Psychiatrists in Ferndale, MI

Photo of Laila Marashi, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laila Marashi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I specialize in pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychiatry across diverse diagnoses. I work closely with my patients and their families to develop individualized treatment plans specific to their medical and psychiatric needs. My treatment approach is holistic, and patient centered. When appropriate, I believe that medication treatment in mental health is just one piece in the puzzle of achieving optimal wellbeing.
I specialize in pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychiatry across diverse diagnoses. I work closely with my patients and their families to develop individualized treatment plans specific to their medical and psychiatric needs. My treatment approach is holistic, and patient centered. When appropriate, I believe that medication treatment in mental health is just one piece in the puzzle of achieving optimal wellbeing.
(248) 600-4942 View (248) 600-4942
Photo of Amy Fox, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
(248) 487-1956 View (248) 487-1956
Photo of Dr. Francisca Amaka Nwoko, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Francisca Amaka Nwoko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), my expertise extends beyond traditional healthcare. I am profoundly committed to excellence. I firmly believe in the intricate connections between mental health and the multifaceted aspects of an individual's life with a strong desire to help people become stronger and better versions of themselves. My approach optimizes mental health care to improve patient's overall health and mental wellness.
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), my expertise extends beyond traditional healthcare. I am profoundly committed to excellence. I firmly believe in the intricate connections between mental health and the multifaceted aspects of an individual's life with a strong desire to help people become stronger and better versions of themselves. My approach optimizes mental health care to improve patient's overall health and mental wellness.
(734) 600-9271 View (734) 600-9271
Photo of Greg Waltz, MSN, RN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Greg Waltz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
Connecting with each client is a vital part of my practice, knowing each person is valuable, not “just a number“. I find checking in regularly about goals and current satisfaction helps develop a trusting relationship focused on growth. I prioritize working to identify barriers that could hinder progress. Personal mental health, both positive and negative, is multifaceted, which is why I use a holistic approach to treat the whole person, not just symptoms.
Connecting with each client is a vital part of my practice, knowing each person is valuable, not “just a number“. I find checking in regularly about goals and current satisfaction helps develop a trusting relationship focused on growth. I prioritize working to identify barriers that could hinder progress. Personal mental health, both positive and negative, is multifaceted, which is why I use a holistic approach to treat the whole person, not just symptoms.
(248) 963-5956 View (248) 963-5956
Photo of Natalie Jones-Brown, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Jones-Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
My practice is deeply rooted in the extensive work I’ve done with typically underserved populations throughout Metro Detroit; people who are HIV positive, LGBTQ+ individuals, victims of sexual assault/trafficking, and those struggling with gender dysphoria. Years of experience, both personally and professionally, have driven me to orient my work around the intersectionalities between mental health and identity. Having worked in both traditional and non-traditional settings, I’m able to adapt my approach and style to unique patients and situations.
My practice is deeply rooted in the extensive work I’ve done with typically underserved populations throughout Metro Detroit; people who are HIV positive, LGBTQ+ individuals, victims of sexual assault/trafficking, and those struggling with gender dysphoria. Years of experience, both personally and professionally, have driven me to orient my work around the intersectionalities between mental health and identity. Having worked in both traditional and non-traditional settings, I’m able to adapt my approach and style to unique patients and situations.
(248) 283-4814 View (248) 283-4814
Photo of Amanda Tanner, DNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Tanner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
Medication management is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to overall mental health. Educating patients regarding diet, exercise, and sleep routines is part of every visit. This approach is used to enhance a client's overall well being, not just one component. I take a patient-centered approach to treatment and regularly ask for feedback. Common questions I ask are: How is the treatment going? Are we addressing issues you care about? Do you feel you are making measurable progress?
Medication management is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to overall mental health. Educating patients regarding diet, exercise, and sleep routines is part of every visit. This approach is used to enhance a client's overall well being, not just one component. I take a patient-centered approach to treatment and regularly ask for feedback. Common questions I ask are: How is the treatment going? Are we addressing issues you care about? Do you feel you are making measurable progress?
(248) 290-9931 View (248) 290-9931
Photo of Deirdre Denholm, BA, MSN, PMHNP, --BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deirdre Denholm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, PMHNP, --BC
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220
Do you need someone to listen? Are you struggling with a mental health issue and uncertain where to turn? Are you thinking about therapy or even medication? Do you need guidance regarding your current medication? Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious? I would love to help!
Do you need someone to listen? Are you struggling with a mental health issue and uncertain where to turn? Are you thinking about therapy or even medication? Do you need guidance regarding your current medication? Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious? I would love to help!
(248) 773-4737 View (248) 773-4737
Photo of Dr. Anita Manns - Anita Manns, DNP,  RN, ANP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anita Manns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, ANP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220
Hi, I'm a Child and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner proficient in the art and science of medication management, psychotherapy, and physical assessment. I am passionate about optimizing your mental health needs to improve your overall health and mental wellness. I have 22 years of experience in working with vulnerable patient populations and I am ready to meet your mental health needs with compassion and understanding using an evidence-based approach.
Hi, I'm a Child and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner proficient in the art and science of medication management, psychotherapy, and physical assessment. I am passionate about optimizing your mental health needs to improve your overall health and mental wellness. I have 22 years of experience in working with vulnerable patient populations and I am ready to meet your mental health needs with compassion and understanding using an evidence-based approach.
(313) 464-0017 View (313) 464-0017

