Psychiatrists in University City, MO

Photo of Kelly M McKinney, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly M McKinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
My name is Kelly McKinney, I am a Nurse Practitioner, dual certified in Family/Primary Care and Mental Health. I have eleven years of experience as a registered nurse in the areas of Pediatrics, Oncology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Public Health, Primary Care and Mental Health. I have been practicing as a certified Nurse Practitioner for six of those years. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Goldfarb School of Nursing in 2010. Later, I earned a Master of Science in Nursing and certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) from Walden University in 2015.
My name is Kelly McKinney, I am a Nurse Practitioner, dual certified in Family/Primary Care and Mental Health. I have eleven years of experience as a registered nurse in the areas of Pediatrics, Oncology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Public Health, Primary Care and Mental Health. I have been practicing as a certified Nurse Practitioner for six of those years. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Goldfarb School of Nursing in 2010. Later, I earned a Master of Science in Nursing and certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) from Walden University in 2015.
(636) 202-1772 View (636) 202-1772

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gerthy Cipus Pierre - Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63116  (Online Only)
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
(618) 851-2944 View (618) 851-2944
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63113
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.
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Photo of Jordan Calabrese, MD, Psychiatrist
Jordan Calabrese
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63112
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
(636) 201-3500 View (636) 201-3500
Photo of Shelah Radke, MD, JD, Psychiatrist
Shelah Radke
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
I help clients with the diagnosis and treatment of a plethora of concerns, including (but not limited to) emotional, developmental, behavioral, and mental disorders of childhood and adolescence. I work with my clients to understand what their needs and goals are, and together we use this information to develop a personalized treatment plan. This approach empowers my clients to take an active role in their own care and can lead to more positive outcomes and greater overall satisfaction with the treatment process.
I help clients with the diagnosis and treatment of a plethora of concerns, including (but not limited to) emotional, developmental, behavioral, and mental disorders of childhood and adolescence. I work with my clients to understand what their needs and goals are, and together we use this information to develop a personalized treatment plan. This approach empowers my clients to take an active role in their own care and can lead to more positive outcomes and greater overall satisfaction with the treatment process.
(314) 907-3544 View (314) 907-3544
Photo of Angela Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63144
I enjoy providing my patients with a therapeutic, non-judgmental environment in which they can feel heard and understood. One cannot heal in an environment where they continue to feel shame for symptoms or past experiences, so I do my best to put patients' minds at ease while we develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
I enjoy providing my patients with a therapeutic, non-judgmental environment in which they can feel heard and understood. One cannot heal in an environment where they continue to feel shame for symptoms or past experiences, so I do my best to put patients' minds at ease while we develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
(314) 912-1156 View (314) 912-1156
Photo of Vilash Reddy - One Life Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
One Life Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
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
(816) 578-0985 View (816) 578-0985
Photo of James Mikolajczak, MD, Psychiatrist
James Mikolajczak
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
I strongly believe a good psychotherapy experience is based on a good healthy connection between the patient and therapist. Within this relationship the two can both explore the internal and external world in which the patient lives. The internal world arises from both present and past experiences. An understanding of these worlds and the conflicts within these worlds, leads to an easing of the patient's symptoms and an improved resilience to handle life's events. Lasting results come gradually in psychotherapy. I offer meeting with a patient to listen and discuss one's history. I will provide my assessment of some of the important life experiences and make a recommendation of what treatment I might offer to relieve symptoms. As a physician, I offer medication management along with psychotherapy. I treat children, adolescents, and adults in psychotherapy and medical psychotherapy.
I strongly believe a good psychotherapy experience is based on a good healthy connection between the patient and therapist. Within this relationship the two can both explore the internal and external world in which the patient lives. The internal world arises from both present and past experiences. An understanding of these worlds and the conflicts within these worlds, leads to an easing of the patient's symptoms and an improved resilience to handle life's events. Lasting results come gradually in psychotherapy. I offer meeting with a patient to listen and discuss one's history. I will provide my assessment of some of the important life experiences and make a recommendation of what treatment I might offer to relieve symptoms. As a physician, I offer medication management along with psychotherapy. I treat children, adolescents, and adults in psychotherapy and medical psychotherapy.
