Psychiatrists in Randolph County, NC

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Photo of Monica Bartorelli, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Monica Bartorelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Randleman, NC 27317
As a health care provider with over 10 years of nurse practitioner experience, I would love to learn more about you and how we can work together to improve your mental health. I believe in providing quality care that is client focused and education driven while using the most current treatment guidelines. I provide care that focuses on the whole person, and I seek to provide mental health services to anyone in NC in a virtual setting to those ages 16 and up. Part of my treatment model will evaluate your social determinants of health to ensure there are no barriers to your overall goals that directly impacts your mental health.
As a health care provider with over 10 years of nurse practitioner experience, I would love to learn more about you and how we can work together to improve your mental health. I believe in providing quality care that is client focused and education driven while using the most current treatment guidelines. I provide care that focuses on the whole person, and I seek to provide mental health services to anyone in NC in a virtual setting to those ages 16 and up. Part of my treatment model will evaluate your social determinants of health to ensure there are no barriers to your overall goals that directly impacts your mental health.
(336) 891-9391 View (336) 891-9391
Photo of Jamilah Aisha Broderick, PA, Physician Assistant
Jamilah Aisha Broderick
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheboro, NC 27203  (Online Only)
I am a physician assistant with both the passion and experience treating patients who feel unseen or unsupported. I received my master’s degree in physician assistant studies from South University in Savannah, GA. I am the child of immigrant parents that worked hard to provide for my sibling and I, therefore it’s important to me to advocate for our underserved, minority, and more vulnerable populations. With experience in addiction medicine, treating adolescents/adults with depression, anxiety, mood and neurodevelopmental disorders, I am dedicated to continuing to learn/educate patients on how to best treat their Mental Health!
I am a physician assistant with both the passion and experience treating patients who feel unseen or unsupported. I received my master’s degree in physician assistant studies from South University in Savannah, GA. I am the child of immigrant parents that worked hard to provide for my sibling and I, therefore it’s important to me to advocate for our underserved, minority, and more vulnerable populations. With experience in addiction medicine, treating adolescents/adults with depression, anxiety, mood and neurodevelopmental disorders, I am dedicated to continuing to learn/educate patients on how to best treat their Mental Health!
(919) 737-7420 View (919) 737-7420
Photo of Whitney Andrew, PA, Physician Assistant
Whitney Andrew
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sophia, NC 27350  (Online Only)
I treat a wide range of patients with many different mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or personality disorders. I help my patients to seek support in coping with these issues and improving their overall well-being. Their needs may include finding strategies to manage their symptoms, learning to understand, and process their emotions, and developing healthier coping mechanisms. My ultimate goal is to improve their mental health, increase their self-esteem and resilience, and lead a more fulfilling life.
I treat a wide range of patients with many different mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or personality disorders. I help my patients to seek support in coping with these issues and improving their overall well-being. Their needs may include finding strategies to manage their symptoms, learning to understand, and process their emotions, and developing healthier coping mechanisms. My ultimate goal is to improve their mental health, increase their self-esteem and resilience, and lead a more fulfilling life.
(919) 568-5886 View (919) 568-5886
Photo of Evanna Burkett, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evanna Burkett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Asheboro, NC 27203  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
When providing care to the psychiatric population it is my duty and responsibility to practice with a non-judgmental approach and meet individuals where they are. The associated stigma, misconceptions, and need for mental health providers serves as a driving force to address the associated stigma, assumptions, and negative associations. I am hopeful that we can overcome this stigma by placing emphasis on your individual goals as it relates to your well-being through effective communication by providing a provider-client relationship where rapport is established and built upon.
When providing care to the psychiatric population it is my duty and responsibility to practice with a non-judgmental approach and meet individuals where they are. The associated stigma, misconceptions, and need for mental health providers serves as a driving force to address the associated stigma, assumptions, and negative associations. I am hopeful that we can overcome this stigma by placing emphasis on your individual goals as it relates to your well-being through effective communication by providing a provider-client relationship where rapport is established and built upon.
(336) 439-8408 View (336) 439-8408
Photo of Sarah Goldston, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Sarah Goldston
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Asheboro, NC 27203
As a PA with over 8 years of experience, I work collaboratively with other providers and therapists to provide quality mental health care to clients. This care includes the evaluation, diagnosis, and management (including education, medication prescribing and monitoring) of adults with mental health problems with the goal of helping to restore them to their highest level of functioning. I love to work alongside clients to achieve their goals as I strive to always provide compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based psychiatric care in a warm and inclusive environment.
As a PA with over 8 years of experience, I work collaboratively with other providers and therapists to provide quality mental health care to clients. This care includes the evaluation, diagnosis, and management (including education, medication prescribing and monitoring) of adults with mental health problems with the goal of helping to restore them to their highest level of functioning. I love to work alongside clients to achieve their goals as I strive to always provide compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based psychiatric care in a warm and inclusive environment.
(336) 932-8236 View (336) 932-8236

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Pamela Campbell, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Pamela Campbell
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.
Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.
