Psychiatrists in North Truro, MA
![Photo of Joseph F Toomey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2779c42-c7cf-492d-8c15-7667507edbbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph F Toomey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Truro, MA 02652 (Online Only)
With over three decades’ experience in academic and corporate environments, my current work as a Psychiatric DNP has evolved from observing the challenges and successes of colleagues and students and their relationship to emotional HEALTH and the ABILITY to FOCUS on daily and long-term goals. As a result of my Yale, Duke, and MGH psychiatric training, I’ve honed my observations into effective working theories about the biopsychosocial factors that influence peoples’ vitality and well-being. If you're currently struggling with academic, professional or emotional obstacles, I believe I can help.
With over three decades’ experience in academic and corporate environments, my current work as a Psychiatric DNP has evolved from observing the challenges and successes of colleagues and students and their relationship to emotional HEALTH and the ABILITY to FOCUS on daily and long-term goals. As a result of my Yale, Duke, and MGH psychiatric training, I’ve honed my observations into effective working theories about the biopsychosocial factors that influence peoples’ vitality and well-being. If you're currently struggling with academic, professional or emotional obstacles, I believe I can help.
![Photo of Joseph F. Toomey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca2ba5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With over three decades’ experience in academic and corporate environments, my current work as a Psychiatric DNP has evolved from observing the challenges and successes of colleagues and students and their relationship to emotional HEALTH and the ability to FOCUS on daily and long-term goals. As a result of my Yale, Duke, and MGH psychiatric training, I’ve honed my observations into effective working theories about the biopsychosocial factors that influence peoples’ vitality and well-being. If you're currently struggling with academic, professional or emotional obstacles, I believe I can help.
With over three decades’ experience in academic and corporate environments, my current work as a Psychiatric DNP has evolved from observing the challenges and successes of colleagues and students and their relationship to emotional HEALTH and the ability to FOCUS on daily and long-term goals. As a result of my Yale, Duke, and MGH psychiatric training, I’ve honed my observations into effective working theories about the biopsychosocial factors that influence peoples’ vitality and well-being. If you're currently struggling with academic, professional or emotional obstacles, I believe I can help.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Chime Ajiere - Zoelife psychiatric services, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e732855f-83f1-4145-94f9-523af0e2f970/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zoelife psychiatric services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Provincetown, MA 02657
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
![Photo of Frank Domenic Bellistri, RN, MS, PMHNP, BC, GNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45e27a66-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Frank Domenic Bellistri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, PMHNP, BC, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Provincetown, MA 02657
Have you been doing all the right things for your own mental health but find it's just not working? Have you considered, or been told that medication might be the next step to help you meet your mental health goals? Or are you already taking or have taken medication and are looking for someone to work with you to manage them as part of your mental health plan? If so, I might be able to help.
Have you been doing all the right things for your own mental health but find it's just not working? Have you considered, or been told that medication might be the next step to help you meet your mental health goals? Or are you already taking or have taken medication and are looking for someone to work with you to manage them as part of your mental health plan? If so, I might be able to help.
![Photo of Hannah Chapman, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de575974-6f39-4673-8456-1cc3f12d2962/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Chapman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Provincetown, MA 02657
Hi there! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for providing mental health care to my clients. I have many areas of interest including substance use disorders, anxiety/mood disorders, and eating disorders. I practice from a Health at Every Size (HAES)/body positivity lens when caring for my patients and also believe in incorporating holistic care into treatment. I work with patients across the lifespan with a focus on the young adult population.
Hi there! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for providing mental health care to my clients. I have many areas of interest including substance use disorders, anxiety/mood disorders, and eating disorders. I practice from a Health at Every Size (HAES)/body positivity lens when caring for my patients and also believe in incorporating holistic care into treatment. I work with patients across the lifespan with a focus on the young adult population.
![Photo of Patti Jacques, MSN, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d69ceb65-3556-4338-bd67-3abfb1b8442a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Providing medication management for mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, and menopause. Blue Cross Blue Shield Accepted. No Insurance? Reach out and schedule a 15-minute complimentary consultation to discuss a cash payment option. Visit ariahealthcare.com for more information.
Providing medication management for mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, and menopause. Blue Cross Blue Shield Accepted. No Insurance? Reach out and schedule a 15-minute complimentary consultation to discuss a cash payment option. Visit ariahealthcare.com for more information.
![Photo of Sakil Chundydyal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df5eba40-fd77-4adc-9b23-7b5cc7489121/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat a broad array of psychological and psychiatric conditions, with a particular expertise in mood disorders, stress and anxiety, and psycho-sexual issues. My clinical interests also include LGBT-focused care, trauma, as well as self esteem and relationship difficulties.
I treat a broad array of psychological and psychiatric conditions, with a particular expertise in mood disorders, stress and anxiety, and psycho-sexual issues. My clinical interests also include LGBT-focused care, trauma, as well as self esteem and relationship difficulties.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e63d629-7066-495b-8935-a018916680c1/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Attleboro, MA 02760
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63ac17aa-cd99-4b6f-8132-e31858fee2c7/2/320x400.png)
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
![Photo of Elena Cetola - Good Hope Wellness, Inc, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a665a8f-7c0a-46d7-b9d4-7e31f43bf242/1/320x400.png)
Good Hope Wellness, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerset, MA 02726
Currently accepting with NO WAIT time! We are a group private practice with different providers, which allows you to find the connection that is necessary for you to work on your symptoms. At the moment, we are open to treat individuals age 14+, but will soon be opening slots for children.
