Psychiatrists in Junction City, KS
![Photo of Ethel B Akongnui, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fc1008a-bf2b-4d64-9f84-411e584b036b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ethel B Akongnui
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Junction City, KS 66441 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health across the lifespan. I Possess strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families. I follow evidenced-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, and personal observation. My role is multifaceted including mental health advocate, educator and therapist.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health across the lifespan. I Possess strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families. I follow evidenced-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, and personal observation. My role is multifaceted including mental health advocate, educator and therapist.
![Photo of Scot Yarnell - Sound Psychiatry and Healthcare LLC, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5d4a840-2bf4-4b79-9dfe-c191149d8e56/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sound Psychiatry and Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Junction City, KS 66441
I created Sound Psychiatry and Healthcare to allow mental health to be available to rural Kansas. I live in Great Bend, Kansas where I work at a community mental health center four days a week allowing me to see patients independently on Mondays by telehealth and in person in Emporia and Dodge City, KS. I previously worked in Wichita where I would have patients drive hours from Western Kansas to be seen.
I created Sound Psychiatry and Healthcare to allow mental health to be available to rural Kansas. I live in Great Bend, Kansas where I work at a community mental health center four days a week allowing me to see patients independently on Mondays by telehealth and in person in Emporia and Dodge City, KS. I previously worked in Wichita where I would have patients drive hours from Western Kansas to be seen.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Anna K Shudzeka, PMHNP, -, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/686a523b-efc4-4a53-b11f-f1e65ac2af1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna K Shudzeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67201
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my goal is to support your well-being with compassionate and personalized care. I understand that everyone is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. Using proven treatments, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, I focus on your overall health. I am dedicated to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice, helping you face mental health challenges. My aim is to empower you to regain control and look forward to a future filled with strength and hope.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my goal is to support your well-being with compassionate and personalized care. I understand that everyone is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. Using proven treatments, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, I focus on your overall health. I am dedicated to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice, helping you face mental health challenges. My aim is to empower you to regain control and look forward to a future filled with strength and hope.
![Photo of Laura Young, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/370601cd-b594-453f-bdf3-09a6247fe8f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Young is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kansas who has been practicing since 2021. Laura was born and raised in Kansas. Her post high school education began at Kansas City Kansas Community College, obtaining her Associates of Science in Nursing in 2009 at the young age of 20 years old on a presidential scholarship awarded from high school. She then went on to working as a bedside nurse for over 12 years. Laura went back to college, obtaining her Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2018 while working.
Laura Young is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kansas who has been practicing since 2021. Laura was born and raised in Kansas. Her post high school education began at Kansas City Kansas Community College, obtaining her Associates of Science in Nursing in 2009 at the young age of 20 years old on a presidential scholarship awarded from high school. She then went on to working as a bedside nurse for over 12 years. Laura went back to college, obtaining her Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2018 while working.
![Photo of Anton Fisher - ★★TeleMind®★★, DO, Psych, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/430e31cb-2077-42d8-8bd6-5fbe1c4cc13e/1/320x400.png)
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
![Photo of Anthony Donald Minja, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4a73e74-b3aa-41c8-b7c6-dc389bb8c566/2/320x400.png)
Taking New Patients: I am a Board Certified Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with many years in community mental health, inpatient care, substance abuse, and private practice. I provide mental health medication evaluations as well as medication management. I work with patients across the life span. I provide a holistic approach when it comes to my patient's mental health needs.
Taking New Patients: I am a Board Certified Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with many years in community mental health, inpatient care, substance abuse, and private practice. I provide mental health medication evaluations as well as medication management. I work with patients across the life span. I provide a holistic approach when it comes to my patient's mental health needs.
![Photo of Laveta Jarrett, APRN, MSN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22e4d584-7273-4a73-bfbe-b45188fd43b9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laveta Jarrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67203
✣ TAKING NEW CLIENTS ✣ I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of expertise in mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, cultural stressors, and clients in crisis. I also specialize in helping with medication management for those struggling with substance abuse. In addition to medication evaluation, I seek to understand my patients from a holistic perspective by evaluating the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to their emotional concerns.
✣ TAKING NEW CLIENTS ✣ I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of expertise in mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, cultural stressors, and clients in crisis. I also specialize in helping with medication management for those struggling with substance abuse. In addition to medication evaluation, I seek to understand my patients from a holistic perspective by evaluating the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to their emotional concerns.
