Psychiatrists in Kentucky
![Photo of Tracey Nearon, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc893d6-c01b-459a-b670-d5d43a7e7543/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracey Nearon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, KY 41001
Tracey is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her associate degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati Raymond Walters, her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Ohio University, and her master’s degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked in healthcare for over 15 years with clinical experience in residential, inpatient acute care, and outpatient settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
Tracey is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her associate degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati Raymond Walters, her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Ohio University, and her master’s degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked in healthcare for over 15 years with clinical experience in residential, inpatient acute care, and outpatient settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
![Photo of Melissa Barnett, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a262a1-18d4-42c8-8def-1c4d0fe71e47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Irvine, KY 40336
The majority of my professional career has been spent caring for individuals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, thus, providing me with a greater appreciation of the unique circumstances facing my patients. My passion for behavioral health and addiction medicine lead me to Trinity Health Group where I hope to continue providing exceptional care to individuals in Estill and surrounding counties.
The majority of my professional career has been spent caring for individuals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, thus, providing me with a greater appreciation of the unique circumstances facing my patients. My passion for behavioral health and addiction medicine lead me to Trinity Health Group where I hope to continue providing exceptional care to individuals in Estill and surrounding counties.
![Photo of Sarah Thomas - Sarah Thomas | The Lotus Connection, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f04d74-0b1f-4b06-ac1f-0fd13ff007a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Thomas | The Lotus Connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223 (Online Only)
My mission at The Lotus Connection is to normalize mental health as a part of the human experience and allow everyone to love and accept every part of themselves; knowing they are uniquely and beautifully made; accepting that we are each perfectly imperfect! Regardless of circumstances you feel you may presently be or have been in, you can rise above and blossom Beautifully and Gracefully as the Lotus Flower. I specialize in medication management for Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety), Depression, ADHD, Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Schizophrenia), and SUD.
My mission at The Lotus Connection is to normalize mental health as a part of the human experience and allow everyone to love and accept every part of themselves; knowing they are uniquely and beautifully made; accepting that we are each perfectly imperfect! Regardless of circumstances you feel you may presently be or have been in, you can rise above and blossom Beautifully and Gracefully as the Lotus Flower. I specialize in medication management for Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety), Depression, ADHD, Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Schizophrenia), and SUD.
![Photo of Shakaola Pinero, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/030878ea-8712-472b-bd28-d7ab0f4b292c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shakaola Pinero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504 (Online Only)
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
![Photo of Brian Richardson, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d32e879-e987-4845-a720-70a61e9a6cb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
![Photo of Kurt Kristiansen, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aac5871-d7fe-4f79-aaea-ec1caaf7447c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kurt Kristiansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
![Photo of Holly Gray, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8975a6f1-4176-48a6-9e83-10a4c8d27850/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Gray, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, where she teaches in the DNP program. Dr. Gray received both her BSN and DNP from the University of Kentucky. She practices in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her clinical interests include adolescent mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, intellectual disability, and substance abuse disorders.
Holly Gray, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, where she teaches in the DNP program. Dr. Gray received both her BSN and DNP from the University of Kentucky. She practices in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her clinical interests include adolescent mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, intellectual disability, and substance abuse disorders.
![Photo of Michael Sarten, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd7bb97-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working in Mental Health since 2011, first as an inpatient psychiatric RN and now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have practiced as a nurse practitioner in VA hospitals as a psychiatric consultation liaison and at VA community-based outpatient clinics. That’s just a fancy way of saying I have experience working as an inpatient and outpatient clinician. In addition, I have experience working in community mental health, mostly working with clients on Medicaid, many with substance abuse issues. As my well-rounded experience suggests, I respect and enjoy working with clients from all walks of life.
I have been working in Mental Health since 2011, first as an inpatient psychiatric RN and now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have practiced as a nurse practitioner in VA hospitals as a psychiatric consultation liaison and at VA community-based outpatient clinics. That’s just a fancy way of saying I have experience working as an inpatient and outpatient clinician. In addition, I have experience working in community mental health, mostly working with clients on Medicaid, many with substance abuse issues. As my well-rounded experience suggests, I respect and enjoy working with clients from all walks of life.
![Photo of Jessica Sibbie, PMHNP, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c08e371e-8225-451c-9da2-8030a3b9ff1e/3/320x400.png)
Jessica Sibbie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
![Photo of Megan Jo Enyart - Tri-State Progressive Health, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/138e5c31-1c06-4df2-944e-599698ad7813/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tri-State Progressive Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ashland, KY 41101 (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile! I'm Megan Enyart, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner certified in both primary and mental health care. My mission is to deliver personalized, evidence-based care to people from all walks of life. In 2021, I took the leap to establish Tri-State Progressive Health, where I oversee both the business side and patient care. I manage a wide range of health needs, from mental health support to acute medical conditions, ensuring that each patient receives the attention and treatment they deserve.
Welcome to my profile! I'm Megan Enyart, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner certified in both primary and mental health care. My mission is to deliver personalized, evidence-based care to people from all walks of life. In 2021, I took the leap to establish Tri-State Progressive Health, where I oversee both the business side and patient care. I manage a wide range of health needs, from mental health support to acute medical conditions, ensuring that each patient receives the attention and treatment they deserve.
Jessica Price is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She holds active memberships in the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APRN) and the American Nurses Association (ANA). She received her master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University and her bachelor's degree in Nursing from Kentucky State University. Her previous work experience includes both hospital and private practice settings in both inpatient and outpatient units.
Jessica Price is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She holds active memberships in the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APRN) and the American Nurses Association (ANA). She received her master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University and her bachelor's degree in Nursing from Kentucky State University. Her previous work experience includes both hospital and private practice settings in both inpatient and outpatient units.
