Psychiatrists in Canton, MA
![Photo of Bryan Teran-Zuniga, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/763617e9-074a-4a2b-88d2-1c906f28e786/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bryan Teran-Zuniga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
I believe that there is nothing brighter than a child's mind. This is why I am passionate about working with children and adolescents of diverse cultural backgrounds struggling with mental health conditions. While I provide psychopharmacological treatment, I believe that treatment should be dynamic, person centered with strong emphasis on life style and behavioral changes as well as environmental supports. Working with a multidisciplinary team is the most effective approach to manage mental health conditions, this is why I REQUIRE that all my clients MUST BE actively engaged on individual/behavioral therapy.
I believe that there is nothing brighter than a child's mind. This is why I am passionate about working with children and adolescents of diverse cultural backgrounds struggling with mental health conditions. While I provide psychopharmacological treatment, I believe that treatment should be dynamic, person centered with strong emphasis on life style and behavioral changes as well as environmental supports. Working with a multidisciplinary team is the most effective approach to manage mental health conditions, this is why I REQUIRE that all my clients MUST BE actively engaged on individual/behavioral therapy.
![Photo of Onyinye Osuagwu - Victorious HealthCare Services LLC, BSN , MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa859efa-f98c-47e9-b406-66e69e6fdf14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victorious HealthCare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN , MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
I am Onyinye Osuagwu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience working as a nurse in multiple settings. I found my passion for mental health early in my nursing career. A few years ago, I made providing mental healthcare one of my life's missions and decided to advance my career by obtaining a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to provide client-centered, conscientious, and holistic care to my patients.
I am Onyinye Osuagwu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience working as a nurse in multiple settings. I found my passion for mental health early in my nursing career. A few years ago, I made providing mental healthcare one of my life's missions and decided to advance my career by obtaining a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to provide client-centered, conscientious, and holistic care to my patients.
![Photo of Betty Yu - Integrated Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bbbca38-0a34-45ca-a5f6-c36e95f70a75/4/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
Betty Yu , PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, FNP-BC is triple board certified in psychiatry, addictions and internal medicine with extensive experience in treating psychiatric and substance use disorders. With her deep understanding of psychiatric disorders, she can help you find the path to recovery and improved well-being. Betty Yu specializes in managing various psychiatric disorders, including but not limited to: ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia. We have availability within 2 weeks for both adult and adolescent patients, starting from ages 6 and up, ensuring that you receive timely care when you need it most.
Betty Yu , PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, FNP-BC is triple board certified in psychiatry, addictions and internal medicine with extensive experience in treating psychiatric and substance use disorders. With her deep understanding of psychiatric disorders, she can help you find the path to recovery and improved well-being. Betty Yu specializes in managing various psychiatric disorders, including but not limited to: ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia. We have availability within 2 weeks for both adult and adolescent patients, starting from ages 6 and up, ensuring that you receive timely care when you need it most.
![Photo of Betty Yu, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/395726b7-fb26-472c-976a-b0973b37dee6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Betty Yu , PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, FNP-BC is an experienced nurse practitioner with triple-board certifications in psychiatry, addictions and internal medicine. Having accumulated extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, Betty is able to effectively address a diverse spectrum of psychiatric challenges, demonstrating a commitment to delivering comprehensive and impactful mental health care. Immediate availability is offered for both adult and adolescent patients, starting from the age of 6 and above.
Betty Yu , PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, FNP-BC is an experienced nurse practitioner with triple-board certifications in psychiatry, addictions and internal medicine. Having accumulated extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, Betty is able to effectively address a diverse spectrum of psychiatric challenges, demonstrating a commitment to delivering comprehensive and impactful mental health care. Immediate availability is offered for both adult and adolescent patients, starting from the age of 6 and above.
![Photo of Dr. Yveda Brutus, DNP, PMNHPBC, AGPCNPB, APRN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5dea219-d05d-4c23-9026-066e0de48ed9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yveda Brutus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNHPBC, AGPCNPB, APRN, RN
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
My name is Dr. Yveda Brutus DNP. I graduated from UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester. I am a dual-Board-Certified NP specializes in PMHNP and AGPCNP, and I have more than 5 years of experience in practice. I adhere to a comprehensive care framework that incorporates both medical and psychiatric disciplines. My goal is to provide treatment to individuals suffering from complex psychiatric disorders in regaining control of their lives. My approach is based on the importance of human connections, comprehending the reasons behind their symptoms, and honoring the individual’s power and voice in their treatment and overall well-being.
