Psychiatrists in Ashe County, NC
![Photo of Nicole E. Miller, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bd8e12d-beb3-40a7-95da-bd5d520e5942/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who are facing various mental health challenges such as ADHD, OCD, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, trauma, or other behavioral issues. They may be seeking help and support in finding balance, improving their well-being, and reaching their mental health goals. They may want to better understand their emotions, gain coping skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. Their goal may be to experience a greater sense of self-awareness, increase their resilience, and find a sustainable level of mental wellness.
I work with clients who are facing various mental health challenges such as ADHD, OCD, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, trauma, or other behavioral issues. They may be seeking help and support in finding balance, improving their well-being, and reaching their mental health goals. They may want to better understand their emotions, gain coping skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. Their goal may be to experience a greater sense of self-awareness, increase their resilience, and find a sustainable level of mental wellness.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Kendra Frazier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12f967ad-94ac-43e1-afc4-efb55871e537/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
![Photo of Amy Boison, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cee21411-48e0-4f41-b49a-65d7c251adb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Boison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Life is hard enough, leave the neurotransmitter regulation to us.
Life is hard enough, leave the neurotransmitter regulation to us.
![Photo of Jane Sanders - Lake City Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72bd46ba-3b37-4aef-9275-b94e5500a040/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Jane Sanders specializes in educating patients about differential diagnoses, how different medications work, and realistic results to expect with pharmacologic treatment. She approaches each case with equal parts knowledge, open mind, and common sense. Her patients include those who have been through the ringer with multiple failed treatments, as well as patients who are wary of starting medications. At this time, she only sees adult patients, 18yo and up.
Dr. Jane Sanders specializes in educating patients about differential diagnoses, how different medications work, and realistic results to expect with pharmacologic treatment. She approaches each case with equal parts knowledge, open mind, and common sense. Her patients include those who have been through the ringer with multiple failed treatments, as well as patients who are wary of starting medications. At this time, she only sees adult patients, 18yo and up.
![Photo of Brea Washington, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/057e1025-3aba-45a0-818d-942ac47196ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brea Washington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262 (Online Only)
I specialize in providing holistic telepsychiatry care to improve the management of symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and daily life stressors. I offer psychotherapy, remote ADHD testing, medication management, as well as guidance with self-care practices, healthy nutrition, and staying physically active for overall wellness.
I specialize in providing holistic telepsychiatry care to improve the management of symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and daily life stressors. I offer psychotherapy, remote ADHD testing, medication management, as well as guidance with self-care practices, healthy nutrition, and staying physically active for overall wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1259d1d2-b2c5-411c-b24a-64663f9e989a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211 (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
![Photo of Jessica Edwards, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81212ed7-246b-44b0-8cc5-a2769fa88a6d/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Jessica Edwards was born in Huntsville, Alabama and is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Huntsville. She obtained her medical degree at the University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham. She completed her psychiatry residency at Wake Forest School of Medicine and its affiliated North Carolina Baptist Hospital. Dr. Edwards has over 25 years' experience in psychiatry and addiction medicine, being one of the first 500 physicians to receive certification by the American Society of Addiction Medicine in 1997, and later board certified in addiction medicine in 2017.
Dr. Jessica Edwards was born in Huntsville, Alabama and is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Huntsville. She obtained her medical degree at the University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham. She completed her psychiatry residency at Wake Forest School of Medicine and its affiliated North Carolina Baptist Hospital. Dr. Edwards has over 25 years' experience in psychiatry and addiction medicine, being one of the first 500 physicians to receive certification by the American Society of Addiction Medicine in 1997, and later board certified in addiction medicine in 2017.
![Photo of Claris Livingstone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc5b93f7-3cc7-47f9-8a16-39680f8376bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Originally from the Caribbean, Claris started her nursing career over 30 years ago and is currently a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Claris graduated from Walden University with her family medicine studies and then from Liberty University with her psychiatric studies. Claris has a combined nursing experiencing spanning from neonatal to geriatric nursing responding to various levels of urgent and severe medical conditions and stabilization of such conditions. Claris' current focus is family psychiatry. She is of the firm belief that mental health is vital in every stage of life.