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![Photo of Brittany Stark, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61604c41-fb01-4c1a-a035-592341e05765/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Stark, PMHNP Brittany Stark is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University. Brittany believes in providing a holistic, collaborative, and individualized approach to mental healthcare so that optimal mental healthcare goals are attainable and sustainable. In her spare time, Brittany enjoys hiking, camping, painting, writing, reading, traveling, music and being with her family.
Brittany Stark, PMHNP Brittany Stark is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University. Brittany believes in providing a holistic, collaborative, and individualized approach to mental healthcare so that optimal mental healthcare goals are attainable and sustainable. In her spare time, Brittany enjoys hiking, camping, painting, writing, reading, traveling, music and being with her family.
![Photo of Brittany Robinson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a0d43fa-d330-40e3-8f96-8ba16de76427/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for holistic healing, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations with medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that true healing occurs when we address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for holistic healing, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations with medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that true healing occurs when we address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of William Nunley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36be5966-45f6-4fed-9204-e97a0ac48c08/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst serving OR and KY. I work primarily with mental health professionals, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and people in transition in their personal or professional identity. Most people begin therapy with me to improve their mood, sleep, or a more general sense of deep suffering. I can help understand patterns of distressing conflicts in one or more areas of your life such that you feel less isolated by intense emotions and build anew patterns in relating.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst serving OR and KY. I work primarily with mental health professionals, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and people in transition in their personal or professional identity. Most people begin therapy with me to improve their mood, sleep, or a more general sense of deep suffering. I can help understand patterns of distressing conflicts in one or more areas of your life such that you feel less isolated by intense emotions and build anew patterns in relating.
![Photo of Anna Schoeneman, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d6110c8-ec86-46c6-9b81-d282977251fb/1/320x400.png)
Anna Schoeneman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, CCRN
Verified Verified
London, KY 40744
Mental health impacts everyone in a slightly different way. It is my goal to help you reach your mental health goals. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma, allow me to help you facilitate the best quality of life and help you reach your goals.
Mental health impacts everyone in a slightly different way. It is my goal to help you reach your mental health goals. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma, allow me to help you facilitate the best quality of life and help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Rebecca Feck, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90dc63a0-a975-49d9-8bcd-f85e00285797/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Feck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40513
I am passionate about Mental Healthcare and assisting you in gaining the quality of life you deserve. I believe that through accurate diagnosis and medication management all clients will begin to realize thier personal self worth, believe in their full potential and reach thier individual mental health goals. I practice a holistic approach to mental health by utilizing safe effective medication treatment of your symptoms and educating you regarding your diagnosis and individual treatment plan. By creating a partnership with each client, a level of “teamwork” can be achieved culminating in the best therapeutic outcome for you.
I am passionate about Mental Healthcare and assisting you in gaining the quality of life you deserve. I believe that through accurate diagnosis and medication management all clients will begin to realize thier personal self worth, believe in their full potential and reach thier individual mental health goals. I practice a holistic approach to mental health by utilizing safe effective medication treatment of your symptoms and educating you regarding your diagnosis and individual treatment plan. By creating a partnership with each client, a level of “teamwork” can be achieved culminating in the best therapeutic outcome for you.
![Photo of Brooke Bischoff, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d82b16f7-acf1-435e-9758-37e760f15dae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Bischoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
Accepting New Patients! I know asking for help in mental health can be challenging. My goal is to provide a a safe space for you to feel supported, heard and have your goals met beyond medication and diagnosis. If you are looking for someone who provides compassionate care, patient centered care, and a supportive therapeutic relationship; I would love to work together to help guide you through your mental health journey.
Accepting New Patients! I know asking for help in mental health can be challenging. My goal is to provide a a safe space for you to feel supported, heard and have your goals met beyond medication and diagnosis. If you are looking for someone who provides compassionate care, patient centered care, and a supportive therapeutic relationship; I would love to work together to help guide you through your mental health journey.
![Photo of Rachel Byrd, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24c923ec-f9d2-4d86-8f91-69f3339f1011/1/320x400.jpeg)
At CHNK Behavioral Health, we serve children, adolescents, adults, and families who have mental health barriers, need addiction treatment, or are exhibiting other behaviors that negatively impact their daily lives at home, in the classroom, or at work.
At CHNK Behavioral Health, we serve children, adolescents, adults, and families who have mental health barriers, need addiction treatment, or are exhibiting other behaviors that negatively impact their daily lives at home, in the classroom, or at work.
Harold Bedu-Addo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501 (Online Only)
I am part of a group practice that works with adults of all ages. I am a licensed PMHNP, psychiatric mental health provider, in Kentucky with 2+ years of experience in public mental health.
I am part of a group practice that works with adults of all ages. I am a licensed PMHNP, psychiatric mental health provider, in Kentucky with 2+ years of experience in public mental health.
![Photo of Erica Webb, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b5c54df-e05f-4c8d-ab49-a4cd54fbc420/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Webb is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Michigan and moved to Kentucky 17 years ago after her husband finished his time in the military. She has over 10 years of nursing experience and has worked the last 8 years at the University of Kentucky Hospital working various specialties units with the majority of her time as a pool RN in the Emergency Department. She received her Master's Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and American Nurses Association.
Erica Webb is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Michigan and moved to Kentucky 17 years ago after her husband finished his time in the military. She has over 10 years of nursing experience and has worked the last 8 years at the University of Kentucky Hospital working various specialties units with the majority of her time as a pool RN in the Emergency Department. She received her Master's Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and American Nurses Association.
See more therapy options for Kentucky
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$184
Psychiatrists in Kentucky who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Aetna |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
68% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Kentucky see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kentucky?
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.