Psychiatrists in Kootenai County, ID

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Photo of Brenda Shanley, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Shanley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814  (Online Only)
Brenda Shanley, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Adult Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years experience in mental health, specializing in medication management for mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD and more. Telehealth appointments are available in Washington and Idaho. For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit my website at: www.shanleypsychiatry.com
Brenda Shanley, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Adult Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years experience in mental health, specializing in medication management for mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD and more. Telehealth appointments are available in Washington and Idaho. For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit my website at: www.shanleypsychiatry.com
(208) 494-9746 View (208) 494-9746
Photo of Randy Goleman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Randy Goleman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hayden, ID 83835
I've had the privilege of helping people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders in different practices. My previous focus was predominantly on individuals of all ages suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
I've had the privilege of helping people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders in different practices. My previous focus was predominantly on individuals of all ages suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
(888) 701-4423 View (888) 701-4423
Photo of Katiuska Alex Vestman, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katiuska Alex Vestman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Post Falls, ID 83854
My mission is to provide exceptional care for those with common and more complex mental health struggles. While I am well-versed in all aspects of mental health needs, I specialize in perinatal mood disorders (including postpartum disorders in men and women) and substance use disorders. My background in psych started in 2002 as a mental health worker in a state facility. I have progressed as a registered nurse in labor and delivery and a PMHNP-BC with a focus on women's health. I have gained experience through many different avenues and situations. I look forward to exploring how I can serve you.
My mission is to provide exceptional care for those with common and more complex mental health struggles. While I am well-versed in all aspects of mental health needs, I specialize in perinatal mood disorders (including postpartum disorders in men and women) and substance use disorders. My background in psych started in 2002 as a mental health worker in a state facility. I have progressed as a registered nurse in labor and delivery and a PMHNP-BC with a focus on women's health. I have gained experience through many different avenues and situations. I look forward to exploring how I can serve you.
(208) 540-9239 View (208) 540-9239
Photo of Jeanette Steiner - Mental Wellness and Relationship Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Wellness and Relationship Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Patients receiving care through Mental Wellness and Relationship Services will receive quality care and individualized treatment plans. We are a group of board certified psychiatric and certified nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric mental health and addiction medication. Our providers collaborate with mental health counselors to ensure each patient is receiving adequate care through additional supports in the community.
Patients receiving care through Mental Wellness and Relationship Services will receive quality care and individualized treatment plans. We are a group of board certified psychiatric and certified nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric mental health and addiction medication. Our providers collaborate with mental health counselors to ensure each patient is receiving adequate care through additional supports in the community.
(208) 269-9256 View (208) 269-9256
Photo of Leila R Hepp, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leila R Hepp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
I am a Nurse Practitioner certified in Primary Care and Psychiatry and I love working alongside my patients to meet their goals. Whether you need to be diagnosed, want a second opinion, would like to start new medications or wean off medications, I will work with you to find the perfect combination for ultimate health- the whole person, physical mental and spiritual.
I am a Nurse Practitioner certified in Primary Care and Psychiatry and I love working alongside my patients to meet their goals. Whether you need to be diagnosed, want a second opinion, would like to start new medications or wean off medications, I will work with you to find the perfect combination for ultimate health- the whole person, physical mental and spiritual.
(208) 667-3113 View (208) 667-3113
Photo of Bruce R Stevens, Psychiatrist
Bruce R Stevens
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Post Falls, ID 83854  (Online Only)
I am bringing over 27 years of experience to a new outpatient practice here in Idaho, specializing in adult psychiatry. Previously, I served 8 years as the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry for Bon Secours Health System in Richmond, VA. I provide Online sessions statewide as well as in-person appointments in CDA. Other features of my practice included: Timely scheduling of initial appointments; Longer appointment sessions; timely responses via our messaging & email system; electronic prescribing, and electronic lab ordering.
