-being.
![Photo of Chad L Jacobs, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/367a182b-9eb3-4b79-a4f7-cbf53cbb84e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I assist my clients in optimizing their cognitive, emotional, physical and spiritual health. We are all unique and require diverse approaches in order to achieve our maximum potential. I will listen to your specific concerns and tailor a treatment plan which reflects your priorities. I will never cease in my commitment to helping you achieve your goals.
I assist my clients in optimizing their cognitive, emotional, physical and spiritual health. We are all unique and require diverse approaches in order to achieve our maximum potential. I will listen to your specific concerns and tailor a treatment plan which reflects your priorities. I will never cease in my commitment to helping you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Sally A Alexander, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad1c1949-2a4f-406c-b9f1-e8f8d9e0671b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sally A Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from the University of Iowa and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in order to work with those desiring behavioral health care. Experience in a variety of settings has allowed me to provide expert care to those seeking assistance with Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Trauma/Abuse/Neglect, Buprenorphine for Substance Abuse and many others. I welcome medically complex patients and will provide a standard of care, including coordination with other specialists, in order to achieve and meet both psychiatric and medical needs.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from the University of Iowa and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in order to work with those desiring behavioral health care. Experience in a variety of settings has allowed me to provide expert care to those seeking assistance with Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Trauma/Abuse/Neglect, Buprenorphine for Substance Abuse and many others. I welcome medically complex patients and will provide a standard of care, including coordination with other specialists, in order to achieve and meet both psychiatric and medical needs.
![Photo of Jerzy Hubert, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/272fe5a8-a527-4873-a6b3-46ad0b9f9261/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jerzy Hubert, MD, is a licensed, board-certified adult psychiatrist at Serenity Mental Health Centers. His patient care philosophy is driven by a desire to meet patients where they are and help them navigate their struggles during treatment.
Jerzy Hubert, MD, is a licensed, board-certified adult psychiatrist at Serenity Mental Health Centers. His patient care philosophy is driven by a desire to meet patients where they are and help them navigate their struggles during treatment.
![Photo of Erica Lee, DNP, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fdb3067-5feb-4362-83c6-b374bfe547e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85022
Hello, I'm Erica Lee, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep passion for helping children, teens, and their loved ones navigate the complexities of mental health. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from ASU and 13 years of nursing experience, my journey into the field of mental health has been one of continuous growth and learning. I'm not just a healthcare provider; I'm a mom of three young adults, and I've experienced the trials and triumphs of parenting firsthand.
Hello, I'm Erica Lee, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep passion for helping children, teens, and their loved ones navigate the complexities of mental health. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from ASU and 13 years of nursing experience, my journey into the field of mental health has been one of continuous growth and learning. I'm not just a healthcare provider; I'm a mom of three young adults, and I've experienced the trials and triumphs of parenting firsthand.
![Photo of Dr. Maria Ingalla, DNP, PMHNPBC, PMHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec1de0dd-1c4a-49b0-94b4-bed1ebd421bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Maria Ingalla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, PMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in evaluations and medication management. I own Paperflower Psychiatry. We are an inclusive practice that can help you decide on whether medication is right for you including risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision. We have providers who hold the same values..being real with you, none of this professionalism BS and we won't shame you for cannabis use :) I have trained a few of our NPs and provide mentorship to each of them. We see ages 6-24, and promise we can give you an amazing experience. LGBTQIA+ allied!
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in evaluations and medication management. I own Paperflower Psychiatry. We are an inclusive practice that can help you decide on whether medication is right for you including risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision. We have providers who hold the same values..being real with you, none of this professionalism BS and we won't shame you for cannabis use :) I have trained a few of our NPs and provide mentorship to each of them. We see ages 6-24, and promise we can give you an amazing experience. LGBTQIA+ allied!
![Photo of Lindsey Johnson - The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e02a79af-1b60-4300-97ff-751f4fdc09f9/1/320x400.png)
The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13c72c5f-985d-44fa-9556-920f6a53d228/1/320x400.png)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Funmilayo 'tola' Akintunde - YuWellnes Telepsychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73fc8dc9-d10e-4e76-a3fe-7c1ecc0ddcb6/3/320x400.jpeg)
YuWellnes Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
Welcome to YuWellnes Telepsychiatry! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate and personalized care to individuals struggling with mental health concerns. My goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental wellness and achieve their full potential.
