Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC
![Photo of Kathryn Baglini, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df196d03-0a09-47ef-a090-e3b7752b830a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Baglini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Hi! My name is Kathryn, but I go by Kat. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My career began in emergency medicine, where I saw firsthand the challenges patients face when struggling with mental health & substance use. After ten years in the ER, I was ready to change how I could help people, which led me here.
Hi! My name is Kathryn, but I go by Kat. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My career began in emergency medicine, where I saw firsthand the challenges patients face when struggling with mental health & substance use. After ten years in the ER, I was ready to change how I could help people, which led me here.
![Photo of Ijaz Behavioral Rasul - Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8cff54-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
![Photo of Rosemary Shanahan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61532863-4de2-410e-885c-f62d9126eac5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rosemary Shanahan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28815 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Caring for others is my passion and life work. It feels natural to me. However, in my 30-plus years in the medical and mental health fields, traditional medical treatments don’t always feel natural. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to meet my clients needs by providing integrative care which focuses on treating the mind, body and spirit.
Caring for others is my passion and life work. It feels natural to me. However, in my 30-plus years in the medical and mental health fields, traditional medical treatments don’t always feel natural. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to meet my clients needs by providing integrative care which focuses on treating the mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Dr. Ami Pearse, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67600a21-4586-4bd0-815a-d11ce3763b23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ami Pearse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
![Photo of Mackenzie Muldowney (Intake Coordinator) - The Pisgah Institute, PhD, LCMHC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaf8f489-b50c-44dd-a885-f4338bc705d0/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Pisgah Institute is the largest, most comprehensive behavioral health practice in Western North Carolina. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician’s assistants, doctoral-level psychologists, licensed clinical mental health counselors who address a full range of mental health conditions. We provide consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. We are currently accepting new patients for in-person and virtual appointments.
The Pisgah Institute is the largest, most comprehensive behavioral health practice in Western North Carolina. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician’s assistants, doctoral-level psychologists, licensed clinical mental health counselors who address a full range of mental health conditions. We provide consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. We are currently accepting new patients for in-person and virtual appointments.
![Photo of Dr. Roy C Dodd - Range Mental Health , DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1dd22c5-501d-41de-93a3-81bc2e9f3698/2/320x400.jpeg)
Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum, ADHD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Autism, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Addiction, and Personality disorders. If you are in the Asheville area, please see me in person at Psychiatric Associates and Addiction Medicine!
Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum, ADHD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Autism, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Addiction, and Personality disorders. If you are in the Asheville area, please see me in person at Psychiatric Associates and Addiction Medicine!
![Photo of Rebekah MacNair, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1b5412c-07f4-4d4b-a938-893f588d5252/2/320x400.png)
Rebekah MacNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I'm excited to announce that I am currently welcoming new clients aged 18 and over! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatry, I am passionate about supporting mental health in all its forms. My specialized training in perinatal mental health and eating disorders, along with comprehensive psychotherapy and pharmacology training through PSI, equips me to provide the best care possible. Your well-being is my priority, and I want you to feel supported and understood.
I'm excited to announce that I am currently welcoming new clients aged 18 and over! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatry, I am passionate about supporting mental health in all its forms. My specialized training in perinatal mental health and eating disorders, along with comprehensive psychotherapy and pharmacology training through PSI, equips me to provide the best care possible. Your well-being is my priority, and I want you to feel supported and understood.
![Photo of Heather Strauss, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93bfec1b-704f-4fe4-8586-87932dcfc7df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina & Florida: Contact us for same day or next day appointments! - - - Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs.
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina & Florida: Contact us for same day or next day appointments! - - - Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs.
![Photo of Brittany Vasquez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/767a4e66-5839-4905-b0dc-e478ece34d4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
![Photo of Ricardo Bierrenbach - Ricardo Bierrenbach Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8f14e9f-3c2a-4f1c-8f57-4cf1512cad12/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be difficult for everyone, don't suffer alone. I am dedicated to helping people overcome suffering, experience healing and achieve lasting change through compassionate, individualized care. Dr Bierrenbach is a board certified Psychiatrist and has been practicing Psychiatry for over 20 years.