(336) 860-7795 View (336) 860-7795
Photo of Caroline Gamble, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caroline Gamble
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Caroline Gamble is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats adolescents and adults. Caroline began her career in mental health working as an inpatient psychiatric mental health nurse at The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital. After graduating from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with her Master’s degree, she joined BlueSky Telepsych.
Caroline Gamble is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats adolescents and adults. Caroline began her career in mental health working as an inpatient psychiatric mental health nurse at The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital. After graduating from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with her Master’s degree, she joined BlueSky Telepsych.
(630) 912-7206 View (630) 912-7206
Photo of Ikenna Obasi - Healing Holistic Hub, MD, Psychiatrist
Healing Holistic Hub
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewisville, NC 27023  (Online Only)
We believe in treating the whole person – mind, body, and spirit- by addressing root causes and embracing the interconnectedness of psychological, biological, social, and spiritual factors in shaping well-being. By integrating traditional psychiatric practices with complementary therapies and lifestyle interventions, we aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote lasting healing and growth.
We believe in treating the whole person – mind, body, and spirit- by addressing root causes and embracing the interconnectedness of psychological, biological, social, and spiritual factors in shaping well-being. By integrating traditional psychiatric practices with complementary therapies and lifestyle interventions, we aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote lasting healing and growth.
(336) 892-9006 View (336) 892-9006
Photo of Robin Lee Casey, MD, Psychiatrist
Robin Lee Casey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I use a complete approach to patient care, with emphasis on providing psychoeducation to patients and their families on the mind-body connection. I encourage my patients to be active advocates and participants in their treatment planning and care, including the use of complementary and natural therapies. I am also a strong proponent of optimizing outcomes through the concurrent use of therapy and mindfulness training in addition to pharmacological and other treatments. I appreciate working with all types of individuals and their unique concerns.
I use a complete approach to patient care, with emphasis on providing psychoeducation to patients and their families on the mind-body connection. I encourage my patients to be active advocates and participants in their treatment planning and care, including the use of complementary and natural therapies. I am also a strong proponent of optimizing outcomes through the concurrent use of therapy and mindfulness training in addition to pharmacological and other treatments. I appreciate working with all types of individuals and their unique concerns.
(919) 584-8687 View (919) 584-8687
Photo of Alicia Esther Ramirez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Esther Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617  (Online Only)
I am deeply committed to promoting mental health well-being as a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner; I believe mental health care should be a priority for all cultures, as it can help people cope with the stresses of life, have good relationships, and realize their full potential. I have 3 years of experience as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and 9 years of registered nursing experience. I am a bilingual English and Spanish speaker, and it is important that we communicate openly and that you feel respected in our relationship.
I am deeply committed to promoting mental health well-being as a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner; I believe mental health care should be a priority for all cultures, as it can help people cope with the stresses of life, have good relationships, and realize their full potential. I have 3 years of experience as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and 9 years of registered nursing experience. I am a bilingual English and Spanish speaker, and it is important that we communicate openly and that you feel respected in our relationship.
(984) 422-3363 View (984) 422-3363
Photo of Jacqueline Thompson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27407
If you’re reading this page, then you may very well be taking the first step toward receiving the care you need. I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Jacqueline Thompson, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with nearly two decades of experience in psychiatric nursing. I have spent my entire career providing care for those who struggle with mental illness—helping them to make their mental illness more manageable, or to help them move past it. I would love to do the same for you. I became a PMHNP-BC a little over four years ago after spending 14 years as a nurse, and 13 of those years specializing in psychiatric care.
If you’re reading this page, then you may very well be taking the first step toward receiving the care you need. I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Jacqueline Thompson, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with nearly two decades of experience in psychiatric nursing. I have spent my entire career providing care for those who struggle with mental illness—helping them to make their mental illness more manageable, or to help them move past it. I would love to do the same for you. I became a PMHNP-BC a little over four years ago after spending 14 years as a nurse, and 13 of those years specializing in psychiatric care.
(980) 414-3628 View (980) 414-3628
Photo of Tiirini Hill, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiirini Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
Are you a mother who can't seem to understand why you are having some of the intrusive thoughts you are having? Are you a worrier and constantly checking if you locked the doors , turned off the stove , etc. ? Do you feel like everyone else around you has it together and you're barely making it and struggle to tend to your own basic needs? Well guess what ? You're not alone. 1 in 5 moms will experience some type of perinatal mood and/or anxiety disorder. Black women are more likely to experience these disorders also known as PMADS and less likely to receive treatment.The best way to contact me is sending an email.
Are you a mother who can't seem to understand why you are having some of the intrusive thoughts you are having? Are you a worrier and constantly checking if you locked the doors , turned off the stove , etc. ? Do you feel like everyone else around you has it together and you're barely making it and struggle to tend to your own basic needs? Well guess what ? You're not alone. 1 in 5 moms will experience some type of perinatal mood and/or anxiety disorder. Black women are more likely to experience these disorders also known as PMADS and less likely to receive treatment.The best way to contact me is sending an email.
