Psychiatrists in Liberty, MO
![Photo of Brayden Willis, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b7260fd-6ed7-4fc8-aeec-23df24e395b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
![Photo of Cynthia Ruth Heck, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1b8ea1f-c8a2-45d8-acd5-e98743fc3e7d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Ruth Heck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
![Photo of Molly Oligbo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71144108-37b1-41d7-af73-324b8c03dfd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Oligbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Liberty, MO 64068 (Online Only)
Molly Oligbo, Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, brings expertise in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychiatric assessment. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri Kansas City (2013) and a Master of Science in Nursing from the same institution (2017), Molly has dedicated her career to comprehensive mental health services for adults. Her experience spans community mental health settings, psychiatric consults in medical floors, and a passion for establishing therapeutic relationships.
Molly Oligbo, Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, brings expertise in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychiatric assessment. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri Kansas City (2013) and a Master of Science in Nursing from the same institution (2017), Molly has dedicated her career to comprehensive mental health services for adults. Her experience spans community mental health settings, psychiatric consults in medical floors, and a passion for establishing therapeutic relationships.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Richard Seldeen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f61ec28d-1572-4d8b-99cd-315b697b41fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Seldeen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missouri City, MO 64072
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals from ages 18 to 65 who are seeking a variety of treatment options to improve their mental health. In addition to medication management, I can offer several therapy and biofeedback resources to help manage and improve complex mental health issues and overall daily function. For my ADHD clients, I offer nonstimulant medications as well as biofeedback options, but I do not prescribe amphetamines for this diagnosis.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals from ages 18 to 65 who are seeking a variety of treatment options to improve their mental health. In addition to medication management, I can offer several therapy and biofeedback resources to help manage and improve complex mental health issues and overall daily function. For my ADHD clients, I offer nonstimulant medications as well as biofeedback options, but I do not prescribe amphetamines for this diagnosis.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Asif A Uddin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12f1468a-7b51-4e1f-bc05-d8746a27ab6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I completed my residency at KU, and went on to pursue triple board certification in psychiatry, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. I pursued combined training to improve the stigma of psychiatry and bridge the gap. Despite the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, they are often written off and not considered as serious as medical diagnoses. However, both from treating it regularly, as well as my personal battle with bipolar disorder, for example, I know it can be just as debilitating as any medical condition out there. My own mental health journey uniquely allows me to relate and empathize to provide the best care possible.
I completed my residency at KU, and went on to pursue triple board certification in psychiatry, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. I pursued combined training to improve the stigma of psychiatry and bridge the gap. Despite the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, they are often written off and not considered as serious as medical diagnoses. However, both from treating it regularly, as well as my personal battle with bipolar disorder, for example, I know it can be just as debilitating as any medical condition out there. My own mental health journey uniquely allows me to relate and empathize to provide the best care possible.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/814ef8cb-af1e-46a3-94f8-da01ced2ab92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Amanda Smallmon, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1112bb86-c874-4e62-94a7-45229e223f92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Smallmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harrisonville, MO 64701
Ideal clients have a desire to live life to the fullest and are ready to work as a team to find the unique plan to meet their goals.
Ideal clients have a desire to live life to the fullest and are ready to work as a team to find the unique plan to meet their goals.
![Photo of Santissa Clapp, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da8ba833-1ca0-4d30-b450-eaaefe193d80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Santissa Clapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64154 (Online Only)
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
![Photo of Katie Smith, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/931c16d6-6225-487d-8208-fa12562c7aa8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonville, MO 64701
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner with 22 years combined experience. I help Individuals from age 10 through adulthood who are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, BPD, PTSD, ADHD, addiction and other psychiatric conditions, while assisting in working towards relief from unwanted thoughts, decreasing overwhelming guilt, anxiety, relief from nightmares and addiction symptoms and many other psychiatric symptoms while setting goals of regaining happiness, joy and wonder in their daily lives and restoring healthy productive relationships.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner with 22 years combined experience. I help Individuals from age 10 through adulthood who are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, BPD, PTSD, ADHD, addiction and other psychiatric conditions, while assisting in working towards relief from unwanted thoughts, decreasing overwhelming guilt, anxiety, relief from nightmares and addiction symptoms and many other psychiatric symptoms while setting goals of regaining happiness, joy and wonder in their daily lives and restoring healthy productive relationships.