I am bringing over 27 years of experience to a new outpatient practice here in Idaho, specializing in adult psychiatry. Previously, I served 8 years as the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry for Bon Secours Health System in Richmond, VA. I provide Online sessions statewide as well as in-person appointments in CDA. Other features of my practice included: Timely scheduling of initial appointments; Longer appointment sessions; timely responses via our messaging & email system; electronic prescribing, and electronic lab ordering.
(208) 203-0778 View (208) 203-0778
Photo of Lauren Taylor Hall - Pawsitive Pathways Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pawsitive Pathways Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815  (Online Only)
My name is Taylor Hall, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Coeur d’Alene, ID specializing in children and adolescent medication management at Pawsitive Pathways Psychiatry, LLC. I currently only offer online appointments but will be expanding to having an in office option soon! I have experience in a variety of mental health settings and have worked directly with many diagnoses seen in the younger population. I have a self-pay option and am in the process of finalizing contracts with more insurance companies. Please visit my website at pawsitivepathwayspsych.com for more information and online scheduling!
My name is Taylor Hall, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Coeur d’Alene, ID specializing in children and adolescent medication management at Pawsitive Pathways Psychiatry, LLC. I currently only offer online appointments but will be expanding to having an in office option soon! I have experience in a variety of mental health settings and have worked directly with many diagnoses seen in the younger population. I have a self-pay option and am in the process of finalizing contracts with more insurance companies. Please visit my website at pawsitivepathwayspsych.com for more information and online scheduling!
(208) 449-2860 View (208) 449-2860
Photo of Libby Lynn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Libby Lynn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
You don’t want need another provider just giving you another prescription, you want to figure out what’s actually going on, right? “Why don’t I feel like myself?” “Where did this come from?” – these are common things I hear from patients, and I want to help you solve your puzzle. As an integrative Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of healthcare experience under my belt, I have devoted a significant portion of my professional career to blending the art of healing with the science of medicine. My practice style is not just about treating symptoms; it's about nurturing holistic wellness from within.
You don’t want need another provider just giving you another prescription, you want to figure out what’s actually going on, right? “Why don’t I feel like myself?” “Where did this come from?” – these are common things I hear from patients, and I want to help you solve your puzzle. As an integrative Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of healthcare experience under my belt, I have devoted a significant portion of my professional career to blending the art of healing with the science of medicine. My practice style is not just about treating symptoms; it's about nurturing holistic wellness from within.
(208) 858-5280 View (208) 858-5280
Photo of Courtney Parker - Stability Mental Health, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stability Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance life, health, and happiness? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to integrate physical and mental health so you feel your absolute best when life is great and you're able to tackle life's challenges when it's not so great. With the right tools, support, and sometimes medication, you can work toward a life full of happiness. If you are looking for a provider who believes in you and wants to help you feel your best, we are likely to be a great fit. I am accepting new patients in ID, OR, and WA, so reach out for a free consultation today!
Are you struggling to balance life, health, and happiness? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to integrate physical and mental health so you feel your absolute best when life is great and you're able to tackle life's challenges when it's not so great. With the right tools, support, and sometimes medication, you can work toward a life full of happiness. If you are looking for a provider who believes in you and wants to help you feel your best, we are likely to be a great fit. I am accepting new patients in ID, OR, and WA, so reach out for a free consultation today!
(208) 285-4587 View (208) 285-4587
Photo of Bruce Robert Stevens, MD, Psychiatrist
Bruce Robert Stevens
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Post Falls, ID 83854
I am bringing over 27 years of experience to a new outpatient practice here in Idaho, specializing in adult psychiatry. Previously, I served 8 years as the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry for Bon Secours Health System in Richmond, VA. I provide Online sessions statewide as well as in-person appointments in CDA. Other features of my practice included: Timely scheduling of initial appointments; Longer appointment sessions; timely responses via our messaging & email system; electronic prescribing, and electronic lab ordering.