My name is Dr. Yveda Brutus DNP. I graduated from UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester. I am a dual-Board-Certified NP specializes in PMHNP and AGPCNP, and I have more than 5 years of experience in practice. I adhere to a comprehensive care framework that incorporates both medical and psychiatric disciplines. My goal is to provide treatment to individuals suffering from complex psychiatric disorders in regaining control of their lives. My approach is based on the importance of human connections, comprehending the reasons behind their symptoms, and honoring the individual’s power and voice in their treatment and overall well-being.
![Photo of Gary Warstadt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf8d184-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe deeply that people can change their lives, and I have dedicated my life's work to just that. Patterns of behavior always exist for good reason. They begin as a way of adapting to circumstances, then the situation changes, and years later, what was once a way to cope has now become a liability. There is nothing more gratifying than assisting people in recognizing these lifelong patterns in which they have been entwined, and learning how to slip those bonds. Understanding alone, though, is not enough. The hard part is putting together and implementing a plan to change.
I believe deeply that people can change their lives, and I have dedicated my life's work to just that. Patterns of behavior always exist for good reason. They begin as a way of adapting to circumstances, then the situation changes, and years later, what was once a way to cope has now become a liability. There is nothing more gratifying than assisting people in recognizing these lifelong patterns in which they have been entwined, and learning how to slip those bonds. Understanding alone, though, is not enough. The hard part is putting together and implementing a plan to change.
![Photo of Mary-Ellen Meltzer - Mary-Ellen Meltzer PMHCNS, CST-S, PMHCNS-, BC, CST-, S, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f80a5c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary-Ellen Meltzer PMHCNS, CST-S
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHCNS-, BC, CST-, S
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
My name is Mary-Ellen Meltzer and I am an AASECT certified sex therapist, sex therapist supervisor, and a psychiatric clinical nurse specialist. I am LGBTQIAA and kink affirming. I work with couples and individuals who struggle with relationship and sexual health issues. I also work with clients who struggle with medical health issues including cancer and menopause. When you are struggling with sexual and /or relationship issues it can be hard to identify a therapist to help you make sense of what you are experiencing. You do not need to struggle alone. All genders, relationships and cultures are welcome.
My name is Mary-Ellen Meltzer and I am an AASECT certified sex therapist, sex therapist supervisor, and a psychiatric clinical nurse specialist. I am LGBTQIAA and kink affirming. I work with couples and individuals who struggle with relationship and sexual health issues. I also work with clients who struggle with medical health issues including cancer and menopause. When you are struggling with sexual and /or relationship issues it can be hard to identify a therapist to help you make sense of what you are experiencing. You do not need to struggle alone. All genders, relationships and cultures are welcome.
![Photo of William Chad Garrett, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79f6e876-3e57-4f8c-9b79-0e1ceb302324/2/320x400.jpeg)
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
![Photo of Gerald Jean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57cd6d20-62e8-457e-b326-b13f568bc110/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gérald is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) driven by his fervidness for patient-centered, evidence-based practice, and concerted approaches to nursing care. With the experience accumulated over 30 years in health care, he aims at helping close the gap in the delivery of services to the mentally ill. Gérald’s primacy is to support the patients and their families in overcoming the stigmas associated with mental health, help patients improve their quality of life and reach their full potential.
Gérald is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) driven by his fervidness for patient-centered, evidence-based practice, and concerted approaches to nursing care. With the experience accumulated over 30 years in health care, he aims at helping close the gap in the delivery of services to the mentally ill. Gérald’s primacy is to support the patients and their families in overcoming the stigmas associated with mental health, help patients improve their quality of life and reach their full potential.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Sandra Bellerice, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b02b1bb9-a615-4acd-aa51-cf6540842eaf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Bellerice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Randolph, MA 02368
Welcome to Inspired by Belsa! Meet Sandra Bellerice, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of nursing experience. She's dedicated to providing personalized mental health care, is attentive to your needs, manages medication, and provides psychotherapy. Need more time? Sandra's there for you. At Inspired by Belsa, you're never alone in your journey. Step in, share your story and let Sandra guide you to a brighter path.
