Psychiatrists in Sandwich, MA
![Photo of Kathleen Hood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0dfcb92-a24c-4a3c-9510-b56d8df96c01/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and I provide psychiatric medication management in person or online. I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health. I see children, adolescents, and adults in my practice. I believe in a holistic approach to healthcare and offer complementary and alternative treatment options in addition to medication management. Some diagnoses I commonly treat include (but not limited to): ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and postpartum anxiety/depression.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and I provide psychiatric medication management in person or online. I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health. I see children, adolescents, and adults in my practice. I believe in a holistic approach to healthcare and offer complementary and alternative treatment options in addition to medication management. Some diagnoses I commonly treat include (but not limited to): ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and postpartum anxiety/depression.
![Photo of Emelda Iwobi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96276131-5dd0-4496-b93c-96dfa487d5a7/1/320x400.png)
Emelda Iwobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sandwich, MA 02563 (Online Only)
I believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where patients can openly discuss their challenges and work towards their mental health goals. Utilizing a personalized approach, I tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual, combing medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies.
I believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where patients can openly discuss their challenges and work towards their mental health goals. Utilizing a personalized approach, I tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual, combing medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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
Barnstable, MA 02630
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.
![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 Joleen T Connolly, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d97c6801-badb-414a-8d0b-bbde2bde1c7a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Joleen T Connolly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buzzards Bay, MA 02532
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering in person and telehealth medication management for various diagnoses including anxiety, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and more. I work with people all ages and walks of life. I use an evidence based, strength focused, holistic approach to treatment. Complementary and alternative approaches are offered in conjunction with psychopharmacology management. Together we will develop a therapeutic and supportive relationship that allows you live a long, healthy, and happy life :)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering in person and telehealth medication management for various diagnoses including anxiety, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and more. I work with people all ages and walks of life. I use an evidence based, strength focused, holistic approach to treatment. Complementary and alternative approaches are offered in conjunction with psychopharmacology management. Together we will develop a therapeutic and supportive relationship that allows you live a long, healthy, and happy life :)
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 Jodie Deignan, PMHNPBC, MT-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67f00af3-c64b-4c8c-8005-9b573c61fd8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jodie Deignan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mashpee, MA 02649
Are you or your child currently seeing a therapist you love, but you’ve decided it’s time to think about adding psychiatric medication? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about medication, but you’re worried about having to try several medications before finding one that works? Maybe you're looking for someone who can take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to find the right medication for you or your child? I bet it's important to you that you don't have to change therapists to add medication, as well.
Are you or your child currently seeing a therapist you love, but you’ve decided it’s time to think about adding psychiatric medication? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about medication, but you’re worried about having to try several medications before finding one that works? Maybe you're looking for someone who can take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to find the right medication for you or your child? I bet it's important to you that you don't have to change therapists to add medication, as well.
![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
Bourne, MA 02532
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 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 Michele Graney - A Compassionate Mind And Wellness, LLC, , MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/393ecb23-f0ac-4e07-9350-427e49f335de/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Compassionate Mind And Wellness, LLC,
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Bourne, MA 02532 (Online Only)
Hi my name is Michele Graney, NP, and I would welcome the opportunity to help you. I know that reaching out for support can feel awkward & that it can take time to build comfort, trust, and rapport. As a experienced NP, I do not believe in scheduling "speedy appointments" as this compromises quality of care. You will have ample time to share your concerns. I take the time to listen in order to fully understand you. I believe in being open and honest with each patient. I strive to build and maintain a trusting and genuine therapeutic alliance with each patient.
Hi my name is Michele Graney, NP, and I would welcome the opportunity to help you. I know that reaching out for support can feel awkward & that it can take time to build comfort, trust, and rapport. As a experienced NP, I do not believe in scheduling "speedy appointments" as this compromises quality of care. You will have ample time to share your concerns. I take the time to listen in order to fully understand you. I believe in being open and honest with each patient. I strive to build and maintain a trusting and genuine therapeutic alliance with each patient.
![Photo of Cynthia Lopes, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc3b7d9b-b1c0-4e10-a700-b195d2f78312/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Lopes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Buzzards Bay, MA 02532
Hello, I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health. Some diagnoses that I commonly treat include: ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and PTSD. I graduated from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2016 with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and achieved my Post Graduate Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice in 2023. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as an adult geriatric primary care NP as well as Psychiatric Mental Health.
Hello, I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health. Some diagnoses that I commonly treat include: ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and PTSD. I graduated from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2016 with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and achieved my Post Graduate Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice in 2023. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as an adult geriatric primary care NP as well as Psychiatric Mental Health.
![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 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
Hyannis, MA 02601
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 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 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 Lyudmila Rakita, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e09ad5a-c16a-4dd9-9138-f0f146c78c3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with more than 25 years of experience, specializing in care of adults with mood and anxiety disorders. In my private psychiatric practice I provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, consultation for second opinions and offer medication management in conjunction with psychotherapy. i listen to my patients, respect their wishes, together make the best choices for each individual and to do no harm.
I am a psychiatrist with more than 25 years of experience, specializing in care of adults with mood and anxiety disorders. In my private psychiatric practice I provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, consultation for second opinions and offer medication management in conjunction with psychotherapy. i listen to my patients, respect their wishes, together make the best choices for each individual and to do no harm.
![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 Kathleen Heffernan, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4213895e-75f0-4a63-b536-54c7129df37b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Heffernan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bourne, MA 02532
I am accepting new patients. I am here to guide you through the complicated mental health system by listening, asking questions, and understanding your emotions. If you are considering medication and/or therapy for your mental health, I am here to discuss the different treatment approaches so that we can make a personalized treatment plan. Every conversation we have will be confidential and handled with care.
I am accepting new patients. I am here to guide you through the complicated mental health system by listening, asking questions, and understanding your emotions. If you are considering medication and/or therapy for your mental health, I am here to discuss the different treatment approaches so that we can make a personalized treatment plan. Every conversation we have will be confidential and handled with care.
See more therapy options for Sandwich
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sandwich, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sandwich, MA who prioritize treating:
50% | Depression |
50% | Anxiety |
50% | Bipolar Disorder |
50% | Substance Use |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Sandwich, MA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sandwich?
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.