Psychiatrists in Wildwood, MO

Photo of Kimberly Danielle, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Danielle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63011  (Online Only)
Welcome to Klarity Wellness! My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With integrative & functional medicine training, as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Welcome to Klarity Wellness! My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With integrative & functional medicine training, as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
(314) 226-1120 View (314) 226-1120

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Rose Psara, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rose Psara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
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 Amanda Kingston - Brave Counseling & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist
Brave Counseling & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, MO 63005
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
(573) 766-4587 View (573) 766-4587
Photo of Katie Padberg, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Padberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
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 Courtney Haas - Aspire Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aspire Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Fenton, MO 63026  (Online Only)
If you are looking for quality psychiatric medication management services, then Aspire Wellness is the right center for you! We are accepting new patients 18 years and older through telehealth. Our goal is to provide high quality healthcare services to improve overall wellbeing. Our team will support you along the way and work together to connect you with the treament and services you need.
If you are looking for quality psychiatric medication management services, then Aspire Wellness is the right center for you! We are accepting new patients 18 years and older through telehealth. Our goal is to provide high quality healthcare services to improve overall wellbeing. Our team will support you along the way and work together to connect you with the treament and services you need.
(636) 435-2586 View (636) 435-2586
Photo of Kelly M McKinney, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly M McKinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63017  (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
Photo of Thripura Thirtala, MD, Psychiatrist
Thripura Thirtala
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63017
Dr. Thripura Thirtala received her medical degree from Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences in India. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Her practice is focused on patients 12 years and older, treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders. In addition to practicing in general Psychiatry, Dr. Thirtala has specific interests in treating adolescent and substance abuse populations.
Dr. Thripura Thirtala received her medical degree from Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences in India. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Her practice is focused on patients 12 years and older, treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders. In addition to practicing in general Psychiatry, Dr. Thirtala has specific interests in treating adolescent and substance abuse populations.
(636) 434-1795 View (636) 434-1795
Photo of Jordan Malone, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Malone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesterfield, MO 63017  (Online Only)
Jordan Malone is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She treats adults 18 and up for various mental health concerns with medication management. To optimize treatment, genetic screening is offered. Jordan is passionate and dedicated in assisting patients meet their personalized goals as they continue their journey to healing.
Jordan Malone is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She treats adults 18 and up for various mental health concerns with medication management. To optimize treatment, genetic screening is offered. Jordan is passionate and dedicated in assisting patients meet their personalized goals as they continue their journey to healing.
(314) 804-2124 View (314) 804-2124
Photo of Ajit Trikha, MD, Psychiatrist
Ajit Trikha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Manchester, MO 63021
Helping You Get Healthy With over 25 years of psychiatric experience, I understand how to work with my patients to ensure they receive the best care possible. My thoughtful and personalized approach means I'm fully committed to the health and well-being of all my patients. Treatment for a complete spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders include Depressive and Bipolar disorders, Psychotic disorders, Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, Stress disorders, Addiction disorders, Personality disorders, Eating disorders, Dual diagnosis, Adult Hyperactivity Disorder, Grief, Bereavement, and Anger management. DATA-Certified Physician eligible to provide buprenorphine (Suboxone) treatment for opioid dependency.
Helping You Get Healthy With over 25 years of psychiatric experience, I understand how to work with my patients to ensure they receive the best care possible. My thoughtful and personalized approach means I'm fully committed to the health and well-being of all my patients. Treatment for a complete spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders include Depressive and Bipolar disorders, Psychotic disorders, Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, Stress disorders, Addiction disorders, Personality disorders, Eating disorders, Dual diagnosis, Adult Hyperactivity Disorder, Grief, Bereavement, and Anger management. DATA-Certified Physician eligible to provide buprenorphine (Suboxone) treatment for opioid dependency.
(636) 275-1957 View (636) 275-1957
Photo of Arturo Calvo Taca - INSynergy, MD, ABAM, Psychiatrist
INSynergy
Psychiatrist, MD, ABAM
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Des Peres, MO 63131
INSynergy...the Premier Addiction Program in St. Louis, Missouri. Staffed by experts in Addiction Medicine. INSynergy is a non-12 Step, 3 or 6 month, outpatient, substance abuse treatment program implementing innovative technologies to treat addiction and its related conditions such as: mood disorders, pain disorders, sleep disorders. Highly personalized program designed for motivated professionals, students, and individuals that expect only the highest level of concierge medical service to maintain successful lifestyles.