Welcome to Inspired by Belsa! Meet Sandra Bellerice, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of nursing experience. She's dedicated to providing personalized mental health care, is attentive to your needs, manages medication, and provides psychotherapy. Need more time? Sandra's there for you. At Inspired by Belsa, you're never alone in your journey. Step in, share your story and let Sandra guide you to a brighter path.
![Photo of Martha Cesena, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e986cb9-8910-4a55-913e-b07750de99a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have more than 20 years of clinical experience working In academia and private practice. I am a board certified psychiatrist affiliated with Children’s Hospital and I am assistant professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. I am a graduate of Temple University Hospital in adult psychiatry and Children’s Hospital, Boston in adolescent psychiatry. I work with young adult ages 17 and above. I provide medication management in a welcoming and safe environment where your concerns are discussed with an open mind and no judgment. My office is close to the green t line in the Brookline area.
I have more than 20 years of clinical experience working In academia and private practice. I am a board certified psychiatrist affiliated with Children’s Hospital and I am assistant professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. I am a graduate of Temple University Hospital in adult psychiatry and Children’s Hospital, Boston in adolescent psychiatry. I work with young adult ages 17 and above. I provide medication management in a welcoming and safe environment where your concerns are discussed with an open mind and no judgment. My office is close to the green t line in the Brookline area.
![Photo of Nneka Godwin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/688dc61b-2439-471a-b2b1-ca6894dae98c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nneka Godwin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02302 (Online Only)
Nneka O Godwin is a board-certified psychiatric and Family nurse practitioner with experiences in family practice, post-acute care medicine, telepsychiatry, and addiction medicine. She is flexible and uses an integrative approach in managing a wide range of mental health concerns such as ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, depression, substance use disorder, eating disorder, and mood disorder.
Nneka O Godwin is a board-certified psychiatric and Family nurse practitioner with experiences in family practice, post-acute care medicine, telepsychiatry, and addiction medicine. She is flexible and uses an integrative approach in managing a wide range of mental health concerns such as ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, depression, substance use disorder, eating disorder, and mood disorder.
![Photo of Yousef Abou Allaban - Neuro Behavioral Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86c188da-2aaf-4a4d-bf1c-7903595a2dc4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Neuro Behavioral Center is a premier outpatient center focused on providing you with the highest quality of mental health services. Our highly qualified team of compassionate and caring professionals are dedicated to providing the most advanced and comprehensive treatment and adult psychiatric and psychology services. Utilizing advanced technology and evidenced-based treatment, we maintain a private and secure communication channel with our patients, while collaborating with other care providers to ensure the success of our therapies.
Neuro Behavioral Center is a premier outpatient center focused on providing you with the highest quality of mental health services. Our highly qualified team of compassionate and caring professionals are dedicated to providing the most advanced and comprehensive treatment and adult psychiatric and psychology services. Utilizing advanced technology and evidenced-based treatment, we maintain a private and secure communication channel with our patients, while collaborating with other care providers to ensure the success of our therapies.
![Photo of Kara Ruggiero, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b44d21d4-5c46-4bd8-9bad-8526170881b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ms. Ruggiero, a Physician Assistant at Aster Mental Health, specializes in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Her holistic treatment style combines medication management with various psychotherapy techniques including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. She offers medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
Ms. Ruggiero, a Physician Assistant at Aster Mental Health, specializes in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Her holistic treatment style combines medication management with various psychotherapy techniques including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. She offers medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
![Photo of Oluranti Adepoju - Revive Holistic Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76f0ef0a-b20a-4900-9f62-440dd3cdfa75/1/320x400.png)
•• Accepting New Patients •• Many struggle with their mental health and often feel anxious or depressed, lack the motivation to work, isolate themselves from family and friends, lose interest in the things they use to enjoy, or perform poorly at their job. I believe when you treat someone holistically you can address the root cause of the mental health struggle so you can get back to living a balanced and fulfilled life.
•• Accepting New Patients •• Many struggle with their mental health and often feel anxious or depressed, lack the motivation to work, isolate themselves from family and friends, lose interest in the things they use to enjoy, or perform poorly at their job. I believe when you treat someone holistically you can address the root cause of the mental health struggle so you can get back to living a balanced and fulfilled life.
