Psychiatrists in Kanabec County, MN
![Photo of Jeremiah Randall - East Central Behavioral Health LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04637bc5-3d6b-4fd9-84e8-489e1a484360/1/320x400.jpeg)
East Central Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051 (Online Only)
I am certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which means I am certified to provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan (ages 6 and up). I have been in the metal health field for 20 years, training in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient community mental health, private practice, direct care with children and adolescents, corrections, and both forensic and substance abuse programs. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
I am certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which means I am certified to provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan (ages 6 and up). I have been in the metal health field for 20 years, training in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient community mental health, private practice, direct care with children and adolescents, corrections, and both forensic and substance abuse programs. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
![Photo of Angelica Stoltz, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/446013bb-74d3-4491-a3f2-d972c709d24f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angelica Stoltz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051 (Online Only)
Angelica, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner at Recovering Hope Treatment Center, empowers individuals seeking transformation and growth. With non-judgmental care, she helps clients grappling with mental health, behavioral health, and addiction find balance and reclaim their sense of self. Her dedication and empathy inspire hope, fostering resilience on the path to wellness.
Angelica, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner at Recovering Hope Treatment Center, empowers individuals seeking transformation and growth. With non-judgmental care, she helps clients grappling with mental health, behavioral health, and addiction find balance and reclaim their sense of self. Her dedication and empathy inspire hope, fostering resilience on the path to wellness.
![Photo of Naomi Koenig - Selah Wellness Clinic LLC, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e91fe838-14ae-476a-ba75-cd2334208a6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Selah Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051
We work with you on your health. We are here to help you, walk with you on your journey and help you to feel better.
We work with you on your health. We are here to help you, walk with you on your journey and help you to feel better.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55ab33f7-5c5b-4455-8e1d-b4e62e685f46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Kari Rengo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe15931-dcf9-47f5-a507-ceb51b801ab0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kari Rengo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, MN 55810 (Online Only)
What I love about psychiatry is helping you return to your True North. We work together to identify symptoms causing difficulty. We create a treatment plan that is based on your most deeply held beliefs, values, and principles. We celebrate when your symptoms lessen and you feel yourself moving back towards your True North.
What I love about psychiatry is helping you return to your True North. We work together to identify symptoms causing difficulty. We create a treatment plan that is based on your most deeply held beliefs, values, and principles. We celebrate when your symptoms lessen and you feel yourself moving back towards your True North.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e314d4b5-4c85-47bd-8024-69994e6c5edf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Dr. Talha John Baloch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66348f10-04ae-4a4f-a760-0ceba0c50574/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Talha John Baloch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369 (Online Only)
At Comprehensive Psych Solutions, we strive to provide the highest level of care to our clients. To do this, our Board Certified Psychiatrists perform a comprehensive evaluation and assessment. This allows us to provide different treatment solutions, that we discuss in great detail with you, so you can make the most educated decision for your health. Dr. Baloch is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry. Please visit our website for more info. Open to patients in California, Illinois, Minnesota and Ohio. Completely virtual care.
At Comprehensive Psych Solutions, we strive to provide the highest level of care to our clients. To do this, our Board Certified Psychiatrists perform a comprehensive evaluation and assessment. This allows us to provide different treatment solutions, that we discuss in great detail with you, so you can make the most educated decision for your health. Dr. Baloch is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry. Please visit our website for more info. Open to patients in California, Illinois, Minnesota and Ohio. Completely virtual care.
![Photo of Brian H Johns, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0750037-eee2-4468-9bf5-8dbdabda557c/2/320x400.jpeg)
When antidepressant medications aren't working, we can provide the expert advice and treatment plans you need to get relief. Our team of mental health professionals can help you feel your best by creating a personalized treatment plan that considers your medical history, genetics, lab results, lifestyle, personal preferences, and insurance coverage. Read my latest posts on Defying Treatment-Resistant Disorders to learn about what treatment resistant depression and the best treatment options available: bit.ly/psychologytoday-brian-johns.
When antidepressant medications aren't working, we can provide the expert advice and treatment plans you need to get relief. Our team of mental health professionals can help you feel your best by creating a personalized treatment plan that considers your medical history, genetics, lab results, lifestyle, personal preferences, and insurance coverage. Read my latest posts on Defying Treatment-Resistant Disorders to learn about what treatment resistant depression and the best treatment options available: bit.ly/psychologytoday-brian-johns.
