Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
![Photo of Dr. Richard Alldin Oddy, MD, ABPN, ABAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c6beee4-8d38-4394-9875-7b23e2ab92fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Richard Oddy has 20+ years of expertise as a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, operating a thriving private practice in Denver, previously established in Fort Collins in 2005. His medical education was accomplished at the University of Cambridge in England, followed by a residency in psychiatry at Cornell Medical Center-New York Hospital in 2000. Dr. Oddy holds board certifications in General Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and is a distinguished lifetime fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Oddy is also experienced in the use of buprenorphine for opioid dependence.
Dr. Richard Oddy has 20+ years of expertise as a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, operating a thriving private practice in Denver, previously established in Fort Collins in 2005. His medical education was accomplished at the University of Cambridge in England, followed by a residency in psychiatry at Cornell Medical Center-New York Hospital in 2000. Dr. Oddy holds board certifications in General Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and is a distinguished lifetime fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Oddy is also experienced in the use of buprenorphine for opioid dependence.
![Photo of Dr. Kate Salama, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2148ea17-fce6-44a6-9f17-0662a1f8a95d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard trained adult psychiatrist who specializes in women's mental health. Most women in my practice are struggling with mood symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, fertility, pregnancy & postpartum, as well as the menopause transition. I practice integrative psychiatry, which means I combine traditional pharmacotherapy with nutritional guidance, sleep optimization support, supplement regimens, and hormonal testing if desired. Please visit my website, tendtohermd.com, for more details.
I am a Harvard trained adult psychiatrist who specializes in women's mental health. Most women in my practice are struggling with mood symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, fertility, pregnancy & postpartum, as well as the menopause transition. I practice integrative psychiatry, which means I combine traditional pharmacotherapy with nutritional guidance, sleep optimization support, supplement regimens, and hormonal testing if desired. Please visit my website, tendtohermd.com, for more details.
![Photo of Deborah A Coyle, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da9ab1d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
You may be feeling tired, overwhelmed,and even alone. What you do know is that you do not want to feel this way anymore. My approach to helping you re- access the "best you" is an integrative approach that fits you personally. Initially, determining what may be blocking you. It could be diet, a deficiency, a loss,a trauma or what may feel most confusing is, that you don't know why you feel this way.
You may be feeling tired, overwhelmed,and even alone. What you do know is that you do not want to feel this way anymore. My approach to helping you re- access the "best you" is an integrative approach that fits you personally. Initially, determining what may be blocking you. It could be diet, a deficiency, a loss,a trauma or what may feel most confusing is, that you don't know why you feel this way.
![Photo of Marla Richard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b112781-ab01-42c2-8b64-5a564c79b215/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marla Richard is Stanford trained board-certified psychiatrist and board eligible in geriatric psychiatry from UCSD. She has been practicing in a variety of settings for the last 30 years. Dr. Richard uses an an integrated health paradigm with general and geriatric patients using traditional psychopharmacology, interpersonal neurobiology practices, and personality assessments to look at root motivations for behaviors to address core issues and with medication management as needed. Dr. Marla believes that you need to take a whole-person approach to both mental and physical health.
Dr. Marla Richard is Stanford trained board-certified psychiatrist and board eligible in geriatric psychiatry from UCSD. She has been practicing in a variety of settings for the last 30 years. Dr. Richard uses an an integrated health paradigm with general and geriatric patients using traditional psychopharmacology, interpersonal neurobiology practices, and personality assessments to look at root motivations for behaviors to address core issues and with medication management as needed. Dr. Marla believes that you need to take a whole-person approach to both mental and physical health.
![Photo of Kim Massetti - Spark Mental Health Clinics - Colorado, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e21c780-5309-4037-91a0-d3f3f2f11b17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Spark Mental Health Clinics - Colorado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206 (Online Only)
Spark is accepting new patients and we have SAME & NEXT DAY appointments readily available! Plus, and more importantly, we are a fully 5 STAR rated Psychiatric Practices across all review sites. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety and attention deficit disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. We use technology to offer the most convenient care possible. In most cases, you can self-schedule appointments online, see your provider by HIPPA secure video, and have prescriptions sent in real-time electronically to the pharmacy of your choice.
Spark is accepting new patients and we have SAME & NEXT DAY appointments readily available! Plus, and more importantly, we are a fully 5 STAR rated Psychiatric Practices across all review sites. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety and attention deficit disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. We use technology to offer the most convenient care possible. In most cases, you can self-schedule appointments online, see your provider by HIPPA secure video, and have prescriptions sent in real-time electronically to the pharmacy of your choice.
![Photo of Joe Maxwell, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ea18737-b3da-48fb-9e0c-834e8d4c36b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My style of practice includes a comprehensive patient-centered focus of care that supports traditional as well as holistic care. I believe that treatment of the whole person to be included as mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. My style of conservative psychopharmcological treatment is designed to be utilized collaboratively with the addition of a primary psychotherapist. Other important aspects of focus in his practice include: complementary and alternative medicine, lifestyle modification, exercise, nutrition, and stress management.