Currently accepting with NO WAIT time! We are a group private practice with different providers, which allows you to find the connection that is necessary for you to work on your symptoms. At the moment, we are open to treat individuals age 14+, but will soon be opening slots for children.
![Photo of Nora Mellett, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dec87be-65d3-416c-8910-60ef3ecdc3b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psych evaluations and medication management to individuals across the lifespan. I strive to provide client-centered care to every client in a comfortable and friendly environment. I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Nursing from Regis College, and later received my Masters Degree in Nursing from Regis College. Before I became a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, I worked as a Registered Nurse on various psychiatric units in hospitals. My experience strengthened my ability to create strong therapeutic relationships with clients.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psych evaluations and medication management to individuals across the lifespan. I strive to provide client-centered care to every client in a comfortable and friendly environment. I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Nursing from Regis College, and later received my Masters Degree in Nursing from Regis College. Before I became a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, I worked as a Registered Nurse on various psychiatric units in hospitals. My experience strengthened my ability to create strong therapeutic relationships with clients.
![Photo of Melissa Broughton, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1f1707e-1e82-4ccc-9dc1-3eed2a7deb50/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Broughton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446 (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric evaluations for patients who are seeking esketamine (Spravato) and ketamine treatments for Treatment Resistant Depression.
I provide psychiatric evaluations for patients who are seeking esketamine (Spravato) and ketamine treatments for Treatment Resistant Depression.
![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 Aimee Brianne Beck - A Healthy State of Mind Psychiatry PLLC, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13f78b94-8d11-4fdd-8d93-4e26d61b69ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
A Healthy State of Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fitchburg, MA 01420
I'm Aimee, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric NP with a passion for mental wellness and a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Graduating with my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UMass Amherst in 2015, I bring nine years of invaluable experience from primary care and urgent care settings. I believe in a collaborative approach to mental health, tailoring treatment plans to address the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide compassionate care and expert guidance.
I'm Aimee, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric NP with a passion for mental wellness and a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Graduating with my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UMass Amherst in 2015, I bring nine years of invaluable experience from primary care and urgent care settings. I believe in a collaborative approach to mental health, tailoring treatment plans to address the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide compassionate care and expert guidance.
![Photo of Liza Hunter, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/873b2721-582e-4ffd-808f-f69f02443617/2/320x400.png)
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
![Photo of Leslie Madrak, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/456742ff-6f65-41b6-a5f6-bd8bc39971ca/2/320x400.png)
I have over 22 years of experience in General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, providing both inpatient and outpatient care. I have treated patients with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression. I served as Medical Director at Camden County Health Services Center (now North Brook Hospital) as well as Kennedy Health Alliance and Jefferson Health outpatient services. I previously served as a Collaborating Physician for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants and am providing this role as a Medical Director-Collaborative Physician at Victory Bay.
I have over 22 years of experience in General Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, providing both inpatient and outpatient care. I have treated patients with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression. I served as Medical Director at Camden County Health Services Center (now North Brook Hospital) as well as Kennedy Health Alliance and Jefferson Health outpatient services. I previously served as a Collaborating Physician for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants and am providing this role as a Medical Director-Collaborative Physician at Victory Bay.
![Photo of Dahyana (Diana) Schlosser, PMHNP, MEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a26fee74-6f1b-4040-b847-98917c0d224e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dahyana (Diana) Schlosser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MEd
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
Hi there! Thank you so much for being here. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, committed to providing comprehensive and holistic mental health care to both adults and children. My approach to treatment is grounded in the latest evidence-based practices, yet deeply attuned to the unique circumstances and nuances of life. I believe that truly effective care emerges from a synthesis of scientific knowledge and compassionate, personalized attention.
Hi there! Thank you so much for being here. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, committed to providing comprehensive and holistic mental health care to both adults and children. My approach to treatment is grounded in the latest evidence-based practices, yet deeply attuned to the unique circumstances and nuances of life. I believe that truly effective care emerges from a synthesis of scientific knowledge and compassionate, personalized attention.
![Photo of Dr. Misty Stafford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/584b4cea-dad4-4d7f-be6c-52370a6b5a4e/1/320x400.png)
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
![Photo of Martha Stark, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f269b0e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you not as healthy - in mind or body - as you would want to be? Have you already consulted numerous healthcare specialists but remain confused, broken, and desperate for answers and relief? Do you suffer from chronic pain, fatigue, brain fog, memory problems, depression, low energy, insomnia, anxiety? My passion is helping people regain their health and restore their hope. As a seasoned (Harvard-trained / Harvard-affiliated) holistic psychiatrist and innovative psychoanalyst with expertise in the integration of traditional and alternative approaches to MindBodyHealth, I have acquired a broad-based appreciation for the underlying causes of, and holistic treatments for, chronic psychiatric and medical conditions.
Are you not as healthy - in mind or body - as you would want to be? Have you already consulted numerous healthcare specialists but remain confused, broken, and desperate for answers and relief? Do you suffer from chronic pain, fatigue, brain fog, memory problems, depression, low energy, insomnia, anxiety? My passion is helping people regain their health and restore their hope. As a seasoned (Harvard-trained / Harvard-affiliated) holistic psychiatrist and innovative psychoanalyst with expertise in the integration of traditional and alternative approaches to MindBodyHealth, I have acquired a broad-based appreciation for the underlying causes of, and holistic treatments for, chronic psychiatric and medical conditions.
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Nearby Searches for North Truro
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in North Truro, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in North Truro, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Other |
Average years in practice
28 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in North Truro, MA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in North Truro?
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.