Dr. Joannah Bluntach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hermantown, MN 55811
Hello to everyone! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in northern Minnesota.I am passionate about helping people and mental health. I strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and provide culturally sensitive, non-non-judgmental, non-judgmental, person-centered care. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you on meeting your goals. I created Compassionate Quality Psychiatry with the goal to provide quality, compassionate, affordable care to the community in Minnesota.
Hello to everyone! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in northern Minnesota.I am passionate about helping people and mental health. I strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and provide culturally sensitive, non-non-judgmental, non-judgmental, person-centered care. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you on meeting your goals. I created Compassionate Quality Psychiatry with the goal to provide quality, compassionate, affordable care to the community in Minnesota.
![Photo of Kayla Kvell, DNP, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7be5b614-8593-4ec7-a6da-031f1b276fb7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Kvell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369 (Online Only)
Dr. Kayla Kvell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents (14+) and adults. Her areas of special interest include ADHD; bipolar disorder and mood issues; postpartum depression, peri & postmenopausal symptoms; and metabolic/hormonal dysfunction and its impact on mental health. She uses an integrative approach to address and identify underlying causes of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Kayla Kvell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents (14+) and adults. Her areas of special interest include ADHD; bipolar disorder and mood issues; postpartum depression, peri & postmenopausal symptoms; and metabolic/hormonal dysfunction and its impact on mental health. She uses an integrative approach to address and identify underlying causes of psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Amanda Braatz, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecc1dd6e-31c8-41ee-9d03-ad514485c22c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Braatz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Amanda is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with more than 19 years of experience in health care. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she has worked in inpatient, hospital consultation, emergency/crisis, and clinic/outpatient settings. Her diverse background allows her to provide holistic, integrated, and individualized care for each person she works with.
Amanda is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with more than 19 years of experience in health care. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she has worked in inpatient, hospital consultation, emergency/crisis, and clinic/outpatient settings. Her diverse background allows her to provide holistic, integrated, and individualized care for each person she works with.
![Photo of Mike Goedken, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35cd5bb8-69dd-4db4-abad-fcb4b4a2c943/1/320x400.png)
Mike Goedken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55121 (Online Only)
Feeling stressed, down, overwhelmed or having a difficult time enjoying anything? Tired of not being heard? I have immediate openings. I am determined to provide compassionate, quality, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. I possess strong clinical skills in managing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders including; anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, psychotic disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress disorders. I am currently a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Feeling stressed, down, overwhelmed or having a difficult time enjoying anything? Tired of not being heard? I have immediate openings. I am determined to provide compassionate, quality, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. I possess strong clinical skills in managing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders including; anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, psychotic disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress disorders. I am currently a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
![Photo of Michelle Kasper, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df7f1bc1-96bb-4fe5-b1ef-200c1d5ae9f4/1/320x400.png)
Michelle Kasper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northfield, MN 55057
As a contracted mental health professional for Sparrow Psychiatry, my objective is to offer emotional support and medication to help individuals of all ages improve their mental health and overall well-being. My main focus is to help my clients manage their symptoms with as few medications as possible. I believe in providing compassionate care and support to my clients to help them lead the way to a better life.
As a contracted mental health professional for Sparrow Psychiatry, my objective is to offer emotional support and medication to help individuals of all ages improve their mental health and overall well-being. My main focus is to help my clients manage their symptoms with as few medications as possible. I believe in providing compassionate care and support to my clients to help them lead the way to a better life.
![Photo of Mercy N Shwembom, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/190ce7de-a763-44ed-b545-6cce7d70fefb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mercy N Shwembom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Otsego, MN 55330 (Online Only)
I believe everyone needs someone who listens and validates their feelings, emotions and concerns and someone who is empathetic and believes in their potentials and dreams. Most especially, as a client, I will want a provider who treats me as a unique individual, with specific needs and wants.
I believe everyone needs someone who listens and validates their feelings, emotions and concerns and someone who is empathetic and believes in their potentials and dreams. Most especially, as a client, I will want a provider who treats me as a unique individual, with specific needs and wants.
