Psychiatrists in Waterloo, IA
![Photo of Kelly Jo Scheffert, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21d87716-55c0-4b9e-a621-df47c40dd48b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Jo Scheffert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
![Photo of Tami Hill, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cbfcbf7-e95a-425b-96ea-37f1abbfac71/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients. Tami works with individuals ages 14 to 64. It is important to her to help break the stigma around mental health in general. She is a compassionate and down to earth individual, giving her a natural ability to form and build relationships with others.
Accepting new clients. Tami works with individuals ages 14 to 64. It is important to her to help break the stigma around mental health in general. She is a compassionate and down to earth individual, giving her a natural ability to form and build relationships with others.
![Photo of Darnelle Scott - Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af72d16f-0537-471e-ac21-a97f1f0976b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703 (Online Only)
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
![Photo of Neelam Thomas, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9fb24bf-16f2-4276-bdd4-d4f1df44b2f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neelam Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
Neelam is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified in children, adolescent, and adult populations. Her goal is to partner with her patients for the best mental wellness outcome. Neelam has a wide range of experience including acute and crisis inpatient care. Her credentials include a BSN and MSN in Nursing at Allen College and a BSN in Psychology at Iowa State University.
Neelam is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified in children, adolescent, and adult populations. Her goal is to partner with her patients for the best mental wellness outcome. Neelam has a wide range of experience including acute and crisis inpatient care. Her credentials include a BSN and MSN in Nursing at Allen College and a BSN in Psychology at Iowa State University.
![Photo of Cassy Lensing, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f558f137-e5e4-49a7-94be-057e8f561a31/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated with my Master's of Science in Nursing in 2021 and have worked as a provider in the Cedar Valley in a variety of settings including corrections, community behavioral health, and caring for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Prior to obtaining my graduate degree, I worked as a psychiatric nurse for 8 years in correctional, inpatient mental health, outpatient, substance use/detox, and community-based treatment settings. I value my diverse work experience and believes that it assists me to meet individuals where they are at in life.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated with my Master's of Science in Nursing in 2021 and have worked as a provider in the Cedar Valley in a variety of settings including corrections, community behavioral health, and caring for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Prior to obtaining my graduate degree, I worked as a psychiatric nurse for 8 years in correctional, inpatient mental health, outpatient, substance use/detox, and community-based treatment settings. I value my diverse work experience and believes that it assists me to meet individuals where they are at in life.
![Photo of Veronica Holloway - Veronica Holloway , MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc293a1d-d798-4111-b6db-6731763336f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Holloway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Taking the first steps towards improving your mental health can be intimidating. I sincerely want to help you in the journey to develop hope for the future, with renewed energy, strength and passion for life. I will be there helping and guiding you, to optimize your healing and health, with evidence based recommendations. Let's review your treatment goals and an action plan on how to achieve this. Please call to schedule your appointment 515-207-0110.
Accepting new patients! Taking the first steps towards improving your mental health can be intimidating. I sincerely want to help you in the journey to develop hope for the future, with renewed energy, strength and passion for life. I will be there helping and guiding you, to optimize your healing and health, with evidence based recommendations. Let's review your treatment goals and an action plan on how to achieve this. Please call to schedule your appointment 515-207-0110.
![Photo of Claudine Onsongo - Health Growth Behavioral Services LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca9e5d9f-555b-460a-ab82-a477dc475aca/2/320x400.png)
Health Growth Behavioral Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703
At Health Growth Behavioral Services, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team members work together to provide comprehensive and evidence-based treatment to our patients. We offer initial and follow up evaluations, medication management, and other services to help our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
At Health Growth Behavioral Services, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team members work together to provide comprehensive and evidence-based treatment to our patients. We offer initial and follow up evaluations, medication management, and other services to help our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
![Photo of Morgan Christy Huls, ARNP, PMHNP, CFMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae6b0f1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Christy Huls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, CFMP
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IA 50701
Morgan created Transcend out of a passion for holistic wellness. She believes in a mind-body approach to optimal mental health and offers clients personalized, integrative care in attempt to uncover the root cause of a condition. She offers her services through telemedicine and in-person.
Morgan created Transcend out of a passion for holistic wellness. She believes in a mind-body approach to optimal mental health and offers clients personalized, integrative care in attempt to uncover the root cause of a condition. She offers her services through telemedicine and in-person.
![Photo of Zackary Ladson, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462e1717-e30f-490d-a013-a9d897de46ba/2/320x400.png)
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
![Photo of Andrew Foster, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffb76d77-afd8-4d76-b648-bf854f59bcf0/2/320x400.jpeg)
To quote Lady Gaga, just because you were “born this way” or perhaps, experienced a trauma along the way, you do not need to hide yourself. Mental health impacts each and every person at some point in our lives. As someone who has personally experienced episodes of mental distress, I realize it can be debilitating and interfere with reaching our life goals and dreams if left untreated. Fortunately, mental illness can be effectively managed with a variety of interventions. I am passionate about helping those in my care overcome feelings of mental distress, maximize their quality of life, and attain their goals and dreams.
To quote Lady Gaga, just because you were “born this way” or perhaps, experienced a trauma along the way, you do not need to hide yourself. Mental health impacts each and every person at some point in our lives. As someone who has personally experienced episodes of mental distress, I realize it can be debilitating and interfere with reaching our life goals and dreams if left untreated. Fortunately, mental illness can be effectively managed with a variety of interventions. I am passionate about helping those in my care overcome feelings of mental distress, maximize their quality of life, and attain their goals and dreams.