My style of practice includes a comprehensive patient-centered focus of care that supports traditional as well as holistic care. I believe that treatment of the whole person to be included as mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. My style of conservative psychopharmcological treatment is designed to be utilized collaboratively with the addition of a primary psychotherapist. Other important aspects of focus in his practice include: complementary and alternative medicine, lifestyle modification, exercise, nutrition, and stress management.
![Photo of Tim Wood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e9c30d1-55e5-4e3f-8490-708dfd6ae5d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am excited to address medication management and diagnostic clarification for patients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD and others.
I am excited to address medication management and diagnostic clarification for patients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD and others.
![Photo of Laura Obler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d533db40-93a2-4bb1-be8e-442b6a7c0b72/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Laura Obler is board-certified in adult psychiatry. She received her medical degree from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA in Los Angeles, California, where she stayed to complete her psychiatry residency at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience. During residency she received specialized training in reproductive psychiatry (the treatment of women who are considering pregnancy or are pregnant or postpartum) and acted as Chief Resident of the Women’s Life Center at UCLA. She has previously worked in community clinics in the greater Los Angeles area and as a staff psychiatrist at UCLA.
Dr. Laura Obler is board-certified in adult psychiatry. She received her medical degree from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA in Los Angeles, California, where she stayed to complete her psychiatry residency at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience. During residency she received specialized training in reproductive psychiatry (the treatment of women who are considering pregnancy or are pregnant or postpartum) and acted as Chief Resident of the Women’s Life Center at UCLA. She has previously worked in community clinics in the greater Los Angeles area and as a staff psychiatrist at UCLA.
![Photo of Alison Murphy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48469b28-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231 (Online Only)
Welcome to Murphy Mental Health. Some of the things I can help with include: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depression. I work together with my patients on improving wellness by listening and providing options rather than just telling someone what to do. I address care in a holistic manner, integrating use of therapy, positive lifestyle changes, traditional psychiatric medications, supplements and genetic testing-as appropriate.
Welcome to Murphy Mental Health. Some of the things I can help with include: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depression. I work together with my patients on improving wellness by listening and providing options rather than just telling someone what to do. I address care in a holistic manner, integrating use of therapy, positive lifestyle changes, traditional psychiatric medications, supplements and genetic testing-as appropriate.
![Photo of Elisabeth Marie Fabrizio, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82a46230-5a83-4874-9611-089363b48ef8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elisabeth Marie Fabrizio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner and have recently earned a post-master's degree as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Depression and anxiety are an epidemic in our world today and many are suffering. Substance abuse is also rampant in our society. I can offer a listening ear, evaluate your situation, and collaboratively we can come up with a treatment plan that may include medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes with food and exercise. All visits are done via telemedicine.
I have over 20 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner and have recently earned a post-master's degree as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Depression and anxiety are an epidemic in our world today and many are suffering. Substance abuse is also rampant in our society. I can offer a listening ear, evaluate your situation, and collaboratively we can come up with a treatment plan that may include medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes with food and exercise. All visits are done via telemedicine.
I'm a dedicated psychiatric physician assistant committed to providing inclusive and affirming care to individuals from all backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community. With expertise in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, I approach each patient with empathy and understanding. I tailor every treatment plan to each patient’s specific needs and goals. My passion lies in helping patients not just manage their symptoms but thrive and become their best selves.
I'm a dedicated psychiatric physician assistant committed to providing inclusive and affirming care to individuals from all backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community. With expertise in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, I approach each patient with empathy and understanding. I tailor every treatment plan to each patient’s specific needs and goals. My passion lies in helping patients not just manage their symptoms but thrive and become their best selves.
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![Photo of Maggie Elizabeth Robinson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5db6dfc3-6ae5-4fed-a245-1b9b7b7808cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maggie Elizabeth Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is committed to providing holistic and patient-centered mental healthcare to individuals of all ages. With experience serving nations across the world in the US Navy, and a strong background in the medical field, I have developed a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and mental well-being. I aim to bring a unique perspective to the field of mental health and your individualized needs. I am very excited to join your team and work with you towards your mental-health goals.
I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is committed to providing holistic and patient-centered mental healthcare to individuals of all ages. With experience serving nations across the world in the US Navy, and a strong background in the medical field, I have developed a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and mental well-being. I aim to bring a unique perspective to the field of mental health and your individualized needs. I am very excited to join your team and work with you towards your mental-health goals.
![Photo of Richard Wallis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a762e67-a5e9-4396-b864-aaa9c5db2c44/3/320x400.jpeg)
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in several psychiatric settings. I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Kentucky and his PhD at the University of Texas Medical Branch. I obtained an advanced training in psychopharmacology and has presented several posters and spoken at several national psychiatry conferences.
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in several psychiatric settings. I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Kentucky and his PhD at the University of Texas Medical Branch. I obtained an advanced training in psychopharmacology and has presented several posters and spoken at several national psychiatry conferences.
