Psychiatrists in Gallatin County, MT
![Photo of Wade G Hill, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a1474d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I offer complete psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children over 6 years of age and adults.
I offer complete psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children over 6 years of age and adults.
![Photo of Melany Gardner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74b09fa5-f6ce-4d5a-be83-62fee0da257c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melany Gardner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718 (Online Only)
Sometimes we struggle to be our best selves. Our personal relationships suffer and we struggle to function well at our jobs. It is natural to dismiss symptoms as situational, and to believe that you can overcome the impact of your circumstances. Sometimes the brain needs a little help to re-establish healthy pathways. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, it is my job to get to know you and work with you to identify and treat the symptoms that negatively impact your life.
Sometimes we struggle to be our best selves. Our personal relationships suffer and we struggle to function well at our jobs. It is natural to dismiss symptoms as situational, and to believe that you can overcome the impact of your circumstances. Sometimes the brain needs a little help to re-establish healthy pathways. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, it is my job to get to know you and work with you to identify and treat the symptoms that negatively impact your life.
![Photo of Brandy Colvin, PMHNP, FNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c919f0c1-24bf-4558-9280-d7a8a9c79e04/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandy Colvin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
You are not alone. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns can make us feel stuck, but there is hope. How can I help with your mental health goals?
You are not alone. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns can make us feel stuck, but there is hope. How can I help with your mental health goals?
![Photo of Kathleen Johnson - Psychiatry 360, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4df5674-14ee-4d35-a948-3a5c896558df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry 360
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59717 (Online Only)
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
![Photo of Megan Bowers, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31f308fc-303b-422a-abfe-137bf5ebdb0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is integrative, which means that treatment with medications may be combined with non-medication options, such as mindfulness-based interventions, life-style optimization, and nutritional supplementation. Together, we will develop an individualized well-being plan, which will incorporate your unique goals, and importantly, your perspective on health. My role is to offer these treatment options to you, and guide you as you make the decisions about which of these is aligned with your goals. All treatment options are evidence-informed, based on the medical and scientific literature.
My approach is integrative, which means that treatment with medications may be combined with non-medication options, such as mindfulness-based interventions, life-style optimization, and nutritional supplementation. Together, we will develop an individualized well-being plan, which will incorporate your unique goals, and importantly, your perspective on health. My role is to offer these treatment options to you, and guide you as you make the decisions about which of these is aligned with your goals. All treatment options are evidence-informed, based on the medical and scientific literature.
![Photo of Satu H Woodland - Hope Mental Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/838a63b4-f8c9-4386-a3da-2d6635f7f048/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! We are a mental health clinic providing psych evals, med management and psychotherapy. I am the Clinic owner and Clinician. When you schedule with me, you will be signing up for a team. Currently, there are 3 interns that work with me. An intern will take your medical history and psychiatric history, then I will come on and the intern and I will create the treatment plan. On subsequent visits, you will see the intern and he/she will bring me on when the medication and/or treatment plan needs to be changed. All of us provide Integrative Psychiatry using the most recent medications and supplements. Our interns do therapy too!
Hello! We are a mental health clinic providing psych evals, med management and psychotherapy. I am the Clinic owner and Clinician. When you schedule with me, you will be signing up for a team. Currently, there are 3 interns that work with me. An intern will take your medical history and psychiatric history, then I will come on and the intern and I will create the treatment plan. On subsequent visits, you will see the intern and he/she will bring me on when the medication and/or treatment plan needs to be changed. All of us provide Integrative Psychiatry using the most recent medications and supplements. Our interns do therapy too!
![Photo of Kimberly J Berndt, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97fe8c43-f3a3-4e22-8e6e-8921ee1f07a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly J Berndt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELEHEALTH-EXPERIENCED MEDICATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR CHILDREN THROUGH ADULTS.......I work with my clients to create a logical and effective treatment plan by offering medication options, solution focused therapy, and other available resources to promote positive outcomes using a holistic approach. Please email me with any questions or to request an online intake form for appointment scheduling.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELEHEALTH-EXPERIENCED MEDICATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR CHILDREN THROUGH ADULTS.......I work with my clients to create a logical and effective treatment plan by offering medication options, solution focused therapy, and other available resources to promote positive outcomes using a holistic approach. Please email me with any questions or to request an online intake form for appointment scheduling.
![Photo of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7809976b-ece0-46fc-b9ec-244ea98f9544/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Ten Mile Health and Wellness, the offices of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD. This online physician only practice focuses on providing high quality, individualized psychiatric care in a safe and caring environment. Evidence based medication management, psychotherapy and diet/lifestyle changes are involved in all evaluations.