Life can be difficult for everyone, don't suffer alone. I am dedicated to helping people overcome suffering, experience healing and achieve lasting change through compassionate, individualized care. Dr Bierrenbach is a board certified Psychiatrist and has been practicing Psychiatry for over 20 years.
![Photo of Vinny Baglini, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ceb8034-e5f3-4746-b72a-e77a5bb46a11/1/320x400.jpeg)
I spent the first portion of my career in emergency medicine. I met a lot of incredible people and learned many valuable lessons. However, over the last several years, I have had significant experience with mental illness in that setting and have become very passionate about the importance of mental health care. Seeing people transition past their struggles into a life that is full is inspiring because it is not an easy path. My goal is to help each patient reach this path and stay accountable and aware.
I spent the first portion of my career in emergency medicine. I met a lot of incredible people and learned many valuable lessons. However, over the last several years, I have had significant experience with mental illness in that setting and have become very passionate about the importance of mental health care. Seeing people transition past their struggles into a life that is full is inspiring because it is not an easy path. My goal is to help each patient reach this path and stay accountable and aware.
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![Photo of Dr. Mona Venzon Rice, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b6ed062-1df9-4a43-a54a-1811bd6a96a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Your child is having a hard time learning or has significant behavioral issues. Perhaps excessive worry, obsessive fixations, past trauma or deep sadness prevent her from making friends, going to school or enjoying life. Or his moods & thoughts can be strange & disruptive. Or their social & emotional development appear off. You're very concerned but not sure where to start or what to do. You have tried to understand & adjust your parenting to attempt to help. Or you may have taken him to therapist/s or doctor/s & tried various treatments, but he continues to struggle & something is still missing.
Your child is having a hard time learning or has significant behavioral issues. Perhaps excessive worry, obsessive fixations, past trauma or deep sadness prevent her from making friends, going to school or enjoying life. Or his moods & thoughts can be strange & disruptive. Or their social & emotional development appear off. You're very concerned but not sure where to start or what to do. You have tried to understand & adjust your parenting to attempt to help. Or you may have taken him to therapist/s or doctor/s & tried various treatments, but he continues to struggle & something is still missing.
![Photo of Malia Scott, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3af8040c-a6fa-4d1b-93b5-bf08259c0467/1/320x400.jpeg)
Malia enjoys helping the psychiatric needs of patients of all ages but has a particular affinity for treating pediatric patients.
Malia enjoys helping the psychiatric needs of patients of all ages but has a particular affinity for treating pediatric patients.
![Photo of Alexis B Ressler, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c3facc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis B Ressler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the privilege of practicing for a decade in Vermont. I relocated to Western North Carolina in 2019. I have devoted myself to outpatient psychiatric and neurological practice specializing in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders in a cognitive behavioral therapy setting as well as dementia care for patients and their families. My role is primarily medication management. Also, I am a veteran Army officer who has experience providing psychiatric care to active duty serice members. My practice is 100% telehealth.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the privilege of practicing for a decade in Vermont. I relocated to Western North Carolina in 2019. I have devoted myself to outpatient psychiatric and neurological practice specializing in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders in a cognitive behavioral therapy setting as well as dementia care for patients and their families. My role is primarily medication management. Also, I am a veteran Army officer who has experience providing psychiatric care to active duty serice members. My practice is 100% telehealth.
![Photo of Michael Wilson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f96dca90-36ec-4ac3-8e19-e36fa2bed4cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of young individuals. Utilizing evidence-based therapies and a collaborative approach, I work closely with families to empower them with the tools and strategies necessary for fostering resilience and promoting positive outcomes in their child's emotional and psychological development.
