Psychiatrists in Dennis, MA
![Photo of Katie Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/719a3266-195f-49a1-a041-1526c617ee0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dennis, MA 02638 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years working in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings including inpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, emergency room, and home care. I have particular interest in depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and peri/postpartum care.
Currently accepting new clients! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years working in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings including inpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, emergency room, and home care. I have particular interest in depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and peri/postpartum care.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of David Jacob Schopick - David Schopick MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a9c0af-6170-42ea-8fc1-7a1f08b8e55a/3/320x400.jpeg)
The goal of my practice is helping people get their lives back. Restoring mental health can be a tricky road to navigate, but with perseverance and treatment, change is possible. I enjoy working with people, and from long years of experience, have a good sense of what it takes to help my patients return to productive, healthy lives. I am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. Dr. David Schopick primarily serves New Hampshire, southern Maine and northern Massachusetts, but is also available for telemedicine appointments.
The goal of my practice is helping people get their lives back. Restoring mental health can be a tricky road to navigate, but with perseverance and treatment, change is possible. I enjoy working with people, and from long years of experience, have a good sense of what it takes to help my patients return to productive, healthy lives. I am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. Dr. David Schopick primarily serves New Hampshire, southern Maine and northern Massachusetts, but is also available for telemedicine appointments.
![Photo of Lisa M Anderson, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef41ebb-4e8b-44ab-b2d9-b6d727e0311a/2/320x400.png)
Lisa M Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601 (Online Only)
Individuals seeking mental health care, regardless of age, may be grappling with a range of issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating and mood disorders, PTSD, or OCD. These conditions can significantly impact their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. Their needs revolve around finding effective treatment and support tailored to their unique circumstances and preferences. Their ultimate goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of stability and fulfillment in their lives. They seek understanding, empathy, and guidance on their journey towards mental wellness.
Individuals seeking mental health care, regardless of age, may be grappling with a range of issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating and mood disorders, PTSD, or OCD. These conditions can significantly impact their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. Their needs revolve around finding effective treatment and support tailored to their unique circumstances and preferences. Their ultimate goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of stability and fulfillment in their lives. They seek understanding, empathy, and guidance on their journey towards mental wellness.
![Photo of Richard '''' Orluk - Nantucket Sound Psychiatry PC, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36395ee8-face-47db-9988-f0673aa4d379/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nantucket Sound Psychiatry PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harwich Port, MA 02646
July 2024: Accepting new clients. Seeing clients ages 5-18 yrs for in person visits.
July 2024: Accepting new clients. Seeing clients ages 5-18 yrs for in person visits.
![Photo of Onyebuchi Ogbo - Good Path Health Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46dbc135-81b9-4a3f-9815-c404f023ea81/1/320x400.png)
Good Path Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barnstable, MA 02630
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand and have experienced the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand and have experienced the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
![Photo of Maria Eden Aguilar Gianan, BSN, NP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca54799-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Eden Aguilar Gianan
Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, NP, CNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barnstable, MA 02630
My clients are usually feeling overwhelmed by sudden challenges and transitions which can alter perspective and cause stress, depression, anxiety and trauma. I provide the guidance and positive outlook needed to respond to stressful situations as opportunities to learn and grow. I also have a wide range of experience in crisis stabilization. Crisis strongly impacts day-to-day routines, yet with counseling, clients can move forward with life. Learning how to move forward, although often difficult, can prevent further emotional distress.
My clients are usually feeling overwhelmed by sudden challenges and transitions which can alter perspective and cause stress, depression, anxiety and trauma. I provide the guidance and positive outlook needed to respond to stressful situations as opportunities to learn and grow. I also have a wide range of experience in crisis stabilization. Crisis strongly impacts day-to-day routines, yet with counseling, clients can move forward with life. Learning how to move forward, although often difficult, can prevent further emotional distress.
![Photo of Olena Dreyfus, MSH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/456adaf6-199c-4993-9076-32bc407ed796/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olena Dreyfus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barnstable, MA 02630
Olena Dreyfus is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts. She offers comprehensive treatment that combines medication with various lifestyle and behavioral interventions. She works with adults of all ages and treats a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, psychotic disorders, and PTSD. Olena uses evidence-based treatments that consider patients’ biological, psychological, spiritual, and social needs. Her top priority is to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and comfortable sharing their experiences.
Olena Dreyfus is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts. She offers comprehensive treatment that combines medication with various lifestyle and behavioral interventions. She works with adults of all ages and treats a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, psychotic disorders, and PTSD. Olena uses evidence-based treatments that consider patients’ biological, psychological, spiritual, and social needs. Her top priority is to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and comfortable sharing their experiences.