Originally from the Caribbean, Claris started her nursing career over 30 years ago and is currently a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Claris graduated from Walden University with her family medicine studies and then from Liberty University with her psychiatric studies. Claris has a combined nursing experiencing spanning from neonatal to geriatric nursing responding to various levels of urgent and severe medical conditions and stabilization of such conditions. Claris' current focus is family psychiatry. She is of the firm belief that mental health is vital in every stage of life.
![Photo of Janelle Mahoney, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06560aa5-72b1-4275-8f51-186a45516244/10/320x400.jpeg)
Janelle Mahoney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 10 years of nursing experience including child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. At AH Prescribing, I help patients determine how medication may fit into their overall mental health care by developing authentic connections and staying up to date on current therapies.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 10 years of nursing experience including child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. At AH Prescribing, I help patients determine how medication may fit into their overall mental health care by developing authentic connections and staying up to date on current therapies.
![Photo of Dr. Joshua Werblin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac6545be-16bd-4782-a663-8c9c35d681da/2/320x400.jpeg)
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
![Photo of Nicole Thompson, PMHNP, LCSW, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d64e76fa-5049-42dc-bc99-8476c926f79b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
Seeking mental health treatment is an important dimension to your overall health, and I'm honored that you've chosen me to accompany you on this journey towards a happier, healthier you. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I'm committed to understanding your unique challenges and working together to achieve your mental wellness goals. Whatever the struggle, I will meet you where you are and according to your timeline.
Seeking mental health treatment is an important dimension to your overall health, and I'm honored that you've chosen me to accompany you on this journey towards a happier, healthier you. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I'm committed to understanding your unique challenges and working together to achieve your mental wellness goals. Whatever the struggle, I will meet you where you are and according to your timeline.
![Photo of Shanika Bostic Smith, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d429a737-13ef-4c5d-b754-08a6cc3d5b9c/4/320x400.jpeg)
Shanika Bostic Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
Living with mental health challenges can be exhausting. Is your life driven by fear, uncertainties, sadness and worry? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you fighting a daily battle to stay afloat? Would you like to improve your mental clarity? I understand the complexities of mental health and the impact that it can have on an individual's life and overall health. I recognize that seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting experience. If you are going through a difficult time with conditions such as anxiety, depression, or mood/panic disorders then the correct diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your life.
Living with mental health challenges can be exhausting. Is your life driven by fear, uncertainties, sadness and worry? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you fighting a daily battle to stay afloat? Would you like to improve your mental clarity? I understand the complexities of mental health and the impact that it can have on an individual's life and overall health. I recognize that seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting experience. If you are going through a difficult time with conditions such as anxiety, depression, or mood/panic disorders then the correct diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your life.
![Photo of Liz Burkholder, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c7befbb-e188-4d24-8ba6-a8bd0029ab24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Liz Burkholder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226 (Online Only)
My passion is training other clinicians in mind-body medicine modalities including GoWithin Hypno-Breathwork, which is a comprehensive modality that merges hypnotherapy and breathwork to get into the deepest subconscious layers for inner child healing, emotional and somatic healing, and shock / trauma healing. Please visit www.gowithininstitute.com for more information.
My passion is training other clinicians in mind-body medicine modalities including GoWithin Hypno-Breathwork, which is a comprehensive modality that merges hypnotherapy and breathwork to get into the deepest subconscious layers for inner child healing, emotional and somatic healing, and shock / trauma healing. Please visit www.gowithininstitute.com for more information.
