Psychiatrists in Michigan
![Photo of Melissa Sue Carafelli, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf3ea96e-dc61-487e-b08b-a214f4fff5e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mfon Essien, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6729b0e2-25aa-486e-ae27-b1a741e7ec65/1/320x400.jpeg)
Essien Mfon is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan with one year of experience. She earned a Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy and a Master of Nursing from Walden. Essien believes it is important to be able to assess, treat, and modify treatments as necessary to meet each client's potential goals. In her spare time, Essien enjoys reading, dancing, singing, and travelling.
Essien Mfon is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan with one year of experience. She earned a Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy and a Master of Nursing from Walden. Essien believes it is important to be able to assess, treat, and modify treatments as necessary to meet each client's potential goals. In her spare time, Essien enjoys reading, dancing, singing, and travelling.
![Photo of Lauren Henderson, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d07dbfe-e65a-43e5-8e1a-d62445ccacd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lauren Henderson is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. She received her medical degree at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency program at Authority Health Residency Program. Dr. Henderson diagnoses and treats adolescents and adults. She treats patients with anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, mood disorders, psychosis, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar depression, PTSD, grief, and psycho-oncology.
Dr. Lauren Henderson is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. She received her medical degree at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency program at Authority Health Residency Program. Dr. Henderson diagnoses and treats adolescents and adults. She treats patients with anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, mood disorders, psychosis, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar depression, PTSD, grief, and psycho-oncology.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfc79b99-84f8-4452-bb7d-cdd18a1fcc79/1/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (248) 422-0035 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (248) 422-0035 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Patti Tieman, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c05fa07-c6cf-404f-bdf9-6f933aa73626/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maybe you’ve had psychiatric services before, but they didn’t help. You felt rushed and weren’t able to explain your situation and how it was affecting your ability to function and have a life you could enjoy. Maybe the meds weren’t working, but your prescriber didn’t want to make changes. Many of my patients come to me when they haven’t been able to find any lasting improvement. Some turn to substances to self-medicate and that gets out of hand and becomes another problem to deal with. If this sounds familiar, you need to know that this can be a typical starting point prior to treatment that works!
Maybe you’ve had psychiatric services before, but they didn’t help. You felt rushed and weren’t able to explain your situation and how it was affecting your ability to function and have a life you could enjoy. Maybe the meds weren’t working, but your prescriber didn’t want to make changes. Many of my patients come to me when they haven’t been able to find any lasting improvement. Some turn to substances to self-medicate and that gets out of hand and becomes another problem to deal with. If this sounds familiar, you need to know that this can be a typical starting point prior to treatment that works!
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f24740ac-2fe0-472d-995e-3f295fb346a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Amy D Ames, DNP , APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3dae900-16c6-4299-a791-aba7c098708f/4/320x400.jpeg)
Amy D Ames
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
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.
![Photo of Kevin Sethi - Dr. Kevin Sethi- Progressive Wellness Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51114f4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kevin Sethi- Progressive Wellness Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Dr. Sethi completed his specialized psychiatric residency at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, MI. As an interventionist, he has a sub-specialized experience in the latest evidence-based treatment modalities including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine. He focuses in collaborative work with patients and providing ample time to make sure everything is clear and transparent. His goal is to help improve the quality of life for all his patients with a focus on preventive measures as well.
Dr. Sethi completed his specialized psychiatric residency at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, MI. As an interventionist, he has a sub-specialized experience in the latest evidence-based treatment modalities including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine. He focuses in collaborative work with patients and providing ample time to make sure everything is clear and transparent. His goal is to help improve the quality of life for all his patients with a focus on preventive measures as well.
![Photo of Alyssa Bottrell - Bloom Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a18126db-ba0c-43ea-a338-b8ddfdcae695/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bloom Psychiatry provides high-quality, individualized psychiatric treatment to adolescents and adults using a holistic treatment approach. New patients in the state of Michigan are now being accepted for telehealth, hybrid, or in-person appointments. Services include psychotherapy and/or medication management, as indicated by individual need.
