Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, MD

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Photo of Tara Walker, MD, Psychiatrist
Tara Walker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850  (Online Only)
Dr. Walker provides compassionate, individualized, team-based Psychiatric care that addresses your unique needs as a patient. Treatments offered include medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Walker coordinates closely with other members of your treatment team to provide the best care possible. Dr. Walker spends​ the time necessary to get to know you as an individual and to thoroughly address your concerns. She is licensed to practice in Maryland and Virginia.
Dr. Walker provides compassionate, individualized, team-based Psychiatric care that addresses your unique needs as a patient. Treatments offered include medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Walker coordinates closely with other members of your treatment team to provide the best care possible. Dr. Walker spends​ the time necessary to get to know you as an individual and to thoroughly address your concerns. She is licensed to practice in Maryland and Virginia.
(301) 804-6111 View (301) 804-6111
Photo of Gonzalo Laje, MD, MHSc, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Gonzalo Laje
Psychiatrist, MD, MHSc, FAPA
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Have you or your loved one been experiencing emotional or behavioral difficulties? I believe that through a thorough diagnostic process and integrated treatment we can restore health and wellbeing. My name is Gonzalo Laje and I am a doubled Board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience and special interest in psychopharmacology. I completed my training at NYU/Bellevue Hospital and NIMH/Children's in DC. I evaluate and treat patients of all ages and severities with an emphasis on difficult to treat cases. My goal is to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Have you or your loved one been experiencing emotional or behavioral difficulties? I believe that through a thorough diagnostic process and integrated treatment we can restore health and wellbeing. My name is Gonzalo Laje and I am a doubled Board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience and special interest in psychopharmacology. I completed my training at NYU/Bellevue Hospital and NIMH/Children's in DC. I evaluate and treat patients of all ages and severities with an emphasis on difficult to treat cases. My goal is to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
(301) 576-6044 View (301) 576-6044
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
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.
(240) 647-9139 View (240) 647-9139
Photo of Dr. Tonisha Melvin, CRNP, CRRN, ANP-C, PMHNPBC, RYT-200, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tonisha Melvin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, CRRN, ANP-C, PMHNPBC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
Dr. Tonisha Melvin is the President and Co-CEO of DMV Medical Group, LLC located in Kensington, MD. She is an advocate for her clients. Her goal is to provide a safe space working with, encouraging, and supporting you so that you reach your optimal mental health goals. She provides healing and hope in a holistic way while utilizing evidence-based strategies along the way.
Dr. Tonisha Melvin is the President and Co-CEO of DMV Medical Group, LLC located in Kensington, MD. She is an advocate for her clients. Her goal is to provide a safe space working with, encouraging, and supporting you so that you reach your optimal mental health goals. She provides healing and hope in a holistic way while utilizing evidence-based strategies along the way.
(240) 929-1578 View (240) 929-1578
Photo of Wendy J Hookman - Washington Ctr for Women's & Children's Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist
Washington Ctr for Women's & Children's Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
You don't have to suffer alone anymore. We specialize in taking excellent care of women and children. Our focus is on the overall wellness of the person, not merely the individual symptoms or diagnoses. We listen to you and work with you to reach the life you deserve.
You don't have to suffer alone anymore. We specialize in taking excellent care of women and children. Our focus is on the overall wellness of the person, not merely the individual symptoms or diagnoses. We listen to you and work with you to reach the life you deserve.
(301) 679-7575 View (301) 679-7575
Photo of Josephine Gang - Doxa Health and Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doxa Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burtonsville, MD 20866  (Online Only)
Are you having a hard time coping with various life stressors? Do you need a caring provider who will patiently listen to what you have to say? If you are looking for a knowledgeable provider who can help you improve your mental health, then you've come to the right place.
Are you having a hard time coping with various life stressors? Do you need a caring provider who will patiently listen to what you have to say? If you are looking for a knowledgeable provider who can help you improve your mental health, then you've come to the right place.
(301) 701-5380 View (301) 701-5380
Photo of Eveline Gwaabe - Wisechoice Multispecialty clinic LLC, PMHNP-B, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wisechoice Multispecialty clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20886
Not accepting new clients
Ms. Gwaabe is the founder and medical director of Wisechoice M.C. She is certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2016. She values lives and listens to her clients. Her services are collaborative and integrative with the patient, therapists, PCP and families. She highly believes in everyone's right to high quality healthcare. Wisechoice Multispecialty Clinic is ready to welcome you in a safe space. Together we can make a difference!
Ms. Gwaabe is the founder and medical director of Wisechoice M.C. She is certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2016. She values lives and listens to her clients. Her services are collaborative and integrative with the patient, therapists, PCP and families. She highly believes in everyone's right to high quality healthcare. Wisechoice Multispecialty Clinic is ready to welcome you in a safe space. Together we can make a difference!
(301) 321-8603 View (301) 321-8603
Photo of Robert M. Post, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert M. Post
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815  (Online Only)
Dr. Post is world-renowned psychiatrist known for providing one-time consultations for children and adults with difficult-to-treat mood disorders such as unipolar depression and bipolar disorder. He has published over 1080 articles on these topics and continues to conduct research and publish work to contribute to the scientific advancement of treatments for these disorders. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is providing consults via telemedicine.