![Photo of Maryjean Budebo, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/363f04b2-ea07-4a91-a38d-2573cf32bfe2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet MJ, a highly qualified and nationally certified Physician Assistant (PA) who brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to patient care. Her academic journey reflects her commitment to excellence and her dedication to providing the best quality of care to her patients. MJ earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies and Masters of Health Sciences from The George Washington University, showcasing her advanced training in the field. Her educational journey also includes a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a major in Biology and a minor in the Spanish Language from UMASS.
Meet MJ, a highly qualified and nationally certified Physician Assistant (PA) who brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to patient care. Her academic journey reflects her commitment to excellence and her dedication to providing the best quality of care to her patients. MJ earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies and Masters of Health Sciences from The George Washington University, showcasing her advanced training in the field. Her educational journey also includes a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a major in Biology and a minor in the Spanish Language from UMASS.
![Photo of Valerie Rice, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/351ec73a-0fe9-4e00-9163-a4d3e5bcd323/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients, Valerie is a Psychiatric/Mental health nurse practitioner who will take time to fully explore medication options to help you meet your treatment goals, as well as non-pharmacological modalities that can help you feel like yourself. She trained as a nurse at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and received her Master’s degree in Psychiatric/Mental Health nursing at Vanderbilt University.
Accepting new patients, Valerie is a Psychiatric/Mental health nurse practitioner who will take time to fully explore medication options to help you meet your treatment goals, as well as non-pharmacological modalities that can help you feel like yourself. She trained as a nurse at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and received her Master’s degree in Psychiatric/Mental Health nursing at Vanderbilt University.
![Photo of Jeannie Capone, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/500ef230-beed-4b1d-9c21-3c0e6dfa3436/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeannie Capone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sharon, MA 02067 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm accepting new patients seeking psychiatric medication management in the state of Massachusetts. My expertise using genetic testing to inform my prescribing decisions is what sets me apart from most other prescribers. Medications are metabolized VERY differently from one person to another. Some may be too strong for you yet others may not have much effect at all. Let's "demystify" the practice of medication management, using Myriad Genetics' Genesight test to provide you with precisely tailored treatment based on your unique genetic metabolism, avoiding endless medication trials and getting you relief and results fast!
Welcome! I'm accepting new patients seeking psychiatric medication management in the state of Massachusetts. My expertise using genetic testing to inform my prescribing decisions is what sets me apart from most other prescribers. Medications are metabolized VERY differently from one person to another. Some may be too strong for you yet others may not have much effect at all. Let's "demystify" the practice of medication management, using Myriad Genetics' Genesight test to provide you with precisely tailored treatment based on your unique genetic metabolism, avoiding endless medication trials and getting you relief and results fast!
![Photo of Cyllene Saintelien - Contentahealth, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27609f48-10f4-4cf0-9ec7-ab5f801c45f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Contentahealth, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weymouth, MA 02190
I am a board certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15years experience working in mental health, treating a full rage of emotional issues. My goal is that my clients feel emotionally and physically healthy.
I am a board certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15years experience working in mental health, treating a full rage of emotional issues. My goal is that my clients feel emotionally and physically healthy.
![Photo of Sabina Tavares - Illumina Behavioral Medicine, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/349647bc-9aea-4153-bf8d-848b3839d254/3/320x400.jpeg)
Illumina Behavioral Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
“Each patient present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life”. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and as such, I can prescribe medication, if necessary, as an adjunct to psychotherapy. I worked in various healthcare including inpatient and outpatient settings providing both psychiatric and medical care. I use integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual’s authenticity to make proactive decisions and enhance his or hers ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life’s circumstances.
“Each patient present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life”. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and as such, I can prescribe medication, if necessary, as an adjunct to psychotherapy. I worked in various healthcare including inpatient and outpatient settings providing both psychiatric and medical care. I use integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual’s authenticity to make proactive decisions and enhance his or hers ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life’s circumstances.
See more therapy options for Canton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Canton, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Canton, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | ADHD |
89% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
89% | Medication Management |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
86% | Optum |
71% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Canton, MA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Canton?
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.