![Photo of Katie Byrne - Katie @ Beacon Behavioral Health Associates, PLLC, DNP (c), PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/114ed8f4-2583-41a4-a626-40901108bd82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie @ Beacon Behavioral Health Associates, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP (c), PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601
NOW OFFERING TMS THERAPY. PLEASE CALL OFFICE INSTEAD OF EMAILING. LEARN MORE ON OUR WEBSITE. Katie & the BBHA staff are passionate about assisting children, adolescents & adults on their path to holistic mental health & wellness. We empower individuals on their journey to wellness by engaging in these important things: listening effectively, empowering patients to visualize their strengths & providing guidance as patients' conceptualize needed change in their lives. Katie works with other independent clinicians at BBHA (& offsite) to support your path to better mental health & wellness.
NOW OFFERING TMS THERAPY. PLEASE CALL OFFICE INSTEAD OF EMAILING. LEARN MORE ON OUR WEBSITE. Katie & the BBHA staff are passionate about assisting children, adolescents & adults on their path to holistic mental health & wellness. We empower individuals on their journey to wellness by engaging in these important things: listening effectively, empowering patients to visualize their strengths & providing guidance as patients' conceptualize needed change in their lives. Katie works with other independent clinicians at BBHA (& offsite) to support your path to better mental health & wellness.
![Photo of Enoch O Anyanwu - Brain Dynamic Psychiatry , CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e41056a1-245a-406b-99b2-e15d5b52e463/4/320x400.jpeg)
Brain Dynamic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, as humans, we all have our innate given potentials. My core believe is to help individuals live and attain their maximum potentials irrespective of mental health challenges. My treatment modality is based on collaborative approach that is centered on careful Psychopharmacological management that incorporates Psychotherapy for upmost outcome. My goal is to provide holistic care that is based on evidence-based research. Understanding human brain as a complex structure with an intricate network of neuro-chemical activity is a key to understanding the imbalance in brain activity.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, as humans, we all have our innate given potentials. My core believe is to help individuals live and attain their maximum potentials irrespective of mental health challenges. My treatment modality is based on collaborative approach that is centered on careful Psychopharmacological management that incorporates Psychotherapy for upmost outcome. My goal is to provide holistic care that is based on evidence-based research. Understanding human brain as a complex structure with an intricate network of neuro-chemical activity is a key to understanding the imbalance in brain activity.
![Photo of Justin Marotta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/390cf8bc-9b9f-4e3b-80bb-371fe79877f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Marotta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601 (Online Only)
I am the founder and owner of Boston Psychiatric Services. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I aim to establish individualized and comprehensive care to clients that promotes resilience, growth, and fosters one’s ability to cope and manage with life’s struggles.
I am the founder and owner of Boston Psychiatric Services. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I aim to establish individualized and comprehensive care to clients that promotes resilience, growth, and fosters one’s ability to cope and manage with life’s struggles.
![Photo of Jean K Boyd - Behavioral Psychiatric & Psychological Associates, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a807e95-766e-4ebc-b308-ffa2d9fb980d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Behavioral Psychiatric & Psychological Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Yarmouth Port, MA 02675
Our team (Donald Lucero, Ed.D., Steven Brown, LICSW, Kristine Costa, LMHC, and Jean K Boyd, MD) treats a spectrum of psychiatric and psychological problems with therapy and medications as needed for each individual. We are a small private practice and see patients by appointment only.
Our team (Donald Lucero, Ed.D., Steven Brown, LICSW, Kristine Costa, LMHC, and Jean K Boyd, MD) treats a spectrum of psychiatric and psychological problems with therapy and medications as needed for each individual. We are a small private practice and see patients by appointment only.
Jennifer Kania
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601 (Online Only)
Jennifer believes in providing a holistic and individualized care tailored to the specific needs of each patient. She combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in each encounter.
Jennifer believes in providing a holistic and individualized care tailored to the specific needs of each patient. She combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in each encounter.
![Photo of Diane Ofria, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75f74a08-b2bc-45c9-9fbf-e42da689b291/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Ofria
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Barnstable, MA 02630
Not accepting new clients
Especially in recent months, many individuals are struggling to find stability and ways to stay grounded while trying to live their lives. Constant stressors in our work and home environments exacerbate an individual's depression, anxiety and past trauma, which can interfere with our ability to function and enjoy our lives. I believe everyone has a personal vision of what will bring them the happiest and healthiest life. Using a holistic approach, I work to build a partnership with individuals. Together, we can learn to recognize and build innate strengths, and resilience.