Dr. Post is world-renowned psychiatrist known for providing one-time consultations for children and adults with difficult-to-treat mood disorders such as unipolar depression and bipolar disorder. He has published over 1080 articles on these topics and continues to conduct research and publish work to contribute to the scientific advancement of treatments for these disorders. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is providing consults via telemedicine.
(240) 569-8174 View (240) 569-8174
Photo of Dr. Angela Sagar, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Angela Sagar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Is your child struggling with anxiety? I am a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and an adult psychiatrist. I specialize in helping diagnose and treat children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety. For these children, anxiety may make managing life in and out of school a challenge: from speaking in class and forging new friendships, to worrying excessively about their grades and the future.
Is your child struggling with anxiety? I am a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and an adult psychiatrist. I specialize in helping diagnose and treat children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety. For these children, anxiety may make managing life in and out of school a challenge: from speaking in class and forging new friendships, to worrying excessively about their grades and the future.
(301) 381-3233 View (301) 381-3233
Photo of Eleanor Annan, MD, Psychiatrist
Eleanor Annan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
My approach is firmly grounded in the belief that lasting change largely comes through seeking a deeper understanding of oneself, and I work with my patients to cultivate a habit of curiosity around this. I take a collaborative, integrative approach with a particular interest in marginalized groups and the intersection between culture and mental health.
My approach is firmly grounded in the belief that lasting change largely comes through seeking a deeper understanding of oneself, and I work with my patients to cultivate a habit of curiosity around this. I take a collaborative, integrative approach with a particular interest in marginalized groups and the intersection between culture and mental health.
(240) 655-8251 View (240) 655-8251
Photo of Matilda Che, CRNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matilda Che
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my commitment is to provide compassionate and individualized care, fostering a therapeutic alliance that is built on trust. With a deep understanding of mental health, I aim to create a safe space for my patients, actively listening to their concerns and collaborating on personalized treatment plans. My dedication to ongoing learning ensures that I stay abreast of the latest advancements in psychiatric care and by integrating evidence-based practices and demonstrating empathy, I aspire to empower individuals on their journey to mental well-being, promoting resilience and recovery.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my commitment is to provide compassionate and individualized care, fostering a therapeutic alliance that is built on trust. With a deep understanding of mental health, I aim to create a safe space for my patients, actively listening to their concerns and collaborating on personalized treatment plans. My dedication to ongoing learning ensures that I stay abreast of the latest advancements in psychiatric care and by integrating evidence-based practices and demonstrating empathy, I aspire to empower individuals on their journey to mental well-being, promoting resilience and recovery.
(301) 835-1957 View (301) 835-1957
Photo of Henriette Karekezi - Clear Minds Family and Mental Health Services, MSN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clear Minds Family and Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Result and data driven, Clear Minds Family and mental Health providers use evidenced- based practice to optimize care and preserve patient safety. We provide initial psychiatric evaluations and follow ups for patients 18 years old and up. Our attention is focused on actively listening to ours patients and proactively design, manage the treatments plans. Anxieties, ADHD, Depression, Bi-polar, insomnia & Schizophrenia are often seen. We prescribe and administer long acting injectables, offer therapy and health education all tailored to achieve mental, emotional and behavioral well-being and help with clarity and optimal productivity.
Result and data driven, Clear Minds Family and mental Health providers use evidenced- based practice to optimize care and preserve patient safety. We provide initial psychiatric evaluations and follow ups for patients 18 years old and up. Our attention is focused on actively listening to ours patients and proactively design, manage the treatments plans. Anxieties, ADHD, Depression, Bi-polar, insomnia & Schizophrenia are often seen. We prescribe and administer long acting injectables, offer therapy and health education all tailored to achieve mental, emotional and behavioral well-being and help with clarity and optimal productivity.
(240) 719-5709 x102 View (240) 719-5709 x102
Photo of Emem Ibanga, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emem Ibanga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
A healthy mental state is essential in every stage of life – from childhood, adolescent, to adulthood. Throughout a lifetime, an individual can experience mental health issue at any point. Not only can this impact their mood and behavior, but can change their way of thinking, looking at life, and facing challenges. As a Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner I specialize in treating patients with major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and ADHD.
A healthy mental state is essential in every stage of life – from childhood, adolescent, to adulthood. Throughout a lifetime, an individual can experience mental health issue at any point. Not only can this impact their mood and behavior, but can change their way of thinking, looking at life, and facing challenges. As a Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner I specialize in treating patients with major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and ADHD.
(410) 883-9514 View (410) 883-9514
Photo of Evlyn Billy-Eko, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evlyn Billy-Eko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with managing your mental health, feeling overwhelmed by symptoms that interfere with your daily life? Do you long for effective support and treatment tailored to your unique needs? I specialize in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Neurodevelopmental disorder, Schizophrenia spectrum, and other psychotic disorders. With my expertise and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate these challenges and reclaim a sense of well-being. You don't have to face these challenges alone.