Bloom Psychiatry provides high-quality, individualized psychiatric treatment to adolescents and adults using a holistic treatment approach. New patients in the state of Michigan are now being accepted for telehealth, hybrid, or in-person appointments. Services include psychotherapy and/or medication management, as indicated by individual need.
![Photo of Olivia Colombo, DO, MHA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d8adf17-3911-47c5-acd6-39c8131bdd02/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to creating a welcoming space where individuals feel understood and empowered. I prioritize fostering a collaborative environment where my patients actively participate in their treatment plans. My goal is to nurture their inner resilience, guiding them towards improved mental well-being.
I am dedicated to creating a welcoming space where individuals feel understood and empowered. I prioritize fostering a collaborative environment where my patients actively participate in their treatment plans. My goal is to nurture their inner resilience, guiding them towards improved mental well-being.
![Photo of Nicole Rea, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d33fdbf-5166-4e94-89b7-cb3ea4e040c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I completed my nursing degree in 2010, then pursued advanced education, earning my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in psychiatric mental health nursing from Spring Arbor University. Throughout my career and training, I have gained clinical experience in various psychiatric settings including inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient clinics, and community mental health centers. I prioritize building trusting therapeutic relationships with my patients and collaboratively making decisions that best meet your needs.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I completed my nursing degree in 2010, then pursued advanced education, earning my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in psychiatric mental health nursing from Spring Arbor University. Throughout my career and training, I have gained clinical experience in various psychiatric settings including inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient clinics, and community mental health centers. I prioritize building trusting therapeutic relationships with my patients and collaboratively making decisions that best meet your needs.
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![Photo of Jimmy Metellus - Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22b4daba-47a7-4a69-bb31-32ad9588cdcd/3/320x400.png)
At Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, you're in the care of a compassionate psychiatrist who understands the challenges you're facing, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, or life transitions. Dr. Jimmy Metellus, M.D specializes in evidence-based treatments tailored just for you. His purpose is to guide you on a journey toward emotional stability, improved relationships, resilience, self-discovery, and everyday functionality.
At Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, you're in the care of a compassionate psychiatrist who understands the challenges you're facing, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, or life transitions. Dr. Jimmy Metellus, M.D specializes in evidence-based treatments tailored just for you. His purpose is to guide you on a journey toward emotional stability, improved relationships, resilience, self-discovery, and everyday functionality.
![Photo of Jean Thayer-Seitz, NP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2283b237-2517-4c8d-9903-169f95a4c612/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of knowledge treating Depression, Mood Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Anxiety and Psychosis. I also treat adults ages and older. I use a Holistic approach and establish a therapeutic and fulfilling rapport with all of my clients.
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of knowledge treating Depression, Mood Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Anxiety and Psychosis. I also treat adults ages and older. I use a Holistic approach and establish a therapeutic and fulfilling rapport with all of my clients.
![Photo of Dr. Andrew Riegel, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4e1fdd-fef7-45a1-ae89-45bef64cfc77/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Riegel strives to provide a safe and welcoming space to begin your journey of healing. He values the patient experience. He is always impressed with patient’s insights, determination and internal resilience to overcome the issues that they are faced with. He recognizes that beginning this journey can be a very difficult process. He tries to make this as comfortable as possible with a safe and welcoming approach. He values the individuality of each patient’s journey. To schedule an appointment or for questions please visit my website at https://andrewriegel.com. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid.
Dr. Riegel strives to provide a safe and welcoming space to begin your journey of healing. He values the patient experience. He is always impressed with patient’s insights, determination and internal resilience to overcome the issues that they are faced with. He recognizes that beginning this journey can be a very difficult process. He tries to make this as comfortable as possible with a safe and welcoming approach. He values the individuality of each patient’s journey. To schedule an appointment or for questions please visit my website at https://andrewriegel.com. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid.
