Psychiatrists in Ellicott City, MD
![Photo of Gideon Nyambiya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d383183-1c9f-4b70-8458-ba2e7933fe5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gideon Nyambiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042
My name is Gideon Nyambiya (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-PMHNP-BC) Board Certified. I am a provider at Restorative Counseling and Wellness Center LLC, with a specific focus on medication management. My responsibilities include: 1) Prescribing medications for various mental health disorders by applying evidence based practice; 2) Educating clients on the safest way of taking prescribed medications; 3) Providing psychotherapy as needed and working with you.
My name is Gideon Nyambiya (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-PMHNP-BC) Board Certified. I am a provider at Restorative Counseling and Wellness Center LLC, with a specific focus on medication management. My responsibilities include: 1) Prescribing medications for various mental health disorders by applying evidence based practice; 2) Educating clients on the safest way of taking prescribed medications; 3) Providing psychotherapy as needed and working with you.
![Photo of Dr. Kamal Bhatia, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/157b7980-230c-43dd-9dcf-da04dc78716c/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I work with patients to formulate an individualized treatment plan. Timely recognition and treatment is the key to achieve effective and satisfactory management of psychiatric symptoms. I believe in providing compassionate, ethical and evidence-based care to patients. Utmost confidentiality and collaborative care are of paramount importance in my practice.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I work with patients to formulate an individualized treatment plan. Timely recognition and treatment is the key to achieve effective and satisfactory management of psychiatric symptoms. I believe in providing compassionate, ethical and evidence-based care to patients. Utmost confidentiality and collaborative care are of paramount importance in my practice.
![Photo of Stephanie Rae Gillis, MS-FNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50417b37-11eb-4d6c-be21-6779654d3e6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Rae Gillis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS-FNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Every passing moment is another chance to turn it all around... Everyone has a unique story and set of needs, and everyone deserves individualized healthcare rooted in kindness, compassion, respect, and the latest scientific evidence. It is my mission to truly understand you and work with you to improve your everyday functioning and enjoyment of life. I listen to my clients with judgment free warmth and compassion, stay up-to-date on the latest mental health treatments, and I explain medical concepts to empower my clients to make informed choices about their care.
Every passing moment is another chance to turn it all around... Everyone has a unique story and set of needs, and everyone deserves individualized healthcare rooted in kindness, compassion, respect, and the latest scientific evidence. It is my mission to truly understand you and work with you to improve your everyday functioning and enjoyment of life. I listen to my clients with judgment free warmth and compassion, stay up-to-date on the latest mental health treatments, and I explain medical concepts to empower my clients to make informed choices about their care.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb2b5330-1047-4cf9-bca2-3a64d999122c/1/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f236c3f-5ea9-49d9-9e18-1cf477c641cc/1/320x400.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 Dr. Paulo J Negro, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54b5feb7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you find it difficult to manage stress? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement for many years. I provide concierge psychiatric care for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and other challenges. You can recover from mental health challenges, build self-esteem, and create healthy habits. In-person medication management and brief therapy are available in Columbia, MD. Online psychiatric care is available in Maryland, DC, VA, and Pennsylvania. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
Do you find it difficult to manage stress? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement for many years. I provide concierge psychiatric care for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and other challenges. You can recover from mental health challenges, build self-esteem, and create healthy habits. In-person medication management and brief therapy are available in Columbia, MD. Online psychiatric care is available in Maryland, DC, VA, and Pennsylvania. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
![Photo of Kim Bridgette Jones-Fearing - Kim Jones-Fearing, MD, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/404fda9b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Jones-Fearing, MD
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
The decision to seek mental health care can be a difficult one. By the time most people come to see me, they have already tried many other ways of feeling better. I will talk to you to find out what your goals are and what ways you are willing to try to start feeling better at a pace that feels most comfortable for you. I can do talk therapy as well if you do not have a therapist or do not feel comfortable transitioning to a therapist yet. We can discuss tele-psychiatry after your initial in person visits.
The decision to seek mental health care can be a difficult one. By the time most people come to see me, they have already tried many other ways of feeling better. I will talk to you to find out what your goals are and what ways you are willing to try to start feeling better at a pace that feels most comfortable for you. I can do talk therapy as well if you do not have a therapist or do not feel comfortable transitioning to a therapist yet. We can discuss tele-psychiatry after your initial in person visits.
![Photo of Glory A Tataw - Glory Tataw, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/335834f3-08dc-4e67-bf86-d494170cae29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Glory Tataw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Accepting New Clients. Virtual and in person. 'No waiting list" Congratulations on this huge step on contacting and trusting Glory with your health. Seeking Mental Health could be a daunting task. Glory just want you to know that mprovement and living a quality life is possible. Just say yes to treatment and Glory will support you to achieve your goals. She will meet you where you are to help you become Who you want to be. Mental health is a continous journey take one step at a time. Glory will be wirh you each step of the way. Same day appt is possible. Schedule appt via website. Call for weekend and late evening appointments.