![Photo of Kevin H Huynh - Kevin Huynh - Denver Wellness Associates, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63574588-68ae-4711-918e-0210c0df7fad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Huynh - Denver Wellness Associates
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
I offer psychiatric medication evaluations and treatment and am currently open to new patients. I received my PA Master’s degree at the University of Colorado Child Health Associate/Physician Assistant (CHA/PA) Program in 2020 and have remained in Denver since. I completed my B.S. in Human Biology and B.A. in Art History & Criticism at the University of California, San Diego. Before moving to Colorado, I spent two years as an EMT, followed by two years as a TMS technician. Working in the field of TMS, I naturally gravitated towards psychiatry and have continued to enhance my skills in the field since.
I offer psychiatric medication evaluations and treatment and am currently open to new patients. I received my PA Master’s degree at the University of Colorado Child Health Associate/Physician Assistant (CHA/PA) Program in 2020 and have remained in Denver since. I completed my B.S. in Human Biology and B.A. in Art History & Criticism at the University of California, San Diego. Before moving to Colorado, I spent two years as an EMT, followed by two years as a TMS technician. Working in the field of TMS, I naturally gravitated towards psychiatry and have continued to enhance my skills in the field since.
![Photo of Amanda Befferman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a154ed7-78da-41e2-9eb1-8d66b60d2802/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified physician assistant. My treatment goal is to use evidence-based medicine to provide holistic and patient-centered care. It is important to me that I treat my patients as individuals to provide a treatment plan that will work for their unique set of circumstances. My extensive background in adult primary care and geriatric medicine means that I am confident in my ability to consider other medical comorbidities when deciding on treatment for my patients.
I am a board certified physician assistant. My treatment goal is to use evidence-based medicine to provide holistic and patient-centered care. It is important to me that I treat my patients as individuals to provide a treatment plan that will work for their unique set of circumstances. My extensive background in adult primary care and geriatric medicine means that I am confident in my ability to consider other medical comorbidities when deciding on treatment for my patients.
![Photo of James Anderson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3871c5bd-7daa-4210-9fd4-675cfecd289a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link.
Accepting New Patients! Looking forward to meet you. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home. Schedule your in-office or video appointment by clicking ‘My Website’ link.
![Photo of Tabatha Truelove, PMHNP, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be016497-b46e-454a-b0b3-0ecb1d6d5b9e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tabatha Truelove
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents and adults.I love to help patients reach their goals and become the best versions of themselves. I believe in a supportive environment for each of my patients. I enjoy hearing out my patients needs and offering a individual treatment plan that best supports each of my patients.
I am a board-certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents and adults.I love to help patients reach their goals and become the best versions of themselves. I believe in a supportive environment for each of my patients. I enjoy hearing out my patients needs and offering a individual treatment plan that best supports each of my patients.
Donna Strickland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS RXN, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I'm here to help you. I specialize in Couples Therapy using the Gottman Method.I have skills to help you move through conflict & affairs. I offer marathon sessions for couples. I have expertise in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Grief, PTSD,& Substance Use Disorders. I've been in this field a very long time, & have seen people go years suffering with anxiety & depression & painful relationships because they were afraid to get help. I have prescriptive authority & can help you with medication management. No matter what your concern, we will figure out together the next best right step for you. Don't wait any longer.
I'm here to help you. I specialize in Couples Therapy using the Gottman Method.I have skills to help you move through conflict & affairs. I offer marathon sessions for couples. I have expertise in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Grief, PTSD,& Substance Use Disorders. I've been in this field a very long time, & have seen people go years suffering with anxiety & depression & painful relationships because they were afraid to get help. I have prescriptive authority & can help you with medication management. No matter what your concern, we will figure out together the next best right step for you. Don't wait any longer.
![Photo of Summyji Groom - Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinical, PLLC, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9a01e40-51c6-4754-a9a5-c9ebdf2eb137/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinical, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
![Photo of Theresa Gilliland, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f22cfdd4-f39a-43bc-b3bb-98eee0233438/1/320x400.png)
Theresa Gilliland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Medicaid and private insurance accepted. I'm a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Providing holistic, empathic care for body, mind, and spirit, I'm dedicated to your well-being. With a passion for healthcare accessibility, I empower patients with knowledge for effective self-management. My extensive experience spans hospitals, ED, clinics, and unique environments around the globe. My education includes a BS in Nursing, MHA, Family NP, and a DNP focusing on addiction biology. Let's embark on your journey to wellness together! Book with me directly at Trendmentalhealth.com!
Accepting new patients! Medicaid and private insurance accepted. I'm a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Providing holistic, empathic care for body, mind, and spirit, I'm dedicated to your well-being. With a passion for healthcare accessibility, I empower patients with knowledge for effective self-management. My extensive experience spans hospitals, ED, clinics, and unique environments around the globe. My education includes a BS in Nursing, MHA, Family NP, and a DNP focusing on addiction biology. Let's embark on your journey to wellness together! Book with me directly at Trendmentalhealth.com!
See more therapy options for Denver
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
500+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
86% | Medication Management |
82% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Denver, CO see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Denver?
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.