Psychiatrists in Fall River, MA
![Photo of Kristen Brown, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67acc340-76ff-4902-9e99-00da8a4c6d75/1/320x400.jpeg)
My journey is driven by a profound commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need. I specialize in medication management and promoting wellness, providing care tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is rooted in the belief that effective care is built on collaboration and mutual respect. I prioritize developing strong, trusting relationships with my patients, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and involved.
My journey is driven by a profound commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need. I specialize in medication management and promoting wellness, providing care tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is rooted in the belief that effective care is built on collaboration and mutual respect. I prioritize developing strong, trusting relationships with my patients, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and involved.
![Photo of Rachel E Paquette Resendes - Advanced Vital Being Health & Wellness, DNP, ANP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2753ed5a-2ba7-45be-9a95-8cd6e907a207/1/320x400.png)
Advanced Vital Being Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720
Advanced Vital Being Health & Wellness is prepared to help anyone struggling to maintain a healthy weight due to their metabolism or emotional eating habits. We strive to create personalized weight management plans that are effective for weight loss and long-term maintenance.
Advanced Vital Being Health & Wellness is prepared to help anyone struggling to maintain a healthy weight due to their metabolism or emotional eating habits. We strive to create personalized weight management plans that are effective for weight loss and long-term maintenance.
![Photo of Lindaline Yumasi - Saffron Psychiatry Services LLC 774 762 6209, Her, Hers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21195907-e6e9-4c15-bd2b-3367addbd635/2/320x400.jpeg)
Saffron Psychiatry Services LLC 774 762 6209
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Her, Hers
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02720
Lindaline Yumasi is a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified. She has approximately two decades (20years) experience in Mental Health specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar/ mood disorders, Eating disorders, ADHD, and much more. She engages holistic and humanistic approach to treatment. Your mental health is as important as your physical, social, economic and spiritual health. Lindaline understands that no two patients, diagnosis and treatment plans are the same. At Saffron Psychiatry Services (SPS), your treatment plan is uniquely developed with YOU as a priority.
Lindaline Yumasi is a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified. She has approximately two decades (20years) experience in Mental Health specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar/ mood disorders, Eating disorders, ADHD, and much more. She engages holistic and humanistic approach to treatment. Your mental health is as important as your physical, social, economic and spiritual health. Lindaline understands that no two patients, diagnosis and treatment plans are the same. At Saffron Psychiatry Services (SPS), your treatment plan is uniquely developed with YOU as a priority.
![Photo of Kerry Pimentel Taveira, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59cc8caf-5ebc-4e64-bad5-54458d26b088/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry Pimentel Taveira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720
I am a co-founder/owner of Essentia Health and Wellness Center. I am a board certified NP in Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health and Adult Health. I graduated from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA in 2004. Since then, I have worked in several capacities, including medical hospitalist in the behavioral units at Carney and Norwood Hospital, psychiatric consultant in skilled nursing facilities in the Boston area, and most recently at South Coast Behavioral Health and DLH Consulting and Psychiatric Services.
I am a co-founder/owner of Essentia Health and Wellness Center. I am a board certified NP in Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health and Adult Health. I graduated from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA in 2004. Since then, I have worked in several capacities, including medical hospitalist in the behavioral units at Carney and Norwood Hospital, psychiatric consultant in skilled nursing facilities in the Boston area, and most recently at South Coast Behavioral Health and DLH Consulting and Psychiatric Services.
![Photo of Jacqueline Lebel, MD, JD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f976ea76-d7a1-427b-8b51-df962154edb2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am available to help those struggling with life transitions, relationships, their mood, anxiety, thoughts, family relationships, loneliness, academic issues, ADHD, developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder.
Hello! I am available to help those struggling with life transitions, relationships, their mood, anxiety, thoughts, family relationships, loneliness, academic issues, ADHD, developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder.
