Psychiatrists in Urbandale, IA
![Photo of Sheri DiGiacinto, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b4d6567-0d06-46dd-9d0d-e49cdf420504/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheri DiGiacinto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
If you are looking for down-to-earth, compassionate, mental health care from someone who actually listens, we may be a good fit! As a Vanderbilt-trained, board certified mental health nurse practitioner, I take a holistic, inclusive approach to mental health. I am a neurodivergent provider and especially enjoy working with neurodivergent folx offering ADHD evaluations, the LGBTQIA+ community, and teens!
If you are looking for down-to-earth, compassionate, mental health care from someone who actually listens, we may be a good fit! As a Vanderbilt-trained, board certified mental health nurse practitioner, I take a holistic, inclusive approach to mental health. I am a neurodivergent provider and especially enjoy working with neurodivergent folx offering ADHD evaluations, the LGBTQIA+ community, and teens!
![Photo of Malkan Pilipovic, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0b86e97-1396-4b81-a52b-20579817a991/1/320x400.jpeg)
Malkan is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to assisting clients in unlocking their innate potential and successfully navigating life's complex challenges. With an extensive background in psychiatry, Malkan offers personalized therapeutic strategies aimed at understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. He utilizes an integrative approach, combining traditional psychiatric methods with innovative techniques to foster mental and emotional growth. His expertise extends to various areas, including mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, and personal development.
Malkan is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to assisting clients in unlocking their innate potential and successfully navigating life's complex challenges. With an extensive background in psychiatry, Malkan offers personalized therapeutic strategies aimed at understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. He utilizes an integrative approach, combining traditional psychiatric methods with innovative techniques to foster mental and emotional growth. His expertise extends to various areas, including mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, and personal development.
![Photo of Dr. Thomas Koithan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7de60b2e-1a67-4372-8e78-c0a1074b3a2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Koithan is a leading board-certified psychiatrist practicing in the greater Des Moines area since 1993.
Dr. Koithan is a leading board-certified psychiatrist practicing in the greater Des Moines area since 1993.
![Photo of Nicole Roetman, ARNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/febde8ab-eb9c-4e70-9662-96a71afba46f/1/320x400.png)
Nicole Roetman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Ms. Roetman is Dual Certified Nurse Practitioner who works with clients along the life span from age 12 yo to 65 yo experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. Mrs. Roetman graduated from Drake University with her MSN, FNP-BC and the University of IA for her PMHNP-BC. She provides medication management and supportive therapy. Her treatment model emphasis providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
Ms. Roetman is Dual Certified Nurse Practitioner who works with clients along the life span from age 12 yo to 65 yo experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. Mrs. Roetman graduated from Drake University with her MSN, FNP-BC and the University of IA for her PMHNP-BC. She provides medication management and supportive therapy. Her treatment model emphasis providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
![Photo of Angie Veenstra, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73772b83-90ad-45fd-9ae2-96c2952034b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, treatment and medication management for ages 5 and up. My goal is for people to feel comfortable and confident about their treatment plan. This is accomplished with open communication, active listening on my part, and trying to gain an understanding of what is important to you. Together we will come up with a plan of care that may involve medications, but also will look at other options for testing and treatment as needed. I want you to live a life that is meaningful to you.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, treatment and medication management for ages 5 and up. My goal is for people to feel comfortable and confident about their treatment plan. This is accomplished with open communication, active listening on my part, and trying to gain an understanding of what is important to you. Together we will come up with a plan of care that may involve medications, but also will look at other options for testing and treatment as needed. I want you to live a life that is meaningful to you.
![Photo of Michelle Kubik, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1519d604-d3fb-489d-b0ee-d9272a67dbad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Kubik is a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C) and provides psychiatric care and medication management at Kingdom Counseling. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2015 with her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Michelle worked as a provider in primary care for seven years where she found her passion caring for those struggling with their mental health.
Michelle Kubik is a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C) and provides psychiatric care and medication management at Kingdom Counseling. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2015 with her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Michelle worked as a provider in primary care for seven years where she found her passion caring for those struggling with their mental health.
![Photo of Cynthia A Okojie - Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6a7360d-f84c-4c63-8e83-3a4b23a61511/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50323 (Online Only)
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
![Photo of Ruth Ann Powe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67737566-1cf6-4664-aeb7-43d3aee05dc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Ann Powe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50323 (Online Only)
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
![Photo of Stacy Wideman - Stacy Wideman , MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95ce5e4b-0b56-4082-a3c5-bb2eef0d936b/1/320x400.png)
Stacy Wideman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50323 (Online Only)
License states: CA, CO, DE, FL, IA, OR, TX UT & WA. Accepting new patients. I have 25 years of experience, in both inpatient and outpatient mental health. ANCC Board Certification Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Treatment and medication management for all specialties: Anxiety Bipolar Depression PTSD Insomnia OCD Panic Disorders and more. Most insurance accepted, Aetna, Cigna, (BCBS & Medicare FL only) & United Healthcare. Book at www.invigorationhealth.com
License states: CA, CO, DE, FL, IA, OR, TX UT & WA. Accepting new patients. I have 25 years of experience, in both inpatient and outpatient mental health. ANCC Board Certification Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Treatment and medication management for all specialties: Anxiety Bipolar Depression PTSD Insomnia OCD Panic Disorders and more. Most insurance accepted, Aetna, Cigna, (BCBS & Medicare FL only) & United Healthcare. Book at www.invigorationhealth.com
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jennifer C Melly, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/852e9add-3328-4db3-8df0-51963bf41e91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer C Melly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Provider, who provides mental health care to all ages. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient and outpatient for over 15 years. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy to improve symptomology of mental illness. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental I look forward to helping patients through their mental health journey and collaborate with the patient to provide the best care possible.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Provider, who provides mental health care to all ages. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient and outpatient for over 15 years. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy to improve symptomology of mental illness. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental I look forward to helping patients through their mental health journey and collaborate with the patient to provide the best care possible.