INSynergy...the Premier Addiction Program in St. Louis, Missouri. Staffed by experts in Addiction Medicine. INSynergy is a non-12 Step, 3 or 6 month, outpatient, substance abuse treatment program implementing innovative technologies to treat addiction and its related conditions such as: mood disorders, pain disorders, sleep disorders. Highly personalized program designed for motivated professionals, students, and individuals that expect only the highest level of concierge medical service to maintain successful lifestyles.
(314) 266-1641 View (314) 266-1641
Photo of Dr. Michelle Hill, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michelle Hill
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Town And Country, MO 63017
Dr. Michelle Hill received her medical degree from A. T. Still University "“ Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, MO. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. She served honorably in the Army for 8 years before working as a civilian in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Hill is board certified in General Psychiatry. She is also a member of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians.
Dr. Michelle Hill received her medical degree from A. T. Still University "“ Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, MO. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. She served honorably in the Army for 8 years before working as a civilian in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Hill is board certified in General Psychiatry. She is also a member of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians.
(314) 270-1970 View (314) 270-1970
Photo of Anna Tran, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna Tran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Town And Country, MO 63017
Anna Tran is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University with honors, a Bachelor Science in Nursing from Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College, and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from Saint Louis University. Anna’s inherent desire is to serve individuals by inspiring and assisting them in making lasting changes in their lives and personifying their purposes in the world.
Anna Tran is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University with honors, a Bachelor Science in Nursing from Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College, and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from Saint Louis University. Anna’s inherent desire is to serve individuals by inspiring and assisting them in making lasting changes in their lives and personifying their purposes in the world.
(314) 897-7162 View (314) 897-7162
Photo of Sindhura Saini - SANA Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
SANA Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Accepting New Patients - With medication and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Sindhura Saini, M.D. hopes to help patients feel respected while working to improve their well being and mental health. Dr. Saini's expertise involves anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, ADHD and bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients - With medication and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Sindhura Saini, M.D. hopes to help patients feel respected while working to improve their well being and mental health. Dr. Saini's expertise involves anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, ADHD and bipolar disorder.
(314) 866-7702 View (314) 866-7702
Photo of James Mikolajczak, MD, Psychiatrist
James Mikolajczak
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
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 Cassandra Turner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Cassandra Turner
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
(816) 209-1458 View (816) 209-1458
Photo of Susan Dawson, EdD , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD , PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
High Ridge, MO 63049
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, in practice for over 25yrs. I have served as a Professor, Dean and Director of nursing programs. My passion is in helping people in need of substantial management of mental health issues. Helping patients with addiction and adult psychiatry issues is essential for the success of those in these situations. I'm looking forward to serving patients who are ready to deal with their mental health issues, head on. If you need a provider who cares, believes in being honest and trustworthy consider care here is the place.
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, in practice for over 25yrs. I have served as a Professor, Dean and Director of nursing programs. My passion is in helping people in need of substantial management of mental health issues. Helping patients with addiction and adult psychiatry issues is essential for the success of those in these situations. I'm looking forward to serving patients who are ready to deal with their mental health issues, head on. If you need a provider who cares, believes in being honest and trustworthy consider care here is the place.
(314) 730-1975 View (314) 730-1975
Photo of Meredith Throop, MD, Psychiatrist
Meredith Throop
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fenton, MO 63026  (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 Vivek Agnihotri, MD, Psychiatrist
Vivek Agnihotri
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
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 Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63021  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
(636) 245-6732 View (636) 245-6732
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63021
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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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wildwood, MO

< 10

Psychiatrists in Wildwood, MO who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Testing and Evaluation

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in Wildwood, MO see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wildwood?

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.