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Amy D Ames, DNP , APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy D Ames
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Woods, MI 48070
Dr. Ames is a PMHNP at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners, who provides psychiatric evaluations, behavioral assessments, medication management consultations, as well as pharmacogenomic testing to children, adolescents, and adults. Her clients vary, encompassing non-traditional families, traditional families, and transitioning young adults. Dr. Ames does not believe in treating patients as a diagnosis alone. She seeks to treat the human condition as a whole, keeping considerations of the diversity and nuance of the social world, the context of life, love, relationships, and individual circumstances in the foreground of her approach.
Dr. Ames is a PMHNP at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners, who provides psychiatric evaluations, behavioral assessments, medication management consultations, as well as pharmacogenomic testing to children, adolescents, and adults. Her clients vary, encompassing non-traditional families, traditional families, and transitioning young adults. Dr. Ames does not believe in treating patients as a diagnosis alone. She seeks to treat the human condition as a whole, keeping considerations of the diversity and nuance of the social world, the context of life, love, relationships, and individual circumstances in the foreground of her approach.
(586) 846-4835 View (586) 846-4835
Photo of Priscilla Jimenez, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Priscilla Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Michigan. I completed my Masters of Nursing Education from Oakland University and received my Post Master’s Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University. My personal passion and experience, combined with over 12 years of bedside Nursing experience has led me to the field of Psychiatry . My mission is to aid clients along their individual journey of Mental Health
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Michigan. I completed my Masters of Nursing Education from Oakland University and received my Post Master’s Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University. My personal passion and experience, combined with over 12 years of bedside Nursing experience has led me to the field of Psychiatry . My mission is to aid clients along their individual journey of Mental Health
(734) 977-1182 View (734) 977-1182
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, MD, Psychiatrist
TelaMD Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (248) 216-1901 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (248) 216-1901 if you would like to set up an appointment.
(248) 216-1901 View (248) 216-1901
Photo of Eucheria Mbata, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eucheria Mbata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
(929) 412-1179 View (929) 412-1179
Photo of Michelle Modlinski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle Modlinski
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Michelle Modlinski is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. She is passionate about providing compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. As a PMHNP, Michelle's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Michelle completed her Master of Nursing at Wayne State University and her post graduate degree studies at the University of Michigan, Flint.
Michelle Modlinski is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. She is passionate about providing compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. As a PMHNP, Michelle's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Michelle completed her Master of Nursing at Wayne State University and her post graduate degree studies at the University of Michigan, Flint.
(248) 985-8933 View (248) 985-8933
Photo of Dr. Farhad Amiri - Modern Mind Clinic , DO, Psychiatrist
Modern Mind Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Dear Future Client, as a board certified psychiatrist, I prioritize your well-being and mental health, by understanding that each person is unique and their experiences and needs should be at the center of their treatment journey. My approach focuses on providing personalized care and support to help you achieve optimal mental health. At Modern Mind Clinic, you can be seen as early as 7 days from the completion of your intake form. No patient should wait more than 2 weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist.
Dear Future Client, as a board certified psychiatrist, I prioritize your well-being and mental health, by understanding that each person is unique and their experiences and needs should be at the center of their treatment journey. My approach focuses on providing personalized care and support to help you achieve optimal mental health. At Modern Mind Clinic, you can be seen as early as 7 days from the completion of your intake form. No patient should wait more than 2 weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist.
(248) 607-7190 View (248) 607-7190
Photo of Howard Belkin - Howard and Barbara Belkin, M.D., MD, DDS, JD, Psychiatrist