![Photo of Elizabeth Brake, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a2356de-0760-4e23-b8ca-50b73ac8e785/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Brake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Accepting NEW patients, we can get new patients in within a week! We 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, we can get new patients in within a week! We 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 Corey Weaver, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49a74adb-de00-40c0-9ccc-2be14e3ba2ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corey Weaver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
Corey Weaver is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has worked in healthcare in the Des Moines area for over 20 years, which includes inpatient and outpatient mental health. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. He went on to earn his Masters of Science in Nursing at Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa. Corey provides patient centered care with individualized treatment plans. Corey’s specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. Corey enjoys spending time with family, traveling, sports, and appreciates continual learning.
Corey Weaver is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has worked in healthcare in the Des Moines area for over 20 years, which includes inpatient and outpatient mental health. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. He went on to earn his Masters of Science in Nursing at Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa. Corey provides patient centered care with individualized treatment plans. Corey’s specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. Corey enjoys spending time with family, traveling, sports, and appreciates continual learning.
![Photo of Alyssa Coughennower, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/026ee291-f490-4ec2-8c9d-d76dc9dac7d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Coughennower
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
As a board-certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management to ages 14 and up for a variety of mental health disorders. I started my nursing career 10 years ago and have found my passion in mental health. I take a holistic and interdisciplinary approach. I truly believe it takes more than just medication for one to become and stay well. I will present you with options that are evidence-based and we will come to a decision that is shared.
As a board-certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management to ages 14 and up for a variety of mental health disorders. I started my nursing career 10 years ago and have found my passion in mental health. I take a holistic and interdisciplinary approach. I truly believe it takes more than just medication for one to become and stay well. I will present you with options that are evidence-based and we will come to a decision that is shared.
![Photo of Patty Ferlitsch, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/647a26ca-fa22-4c29-858a-9fb725576142/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
![Photo of Jodi Henning, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5113f777-36ad-4fbf-b0df-24fdf792b179/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jodi Henning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who provides mental health care to all ages. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and treatment options to improve symptomology of mental illness and promote self-efficacy. I bring over ten years of emergency and psychiatric nursing to my practice. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental environment. I value the importance of building lasting relationships through a working relationship.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who provides mental health care to all ages. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and treatment options to improve symptomology of mental illness and promote self-efficacy. I bring over ten years of emergency and psychiatric nursing to my practice. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental environment. I value the importance of building lasting relationships through a working relationship.
![Photo of Adreanne Perkins, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7abfe77-7214-4e6c-a36d-28f5e58364cc/1/320x400.png)
Adreanne Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
I am here to provide options for people looking to improve his/her mental health with medication management or the use of supplements. Therapy is encouraged, but not required. I treat ages 10 years and older. I strive for patients wanting to be the best version of themselves and to be functional members of society. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments.
I am here to provide options for people looking to improve his/her mental health with medication management or the use of supplements. Therapy is encouraged, but not required. I treat ages 10 years and older. I strive for patients wanting to be the best version of themselves and to be functional members of society. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments.
![Photo of Chelsea Greer, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b2da6dd-7820-4f8f-8fb8-995dfffa62b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Life can be hard. Finding mental health support can be even harder! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience working in mental health- both inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional intensity, postpartum/prepartum issues, concentration/focus, sleep issues, etc., and would like to be evaluated for medication therapy to help you through, I am here to help. Change doesn't happen without change. Today is the day.
Life can be hard. Finding mental health support can be even harder! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience working in mental health- both inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional intensity, postpartum/prepartum issues, concentration/focus, sleep issues, etc., and would like to be evaluated for medication therapy to help you through, I am here to help. Change doesn't happen without change. Today is the day.
![Photo of Lisa York, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35015f6b-9c01-4ea8-882d-e55cf1e59e73/5/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I serve adults experiencing mental health symptoms that are negatively impacting their daily lives. I offer medication management while using a holistic approach along with evidence-based treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, women’s mental health disorders and more. My therapeutic style is welcoming, warm, nonjudgmental and respectful. I have received additional training from Post Partum Support International.
Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I serve adults experiencing mental health symptoms that are negatively impacting their daily lives. I offer medication management while using a holistic approach along with evidence-based treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, women’s mental health disorders and more. My therapeutic style is welcoming, warm, nonjudgmental and respectful. I have received additional training from Post Partum Support International.
![Photo of Rebecca Baker, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be6c7128-4618-4698-a060-cb6718645eb2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Mental health contributes greatly to the happiness and well-being of an individual. I look forward to working with individuals to help create unique and individualized treatment plans that work for them. I believe the best patient care is obtained through collaboration amongst team members and with the use of the most up-to-date practices and techniques.
Mental health contributes greatly to the happiness and well-being of an individual. I look forward to working with individuals to help create unique and individualized treatment plans that work for them. I believe the best patient care is obtained through collaboration amongst team members and with the use of the most up-to-date practices and techniques.
![Photo of Lisa Weatherwax, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0639b5eb-c3c5-4b66-8eb6-df2889ba6ad6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Weatherwax
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
NOTE: I am not taking any ADHD clients at this time and do not prescribe controlled substances at this time. Thank you!
NOTE: I am not taking any ADHD clients at this time and do not prescribe controlled substances at this time. Thank you!
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Urbandale, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Urbandale, IA who prioritize treating:
89% | Medication Management |
78% | Depression |
78% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
44% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
44% | Trauma and PTSD |
44% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | Aetna |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Urbandale, IA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Urbandale?
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.