Welcome to Ten Mile Health and Wellness, the offices of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD. This online physician only practice focuses on providing high quality, individualized psychiatric care in a safe and caring environment. Evidence based medication management, psychotherapy and diet/lifestyle changes are involved in all evaluations.
![Photo of Allison Sears, BSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36c59d65-6688-4f0b-87f7-a65b194dc6f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Sears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715 (Online Only)
Allison is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained her master’s degree from Gonzaga University. During her eight years of acute-care experience, she participated in forming the Psychiatric Stabilization Unit at Billings Clinic and worked on the in-patient units providing therapeutic care to patients across the lifespan. She has broad experience in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care. Allison now enjoys working out-patient to help clients manage their symptoms and enjoy their ideal quality of life. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and holistic services.
Allison is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained her master’s degree from Gonzaga University. During her eight years of acute-care experience, she participated in forming the Psychiatric Stabilization Unit at Billings Clinic and worked on the in-patient units providing therapeutic care to patients across the lifespan. She has broad experience in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care. Allison now enjoys working out-patient to help clients manage their symptoms and enjoy their ideal quality of life. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and holistic services.
![Photo of Holly L Gomez Levine - At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c681fc53-e30b-4beb-8150-8f2f6e71c5b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
![Photo of Emily Bodner, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bde31a67-b81c-42d3-9839-f7672c6869ba/1/320x400.png)
Emily Bodner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59771
Emily has lived between Wyoming and Alaska the last 20 years. She has settled permanently in WY, raising her family there and enjoying all the outdoor adventures it has to offer. She graduated from University of Wyoming for her BSN and Frontier Nursing University with a MSN, now practicing as a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Emily has lived between Wyoming and Alaska the last 20 years. She has settled permanently in WY, raising her family there and enjoying all the outdoor adventures it has to offer. She graduated from University of Wyoming for her BSN and Frontier Nursing University with a MSN, now practicing as a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
15 Second Videos
Megan Bowers
Hope Mental Health
At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC
Steven K Elrod
![Photo of Erin Amato - Montana Psychiatry & Brain Health Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59d27485-5d29-4574-96d6-254ab9faf1e9/1/320x400.png)
We are dedicated to serving the mental health needs of pediatric and adult patients in our region. We aim to provide compassionate, thoughtful and comprehensive care by using an integrative approach that focuses on biological, psychological, and social factors that are unique to each patient. We provide Medication Management, TMS Therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato, Psychological Testing, and Therapy services across the state of Montana. Whatever your mental health needs are, our team at Montana Psychiatry will provide exemplary care to put you on the path to healing and enriched living.
We are dedicated to serving the mental health needs of pediatric and adult patients in our region. We aim to provide compassionate, thoughtful and comprehensive care by using an integrative approach that focuses on biological, psychological, and social factors that are unique to each patient. We provide Medication Management, TMS Therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato, Psychological Testing, and Therapy services across the state of Montana. Whatever your mental health needs are, our team at Montana Psychiatry will provide exemplary care to put you on the path to healing and enriched living.
![Photo of Heidi Geil - Optimize Psychiatry, LLC, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eb16e29-3e50-4a25-b383-af0a782b0565/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimize Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
Not accepting new clients
Optimize Psychiatry offers a modern & natural approach to psychiatry that is Personalized, Holistic, Functional & Scientifically Informed. We take a root-cause analytic approach to each client's unique biochemistry, genetics & psychological factors and work to align physiology, neurology, and psychodynamics by incorporating insights from various disciplines within and outside of medicine. Our goal is always to help you retrieve or discover your Optimized Self through insight and future-driven change designed to improve your health across life domains and aligned with your deepest values. (More details at optimizepsychiatry.com)
Optimize Psychiatry offers a modern & natural approach to psychiatry that is Personalized, Holistic, Functional & Scientifically Informed. We take a root-cause analytic approach to each client's unique biochemistry, genetics & psychological factors and work to align physiology, neurology, and psychodynamics by incorporating insights from various disciplines within and outside of medicine. Our goal is always to help you retrieve or discover your Optimized Self through insight and future-driven change designed to improve your health across life domains and aligned with your deepest values. (More details at optimizepsychiatry.com)
![Photo of Ashley Cooper, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2d61215-0a3e-486b-bab9-86989abd7266/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715 (Online Only)
Ashley is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. She earned her Master’s of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health specialization from Walden University. Ashley has years of experience in various settings as a nurse that includes ICU, Hospice, and Psychiatry. As a provider, she continues to work in Emergency Psychiatry within Montana's largest health care system. She assists patients in crisis stabilization that can include severe conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Ashley is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. She earned her Master’s of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health specialization from Walden University. Ashley has years of experience in various settings as a nurse that includes ICU, Hospice, and Psychiatry. As a provider, she continues to work in Emergency Psychiatry within Montana's largest health care system. She assists patients in crisis stabilization that can include severe conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
![Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc6e79b6-059c-4f7a-8609-0584dddb6590/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Montana state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99, Counseling $89-$129. Also accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Montana state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99, Counseling $89-$129. Also accepting some insurances.
