Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX
![Photo of Wardell Brian Hollis - Mental Health Horizons, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c35511d0-232e-4540-bc9a-a07f68c3b230/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Health Horizons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78254 (Online Only)
My ideal client is an adult or geriatric client with a major mental health issue or diagnosis.
My ideal client is an adult or geriatric client with a major mental health issue or diagnosis.
![Photo of Farheen Makani - Aura Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2b5bd06-1c49-4714-b81d-fddd00ed3bef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aura Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. SAME Day/ Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry we are committed to provide the BEST of the BEST Mental & Behavioral Health Services to Children (6+), Teens/ Adolescence & Adult clients. Our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. SAME Day/ Immediate Appts Available! Evenings & Weekend appts available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e5fb6d-7d5e-4a85-9221-42e6557f4b75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78204 (Online Only)
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
![Photo of Anthony Okafor, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb7ee1f7-119d-49b9-b43c-646d9d68f075/3/320x400.jpeg)
NOW Accepting NEW Patients! PA Okafor is a fully licensed Physician Assistant in the State of Texas. My goal and passion are to help individuals (18 and above) find and regain their sense of self again using my extensive background & experiences I've encountered in the field of medicine and also working as a PA in San Antonio Behavioral Hospital. Those experiences & exposures to different kinds of people from the underserved to suburban areas prepared me well to be in-tune with others' feelings emotionally, cognitively & physically.
NOW Accepting NEW Patients! PA Okafor is a fully licensed Physician Assistant in the State of Texas. My goal and passion are to help individuals (18 and above) find and regain their sense of self again using my extensive background & experiences I've encountered in the field of medicine and also working as a PA in San Antonio Behavioral Hospital. Those experiences & exposures to different kinds of people from the underserved to suburban areas prepared me well to be in-tune with others' feelings emotionally, cognitively & physically.
![Photo of Christina Vasquez, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511cafdf-e492-4b32-acbc-0759e134dc7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Vasquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
I want to serve my community and help those in need of assistance with their mental health and or substance use disorder I offer an evidence based non- biased approach for all clients. My goal is to decrease the stigma associated with mental health.
I want to serve my community and help those in need of assistance with their mental health and or substance use disorder I offer an evidence based non- biased approach for all clients. My goal is to decrease the stigma associated with mental health.
![Photo of Nicholas Estioko, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be66d4d9-4a9c-4bde-ac40-ac2de7e9a45d/2/320x400.jpeg)
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE SAME WEEK*** PA Estioko is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in the field of psychiatry. He completed his medical training at California Baptist University and took special interest in the treatment of psychiatric disorders during his clinical year. He recognized the need for mental health services across various specialties and is excited to join Phoenix Mental Health to help increase accessibility in San Antonio, TX.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE SAME WEEK*** PA Estioko is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in the field of psychiatry. He completed his medical training at California Baptist University and took special interest in the treatment of psychiatric disorders during his clinical year. He recognized the need for mental health services across various specialties and is excited to join Phoenix Mental Health to help increase accessibility in San Antonio, TX.
![Photo of Krista Lewis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32c60168-51fa-46dc-ae29-125997685b59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78205 (Online Only)
Dr. Krista Lewis is a board-certified nurse practitioner at PMB Wellness PLLC, who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry. She pursued her interest in nursing, graduating with honors, with Bachelors from Chamberlain University. Then, she obtained her Family Nurse practitioner’s degree at Chamberlain University, Post-Master’s Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree at Maryville University, and her doctorate degree at Chamberlain University. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
Dr. Krista Lewis is a board-certified nurse practitioner at PMB Wellness PLLC, who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry. She pursued her interest in nursing, graduating with honors, with Bachelors from Chamberlain University. Then, she obtained her Family Nurse practitioner’s degree at Chamberlain University, Post-Master’s Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree at Maryville University, and her doctorate degree at Chamberlain University. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
Doctor Ronald Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population.
Dr. Moore is a Christian practitioner board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice and specializes in psychiatric medication management. Although Dr. Moore treats patients across the lifespan, he has a special interest in treating the geriatric population.
![Photo of Ricardo Calderon, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468bd883-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ricardo Calderon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213
I specialize in the management of mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorder, insomnia, OCD, and ADHD. I treat clients using a patient-centered approach. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and provider and that is what I strive for with all of my clients. I can assist you in fulfilling your mental health needs through psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Whether you've received treatment in the past or are seeking a mental health provider for the first time, I'll do my best to help you reach your goals effectively and safely.
I specialize in the management of mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorder, insomnia, OCD, and ADHD. I treat clients using a patient-centered approach. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and provider and that is what I strive for with all of my clients. I can assist you in fulfilling your mental health needs through psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Whether you've received treatment in the past or are seeking a mental health provider for the first time, I'll do my best to help you reach your goals effectively and safely.
![Photo of Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a123ffc5-2fcb-4acf-83de-e3040f424a19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taiwo Dauda Okubanjo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78251 (Online Only)
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
I am accepting NEW PATIENTS who are courageous enough to seek help for their mental health needs. I treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, anger issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, misuse of recreational substances and other mental health disorders. I am trained to care for your entire health. While I enjoy prescribing medications for you, I also enjoy being a part of your wellness journey.