(314) 828-1343 View (314) 828-1343
Photo of Meredith Throop, MD, Psychiatrist
Meredith Throop
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63124  (Online Only)
Dr. Throop is expanding her current private practice and will be primarily telemedicine based. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
Dr. Throop is expanding her current private practice and will be primarily telemedicine based. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
(636) 435-2187 View (636) 435-2187
Photo of James Peter Cho, MD, Psychiatrist
James Peter Cho
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Outpatient Care is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Therapeutic Interventions and Medical Services which include Medication Assisted Treatments.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Outpatient Care is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Therapeutic Interventions and Medical Services which include Medication Assisted Treatments.
(314) 470-8517 View (314) 470-8517
Photo of Brittany Rose, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over twenty years of nursing experience. My extensive medical background allows me to bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment for patients to feel safe and heard. I work with adults seeking assistance with: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and many other psychiatric disorders. In my practice I utilize both medications and non-medication approaches to help patients
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over twenty years of nursing experience. My extensive medical background allows me to bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment for patients to feel safe and heard. I work with adults seeking assistance with: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and many other psychiatric disorders. In my practice I utilize both medications and non-medication approaches to help patients
(314) 789-7695 View (314) 789-7695
Photo of Beth Glenn, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beth Glenn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Beth Glenn, PMHNP Beth Glenn is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Beth has worked with children, adolescent, adult, and geriatric behavioral health patients throughout her nursing career beginning in 2010 and obtained her Master's in Science of Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University in 2022. Beth practices in general psychiatry, including (but not limited to) the treatment of depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and anxiety with an emphasis on the geriatric population and co-occurring major neurocognitive disorders such as dementia.
Beth Glenn, PMHNP Beth Glenn is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Beth has worked with children, adolescent, adult, and geriatric behavioral health patients throughout her nursing career beginning in 2010 and obtained her Master's in Science of Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University in 2022. Beth practices in general psychiatry, including (but not limited to) the treatment of depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and anxiety with an emphasis on the geriatric population and co-occurring major neurocognitive disorders such as dementia.
(314) 907-2532 View (314) 907-2532
Photo of Bonnie Lee Applewhite, MD, Psychiatrist
Bonnie Lee Applewhite
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63110
Dr. Bonnie Applewhite provides personalized Adult Psychiatry services in an outpatient setting. Dr. Applewhite has studied at premiere medical institutions and continually strives to remain at the forefront of neuroscience and mental health treatment. Dr. Applewhite collaborates with every patient to realize their innermost potential. Treatment plans are developed with the lifestyle and goals of each patient in mind, while still pursuing maximum therapeutic efficacy.
Dr. Bonnie Applewhite provides personalized Adult Psychiatry services in an outpatient setting. Dr. Applewhite has studied at premiere medical institutions and continually strives to remain at the forefront of neuroscience and mental health treatment. Dr. Applewhite collaborates with every patient to realize their innermost potential. Treatment plans are developed with the lifestyle and goals of each patient in mind, while still pursuing maximum therapeutic efficacy.
(314) 207-0606 View (314) 207-0606
Photo of Helia Ibarra-Alos, MD, Psychiatrist
Helia Ibarra-Alos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I am an empathic, non-judgmental, easy to engage with, triple-board certified psychiatrist who conducts thorough psychiatric evaluations to assess your needs and figure out together about the best options to achieve your goals with an individualized treatment plan. Evaluations are currently done virtually via telepsychiatry if you are in either state of FL, NM or MO, and can be done in English or Spanish according to your preference.
I am an empathic, non-judgmental, easy to engage with, triple-board certified psychiatrist who conducts thorough psychiatric evaluations to assess your needs and figure out together about the best options to achieve your goals with an individualized treatment plan. Evaluations are currently done virtually via telepsychiatry if you are in either state of FL, NM or MO, and can be done in English or Spanish according to your preference.