![Photo of Michelle Ford - Serenity Health Solutions, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65bc73b3-0282-4f91-9ea2-41c5ff294c2c/1/320x400.png)
Serenity Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67206
Michelle Ford is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. She provides a comprehensive and holistic approach, addressing a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
Michelle Ford is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. She provides a comprehensive and holistic approach, addressing a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
![Photo of Jennifer J Kubin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c1e7201-9b9b-4ffe-b68a-3da3bc24d909/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer J Kubin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baldwin City, KS 66006
I believe that when someone has the courage to reach out for help with their mental health, it should be considered a crisis - because poor mental health can destroy lives.
I believe that when someone has the courage to reach out for help with their mental health, it should be considered a crisis - because poor mental health can destroy lives.
![Photo of Candice Boyce, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d626dd9e-b91b-4b4c-ab87-aaad69dac151/2/320x400.jpeg)
Candice Boyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67212 (Online Only)
From the go, my priority is to establish a patient relationship of trust, feeling at ease with open expression, as if conversing with someone they trust. It is a profound honor that they have entrusted me with guiding them through a vulnerable period in their life. My patients have a central role in shaping their treatment plans, catering to their needs. Navigating the unknown has required the development of numerous strategies to find the root cause(s) of their concerns. Meticulous attention to the nuances and patterns can profoundly impact outcomes, and it is incredible to witness the rekindling of hope where it was once lost.
From the go, my priority is to establish a patient relationship of trust, feeling at ease with open expression, as if conversing with someone they trust. It is a profound honor that they have entrusted me with guiding them through a vulnerable period in their life. My patients have a central role in shaping their treatment plans, catering to their needs. Navigating the unknown has required the development of numerous strategies to find the root cause(s) of their concerns. Meticulous attention to the nuances and patterns can profoundly impact outcomes, and it is incredible to witness the rekindling of hope where it was once lost.
![Photo of Hiten Soni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a758cac-f864-4f9d-848d-52c7710b12ee/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
![Photo of Elizabeth Hart, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0107b49-9abd-4f20-8aa8-9b362777efc7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67212
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Masters of Science in Nursing and post graduate certifications in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. I believe in providing a holistic approach to my patients and their medication. I also offer GeneSight testing when needed to make sure the medication we have chosen works best for your unique body.
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Masters of Science in Nursing and post graduate certifications in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. I believe in providing a holistic approach to my patients and their medication. I also offer GeneSight testing when needed to make sure the medication we have chosen works best for your unique body.
Cheryl Headley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67202 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is available to treat Kansas residents. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. I understand that each individual is unique and will work with the patient to meet their individual needs. I used evidence-based practice to support medication options available to you. My role is to offer you treatment options and help guide you in in finding treatment that fits your needs.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is available to treat Kansas residents. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. I understand that each individual is unique and will work with the patient to meet their individual needs. I used evidence-based practice to support medication options available to you. My role is to offer you treatment options and help guide you in in finding treatment that fits your needs.
![Photo of Sasha Lounmala, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd618539-4439-41b3-a532-bc18114a379d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sasha Lounmala is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides full range psychiatric-mental health care across the lifespan to evaluate, diagnose, prescribe and administer psychotherapy.
Sasha Lounmala is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides full range psychiatric-mental health care across the lifespan to evaluate, diagnose, prescribe and administer psychotherapy.
![Photo of Angela Christine Kingsbury, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Kansas , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/091bf97c-4e72-4eb9-bd22-bc32a981e6aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Christine Kingsbury
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Kansas
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401 (Online Only)
Angela is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is available to treat Kansas residents. She is experienced to treat a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. Angela advocates for her patients to meet all psychosocial needs. She nurtures patients to overcome barriers, using evidence-based solutions, and believes early identification and treatment is necessary for successful remission. Angela understands that each individual is unique, & works with the patient when building a therapeutic treatment plan to meet the best outcome!
Angela is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is available to treat Kansas residents. She is experienced to treat a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. Angela advocates for her patients to meet all psychosocial needs. She nurtures patients to overcome barriers, using evidence-based solutions, and believes early identification and treatment is necessary for successful remission. Angela understands that each individual is unique, & works with the patient when building a therapeutic treatment plan to meet the best outcome!