I am bringing over 27 years of experience to a new outpatient practice here in Idaho, specializing in adult psychiatry. Previously, I served 8 years as the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry for Bon Secours Health System in Richmond, VA. I provide Online sessions statewide as well as in-person appointments in CDA. Other features of my practice included: Timely scheduling of initial appointments; Longer appointment sessions; timely responses via our messaging & email system; electronic prescribing, and electronic lab ordering.
(208) 858-4873 View (208) 858-4873
Photo of Jeanette Steiner, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeanette Steiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Jeanette’s philosophy of patient care revolves around taking the time to be truly present to those who are suffering from mental health issues. She believes this is particularly relevant in our distracted and fast-paced society and also sees the importance of recognizing the dignity and uniqueness of each human person.
Jeanette’s philosophy of patient care revolves around taking the time to be truly present to those who are suffering from mental health issues. She believes this is particularly relevant in our distracted and fast-paced society and also sees the importance of recognizing the dignity and uniqueness of each human person.
(208) 858-5356 View (208) 858-5356
Photo of Carrie A` Kralicek - At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC, PhD(c), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD(c), PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815  (Online Only)
TO see availability and SCHEDULE, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com 100% Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. We send prescription medications right to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but now it takes months to get in. We created this online telepsychiatry practice for busy people. We are a group of compassionate, skilled, board-certified psychiatric mental health practitioners. We care for people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and others. We have ONLINE ADHD treatment available.
TO see availability and SCHEDULE, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com 100% Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. We send prescription medications right to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but now it takes months to get in. We created this online telepsychiatry practice for busy people. We are a group of compassionate, skilled, board-certified psychiatric mental health practitioners. We care for people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and others. We have ONLINE ADHD treatment available.
Photo of Johanna Matthews, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Johanna Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hayden, ID 83835
I believe mental wellness involves more than just the thoughts one experiences. Everything from your environment, diet, level of activity, and your relationships with other people can have an impact on your brain chemistry and your mental wellness. My hope is to develop a treatment plan with you that will help you fight mental illness, and keep it controlled for many years to come. In order to achieve this, we will focus on important aspects of your overall health including self-awareness, psychoeducation, and your interpersonal interactions and relationships.
I believe mental wellness involves more than just the thoughts one experiences. Everything from your environment, diet, level of activity, and your relationships with other people can have an impact on your brain chemistry and your mental wellness. My hope is to develop a treatment plan with you that will help you fight mental illness, and keep it controlled for many years to come. In order to achieve this, we will focus on important aspects of your overall health including self-awareness, psychoeducation, and your interpersonal interactions and relationships.
(208) 603-4065 View (208) 603-4065
Photo of Damaris Aragon, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Damaris Aragon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Same Day Appointments Available. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? Let my 30 years of nursing experience help you find a solution to your mental health needs.
Same Day Appointments Available. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? Let my 30 years of nursing experience help you find a solution to your mental health needs.
(208) 417-7637 View (208) 417-7637
Photo of Jared Bruder, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jared Bruder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Jared's philosophy of patient care holds the belief that many of the physical illnesses that are treated in primary care have a strong mental health component to them that is all too often left unaddressed. It is his goal to incorporate both the physical and the mental health disciplines into his care that he provides to his patients. This is achieved by attuning with the patient, creating individualized therapeutic and psychiatric treatment plans while working closely with the MWRS psychiatric and behavioral health specialty team to provide a collaborative approach to patient care that improves their outcomes.
Jared's philosophy of patient care holds the belief that many of the physical illnesses that are treated in primary care have a strong mental health component to them that is all too often left unaddressed. It is his goal to incorporate both the physical and the mental health disciplines into his care that he provides to his patients. This is achieved by attuning with the patient, creating individualized therapeutic and psychiatric treatment plans while working closely with the MWRS psychiatric and behavioral health specialty team to provide a collaborative approach to patient care that improves their outcomes.
(208) 925-3226 View (208) 925-3226
Photo of Carrie O'Grady, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carrie O'Grady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Post Falls, ID 83854
