Psychiatrists in Keokuk, IA
![Photo of Jennifer Griffith, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8205c4ea-0f2c-4c48-8c37-d096a5a4c37e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Keokuk, IA 52632 (Online Only)
Book with me now using my website link for a free 15-minute initial phone consultation! Hello! I am Jennifer Griffith, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with Cultivate Joy Psychiatry, LLC. I strive to listen and provide time during sessions for you to share your concerns. You are not just a diagnosis; you are a unique individual whose mental, physical, and social health all impact your overall well-being. We can work together to help you take control of your mental health and learn to not just survive, but thrive in your everyday life!
Book with me now using my website link for a free 15-minute initial phone consultation! Hello! I am Jennifer Griffith, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with Cultivate Joy Psychiatry, LLC. I strive to listen and provide time during sessions for you to share your concerns. You are not just a diagnosis; you are a unique individual whose mental, physical, and social health all impact your overall well-being. We can work together to help you take control of your mental health and learn to not just survive, but thrive in your everyday life!
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Robin Cook Kopelman, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51fd3e52-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Robin Kopelman is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and is a leading expert in the state of Iowa in the fields of Women’s and Maternal/Perinatal Mental Health. She is passionate about working with women to streamline their care to address their unique preferences and life circumstances. Her expertise includes helping patients make informed decisions about medication use related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and reproductive hormone status, while offering broader services to all women across adulthood.
Dr. Robin Kopelman is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and is a leading expert in the state of Iowa in the fields of Women’s and Maternal/Perinatal Mental Health. She is passionate about working with women to streamline their care to address their unique preferences and life circumstances. Her expertise includes helping patients make informed decisions about medication use related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and reproductive hormone status, while offering broader services to all women across adulthood.
![Photo of Courtney Ramirez, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66614281-4dcf-4f9d-a59b-8af0aa6f5b7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52246 (Online Only)
As a PMHNP-BC, I firmly believe in a collaborative and person-centered approach to mental health care. Every individual is unique, and I strive to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each person's specific needs and goals. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices, including medication management, psychotherapy techniques, and lifestyle modifications. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can express themselves freely.
As a PMHNP-BC, I firmly believe in a collaborative and person-centered approach to mental health care. Every individual is unique, and I strive to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each person's specific needs and goals. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices, including medication management, psychotherapy techniques, and lifestyle modifications. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can express themselves freely.
![Photo of Amber Arthurs, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6aa5ff3-0342-4bd8-a40b-d33364e803aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber is focused on developing a partnership with her clients by providing patient-centered care. She believes it is important to take the time to listen to her clients’ concerns and health goals to develop an optimal treatment plan. Amber’s style of practice includes traditional medicine, as well as natural treatments including but not limited to: vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management
Amber is focused on developing a partnership with her clients by providing patient-centered care. She believes it is important to take the time to listen to her clients’ concerns and health goals to develop an optimal treatment plan. Amber’s style of practice includes traditional medicine, as well as natural treatments including but not limited to: vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management
![Photo of Elizabeth Homan - Mariposa Psychiatric Center, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5489a960-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
![Photo of Margaret Burchianti, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c267b19-c8f5-4b42-a7b0-4df87657d020/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Burchianti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241 (Online Only)
I practice integrative psychiatry, which weaves together conventional psychiatric treatments like medications with complementary and alternative ones. To care for you, I will draw on functional medicine, natural and traditional remedies, lifestyle interventions, and mind-body practices. The integrative approach also tends to be much more holistic and individualized than the conventional psychiatric approach so you can expect highly personalized care. I also take a functional medicine approach, which means that we look below the surface and aim to resolve the root causes of your symptoms.
I practice integrative psychiatry, which weaves together conventional psychiatric treatments like medications with complementary and alternative ones. To care for you, I will draw on functional medicine, natural and traditional remedies, lifestyle interventions, and mind-body practices. The integrative approach also tends to be much more holistic and individualized than the conventional psychiatric approach so you can expect highly personalized care. I also take a functional medicine approach, which means that we look below the surface and aim to resolve the root causes of your symptoms.
![Photo of Chelsea Davis, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05c391bb-98af-4a74-bb8d-c49a19a17e03/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807
You are an independent individual who deserves your very own unique treatment plan. Starting from the first day we meet, I will work with you to develop that medication plan, making adjustments along the way as needed. I promise to listen to your needs and to only make decisions based on trusted research along with your continued input.
You are an independent individual who deserves your very own unique treatment plan. Starting from the first day we meet, I will work with you to develop that medication plan, making adjustments along the way as needed. I promise to listen to your needs and to only make decisions based on trusted research along with your continued input.
![Photo of Kristina Flanagan, MSN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9c35a11-b74d-466b-9452-dcb815335088/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Flanagan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
I practice patient centered care and see each patient as an individual not a diagnosis. I provided a thorough assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and help guide you to an individualized treatment plan.
I practice patient centered care and see each patient as an individual not a diagnosis. I provided a thorough assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and help guide you to an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Rachel D. Hart, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d196f1ca-cdd8-49e7-98fc-b09194bce27b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel D. Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52807
Communication and teamwork between the client and caregiver is the key. I encourage my clients to reach their wellness goals. Under my care, everyone receives an excellent education to make treatment choices.
Communication and teamwork between the client and caregiver is the key. I encourage my clients to reach their wellness goals. Under my care, everyone receives an excellent education to make treatment choices.