Howard and Barbara Belkin, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD, DDS, JD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
WE NOW OFFER APPOINTMENTS THROUGH FACETIME AND TELEHEALTH VIDEO CONFERENCING. Without needing to download an app, you can see the psychiatrist through your iPhone, iPad, Android, or Google phone as well as through your Windows or Apple computer in the comfort of your home, school, or office. Our office specializes in the practice of psychiatry, counseling, and therapy for adults, adolescents, and children. We are conveniently located in Birmingham with on-site parking with convenient office hours. Please contact the office at (248) 644-3605 for information about scheduling an appointment through video conferencing.
WE NOW OFFER APPOINTMENTS THROUGH FACETIME AND TELEHEALTH VIDEO CONFERENCING. Without needing to download an app, you can see the psychiatrist through your iPhone, iPad, Android, or Google phone as well as through your Windows or Apple computer in the comfort of your home, school, or office. Our office specializes in the practice of psychiatry, counseling, and therapy for adults, adolescents, and children. We are conveniently located in Birmingham with on-site parking with convenient office hours. Please contact the office at (248) 644-3605 for information about scheduling an appointment through video conferencing.
(248) 644-3605 View (248) 644-3605
Photo of Natalie Sadik, MD, Psychiatrist
Natalie Sadik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits as this will allow me to reach a wide range of potential patients from all over the state of Michigan.
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits as this will allow me to reach a wide range of potential patients from all over the state of Michigan.
(313) 800-9848 View (313) 800-9848
Photo of Rebecca Greer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
(313) 425-8197 View (313) 425-8197
Photo of Clark Chen, DO, Psychiatrist
Clark Chen
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072
Accepting New Patients - Hi there! I am dual board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is taking on new patients by video appointments. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, depression, bipolar, oppositional defiant disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
Accepting New Patients - Hi there! I am dual board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is taking on new patients by video appointments. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, depression, bipolar, oppositional defiant disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
(323) 859-6342 View (323) 859-6342
Photo of Hetal Patel - Helios Psychiatry and Counseling, Psychiatrist
Helios Psychiatry and Counseling
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Helios Psychiatry and Counseling is a group practice consisting of a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistants, licensed social workers, and licensed professional counselors. We are committed to providing services to clients who suffer from any emotional or mental health issues -- depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessions, addiction, among other issues.
Helios Psychiatry and Counseling is a group practice consisting of a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistants, licensed social workers, and licensed professional counselors. We are committed to providing services to clients who suffer from any emotional or mental health issues -- depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessions, addiction, among other issues.
(586) 371-8150 View (586) 371-8150
Photo of Melissa Sue Carafelli, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Sue Carafelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
My 15 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan and via different practice settings including outpatient psych/mental health, inpatient psych/mental health, acute care hospital, urgent care, and skilled nursing facilities/assisted livings has given me a wealth of knowledge to pull from to help you with the struggles you’re facing. I graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with my bachelor's degree, from South University with my MSN, and graduated with my Post-Master's from Maryville University.
My 15 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan and via different practice settings including outpatient psych/mental health, inpatient psych/mental health, acute care hospital, urgent care, and skilled nursing facilities/assisted livings has given me a wealth of knowledge to pull from to help you with the struggles you’re facing. I graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with my bachelor's degree, from South University with my MSN, and graduated with my Post-Master's from Maryville University.
(586) 300-3793 View (586) 300-3793

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Ferndale, MI

< 10

Psychiatrists in Ferndale, MI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
88% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Blue Care Network

How Psychiatrists in Ferndale, MI see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Ferndale?

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.