![Photo of Amanda Haworth, APRN , CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e391d9f-f011-4712-a02c-d2c0e734b6bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67202
My ideal client will have issues with mood disorders, anxiety, and/or trauma. They will need help in managing their disorder. Their goal will be to incorporate therapeutic, lifestyle modifications, supplements, and/or medicinal modalities to improve their sense of life. The client wants to improve their overall value of life. They want to feel as if they have a purpose and feel joy in obtaining that purpose.
My ideal client will have issues with mood disorders, anxiety, and/or trauma. They will need help in managing their disorder. Their goal will be to incorporate therapeutic, lifestyle modifications, supplements, and/or medicinal modalities to improve their sense of life. The client wants to improve their overall value of life. They want to feel as if they have a purpose and feel joy in obtaining that purpose.
![Photo of Shakera Kathleen Snelling, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75979d92-16e4-4b1a-9008-360e89aec360/1/320x400.png)
Shakera Kathleen Snelling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
Hey! You’re seeking help because it is needed. That’s huge! Many people don’t seek treatment or therapy but you’re already on this path. Some folks don’t find the path. You’ve got some idea of what you need and are ready for someone to be along with you on this journey. We both know humans succeed in a team not so much when we are alone. First, give yourself credit because it takes a lot of courage to not do things alone and to be willing to open up to someone you do not know. Your courage is where our journey together starts. It would be an honor to be a part of your team in life, for life!
Hey! You’re seeking help because it is needed. That’s huge! Many people don’t seek treatment or therapy but you’re already on this path. Some folks don’t find the path. You’ve got some idea of what you need and are ready for someone to be along with you on this journey. We both know humans succeed in a team not so much when we are alone. First, give yourself credit because it takes a lot of courage to not do things alone and to be willing to open up to someone you do not know. Your courage is where our journey together starts. It would be an honor to be a part of your team in life, for life!
![Photo of Kristin Cunningham, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85ad8c20-448b-407b-83e3-371d5224eda7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate Appointments Available! I am board certified in psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan. I am especially passionate about caring for children, adolescents, and members of the queer community. I am kink/polyamory/LGBTQ+ affirming and strive to provide care that honors the complexities of my patients' intersecting identities.
Immediate Appointments Available! I am board certified in psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan. I am especially passionate about caring for children, adolescents, and members of the queer community. I am kink/polyamory/LGBTQ+ affirming and strive to provide care that honors the complexities of my patients' intersecting identities.
![Photo of Uyen Dinh, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19ac4ee2-6076-4a71-bf2a-95592b5fe8ae/1/320x400.png)
Uyen Dinh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67208
Website: Copy and paste link to request consultation/scheduling > Nowpsychiatryservices.com/consultationappointment. —— We, as humans, all have emotions. Even the strongest can break sometimes. Mental illness does not discriminate and can happen to anyone in their life time. We need to de-stigmatize mental illness and normalize mental health treatment as a priority. I hope to be able to provide my patients with the tool they need in order to be successful in whatever challenges they may be facing.
Website: Copy and paste link to request consultation/scheduling > Nowpsychiatryservices.com/consultationappointment. —— We, as humans, all have emotions. Even the strongest can break sometimes. Mental illness does not discriminate and can happen to anyone in their life time. We need to de-stigmatize mental illness and normalize mental health treatment as a priority. I hope to be able to provide my patients with the tool they need in order to be successful in whatever challenges they may be facing.
![Photo of Alicia Sader, ARNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdfa9d29-e238-466b-bdef-3b60611e0933/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a stressed mother, wife, or daughter who is putting others’ needs in front of your own? Are you a father, husband, or son who is trying to do the best to provide for his family during this ever-changing season? Do you find yourself struggling to help your child with school related stress? Are you ready to start medications for the first time or just need a tweak of your current medications. Let me help you drop your shoulders and find peace!
Are you a stressed mother, wife, or daughter who is putting others’ needs in front of your own? Are you a father, husband, or son who is trying to do the best to provide for his family during this ever-changing season? Do you find yourself struggling to help your child with school related stress? Are you ready to start medications for the first time or just need a tweak of your current medications. Let me help you drop your shoulders and find peace!
See more therapy options for Junction City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Junction City, KS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Junction City, KS who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Autism |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Substance Use |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Junction City, KS see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Junction City?
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.