Accepting New Clients. Virtual and in person. 'No waiting list" Congratulations on this huge step on contacting and trusting Glory with your health. Seeking Mental Health could be a daunting task. Glory just want you to know that mprovement and living a quality life is possible. Just say yes to treatment and Glory will support you to achieve your goals. She will meet you where you are to help you become Who you want to be. Mental health is a continous journey take one step at a time. Glory will be wirh you each step of the way. Same day appt is possible. Schedule appt via website. Call for weekend and late evening appointments.
While I was training at Johns Hopkins, I found that many people from outside Baltimore were traveling into the city to find excellent psychiatric care. After finishing residency, I started the Maryland Anxiety and Depression Treatment Center to increase access to care in Howard County. If you feel that life is hopeless or that you have lost your sense of well-being, I am happy to help you to know joy again.
While I was training at Johns Hopkins, I found that many people from outside Baltimore were traveling into the city to find excellent psychiatric care. After finishing residency, I started the Maryland Anxiety and Depression Treatment Center to increase access to care in Howard County. If you feel that life is hopeless or that you have lost your sense of well-being, I am happy to help you to know joy again.
Psychiatry Specialties Clinics Is here to serve you, your family, and our community. Each of us have Unique life experiences, cultures, beliefs, values, strengths, and difficulties. We strive to combine different treatment approaches because each of us also have our own unique requirements to be Happy and stay Healthy. Our goal is to understand, along with our patients, their illness, monitor their symptoms, and be involved in the shared decisions about their treatment. We empower our patients to stay healthy and happy.
Psychiatry Specialties Clinics Is here to serve you, your family, and our community. Each of us have Unique life experiences, cultures, beliefs, values, strengths, and difficulties. We strive to combine different treatment approaches because each of us also have our own unique requirements to be Happy and stay Healthy. Our goal is to understand, along with our patients, their illness, monitor their symptoms, and be involved in the shared decisions about their treatment. We empower our patients to stay healthy and happy.
![Photo of Bergina Brickhouse Isbell, MD, MHS, DipABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53607863-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of being depression, again?!? Is your loved one suffering and you don't know what else to do? Dr. Bergina and the Led Life team believe that there is a cure for hard to treat depression, which can be like cancer of the soul. With our proprietary 3R ReTreatment program, we do more than just prescribe medicines, we also prescribe hope. On the cutting edge of novel neurohealth treatments, Dr. Bergina prescribes Spravato (Esketamine), Ketamine Assisted Therapy, and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
Are you tired of being depression, again?!? Is your loved one suffering and you don't know what else to do? Dr. Bergina and the Led Life team believe that there is a cure for hard to treat depression, which can be like cancer of the soul. With our proprietary 3R ReTreatment program, we do more than just prescribe medicines, we also prescribe hope. On the cutting edge of novel neurohealth treatments, Dr. Bergina prescribes Spravato (Esketamine), Ketamine Assisted Therapy, and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
15 Second Videos
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![Photo of Susan Hagelman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6f2af33-11bd-4332-80d0-7385b078e140/1/320x400.png)
Don't wait to be treated. Susan can get you in within one week. Susan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master’s Degree in Nursing. She is passionate about providing holistic, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to patients across the lifespan with a variety of mental health conditions Susan possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families by using a Humanistic Approach while incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Don't wait to be treated. Susan can get you in within one week. Susan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master’s Degree in Nursing. She is passionate about providing holistic, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to patients across the lifespan with a variety of mental health conditions Susan possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families by using a Humanistic Approach while incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
We focus on improving overall health and wellness. We offer NeuroStar TMS - a safe and effective drug-free advanced method to treat depression. We also provide General Psychiatric medication management, Weigh less strategies, and Outpatient medication assisted treatment with Buprenorphine for substance use. Dr. Jermany offers counsel for Medical Cannabis. Call 443-272-1541 for an appointment (in-person and telemedicine).
We focus on improving overall health and wellness. We offer NeuroStar TMS - a safe and effective drug-free advanced method to treat depression. We also provide General Psychiatric medication management, Weigh less strategies, and Outpatient medication assisted treatment with Buprenorphine for substance use. Dr. Jermany offers counsel for Medical Cannabis. Call 443-272-1541 for an appointment (in-person and telemedicine).
![Photo of Bikash Sharma, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54417674-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sharma is licensed in MD and VA. We are providing Telepsychiatry during this Pandemic situation to ensure safety of our patients- We also offer Initial Psychiatric Evaluation through Telepsychiatry within a week of your intake- Additional services we provide include: Esketamine ( Spravato) assisted psychotherapy for hard to treat ( treatment resistant) depression. If you are concerned about the cost, do not worry. We have been able to get Spravato approved through commercial insurance. Therefore the cost for Spravato is very affordable. We also offer Opioids and Alcohol addiciton treatment ( Vivitrol, Suboxone, Sublocade).
Dr. Sharma is licensed in MD and VA. We are providing Telepsychiatry during this Pandemic situation to ensure safety of our patients- We also offer Initial Psychiatric Evaluation through Telepsychiatry within a week of your intake- Additional services we provide include: Esketamine ( Spravato) assisted psychotherapy for hard to treat ( treatment resistant) depression. If you are concerned about the cost, do not worry. We have been able to get Spravato approved through commercial insurance. Therefore the cost for Spravato is very affordable. We also offer Opioids and Alcohol addiciton treatment ( Vivitrol, Suboxone, Sublocade).