![Photo of Dr. Valerie Seney, PhD, MA, LMHC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0122898b-566c-4ffd-ab11-b89c87f8234c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Valerie Seney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MA, LMHC, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02720
Waitlist for new clients
As a dedicated & board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic partnership with each client. I believe in creating a safe & non-stigmatized environment where trust can flourish, forming the foundation for effective & personalized treatment. I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. My practice extends beyond conventional psychiatric care, to include treating Substance Use Disorder. Additionally, my services encompass psychotherapy & medication management to ensure holistic & effective treatment.
As a dedicated & board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic partnership with each client. I believe in creating a safe & non-stigmatized environment where trust can flourish, forming the foundation for effective & personalized treatment. I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. My practice extends beyond conventional psychiatric care, to include treating Substance Use Disorder. Additionally, my services encompass psychotherapy & medication management to ensure holistic & effective treatment.
![Photo of Karen L Cadwalader - C & C Psychiatry, MS, APRN-, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9edb2078-9ec3-4b27-aab3-59fc2532436c/1/320x400.jpeg)
C & C Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN-, CNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02724
I am a board certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, who received my training at Boston College in both Nursing and Developmental/Educational Psychology. I am currently accepting most major commercial Health Insurances, Medicare and Wellsense. My clinical expertise has been developed over 20 years of working in community mental health , private practice, and residential treatment programs for adolescents.
I am a board certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, who received my training at Boston College in both Nursing and Developmental/Educational Psychology. I am currently accepting most major commercial Health Insurances, Medicare and Wellsense. My clinical expertise has been developed over 20 years of working in community mental health , private practice, and residential treatment programs for adolescents.
![Photo of Kathleen Briggs, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c189ed-e985-4fd0-af17-68a94bd24489/1/320x400.png)
Kathleen Briggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02724
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my nursing philosophy is to provide individualized care to my clients by acknowledging their unique situations, educating patients and their families, and providing unconditionally compassionate, high-quality, and ethical care. I believe in creating a therapeutic alliance based on respect for freedom of choice, considering each patient’s cultural and spiritual beliefs and values.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my nursing philosophy is to provide individualized care to my clients by acknowledging their unique situations, educating patients and their families, and providing unconditionally compassionate, high-quality, and ethical care. I believe in creating a therapeutic alliance based on respect for freedom of choice, considering each patient’s cultural and spiritual beliefs and values.
![Photo of Christien Tootell-Quevedo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49a6926b-ae0c-4b98-a674-a777acbcd175/1/320x400.png)
Christien Tootell-Quevedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720
I am happy to get set up in my office in Fall River because I believe mental health is health care. With this ideal in mind, throughout my career I have taken pride in normalizing and destigmatizing mental health by educating and supporting the needs of patients and their families on their journeys of health and wellness. I want to make sure I promote well-being in a way that is understandable from kids, to young adults, and to their care givers. I see ages 5 - 25 years old. And after discussing any concerns for problems we may want to address, overall, I hope I can help to be part of your solution.
I am happy to get set up in my office in Fall River because I believe mental health is health care. With this ideal in mind, throughout my career I have taken pride in normalizing and destigmatizing mental health by educating and supporting the needs of patients and their families on their journeys of health and wellness. I want to make sure I promote well-being in a way that is understandable from kids, to young adults, and to their care givers. I see ages 5 - 25 years old. And after discussing any concerns for problems we may want to address, overall, I hope I can help to be part of your solution.
![Photo of Emily Daniell, MSN, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01b3f702-201a-4d5b-958a-af33ac2e7d74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Daniell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes strongly in the collaborative relationship between practitioner and client. I believe in offering non-stigmatized care in a comfortable setting where a trusting rapport can be built. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, etc. I am a certified Addiction specialist and have a decade of experience treating Substance Use Disorders. I offer treatment with Suboxone, Sublocade, Brixadi, or Vivitrol as well as general psychiatric med management. If you are looking for MAT, psych med mgmt, or both, I would love to work with you.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes strongly in the collaborative relationship between practitioner and client. I believe in offering non-stigmatized care in a comfortable setting where a trusting rapport can be built. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, etc. I am a certified Addiction specialist and have a decade of experience treating Substance Use Disorders. I offer treatment with Suboxone, Sublocade, Brixadi, or Vivitrol as well as general psychiatric med management. If you are looking for MAT, psych med mgmt, or both, I would love to work with you.