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Salvi Marie Alday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258 (Online Only)
Mental illness is stigmatized, taboo, or scandalous in most cultures. You matter, and You are Worthy. Ask for Help. Rewire your Brain. Break the Silence. Visit my website- www.passionpurposecmhs.org
Mental illness is stigmatized, taboo, or scandalous in most cultures. You matter, and You are Worthy. Ask for Help. Rewire your Brain. Break the Silence. Visit my website- www.passionpurposecmhs.org
![Photo of Smink Anchila, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63a28cf7-8383-4015-a57a-31327ef075c5/1/320x400.png)
Smink Anchila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204 (Online Only)
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a6196cf-6581-40c5-a43a-6ff7ab09b882/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
![Photo of Omar Ali, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c963b61-0a15-4182-88b1-dacf34a36005/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Omar Ali is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. He went to Medical School at Texas Tech University School of Medicine and completed his Residency at LSU-Ochsner Adult Psychiatry Program. Dr. Ali strives to provide a collaborative and personalized approach in which we work together to find a way forward to living the best quality of life possible. He understands that seeking mental health treatment can be intimidating and anxiety provoking for many, and some may never seek help for these reasons.
Dr. Omar Ali is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. He went to Medical School at Texas Tech University School of Medicine and completed his Residency at LSU-Ochsner Adult Psychiatry Program. Dr. Ali strives to provide a collaborative and personalized approach in which we work together to find a way forward to living the best quality of life possible. He understands that seeking mental health treatment can be intimidating and anxiety provoking for many, and some may never seek help for these reasons.
![Photo of Kimberly Giberga, MSN , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fb9ee8b-ca75-470b-a990-a6bf2b7bf064/1/320x400.png)
Kimberly Giberga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
If you need a partner to help you start back on the path to your best self, I understand that life can present challenges with mood disorders such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Insomnia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Irritability, Eating disorders and generally feeling 'off' or unlike yourself. I can help you face those difficulties. If you want to take that courageous first step towards getting your life back, reach out today. I'm here to help you. I also specialize in treatment resistant depression and use Spravato (esketamine) in my clinic with great success. I want to help you make your life better.
If you need a partner to help you start back on the path to your best self, I understand that life can present challenges with mood disorders such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Insomnia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Irritability, Eating disorders and generally feeling 'off' or unlike yourself. I can help you face those difficulties. If you want to take that courageous first step towards getting your life back, reach out today. I'm here to help you. I also specialize in treatment resistant depression and use Spravato (esketamine) in my clinic with great success. I want to help you make your life better.
![Photo of Clarissa Chaisson-McRae, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a47e5fd6-e366-41d8-a0bf-f5047d30c360/1/320x400.png)
I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. I completed my Psychiatry Residency at Henry Ford Hospital, where I served as chief resident. In addition, I completed a Medical Leadership Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital, and an Electroconvulsive Therapy Visiting Fellowship at Duke University. I am general psychiatrist who treats adults with a variety of mental health disorders. I strive for balance in your treatment plan, including medication management and psychotherapy. Coordination of care and continuity of care are very important to me.
I am a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. I completed my Psychiatry Residency at Henry Ford Hospital, where I served as chief resident. In addition, I completed a Medical Leadership Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital, and an Electroconvulsive Therapy Visiting Fellowship at Duke University. I am general psychiatrist who treats adults with a variety of mental health disorders. I strive for balance in your treatment plan, including medication management and psychotherapy. Coordination of care and continuity of care are very important to me.
![Photo of Ifeoma Irokwe - Effulgence Psychiatry , MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77d1eec4-fabd-4efb-bc1c-9417acef06a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Effulgence Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Effulgence Psychiatry. With a deep-rooted belief in the interconnectedness of spirit, body, and soul, I strive to be a guiding light for those navigating the complex journey of mental health. I approach mental wellness from a holistic perspective, recognizing that true healing occurs when all aspects of our being are in harmony. I believe that when the spirit, body, and soul are aligned, individuals can experience a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.
My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Effulgence Psychiatry. With a deep-rooted belief in the interconnectedness of spirit, body, and soul, I strive to be a guiding light for those navigating the complex journey of mental health. I approach mental wellness from a holistic perspective, recognizing that true healing occurs when all aspects of our being are in harmony. I believe that when the spirit, body, and soul are aligned, individuals can experience a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.
![Photo of Ann Torres, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e693c9d-9ba9-4ab9-a024-ef274c88f86d/1/320x400.png)
At Aura Psychiatry our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Immediate Appointments Available! Evenings & some Weekend appointments available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
At Aura Psychiatry our Mission is to Improve the Quality of Life of our clients, to overcome Mental Barriers & truly live the life they deserve. Our purpose is to Support, Educate, & Empower clients & their families by providing them a safe & reliable place to share their problems and stories. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Focused approach that emphasizes the Highest possible Standards. Immediate Appointments Available! Evenings & some Weekend appointments available. Visit us at www.AuraPsychiatry.com
![Photo of John Enriquez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c90e0f24-4b3e-45bc-aed5-c056c041e541/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. John Enriquez is a psychiatrist, a physician for mental health disorders. He has over 43 years of experience in the field of medicine. He graduated from medical school with his medical degree in 1975. Post-graduate training at LA County USC Medical Center. Dr. John N. Enriquez is licensed to practice by the state board in Texas and is Board Certified in Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry. He helps with the psychological well-being of men and women, with an ability to identify and treat all of the various types of Psychiatric Illness.
Dr. John Enriquez is a psychiatrist, a physician for mental health disorders. He has over 43 years of experience in the field of medicine. He graduated from medical school with his medical degree in 1975. Post-graduate training at LA County USC Medical Center. Dr. John N. Enriquez is licensed to practice by the state board in Texas and is Board Certified in Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry. He helps with the psychological well-being of men and women, with an ability to identify and treat all of the various types of Psychiatric Illness.
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Number of Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX
200+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Medication Management |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Aetna |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Antonio, TX see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
59% | Female | |
41% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Antonio?
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.