Especially in recent months, many individuals are struggling to find stability and ways to stay grounded while trying to live their lives. Constant stressors in our work and home environments exacerbate an individual's depression, anxiety and past trauma, which can interfere with our ability to function and enjoy our lives. I believe everyone has a personal vision of what will bring them the happiest and healthiest life. Using a holistic approach, I work to build a partnership with individuals. Together, we can learn to recognize and build innate strengths, and resilience.
![Photo of Kirstin Ritchie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6ce201b-79ce-4dfe-9d43-730fd2cc811e/1/320x400.png)
Kirstin Ritchie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 (Online Only)
Harborside Psychiatrics offers medication management to clients of all ages and genders. We are specialized in the treatment of eating disorders and PTSD, with a particular passion for working with athletes. We also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Harborside Psychiatrics offers medication management to clients of all ages and genders. We are specialized in the treatment of eating disorders and PTSD, with a particular passion for working with athletes. We also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Janette Jennison
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MSN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brewster, MA 02631
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with greater than 20 years of nursing experience. I seek to treat disorders of mood, thought and attention. I currently offer medication management and therapy here on the mid to lower cape. Using a strength-based approach, we will work together to develop a plan of care. Your individualized plan may include therapy, therapeutic techniques, and/or medication.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with greater than 20 years of nursing experience. I seek to treat disorders of mood, thought and attention. I currently offer medication management and therapy here on the mid to lower cape. Using a strength-based approach, we will work together to develop a plan of care. Your individualized plan may include therapy, therapeutic techniques, and/or medication.
![Photo of Badu Adjei, DNP, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1315a080-d5b5-4b9d-9ef8-9b9e3843dbeb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! You have taken the right step to seek support today! I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adolescents, young adults, and adults with much interest in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Behavioral Issues, Men's Issues, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Stress, Schizophrenia, and Sleep Issues or Insomnia. I am a Doctorally-prepared, Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I am ready to work with you to provide the best treatment tailored to your needs.
Accepting New Patients! You have taken the right step to seek support today! I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adolescents, young adults, and adults with much interest in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Behavioral Issues, Men's Issues, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Stress, Schizophrenia, and Sleep Issues or Insomnia. I am a Doctorally-prepared, Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I am ready to work with you to provide the best treatment tailored to your needs.
![Photo of Melanie Kelley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbf64dd5-c6bb-41a3-8fa3-ae6b864196cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Kelley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Barnstable, MA 02630 (Online Only)
My name is Melanie Kelley, and I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I combine both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to treat children, adolescents, and adults to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on the patient's desired goals and outcomes.
My name is Melanie Kelley, and I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I combine both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to treat children, adolescents, and adults to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on the patient's desired goals and outcomes.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Danielle Lasden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a77cdf44-f90b-4dc8-a6a5-214cdf0af114/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dedicated to compassionate, patient-focused care, Danielle Lasden brings over 7 years of hands-on experience to Emory Recovery Center. As a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with a specialty in addiction medicine, Danielle possesses an unwavering commitment to the holistic treatment of individuals grappling with substance use disorders. Having served at renowned institutions like Brigham and Women's Hospital, Danielle has demonstrated expertise in integrating addiction medicine into primary care, ensuring comprehensive and seamless care for her patients.
Dedicated to compassionate, patient-focused care, Danielle Lasden brings over 7 years of hands-on experience to Emory Recovery Center. As a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with a specialty in addiction medicine, Danielle possesses an unwavering commitment to the holistic treatment of individuals grappling with substance use disorders. Having served at renowned institutions like Brigham and Women's Hospital, Danielle has demonstrated expertise in integrating addiction medicine into primary care, ensuring comprehensive and seamless care for her patients.
![Photo of Ashley Tobey, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05bb1d8c-f600-4068-aa9f-f163ec6a7299/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Tobey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476 (Online Only)
Ashley Tobey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and received her Master of Science in Nursing from Northeastern University. She has a broad range of experience in providing advanced practice psychiatric nursing care to adults in a variety of settings over the last seven years. She specializes in providing evaluation and medication management services to adults struggling with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit disorders and adjustment difficulties with acute life events.
Ashley Tobey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and received her Master of Science in Nursing from Northeastern University. She has a broad range of experience in providing advanced practice psychiatric nursing care to adults in a variety of settings over the last seven years. She specializes in providing evaluation and medication management services to adults struggling with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit disorders and adjustment difficulties with acute life events.
![Photo of Wilmot lambert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5aa6a04-556b-46cb-8ba5-7f207db03fe7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wilmot lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randolph, MA 02368 (Online Only)
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
See more therapy options for Dennis
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dennis, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Dennis, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Coping Skills |
100% | Medication Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Harvard Pilgrim |
How Psychiatrists in Dennis, MA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dennis?
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.