Are you struggling with managing your mental health, feeling overwhelmed by symptoms that interfere with your daily life? Do you long for effective support and treatment tailored to your unique needs? I specialize in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Neurodevelopmental disorder, Schizophrenia spectrum, and other psychotic disorders. With my expertise and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate these challenges and reclaim a sense of well-being. You don't have to face these challenges alone.
(240) 343-4744 View (240) 343-4744
Photo of Dr. Francine Kamhoua - Authentic Mental Wellness, LLC, DNP, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Authentic Mental Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
At Authentic Mental Wellness, your mental health is our priority. Care is the cornerstone of our practice. You will be evaluated by an excellent professional. Visit our website at www.authenticmentalwellnessllc.com
At Authentic Mental Wellness, your mental health is our priority. Care is the cornerstone of our practice. You will be evaluated by an excellent professional. Visit our website at www.authenticmentalwellnessllc.com
(301) 327-2213 View (301) 327-2213
Photo of Liza Losada Schor, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Liza Losada Schor
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Verified Verified
Olney, MD 20832
Are you worried about your child or adolescent? Has a teacher or a pediatrician expressed some concern over your child's mood or behavior? Do you have a teen who is brimming with potential but seems sad or stuck? Do they worry too much? Perhaps your family or child has suffered a loss or trauma that may be getting in the way of their ability to be successful or enjoy things. If any of these apply to you then I can help. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where young people and their families can be heard and supported.
Are you worried about your child or adolescent? Has a teacher or a pediatrician expressed some concern over your child's mood or behavior? Do you have a teen who is brimming with potential but seems sad or stuck? Do they worry too much? Perhaps your family or child has suffered a loss or trauma that may be getting in the way of their ability to be successful or enjoy things. If any of these apply to you then I can help. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where young people and their families can be heard and supported.
(240) 442-1647 View (240) 442-1647
Photo of Dr. Peace Peters, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Peace Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-trained board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Peace specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area.
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-trained board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Peace specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area.
(301) 329-6311 View (301) 329-6311
Photo of Mahlet Abebe - Insight Wellness Center , MSN, BSc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Insight Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSc
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20879  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a safe space where your mental health concerns are met with understanding, empathy, and personalized attention? Look no further than Insight Wellness Center. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing you with the highest standard of compassionate care tailored to your unique need. We believe in the power of personalized treatment plans that honor your individual journey to healing. We're here to walk alongside you every step of the way, offering encouragement, validation, and genuine compassion as you navigate the ups and downs of your mental health journey.
Are you seeking a safe space where your mental health concerns are met with understanding, empathy, and personalized attention? Look no further than Insight Wellness Center. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing you with the highest standard of compassionate care tailored to your unique need. We believe in the power of personalized treatment plans that honor your individual journey to healing. We're here to walk alongside you every step of the way, offering encouragement, validation, and genuine compassion as you navigate the ups and downs of your mental health journey.
(240) 887-1986 View (240) 887-1986
Photo of Lewis C Wilson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lewis C Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, my ideal clients grapple with anxiety, depression, and trauma. They seek comprehensive care addressing mind, body, and spirit. They value evidence-based psychotherapy and medication management but desire a holistic approach that uncovers root causes. They aim for personal growth and resilience. My diverse 21-year US. Army Retired, and psychiatric nursing background resonates with them. They seek a therapeutic partnership for empowerment on their mental well-being journey.
As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, my ideal clients grapple with anxiety, depression, and trauma. They seek comprehensive care addressing mind, body, and spirit. They value evidence-based psychotherapy and medication management but desire a holistic approach that uncovers root causes. They aim for personal growth and resilience. My diverse 21-year US. Army Retired, and psychiatric nursing background resonates with them. They seek a therapeutic partnership for empowerment on their mental well-being journey.
(301) 701-4613 View (301) 701-4613
Photo of Brent L Donmoyer, PMHNP, DNP, ACNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brent L Donmoyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, ACNS
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
As a doctorial prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist (ACNS), I specialize in evidence-based psychiatric medication management for older adolescents, adults, college students, & teens. I prioritize patient-centered care, collaborating with therapists and medical providers to address mental health concerns. I offer flexible appointments, including in-person and virtual sessions, catering to either a busy student or professional. While providing thorough assessments and recommendations, I have been commended for my compassionate and approachable “bedside” manners.
As a doctorial prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist (ACNS), I specialize in evidence-based psychiatric medication management for older adolescents, adults, college students, & teens. I prioritize patient-centered care, collaborating with therapists and medical providers to address mental health concerns. I offer flexible appointments, including in-person and virtual sessions, catering to either a busy student or professional. While providing thorough assessments and recommendations, I have been commended for my compassionate and approachable “bedside” manners.
(240) 571-2753 x805 View (240) 571-2753 x805
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See more therapy options for Montgomery County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, MD

500+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, MD who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
77% Bipolar Disorder
76% ADHD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% Trauma and PTSD
63% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
83% Aetna
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, MD see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
24% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Montgomery County?

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.