![Photo of Shiba L Nixon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e14904f-93eb-4276-be08-203e49dcd02a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shiba L Nixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my master’s degree in Nursing Science from Wayne State University. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 14 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, psychosis and ADHD. Foundation thoughts is currently open on Monday evenings and Saturdays offering medication management and therapy. Medication management is offered for various mental health disorders and substance abuse problems. The goal of the company is directed towards a holistic care.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my master’s degree in Nursing Science from Wayne State University. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 14 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, psychosis and ADHD. Foundation thoughts is currently open on Monday evenings and Saturdays offering medication management and therapy. Medication management is offered for various mental health disorders and substance abuse problems. The goal of the company is directed towards a holistic care.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/481a0532-9364-4470-aa82-03ba1bb58865/1/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (517) 507-3108 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (517) 507-3108 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Tina Myers, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43513918-4a8f-433a-8566-f38a6b9b5e1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling to find someone who is understanding and easy to talk too? My passion is helping individuals of all ages in the treatment of their mental health. Working towards recovery and stability in a variety of mental health and substance disorders including depression, addiction, mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, and others. My career in the healthcare field started in 1991 since then I have worked in different areas. In 2012 I found my passion and forever home is in psychiatry.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling to find someone who is understanding and easy to talk too? My passion is helping individuals of all ages in the treatment of their mental health. Working towards recovery and stability in a variety of mental health and substance disorders including depression, addiction, mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, and others. My career in the healthcare field started in 1991 since then I have worked in different areas. In 2012 I found my passion and forever home is in psychiatry.
![Photo of Kathleen Kraft, MSN, PMHNP-C, ANP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80d32de8-a099-4a05-9bcc-58f0b2c0cf34/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Kraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, ANP-C
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48035
Grand Opening July 2024, now scheduling appointments. Lotus Quest provides psychiatric and wellness care to women and men ages 18 to 64. We specialize in helping with Binge Eating Disorder and other mental health concerns such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD. Medications may be prescribed to help you when necessary, but this is all based on your needs. We provide a holistic view in care to help you achieve your goals. We do not treat ADHD, developmental conditions, or Substance Abuse Disorders.
Grand Opening July 2024, now scheduling appointments. Lotus Quest provides psychiatric and wellness care to women and men ages 18 to 64. We specialize in helping with Binge Eating Disorder and other mental health concerns such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD. Medications may be prescribed to help you when necessary, but this is all based on your needs. We provide a holistic view in care to help you achieve your goals. We do not treat ADHD, developmental conditions, or Substance Abuse Disorders.
![Photo of Umeika Stephens, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/962f96ea-544a-434a-90d4-c392532cc4ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Umeika Stephens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48240 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Detroit native, she is acutely aware of the mental and physical health care needs in the community and the disparities that impact patients' access to culturally sensitive mental health services. My goal is to listen and help patients set goals and receive treatments that help them to become the versions of themselves. I believe that care occurs as a team effort with the patient as the expert in their lived experience. I offer pharmacogenetic testing for medications and truly strive to create patient centered care atmosphere.
As a Detroit native, she is acutely aware of the mental and physical health care needs in the community and the disparities that impact patients' access to culturally sensitive mental health services. My goal is to listen and help patients set goals and receive treatments that help them to become the versions of themselves. I believe that care occurs as a team effort with the patient as the expert in their lived experience. I offer pharmacogenetic testing for medications and truly strive to create patient centered care atmosphere.
![Photo of Ralph Wiktor, MS , RD, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47c3616b-b5b7-4597-b4a1-f2e912c8c3e4/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help folks who need a dedicated, experienced, forthright, and caring provider, who can provide the highest level of care to those who need it most. Through my many years in primary care and psychiatry, I have become familiar with the devastating effects mental illness can have on families, careers, goals and health. I recognize that appropriate, evidence based, early, and effective treatment, including education, counseling and as needed medication, can make a life's difference. My Primary care and Psychiatric care plans provide individualized and effective care, so that patients make progress.
My goal is to help folks who need a dedicated, experienced, forthright, and caring provider, who can provide the highest level of care to those who need it most. Through my many years in primary care and psychiatry, I have become familiar with the devastating effects mental illness can have on families, careers, goals and health. I recognize that appropriate, evidence based, early, and effective treatment, including education, counseling and as needed medication, can make a life's difference. My Primary care and Psychiatric care plans provide individualized and effective care, so that patients make progress.
See more therapy options for Michigan
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$212
Psychiatrists in Michigan who prioritize treating:
86% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | Medication Management |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | ADHD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | Aetna |
66% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Michigan see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Michigan?
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.