(984) 206-3806 View (984) 206-3806
Photo of Dr. John M. Brion, PhD, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. John M. Brion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
Thanks for considering Collaborative Mental Health of Carrboro (CMHOC). I'm Dr. John Brion, PhD, PMHNP and I work with people age 12 and up for a range of challenges including: ADHD (Adult and Child) ; Addictions (Sex, Food, Hoarding, drugs/alcohol, etc.); Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder) and issues related to intimate relationships and sexuality. I am licensed/certified to prescribe all psychiatric medications and I provide brief, solution focused psychotherapy.
Thanks for considering Collaborative Mental Health of Carrboro (CMHOC). I'm Dr. John Brion, PhD, PMHNP and I work with people age 12 and up for a range of challenges including: ADHD (Adult and Child) ; Addictions (Sex, Food, Hoarding, drugs/alcohol, etc.); Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder) and issues related to intimate relationships and sexuality. I am licensed/certified to prescribe all psychiatric medications and I provide brief, solution focused psychotherapy.
(984) 204-7212 View (984) 204-7212
Photo of Maimouna Diop, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maimouna Diop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
Maimouna Diop, “May” founder of Freedom Mind PLLC is a highly qualified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate degree and over 18 years of experience in mental health. She began her career as a Behavioral Health Technician and holds a Bachelor's in Art (Psychology) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with honors. She continued her education at the University of South Alabama, where she earned a Master's in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors, focused on improving patient care for those at risk of Tardive Dyskinesia. She is certified by the ANCC and has trained with leading psychiatrists in various settin
Maimouna Diop, “May” founder of Freedom Mind PLLC is a highly qualified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate degree and over 18 years of experience in mental health. She began her career as a Behavioral Health Technician and holds a Bachelor's in Art (Psychology) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with honors. She continued her education at the University of South Alabama, where she earned a Master's in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors, focused on improving patient care for those at risk of Tardive Dyskinesia. She is certified by the ANCC and has trained with leading psychiatrists in various settin
(919) 213-6745 View (919) 213-6745
Photo of Gretchen Danielle Barnes, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Gretchen Danielle Barnes
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27157
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
(336) 800-1983 View (336) 800-1983
Photo of Mary Beck, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Beck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
As a PMHNP I have worked in outpatient, PHP, IOP, inpatient and residential settings across four states and have worked with patients ages 4 to 90 from all walks of life. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and substance use disorders through medication management and supportive therapy techniques.
As a PMHNP I have worked in outpatient, PHP, IOP, inpatient and residential settings across four states and have worked with patients ages 4 to 90 from all walks of life. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and substance use disorders through medication management and supportive therapy techniques.
(704) 486-9398 View (704) 486-9398
Photo of Tamara Starr, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
Hello everyone. I would like to share that I have dual national certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy and life-style enhancement strategies, using an integrative treatment plan model for mental and behavioral health management of clients across the lifespan.
Hello everyone. I would like to share that I have dual national certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy and life-style enhancement strategies, using an integrative treatment plan model for mental and behavioral health management of clients across the lifespan.
(919) 891-1589 View (919) 891-1589
Photo of Corilin Meggitt - Raleigh Wellness & Behavioral Health, ACNP-AG, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Raleigh Wellness & Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ACNP-AG
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606  (Online Only)
Welcome to Raleigh Wellness and Behavioral Health! We are a private outpatient clinic providing virtual care and medication management for mental health disorders. Our goal is to alleviate suffering and promote recovery in the lives of people with mental health disorders. We provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress, OCD, and more. Our providers specialize in treating the full-spectrum of related conditions with personalized treatment plans that are right for each patient. We treat ages 6 and up.
Welcome to Raleigh Wellness and Behavioral Health! We are a private outpatient clinic providing virtual care and medication management for mental health disorders. Our goal is to alleviate suffering and promote recovery in the lives of people with mental health disorders. We provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress, OCD, and more. Our providers specialize in treating the full-spectrum of related conditions with personalized treatment plans that are right for each patient. We treat ages 6 and up.
(984) 464-7189 View (984) 464-7189
Photo of Corbin Burns, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Corbin Burns
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
(984) 733-1716 View (984) 733-1716
Photo of David Patton - Carolina Complete Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
Carolina Complete Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
At Carolina Complete Psychiatry, our physician assistants treat each person as an individual and strive to help every patient live to their fullest potential. Our providers are trained to assess psychiatric conditions, form a diagnosis and prescribe medications if needed. We offer longer appointment times so that we can determine a collaborative treatment plan that is thorough and comprehensive. We believe in meeting the needs of people so we offer new patient appointments quickly without weeks of delay. Our office offers flexible appointment scheduling including evening hours and telemedicine appointments.
At Carolina Complete Psychiatry, our physician assistants treat each person as an individual and strive to help every patient live to their fullest potential. Our providers are trained to assess psychiatric conditions, form a diagnosis and prescribe medications if needed. We offer longer appointment times so that we can determine a collaborative treatment plan that is thorough and comprehensive. We believe in meeting the needs of people so we offer new patient appointments quickly without weeks of delay. Our office offers flexible appointment scheduling including evening hours and telemedicine appointments.
(704) 741-0382 View (704) 741-0382

See more therapy options for Randolph County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Randolph County, NC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Randolph County, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Randolph County, NC see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Randolph 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.