Welcome to YuWellnes Telepsychiatry! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate and personalized care to individuals struggling with mental health concerns. My goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental wellness and achieve their full potential.
![Photo of Lejon Wilkerson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ed6026c-8697-49e5-97f2-46255a4ac34b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lejon Wilkerson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
Lejon (LJ) Wilkerson is a ANCC Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. LJ Wilkerson has been in Mental Health for over 7 years. Lj Wilkerson is passionate about providing mental health care to all patients in need. Lj takes great pride in being a great listener and always putting the patient’s needs first. LJ recognizes the importance of providing world class health care to patients who struggle with various mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, paranoia, and many more mental health conditions.
Lejon (LJ) Wilkerson is a ANCC Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. LJ Wilkerson has been in Mental Health for over 7 years. Lj Wilkerson is passionate about providing mental health care to all patients in need. Lj takes great pride in being a great listener and always putting the patient’s needs first. LJ recognizes the importance of providing world class health care to patients who struggle with various mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, paranoia, and many more mental health conditions.
![Photo of Dr. Vincent Ekstrom, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24f72a30-e9bd-4f9b-aa16-06dfbe6deaa5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Vincent Ekstrom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027 (Online Only)
Matrix Mental Health was created with the desire to deliver measurable changes in the quality of psychiatric and mental healthcare for those who need it. We strive to display our values through actions, not words. We make treatment recommendations as if you were part of our family. We are driven by meaning and purpose. Our fundamental goal is to reduce the amount of unnecessary suffering in life.
Matrix Mental Health was created with the desire to deliver measurable changes in the quality of psychiatric and mental healthcare for those who need it. We strive to display our values through actions, not words. We make treatment recommendations as if you were part of our family. We are driven by meaning and purpose. Our fundamental goal is to reduce the amount of unnecessary suffering in life.
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![Photo of Luciana Thompson, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d89d03c-9499-4f50-b0b0-984883a96795/2/320x400.jpeg)
Luciana Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Compass Mental Health & Wellness (MHW) invites you to partner with us. At Compass MHW, you are not just another patient, you are part of a team. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health and wellness, in which the care is not focused solely on existing illness or pathology but expanded to allow for an integrative treatment program. During your sessions, you and your provider may discuss factors such as your daily habits and any existing physical conditions, in addition to your current symptoms. It is through that engagement that the provider is able to develop a customized program of care to better treat your concerns. Our
Compass Mental Health & Wellness (MHW) invites you to partner with us. At Compass MHW, you are not just another patient, you are part of a team. We believe in a holistic approach to mental health and wellness, in which the care is not focused solely on existing illness or pathology but expanded to allow for an integrative treatment program. During your sessions, you and your provider may discuss factors such as your daily habits and any existing physical conditions, in addition to your current symptoms. It is through that engagement that the provider is able to develop a customized program of care to better treat your concerns. Our
![Photo of Faith Carroll, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f29570b-e087-4a56-bad4-e91aeed28920/1/320x400.png)
The difference is Care. Perhaps you've seen a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner and felt rushed, misunderstood, or not listened to. Perhaps you've been prescribed medication without understanding what to expect or the reason for taking it. Perhaps you've never made an appointment to be evaluated for taking psychiatric medication due to fears of any or all of the above.
The difference is Care. Perhaps you've seen a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner and felt rushed, misunderstood, or not listened to. Perhaps you've been prescribed medication without understanding what to expect or the reason for taking it. Perhaps you've never made an appointment to be evaluated for taking psychiatric medication due to fears of any or all of the above.
![Photo of Preston Eyerman - Preston's Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cebd1c3-a4ee-4e56-bffa-05d1681173b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Preston's Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85013 (Online Only)
I'm Preston Eyerman, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I understand the challenges that individuals face when seeking mental health support, and I'm here to help you on your journey toward improved well-being. I believe in a personalized approach to psychiatric medication management. Drawing from my own experience with addiction and a comprehensive healthcare background, I offer a unique blend of empathy and expertise to guide you through your recovery. With a focus on evidence-based treatment and individualized care.
I'm Preston Eyerman, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I understand the challenges that individuals face when seeking mental health support, and I'm here to help you on your journey toward improved well-being. I believe in a personalized approach to psychiatric medication management. Drawing from my own experience with addiction and a comprehensive healthcare background, I offer a unique blend of empathy and expertise to guide you through your recovery. With a focus on evidence-based treatment and individualized care.