![Photo of Stephanie Durruthy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42c54623-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life is full of surprises. Having a mental health issue was never you game plan. Smart people like yourself should be able to control their emotions. But here, you find yourself struggling with this new reality. It was your prior belief that mental illness happens to other people. What is the next step? Healing starts with your decision to fully understand your condition in order to achieve optimal wellness. Recovery requires time for self-discovery and awareness. Mental illness is not a choice, but your response to this situation is personal.
Life is full of surprises. Having a mental health issue was never you game plan. Smart people like yourself should be able to control their emotions. But here, you find yourself struggling with this new reality. It was your prior belief that mental illness happens to other people. What is the next step? Healing starts with your decision to fully understand your condition in order to achieve optimal wellness. Recovery requires time for self-discovery and awareness. Mental illness is not a choice, but your response to this situation is personal.
![Photo of Dr. Gedeon Longtchi, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9356760b-b13c-48c0-bdc8-d0e9f871d605/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gedeon Longtchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
Hi, I am Dr. Gideon, and I am here to serve you in a relatable way to get you back to feeling like yourself again—patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Relationship issues, or other mood-related symptoms. We aim to provide you with clinical expertise for mental, emotional, and spiritual stability. I manage patients with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Eating disorders, OCD, personality disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and many more.
Hi, I am Dr. Gideon, and I am here to serve you in a relatable way to get you back to feeling like yourself again—patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Relationship issues, or other mood-related symptoms. We aim to provide you with clinical expertise for mental, emotional, and spiritual stability. I manage patients with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Eating disorders, OCD, personality disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and many more.
![Photo of Amoah Asante, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9469bb5-b4a2-4aab-adaf-f7aa1fe9a866/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
![Photo of Yang Roby, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81df34a4-72d3-42fd-b8c8-570ce69ca49a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Innerpeace Psychiatric Services, led by Dr. Yang Roby, a board-certified psychiatrist in Howard County, Maryland. With a Ph.D. in Human Genetics and neuroscience from Johns Hopkins University and extensive psychiatry residency training at the University of Iowa, she horns her expertise in treating various psychiatric conditions spanning five years of outpatient care. she integrates principles of evidence-based pharmaceutical treatments with her practice with Satir transformation therapy and mindfulness techniques, ensuring personalized, patient-centered care to guide individuals on their path to find inner peace.
Innerpeace Psychiatric Services, led by Dr. Yang Roby, a board-certified psychiatrist in Howard County, Maryland. With a Ph.D. in Human Genetics and neuroscience from Johns Hopkins University and extensive psychiatry residency training at the University of Iowa, she horns her expertise in treating various psychiatric conditions spanning five years of outpatient care. she integrates principles of evidence-based pharmaceutical treatments with her practice with Satir transformation therapy and mindfulness techniques, ensuring personalized, patient-centered care to guide individuals on their path to find inner peace.
![Photo of Iyana Downie, LGPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75578cd-c2b4-4578-b322-88093c8adf64/1/320x400.jpeg)
Iyana Downie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LGPC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland and a Nationally Certified Counselor. I have experience providing school and community based therapeutic services to children and adolescents, helping them navigate issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, academics, peer conflict, relationships, and self-esteem. My goal is to create a safe, trusted, and nonjudgmental environment where I can establish a connect with individuals and families.
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland and a Nationally Certified Counselor. I have experience providing school and community based therapeutic services to children and adolescents, helping them navigate issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, academics, peer conflict, relationships, and self-esteem. My goal is to create a safe, trusted, and nonjudgmental environment where I can establish a connect with individuals and families.
![Photo of Joy Eghaghe, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dfd006b-09d8-4e87-b1fe-7da08893f346/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Eghaghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I believe in creating an atmosphere that is focussed on helping clients feel safe protected and heard. I believe in a solution-focused approach in managing my clients who happen to be my absolute priority. I will work with you without bias or judgement. Be rest assured that during therapy/treatment, I will provide evidence based methods to help you achieve balance through collaborative efforts. I have discovered personalized solutions that work. Let's do it!
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I believe in creating an atmosphere that is focussed on helping clients feel safe protected and heard. I believe in a solution-focused approach in managing my clients who happen to be my absolute priority. I will work with you without bias or judgement. Be rest assured that during therapy/treatment, I will provide evidence based methods to help you achieve balance through collaborative efforts. I have discovered personalized solutions that work. Let's do it!
See more therapy options for Ellicott City
Nearby Searches for Ellicott City
- Catonsville
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- Columbia
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- Hanover
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- Maryland City
- North Laurel
- Randallstown
- Severn
- Windsor Mill
- Woodlawn
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ellicott City, MD
60+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Ellicott City, MD who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
80% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | CareFirst |
How Psychiatrists in Ellicott City, MD see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ellicott City?
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.