![Photo of Travis Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/525f0640-26bc-4995-9c79-c07c380815af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Kara Whalen, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/191a676e-e4c7-45ed-8b07-9ec101d769d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please reach out if you are interested in exploring a wholistic approach to your psychiatric care including a combination of medication therapy, integrated ketamine sessions, and motivational interviewing to identify goals and areas of dysfunction. I enjoy working with motivated individuals of all backgrounds. I have 10 plus years of experience in developing treatments plan for those suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, trauma, and personality disorders.
Please reach out if you are interested in exploring a wholistic approach to your psychiatric care including a combination of medication therapy, integrated ketamine sessions, and motivational interviewing to identify goals and areas of dysfunction. I enjoy working with motivated individuals of all backgrounds. I have 10 plus years of experience in developing treatments plan for those suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, trauma, and personality disorders.
![Photo of Esther Uangbaoje - Hecen Healthcare, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cf89d4b-dbff-4955-87a2-2339a7f1c569/2/320x400.png)
Hecen Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240 (Online Only)
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation virtually. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation virtually. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
![Photo of Christopher Okiishi, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/deb8307d-adbf-46a7-bd7a-d81df7c72261/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a third generation Iowa Mental Health Professional, I enjoy working with people of any background, in any circumstance, and with any mental health concerns. I have specialty training in working with children, adolescents as well as full training in working with adults.
As a third generation Iowa Mental Health Professional, I enjoy working with people of any background, in any circumstance, and with any mental health concerns. I have specialty training in working with children, adolescents as well as full training in working with adults.
![Photo of Ben Jaggers - Ben Jaggers Covenant Family Solutions Coralville, ARNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1dbaedb-42f3-4ea2-8ee1-a185176441bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ben Jaggers Covenant Family Solutions Coralville
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Reflective listening and genuine care are foundations to my practice. Nurturing a clinical relationship with you is the reason I am here. Together we focus on a plan that is right for your current circumstances and future goals. By providing medication management and brief supportive therapy at each session, we not only work towards reducing severe psychiatric symptoms with medications, but work towards improving engagement in healthy self care choices related to our most basic needs as people (e.g. sleep, diet, movement, relationships, safety, security).
Reflective listening and genuine care are foundations to my practice. Nurturing a clinical relationship with you is the reason I am here. Together we focus on a plan that is right for your current circumstances and future goals. By providing medication management and brief supportive therapy at each session, we not only work towards reducing severe psychiatric symptoms with medications, but work towards improving engagement in healthy self care choices related to our most basic needs as people (e.g. sleep, diet, movement, relationships, safety, security).
![Photo of Davonna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/820ab1bd-ef01-4e72-b5c2-e06c120c0f37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
![Photo of Elizabeth Brake - Bliss Psychiatry, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bc72d31-5cd1-4021-b5c1-88357b452de6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bliss Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52246 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Curtis Long, DNP, PMHNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae7b58de-a599-4b62-921c-437739511c38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Curtis Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52246
All people deal with varying levels of mental health but some face more intense circumstances. As a mental health medication prescriber, I am dedicated to providing support to you to help you unleash their potential. There is no simple blood test when it comes to determining the best mental health medication for each individual. Each person’s situation and experience is unique. Your voice and ability to share your symptoms in a calm environment is critical. A key part of my process is to listen to your questions and concerns from the first moment you meet and continually throughout treatment.
All people deal with varying levels of mental health but some face more intense circumstances. As a mental health medication prescriber, I am dedicated to providing support to you to help you unleash their potential. There is no simple blood test when it comes to determining the best mental health medication for each individual. Each person’s situation and experience is unique. Your voice and ability to share your symptoms in a calm environment is critical. A key part of my process is to listen to your questions and concerns from the first moment you meet and continually throughout treatment.
![Photo of Joshua Curphy, APNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a25d87a4-df20-4e91-b444-2162ca327c03/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical interests are focused on the treatment and management of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I am passionate about providing evidence-based, patient-centered care that addresses the individual needs of each person, with an approach that encompasses a blend of psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and holistic interventions to promote mental wellness and improve overall quality of life.
My clinical interests are focused on the treatment and management of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I am passionate about providing evidence-based, patient-centered care that addresses the individual needs of each person, with an approach that encompasses a blend of psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and holistic interventions to promote mental wellness and improve overall quality of life.
![Photo of Tonia Ajamu - Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f74e451b-f3df-45b5-90d8-dae925e97b5c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807 (Online Only)
Your mental well-being matters. Discover a safe space where healing begins, Empathetic support, personalized strategies, and a journey towards a brighter tomorrow await you at our practice. Take the first step towards a healthier mind. You deserve the care you need. Together, let's unlock your potential. I am a dedicated patient focused provider that will always seek to embrace and utilize traditional as well as innovative treatments to help you live an optimal life. I will also encourage you to participate in your treatment goals, which will enhance your mental, physical, and social wellness.
Your mental well-being matters. Discover a safe space where healing begins, Empathetic support, personalized strategies, and a journey towards a brighter tomorrow await you at our practice. Take the first step towards a healthier mind. You deserve the care you need. Together, let's unlock your potential. I am a dedicated patient focused provider that will always seek to embrace and utilize traditional as well as innovative treatments to help you live an optimal life. I will also encourage you to participate in your treatment goals, which will enhance your mental, physical, and social wellness.
![Photo of Andrew Merande - Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e28bd1c9-1f89-4bbf-978c-6504a32aa564/3/320x400.jpeg)
Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
See more therapy options for Keokuk
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Keokuk, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Keokuk, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Keokuk, IA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Keokuk?
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.