![Photo of Tatiana Sanabria, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd8e6ff7-e369-497b-b0eb-9a263c9ad0eb/1/320x400.png)
Tatiana Sanabria
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering medication management. As a healthcare professional, I believe it’s my responsibility to provide as much education about psychiatric conditions and psychotropic medications to you as I can, to help you make an informed decision about treatment. You know better than anyone else what your experience is and what your goals are. My goal is that we come up with a treatment plan together that is appropriate and doable, whether that includes medications or not. I believe that medications won’t always solve everything. Support is just as important, if not more.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering medication management. As a healthcare professional, I believe it’s my responsibility to provide as much education about psychiatric conditions and psychotropic medications to you as I can, to help you make an informed decision about treatment. You know better than anyone else what your experience is and what your goals are. My goal is that we come up with a treatment plan together that is appropriate and doable, whether that includes medications or not. I believe that medications won’t always solve everything. Support is just as important, if not more.
![Photo of Anna Lee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acefa2fa-7ca5-4d89-836c-5f4b2af4acd1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Anna Lee I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love serving my clients and work well with clients and their family members to develop a plan of care tailored specifically for them. My goal is to assist clients in discovering healthier coping skills and realistic ways to navigate stressful situations. I also manage medications for patients who are experiencing various mental health conditions.
Hi, my name is Anna Lee I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love serving my clients and work well with clients and their family members to develop a plan of care tailored specifically for them. My goal is to assist clients in discovering healthier coping skills and realistic ways to navigate stressful situations. I also manage medications for patients who are experiencing various mental health conditions.
![Photo of Meghan Baker, PMHNPBC, PMHC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efcab44f-c6b6-433d-b4de-4a374a680a11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, PMHC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
Psychiatric medications can be life-saving scaffolding in the journey to managing your mental health. Sometimes they are a lifelong; sometimes they are a situation- or life-season- specific – but you are completely in control of that long-term plan and it will always be an ongoing discussion. I am a huge advocate of integrating non-medication tools into your toolbox– self-awareness, routine, practical life changes, sunlight, activity, community, and self-compassion (the list goes on) can be small-but-huge steps to transformation. Sometimes medication can be the step to take in order to be able to build in life management skills.
Psychiatric medications can be life-saving scaffolding in the journey to managing your mental health. Sometimes they are a lifelong; sometimes they are a situation- or life-season- specific – but you are completely in control of that long-term plan and it will always be an ongoing discussion. I am a huge advocate of integrating non-medication tools into your toolbox– self-awareness, routine, practical life changes, sunlight, activity, community, and self-compassion (the list goes on) can be small-but-huge steps to transformation. Sometimes medication can be the step to take in order to be able to build in life management skills.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ed05616-611f-4ab1-b5ea-34ef07077ac7/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Pamela Allahar Psychiatric Nurse—Medication Mgmt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae4147f9-9e6d-43fd-bdfd-258744d727fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela Allahar Psychiatric Nurse—Medication Mgmt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032 (Online Only)
Do you need help with psychiatric medication? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? Need to adjust your medication for the best results? Working together, we will find the medications that work best for you. If your therapist has suggested medication, we can work collaboratively to get the best results for you. Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement to your well-being. As a board- certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can give you the support that you need with short wait times and virtual appointments.
Do you need help with psychiatric medication? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? Need to adjust your medication for the best results? Working together, we will find the medications that work best for you. If your therapist has suggested medication, we can work collaboratively to get the best results for you. Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement to your well-being. As a board- certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can give you the support that you need with short wait times and virtual appointments.
![Photo of Aimee Uwimana - Valley Mental Health & PS LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b987f511-de0a-448b-be28-ee97fec2f4ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valley Mental Health & PS LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85021
As a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner licensed in the state of Arizona and Oregon, I bring over 15 years of extensive clinical experience in diverse psychiatric and mental healthcare settings, ranging from acute care in Level 1 facilities to outpatient and urgent psychiatric care in crisis situations. My commitment is to provide person-centered, culturally appropriate, and evidence-based treatment.
As a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner licensed in the state of Arizona and Oregon, I bring over 15 years of extensive clinical experience in diverse psychiatric and mental healthcare settings, ranging from acute care in Level 1 facilities to outpatient and urgent psychiatric care in crisis situations. My commitment is to provide person-centered, culturally appropriate, and evidence-based treatment.
See more therapy options for Phoenix
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Phoenix, AZ
400+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Medication Management |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Phoenix, AZ see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
25% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Phoenix?
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.