![Photo of Charles Ray Lake, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4641b1b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Voted Top Doctor of Psychiatry in 435 Magazine, 2019 through 2022 by doctors. Will answer & schedule your appointment within 48 hrs. I listen, am non-judgmental & help you gain self-esteem, exercise better choices & increase your happy hours. I have MD & PhD degrees from Duke University, when MD's were taught to treat with psychotherapy as well as medications when warranted. As Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at KU, School of Medicine I've published widely about depression, bipolar & anxiety disorders, panic, OCD & PTSD. Will conduct sessions with FaceTime or Zoom. Probably out of network, NO insurance accepted.
Voted Top Doctor of Psychiatry in 435 Magazine, 2019 through 2022 by doctors. Will answer & schedule your appointment within 48 hrs. I listen, am non-judgmental & help you gain self-esteem, exercise better choices & increase your happy hours. I have MD & PhD degrees from Duke University, when MD's were taught to treat with psychotherapy as well as medications when warranted. As Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at KU, School of Medicine I've published widely about depression, bipolar & anxiety disorders, panic, OCD & PTSD. Will conduct sessions with FaceTime or Zoom. Probably out of network, NO insurance accepted.
![Photo of Moses Tabe Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7009bbfa-153a-4c13-acd2-d3a9c3d3527c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
![Photo of Vilash Reddy - One Life Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb401b16-a60c-474a-a8a9-f2af7d91a3b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Vilash Reddy, M.D. I grew up in California and trained at Washington University in St. Louis. I specialize in treating children aged 6 and older in Missouri and Kansas exclusively via telehealth appointments. My average wait time for new patients is 3 weeks. I diagnose and treat a range of developmental, behavioral, and mood disorders. I offer medication management as well as therapy and I believe in using holistic, natural remedies whenever possible. I treat ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, autism, intellectual disability, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc
My name is Dr. Vilash Reddy, M.D. I grew up in California and trained at Washington University in St. Louis. I specialize in treating children aged 6 and older in Missouri and Kansas exclusively via telehealth appointments. My average wait time for new patients is 3 weeks. I diagnose and treat a range of developmental, behavioral, and mood disorders. I offer medication management as well as therapy and I believe in using holistic, natural remedies whenever possible. I treat ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, autism, intellectual disability, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc
![Photo of Hiten Soni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a758cac-f864-4f9d-848d-52c7710b12ee/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
![Photo of Kelly J Neland - Reflections Health Services, LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a776ae2-d7f9-49f8-acef-f9e1ed873737/2/320x400.jpeg)
Reflections Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47f37d0d-3b12-4ab2-a4a9-d7919c5ebcbc/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 Francis U. Okafor, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5f5875c-02cc-461d-9243-038cedc473cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francis U. Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64081 (Online Only)
I came to the United States of America in 1997. In 2001, I joined the US Army where I served as a medic for 8 years. After my military service, I decided to go to Nursing School. I graduated with my MSN from Walden University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. "My passion for Psychiatric nursing is born out of my desire to assist vulnerable individuals attain possible health and independence through medication management and support."
I came to the United States of America in 1997. In 2001, I joined the US Army where I served as a medic for 8 years. After my military service, I decided to go to Nursing School. I graduated with my MSN from Walden University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. "My passion for Psychiatric nursing is born out of my desire to assist vulnerable individuals attain possible health and independence through medication management and support."
![Photo of Trace Yule, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d171ea9-751d-4793-90cc-f9ea71cdd4ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trace Yule
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Adrian, MO 64720 (Online Only)
Are you looking for comprehensive mental health and substance use treatment? At Code 1 Wellness we offer a holistic approach to treatment focusing on the unique needs of our community through personalized care plans and evidence based practices. Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Program (MAT) combines FDA approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders and mental health conditions effectively. We provide medication management, counseling services, support groups and ongoing support and follow up to ensure long term recovery and prevent relapse.
Are you looking for comprehensive mental health and substance use treatment? At Code 1 Wellness we offer a holistic approach to treatment focusing on the unique needs of our community through personalized care plans and evidence based practices. Our Medication-Assisted Treatment Program (MAT) combines FDA approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders and mental health conditions effectively. We provide medication management, counseling services, support groups and ongoing support and follow up to ensure long term recovery and prevent relapse.
![Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e18d825d-939d-431c-a065-015737b2a5ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
See more therapy options for Liberty
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Liberty, MO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Liberty, MO who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Substance Use |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Depression |
67% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Liberty, MO see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Liberty?
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.