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
![Photo of Lynetta Loveland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8ce3e20-20f1-4d37-9402-1d6ceec51f0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynetta Loveland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720 (Online Only)
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
Mind Over Matters Therapeutic & Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02720
My ideal client is someone experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, seeking support and guidance to improve their mental health. They need a compassionate and understanding professional who can provide personalized care and effective treatment strategies. Their goals include managing their symptoms, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and achieving a sense of stability and well-being. They want to feel empowered and supported in their journey towards mental health because they are committed to improving their quality of life and overall happiness.
My ideal client is someone experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, seeking support and guidance to improve their mental health. They need a compassionate and understanding professional who can provide personalized care and effective treatment strategies. Their goals include managing their symptoms, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and achieving a sense of stability and well-being. They want to feel empowered and supported in their journey towards mental health because they are committed to improving their quality of life and overall happiness.
![Photo of Eric E Pinho - Sandpiper Wellness, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da88ddbe-9763-4010-8dbd-54c013badf6c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sandpiper Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720
I am a sole practitioner with my own unique style and specializations. I approach mental health related illness with a comprehensive plan that includes more than prescription medication. I explore metabolic factors within our own natural makeup that are importantly linked to depressive and anxiety syndromes. The best outcomes happen when you combine individual therapy and a complete approach to mental health.
I am a sole practitioner with my own unique style and specializations. I approach mental health related illness with a comprehensive plan that includes more than prescription medication. I explore metabolic factors within our own natural makeup that are importantly linked to depressive and anxiety syndromes. The best outcomes happen when you combine individual therapy and a complete approach to mental health.
![Photo of Ogo N George - Unique psych services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cd0a930-115b-41b4-a1f3-ba52b333eff6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Unique Psych services comprises of board certified psychiatric /mental health nurse practitioner(s) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medications to individuals across the lifespan. We have expertise in evaluating and treating a wide range of mental health diagnoses, including depression, anxiety and mood disorders, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD to mention a few. Our providers are widely versed in the psychiatric/behavioral health field. We incorporate a holistic, patient-centered approach, providing treatment that is founded on evidence-based guidelines.
Unique Psych services comprises of board certified psychiatric /mental health nurse practitioner(s) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medications to individuals across the lifespan. We have expertise in evaluating and treating a wide range of mental health diagnoses, including depression, anxiety and mood disorders, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD to mention a few. Our providers are widely versed in the psychiatric/behavioral health field. We incorporate a holistic, patient-centered approach, providing treatment that is founded on evidence-based guidelines.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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
Swansea, MA 02777 (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 Katie Brown, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccf2c458-b47a-4687-bc74-c425b0b3d63b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Hi, welcome to Safe Harbor Wellness! If you are interested in becoming a new client for medication management, please go to www.safeharborwellness.org to self-schedule an intake. I look forward to meeting with you!
Hi, welcome to Safe Harbor Wellness! If you are interested in becoming a new client for medication management, please go to www.safeharborwellness.org to self-schedule an intake. I look forward to meeting with you!
DLH Consulting & Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMHC, LICSW, LCSW, PMH-NP, MD
Verified Verified
Westport, MA 02790
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd543d47-f4f3-4f65-a57c-20412ab9d7b4/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69d83020-cb36-4620-bec2-4f5ae5437de4/2/320x400.png)
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
See more therapy options for Fall River
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fall River, MA
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Fall River, MA who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Medication Management |
73% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | Tufts |
How Psychiatrists in Fall River, MA see their clients
94% | In Person and Online | |
6% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fall River?
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.