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal for patients is to give them the support that they need to improve their quality of life and a safe space to identify how to make that happen. I am passionate about working with with adults with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma-related disorders. As a provider, I take a collaborative approach with my patients and individualize treatment to meet your needs. I want to empower people to feel in control of their lives and their own mental health and strive to provide the tools to make informed decisions about mental healthcare.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal for patients is to give them the support that they need to improve their quality of life and a safe space to identify how to make that happen. I am passionate about working with with adults with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma-related disorders. As a provider, I take a collaborative approach with my patients and individualize treatment to meet your needs. I want to empower people to feel in control of their lives and their own mental health and strive to provide the tools to make informed decisions about mental healthcare.
(206) 203-1792 View (206) 203-1792
Photo of Davonna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Davonna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814  (Online Only)
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.
(208) 914-6756 View (208) 914-6756
Photo of Anna Blonquist, PMHNP, BC-NP, MSN, BSN, ADRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna Blonquist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC-NP, MSN, BSN, ADRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
You have taken a major step to set an appointment, I commend you because I know it’s not an easy thing to do. I am often told by patients that they hesitated to make an appointment out of fear. Patients often discuss being very nervous about their upcoming appointment. Your first session may evoke certain emotions, this is totally normal. During the appointment you will be asked about the reason for coming in. You may cry, feel awkward, or experience various kinds of emotions while discussing your concerns, but know that it is ok.
You have taken a major step to set an appointment, I commend you because I know it’s not an easy thing to do. I am often told by patients that they hesitated to make an appointment out of fear. Patients often discuss being very nervous about their upcoming appointment. Your first session may evoke certain emotions, this is totally normal. During the appointment you will be asked about the reason for coming in. You may cry, feel awkward, or experience various kinds of emotions while discussing your concerns, but know that it is ok.
(208) 218-8098 View (208) 218-8098
Photo of Duke Mutua Nyarecha - Dumu Psychiatry LLC., DNP, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dumu Psychiatry LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner the most significant part of my work is to provide a healing presence. Healing presence is being consciously and compassionately in the present moment with another or with others, believing in and affirming their potential for wholeness, wherever they are in life. I have found this an invaluable tool when dealing with patients in a mental crisis. It has helped me dismantle mistrust, helped me create rapport, helped me creating a lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients. When you are completely present, you stay awake to each unfolding moment.
As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner the most significant part of my work is to provide a healing presence. Healing presence is being consciously and compassionately in the present moment with another or with others, believing in and affirming their potential for wholeness, wherever they are in life. I have found this an invaluable tool when dealing with patients in a mental crisis. It has helped me dismantle mistrust, helped me create rapport, helped me creating a lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients. When you are completely present, you stay awake to each unfolding moment.
(208) 205-9894 View (208) 205-9894
Photo of Karen Schaaf, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Schaaf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with feelings of depression or anxiety? I can help you overcome some of these feelings. The goal would be to navigate a route toward a happier and healthier future. I look at the whole person and provide dignity and respect. I look at your needs to figure out how to work through the frustrations that you are dealing with. Guiding you through your crisis and providing problem-solving skills.
Are you grappling with feelings of depression or anxiety? I can help you overcome some of these feelings. The goal would be to navigate a route toward a happier and healthier future. I look at the whole person and provide dignity and respect. I look at your needs to figure out how to work through the frustrations that you are dealing with. Guiding you through your crisis and providing problem-solving skills.
(208) 556-7384 View (208) 556-7384

See more therapy options for Kootenai County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kootenai County, ID

20+

Average cost per session

$187

Psychiatrists in Kootenai County, ID who prioritize treating:

86% Anxiety
86% Medication Management
82% ADHD
79% Depression
79% Bipolar Disorder
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
88% Regence
83% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Kootenai County, ID see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kootenai County?

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.