![Photo of Dr. Justina Anulika Okonkwo - Advanced Psychiatric Associates, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/485a52d9-fe39-469a-b669-b56284548fd6/1/320x400.png)
Advanced Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
![Photo of Ken Dunham, MD, MAEd, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c77d4e73-9aad-4ae5-8328-81522b0f1155/2/320x400.jpeg)
You can find out more information about Dr. Dunham and schedule an appointment online at: https://provider.kareo.com/ken-dunham. Also, you can get an introduction to Dr. Dunham and his approach to clients from Dr. Dunham's nationally broadcasted interview on Business Talk Radio online at: https://businesstalkradio1.com/dr-ken-charles-dunham-08-20-20-psychiatry-and-internal-medicine/
You can find out more information about Dr. Dunham and schedule an appointment online at: https://provider.kareo.com/ken-dunham. Also, you can get an introduction to Dr. Dunham and his approach to clients from Dr. Dunham's nationally broadcasted interview on Business Talk Radio online at: https://businesstalkradio1.com/dr-ken-charles-dunham-08-20-20-psychiatry-and-internal-medicine/
![Photo of Ashley Wilkens, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56a9952b-fd3a-40c7-abbb-0a9e336b6167/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Wilkens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, NC 28037 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-BC who specializes in psychiatric medication evaluation and management. I seek to establish a warm and caring relationship through collaboration, and a mutual shared decision making process that is safe and supportive. I treat holistically incorporating compassionate care, evidence based research, and connecting patients with other professional services. My goals are to empower others build on their strengths to help find the joy and stability they desire.
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-BC who specializes in psychiatric medication evaluation and management. I seek to establish a warm and caring relationship through collaboration, and a mutual shared decision making process that is safe and supportive. I treat holistically incorporating compassionate care, evidence based research, and connecting patients with other professional services. My goals are to empower others build on their strengths to help find the joy and stability they desire.
![Photo of Raj Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6aa3cfa-19a5-4212-8453-b20a8e58ce36/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to work alongside my patients to improve their function and well-being - I take a collaborative, individualized approach to each patient and recognize that no two patients are alike. I believe that taking the time to listen and understand my patients is key to providing excellent care, whether that be medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Your success is my success, and rather than focus on a single issue or symptom, I prefer to view my patients on a more holistic scale and believe that excellent treatment involves understanding the nuances of an individual's personal and professional life.
My goal is to work alongside my patients to improve their function and well-being - I take a collaborative, individualized approach to each patient and recognize that no two patients are alike. I believe that taking the time to listen and understand my patients is key to providing excellent care, whether that be medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Your success is my success, and rather than focus on a single issue or symptom, I prefer to view my patients on a more holistic scale and believe that excellent treatment involves understanding the nuances of an individual's personal and professional life.
![Photo of Dr. Crystal Montague, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daeff332-1b0f-4793-92a5-46306d10d80d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Crystal Montague
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
Dr. Crystal Montague, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dually board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with several years of training and expertise treating patients across the lifespan (child to elderly) in a variety of practice settings from hospitals to outpatient clinics. Dr. Montague provides compassionate, therapeutic care, utilizing an evidenced-based, collaborative approach with patients while formulating treatment plans. She strongly advocates for patients to receive appropriate community and school resources, and psychological testing. She is always happy to assist with bridging those connections.
Dr. Crystal Montague, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dually board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with several years of training and expertise treating patients across the lifespan (child to elderly) in a variety of practice settings from hospitals to outpatient clinics. Dr. Montague provides compassionate, therapeutic care, utilizing an evidenced-based, collaborative approach with patients while formulating treatment plans. She strongly advocates for patients to receive appropriate community and school resources, and psychological testing. She is always happy to assist with bridging those connections.
![Photo of Esther Adedokun, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aa7fb8b-ca40-4afe-bbb5-2aaae4ccfe9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and mental health Nurse practitioner. I have worked in the field of mental health for several years, starting as a patient care coordinator of a mental health clinic. Later as a Psychiatric Registered nurse and proceeded to Vanderbilt University where I earned the MSN degree with a specialization in Psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, some years back.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and mental health Nurse practitioner. I have worked in the field of mental health for several years, starting as a patient care coordinator of a mental health clinic. Later as a Psychiatric Registered nurse and proceeded to Vanderbilt University where I earned the MSN degree with a specialization in Psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, some years back.
![Photo of Heather Strauss, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93bfec1b-704f-4fe4-8586-87932dcfc7df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina & Florida: Contact us for same day or next day appointments! - - - Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs.
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina & Florida: Contact us for same day or next day appointments! - - - Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs.
See more therapy options for Ashe County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ashe County, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ashe County, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Ashe County, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ashe 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.