![Photo of Carly Hillenbrand, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d149ea6-b2a1-4133-b92d-9e1490986bb9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I was raised in a small town in eastern Montana. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Montana State University in 2012 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (psych/mental health) from Montana State University in 2016. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health and have worked with a variety of patients throughout my practice. I believe recovery blossoms when there is a trusting and therapeutic relationship between patient and provider.
I was raised in a small town in eastern Montana. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Montana State University in 2012 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (psych/mental health) from Montana State University in 2016. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health and have worked with a variety of patients throughout my practice. I believe recovery blossoms when there is a trusting and therapeutic relationship between patient and provider.
![Photo of Pamela Havens, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cbfa686-25f3-487e-bbcb-f4c4e5f56a21/1/320x400.png)
Pamela Havens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
Accepting new patients! With over two decades of dedicated service in the Army as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my journey has evolved into a specialization in utilizing ketamine to treat mental health disorders. I find profound privilege in offering a transformative path to healing for individuals grappling with conditions like depression, anxiety, & PTSD. My approach transcends conventional methods, delving into the innovative realm of ketamine therapy to provide newfound hope & relief.
Accepting new patients! With over two decades of dedicated service in the Army as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my journey has evolved into a specialization in utilizing ketamine to treat mental health disorders. I find profound privilege in offering a transformative path to healing for individuals grappling with conditions like depression, anxiety, & PTSD. My approach transcends conventional methods, delving into the innovative realm of ketamine therapy to provide newfound hope & relief.
![Photo of Steven K Elrod, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76b4da07-098d-4e82-bf38-2275713b9650/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718 (Online Only)
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Anger, PTSD? A psychiatric evaluation and research-proven treatment could put you back on the path to recovery. Let's do this together.
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Anger, PTSD? A psychiatric evaluation and research-proven treatment could put you back on the path to recovery. Let's do this together.
![Photo of Lisa M Turk, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4945c41c-a06b-49d3-bf20-08f1de5073e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa M Turk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715 (Online Only)
Accepting New Montana Patients! ANCC Board Certified in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; Family Nurse Practitioner Specializes in Mental Health and bringing you and your family peace of mind with medication management. Get personalized mental healthcare from a real person with just a click of a button. Lisa has decades of professional experience in the medical field and ingrained affinity for providing consistent care for the emotional & physical well-being of her patients. With her Native heritage and passion for caring for her fellow Montanans.
Accepting New Montana Patients! ANCC Board Certified in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; Family Nurse Practitioner Specializes in Mental Health and bringing you and your family peace of mind with medication management. Get personalized mental healthcare from a real person with just a click of a button. Lisa has decades of professional experience in the medical field and ingrained affinity for providing consistent care for the emotional & physical well-being of her patients. With her Native heritage and passion for caring for her fellow Montanans.
![Photo of A. Cummings Rork, MD, PMH-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b4adde9-4ea2-45cb-8e37-41588c761d49/3/320x400.jpeg)
We are accepting new patients! Welcome to Cordillera Mental Health, your practical solution for mental well-being in the Greater Yellowstone Basin. Like the interconnected peaks and valleys of mountain ranges, we understand the diverse challenges in your mental well-being journey. Our commitment is straightforward – providing unwavering support and expert psychiatric care. Located in Bozeman, we prioritize local values and communities. In addition to general adult psychiatry, we also offer specialized care in women's and reproductive mental health. Prioritize your mental health—schedule an appointment today, and let's get to work!
We are accepting new patients! Welcome to Cordillera Mental Health, your practical solution for mental well-being in the Greater Yellowstone Basin. Like the interconnected peaks and valleys of mountain ranges, we understand the diverse challenges in your mental well-being journey. Our commitment is straightforward – providing unwavering support and expert psychiatric care. Located in Bozeman, we prioritize local values and communities. In addition to general adult psychiatry, we also offer specialized care in women's and reproductive mental health. Prioritize your mental health—schedule an appointment today, and let's get to work!
See more therapy options for Gallatin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gallatin County, MT
20+
Average cost per session
$274
Psychiatrists in Gallatin County, MT who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
95% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
76% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
71% | Allegiance |
65% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in Gallatin County, MT see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
90% | Female | |
10% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gallatin 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.