![Photo of Jenna Z Berendzen, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b52292e-6ff5-48f9-ade8-b126b824e3e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Z Berendzen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IA 50701
Jenna has extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health has helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International.
Jenna has extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health has helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International.
![Photo of Ann Barbaro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af8b9c57-5ec0-478d-a43c-b9f80ed3c0cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Barbaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IA 50701 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
![Photo of Jennifer Nelsen, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/655cf69a-1294-4900-aa33-84bc29016cd8/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Nelsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IA 50701 (Online Only)
Jennifer is accepting NEW Patients 14+. Jennifer is here to hold space during times of crisis. She wants to help you build a treatment plan with your goals in mind. She finds meaning in helping patients who are in times of struggle, as well as, those who are ready to move from feeling “good enough” to feeling truly like themselves again.
Jennifer is accepting NEW Patients 14+. Jennifer is here to hold space during times of crisis. She wants to help you build a treatment plan with your goals in mind. She finds meaning in helping patients who are in times of struggle, as well as, those who are ready to move from feeling “good enough” to feeling truly like themselves again.
![Photo of Dr. Funmilola (Lola) Sijuade, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e48dd7a-bd83-42e5-b3e3-9a47d568b1e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Funmilola (Lola) Sijuade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703
Asking for help can be challenging but rewarding with educated and tailored services to your healthcare needs. Dr. Lola utilizes a holistic, evidence-based, and patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Psychiatric evaluation and possible medication management are offered for the following diagnoses- - 1. Anxiety 2. ADHD 3. PTSD 4. Bipolar 4. Schizophrenia 5. Adjustment disorders 6. Schizoaffective Disorders 7. Sleep issues 8. Conduct/oppositional disorders
Asking for help can be challenging but rewarding with educated and tailored services to your healthcare needs. Dr. Lola utilizes a holistic, evidence-based, and patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Psychiatric evaluation and possible medication management are offered for the following diagnoses- - 1. Anxiety 2. ADHD 3. PTSD 4. Bipolar 4. Schizophrenia 5. Adjustment disorders 6. Schizoaffective Disorders 7. Sleep issues 8. Conduct/oppositional disorders
![Photo of Megan Engen, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2721ca7a-a6da-49a5-ae55-b01ba7aa012a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Engen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
Currently accepting new clients! Megan has over 10 years experience as a nurse in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. Megan has been a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2022, and has experience in the community mental health setting.
Currently accepting new clients! Megan has over 10 years experience as a nurse in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. Megan has been a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2022, and has experience in the community mental health setting.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Crystal Lee-Cook, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7819d095-6fca-41a8-94c1-21f881eb50d9/1/320x400.png)
Crystal Lee Cook, MSN, PMHNP, APRN My approach to mental health care involves patient center care and utilizing evidence-based practice and a collaborative approach involving patient and provider insights. A holistic assessment expands the assessment beyond the purely clinical experience to include factors such as social support, cultural background, spiritual beliefs, and lifestyle factors which facilitates improved outcomes and client empowerment.
Crystal Lee Cook, MSN, PMHNP, APRN My approach to mental health care involves patient center care and utilizing evidence-based practice and a collaborative approach involving patient and provider insights. A holistic assessment expands the assessment beyond the purely clinical experience to include factors such as social support, cultural background, spiritual beliefs, and lifestyle factors which facilitates improved outcomes and client empowerment.
![Photo of Anna K McMullen, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/129ecd86-eb47-4a04-bb57-d6f148d9f9d6/1/320x400.png)
Anna K McMullen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (Online Only)
I aim to provide a positive and holistic approach to medication management. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem and good self care. I use a person centered approach meaning you are in charge, we go at your speed and things should always be within your comfort level. Ultimately, I want to hear your story in whatever way you want to tell it. I believe in a trust based relationship with mutual understanding and shared decision making. My goal is work with you on being the best version of you and being there to support you in your mental health journey.
I aim to provide a positive and holistic approach to medication management. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem and good self care. I use a person centered approach meaning you are in charge, we go at your speed and things should always be within your comfort level. Ultimately, I want to hear your story in whatever way you want to tell it. I believe in a trust based relationship with mutual understanding and shared decision making. My goal is work with you on being the best version of you and being there to support you in your mental health journey.
![Photo of Breanna Millsap - Breanna Millsap-Zion 360 MH and Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dd2ef69-2a2d-4c61-b4c3-9932173e4d9d/1/320x400.png)
Breanna Millsap-Zion 360 MH and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (Online Only)
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today.
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today.
![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
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (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 Kris Haukoos, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44905e28-629f-4114-8dc5-96fc5a6e7296/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kris Haukoos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
50 Endorsed
Cedar Falls, IA 50614 (Online Only)
I love working with clients in various stages of their life. Our mental health needs change depending on where we are in life and sometimes you can feel like you've lost your way. I see children, teens, college students, and adults. Additionally, I provide care for expectant and postpartum mothers. I am experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and behavioral issues like oppositional defiant disorder.
I love working with clients in various stages of their life. Our mental health needs change depending on where we are in life and sometimes you can feel like you've lost your way. I see children, teens, college students, and adults. Additionally, I provide care for expectant and postpartum mothers. I am experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and behavioral issues like oppositional defiant disorder.
See more therapy options for Waterloo
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Waterloo, IA
10+
Average cost per session
$167
Psychiatrists in Waterloo, IA who prioritize treating:
80% | Depression |
80% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Medication Management |
53% | Trauma and PTSD |
53% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Waterloo, IA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Waterloo?
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.