I am committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of young individuals. Utilizing evidence-based therapies and a collaborative approach, I work closely with families to empower them with the tools and strategies necessary for fostering resilience and promoting positive outcomes in their child's emotional and psychological development.
![Photo of Tabatha Jones - Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2401ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Accepting New Clients! Please fill out our new patient forms on our website at www.dayamentlahealth.com to become a client. Our practice contains Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who provide comprehensive treatment plans for individuals age 18+ for a wide range of mental health needs. Our specialties include substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar, self esteem concerns, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post traumatic stress. We are providers of MAT: Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol and we also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
Accepting New Clients! Please fill out our new patient forms on our website at www.dayamentlahealth.com to become a client. Our practice contains Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who provide comprehensive treatment plans for individuals age 18+ for a wide range of mental health needs. Our specialties include substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar, self esteem concerns, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post traumatic stress. We are providers of MAT: Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol and we also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Randy Steven Gergel - Randy S. Gergel, MD, P.A., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44898b46-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Key elements of good mental health care include (1) a solid bond between patient and psychiatrist, strengthened by open communication, mutual respect, and mutual trust; (2) involvement of spouse, or other close family member or close friend, in the treatment process; (3) coordination of care involving communication of psychiatrist with patient's primary care provider, and with other professionals, who provide care for the patient's emotional and physical needs.
Key elements of good mental health care include (1) a solid bond between patient and psychiatrist, strengthened by open communication, mutual respect, and mutual trust; (2) involvement of spouse, or other close family member or close friend, in the treatment process; (3) coordination of care involving communication of psychiatrist with patient's primary care provider, and with other professionals, who provide care for the patient's emotional and physical needs.
![Photo of Anne Fulbright, MA, MMS, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caa9a664-95fc-4e9a-b249-0ad542a5e545/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Fulbright
Physician Assistant, MA, MMS, PA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Not accepting new clients
People do best when they are curious about furthering their own understanding of themselves, and want to learn to demonstrate empathy and forgiveness, this solves problems for people. Improving coping skills and healing from trauma help people feel better as well. The foundations of treatment success are compassion, trust and support, which allow for the development of skills and insights as well as improved self care. Many stressors are related to health, and it is valuable to think "whole person" as medical problems, such as thyroid disease, can cause anxiety, for example.
People do best when they are curious about furthering their own understanding of themselves, and want to learn to demonstrate empathy and forgiveness, this solves problems for people. Improving coping skills and healing from trauma help people feel better as well. The foundations of treatment success are compassion, trust and support, which allow for the development of skills and insights as well as improved self care. Many stressors are related to health, and it is valuable to think "whole person" as medical problems, such as thyroid disease, can cause anxiety, for example.
![Photo of Lisa J Ryan, MSN, APRN, PMH NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f766177b-891f-45d3-9be7-e8f2079e82e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa J Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is to provide you with my full presence and deep care. This goal, along with the provision of state-of-the-art psycho-pharmacology offered in an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, are best achieved, I believe, by working as a team. As we get to know each other, my desire is to hear you deeply–your past experience, your concerns, worries…and your joys and successes. It is within this alliance that, together, we will discover the best paths forward for you, be they a change in medication, lifestyle, the addition of psychotherapy, meditation or whatever else may be beneficial.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is to provide you with my full presence and deep care. This goal, along with the provision of state-of-the-art psycho-pharmacology offered in an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, are best achieved, I believe, by working as a team. As we get to know each other, my desire is to hear you deeply–your past experience, your concerns, worries…and your joys and successes. It is within this alliance that, together, we will discover the best paths forward for you, be they a change in medication, lifestyle, the addition of psychotherapy, meditation or whatever else may be beneficial.
![Photo of Jason Fredericks, PA-C, MPH, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cabac00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
See more therapy options for Asheville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC
50+
Average cost per session
$187
Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC who prioritize treating:
86% | Depression |
84% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
64% | Medication Management |
62% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Asheville?
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.