![Photo of Dr. Beth A. Good, DNP, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79fed3a7-096d-494b-9513-b2b5cbf974dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Utilizing a philosophy of care that is wholistic...treating the body, mind & spirit with a positive, dynamic, recovery-focused approach to health and well-being, I would be honored to help you on your journey. Providing an atmosphere of warmth, positive regard, and mutual respect, I enjoy discussing with patients their health and life goals, focusing on one's strengths and resilience to work through current difficulties & chart a positive course going forward. With my vast experience, I utilize evidence-based medications and approaches to treat psychiatric/mental health disorders & stay up to date on cutting edge therapies.
Utilizing a philosophy of care that is wholistic...treating the body, mind & spirit with a positive, dynamic, recovery-focused approach to health and well-being, I would be honored to help you on your journey. Providing an atmosphere of warmth, positive regard, and mutual respect, I enjoy discussing with patients their health and life goals, focusing on one's strengths and resilience to work through current difficulties & chart a positive course going forward. With my vast experience, I utilize evidence-based medications and approaches to treat psychiatric/mental health disorders & stay up to date on cutting edge therapies.
![Photo of Andrietta Wright Barnett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9368b746-7ad5-4f52-b208-077e2e3361bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrietta Wright Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
![Photo of Melodie Kabanuk Dohm - Wisdom Psychiatric Care & Medication Management, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7f537a5-77e8-4526-9044-089e7cd0996a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wisdom Psychiatric Care & Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mounds View, MN 55112 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Boutique Mental Healthcare: Setting itself apart from large health systems, our boutique approach to mental healthcare ensures that we can deliver high-quality care that is tailored to your unique needs; we make the time to listen and to truly hear what your needs, healing goals, and preferences are. We take pride in delivering an exceptional level of customer service, medical expertise, and commitment to health and wellness for all our patients. Wisdom-Clinic is SHARE certified by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, because we believe in shared decision-making when it comes to care for our clients.
Boutique Mental Healthcare: Setting itself apart from large health systems, our boutique approach to mental healthcare ensures that we can deliver high-quality care that is tailored to your unique needs; we make the time to listen and to truly hear what your needs, healing goals, and preferences are. We take pride in delivering an exceptional level of customer service, medical expertise, and commitment to health and wellness for all our patients. Wisdom-Clinic is SHARE certified by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, because we believe in shared decision-making when it comes to care for our clients.
![Photo of Eli Sedo, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdc6bc83-a23e-41bc-bd48-54cac96957d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach reflects a commitment to providing holistic and personalized care, incorporating therapy, medication, and support groups as needed. Additionally, I emphasize flexibility, adapting to each person’s unique circumstances and needs, while maintaining empathy, patience, and a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Providing culturally sensitive and inclusive care, and recognizing and respecting the unique backgrounds and identities of clients, is a priority for me.
My approach reflects a commitment to providing holistic and personalized care, incorporating therapy, medication, and support groups as needed. Additionally, I emphasize flexibility, adapting to each person’s unique circumstances and needs, while maintaining empathy, patience, and a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Providing culturally sensitive and inclusive care, and recognizing and respecting the unique backgrounds and identities of clients, is a priority for me.
![Photo of Ethan Hamilton, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c3a510c-9f12-4abf-a566-fa9b6312c877/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ethan Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
Ethan is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in various mental health settings including inpatient, emergency care, and outpatient clinic. Ethan is committed to welcoming patients of all backgrounds and helping them achieve their goals for wellness through evidence-based treatment options.
Ethan is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in various mental health settings including inpatient, emergency care, and outpatient clinic. Ethan is committed to welcoming patients of all backgrounds and helping them achieve their goals for wellness through evidence-based treatment options.
![Photo of Cassidy Furey, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03bf64c0-aefa-4ff7-a297-99287d56dd4b/1/320x400.png)
Cassidy Furey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I am a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have experience providing medication management for ages 4+ for a variety of conditions including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and other mood disorders. I take into consideration a comprehensive assessment and develop a realistic treatment plan with patients and families.
I am a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have experience providing medication management for ages 4+ for a variety of conditions including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and other mood disorders. I take into consideration a comprehensive assessment and develop a realistic treatment plan with patients and families.
See more therapy options for Kanabec County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kanabec County, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kanabec County, MN who prioritize treating:
67% | Depression |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | Child |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Behavioral Issues |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UCare |
100% | HealthPartners of MN and WI |
How Psychiatrists in Kanabec County, MN see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kanabec 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.