(561) 220-1309 View (561) 220-1309
Photo of Vivek Agnihotri, MD, Psychiatrist
Vivek Agnihotri
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
I am a Psychiatrist specializing in Addiction Treatment and Adult Psychiatric Treatment. Also provide individualized Weight Management Services. I specialize in the treatment of Opioid dependence with Suboxone, Alcohol dependence, other addictions and Dual Diagnosis and Psychiatric disorders. I have extensive experience in treating a wide range of Psychiatric disorders including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, ADHD. I provide compassionate care and individualized attention in conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations.
I am a Psychiatrist specializing in Addiction Treatment and Adult Psychiatric Treatment. Also provide individualized Weight Management Services. I specialize in the treatment of Opioid dependence with Suboxone, Alcohol dependence, other addictions and Dual Diagnosis and Psychiatric disorders. I have extensive experience in treating a wide range of Psychiatric disorders including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, ADHD. I provide compassionate care and individualized attention in conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations.
(314) 794-5773 View (314) 794-5773
Photo of Rose Psara, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rose Psara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Immediate openings for new clients in the office, telepsychiatry, or via telephone depending on the client's individual needs in the St. Louis area. General psychiatry practice. Seeing patients for anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, and stress. Please email me to set up a new appointment. Hope to see you soon.
Immediate openings for new clients in the office, telepsychiatry, or via telephone depending on the client's individual needs in the St. Louis area. General psychiatry practice. Seeing patients for anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, and stress. Please email me to set up a new appointment. Hope to see you soon.
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Photo of Katie Padberg, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Padberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I am so happy you are here! It takes courage to reach out for help. You don't have to feel this way forever. Valuable mental healthcare means feeling understood and supported, while continuously moving forward towards improved mental health. I understand how challenging it can be to find the right provider that really listens and fosters a nonjudgemental, welcoming environment. I would be honored to be that person for you.
I am so happy you are here! It takes courage to reach out for help. You don't have to feel this way forever. Valuable mental healthcare means feeling understood and supported, while continuously moving forward towards improved mental health. I understand how challenging it can be to find the right provider that really listens and fosters a nonjudgemental, welcoming environment. I would be honored to be that person for you.
(314) 347-3034 View (314) 347-3034
Photo of Dr. Evan Buckmiller, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Evan Buckmiller
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63124
Psychiatry is my passion. By helping you overcome your mental health symptoms with medication management, I can support you in getting back to living a healthy and balanced lifestyle. You deserve it.
Psychiatry is my passion. By helping you overcome your mental health symptoms with medication management, I can support you in getting back to living a healthy and balanced lifestyle. You deserve it.
(573) 273-4034 View (573) 273-4034
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63113
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.
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Photo of Mohd Azfar Malik - Serenity Health, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Serenity Health
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
At Serenity Health, we understand the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more, our team of licensed and certified providers are here to help. Our providers are trained to use psychotherapy to learn about your situation, properly diagnose, and treat your symptoms. Along with psychiatry, we offer neurology services to patients struggling with neuropathy, movement disorders, migraines, post-stroke care, seizures, and more. Our neurology team coordinates with the care plans of your other providers to ensure continuous improvement.
At Serenity Health, we understand the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more, our team of licensed and certified providers are here to help. Our providers are trained to use psychotherapy to learn about your situation, properly diagnose, and treat your symptoms. Along with psychiatry, we offer neurology services to patients struggling with neuropathy, movement disorders, migraines, post-stroke care, seizures, and more. Our neurology team coordinates with the care plans of your other providers to ensure continuous improvement.
(636) 259-4665 View (636) 259-4665

See more therapy options for University City

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in University City, MO

< 10

Psychiatrists in University City, MO who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in University City, MO see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in University City?

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.