Psychiatrists in Caldwell, NJ
![Photo of Kathleen Prendergast, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45d7f11c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Prendergast
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Caldwell, NJ 07006
If you need help promptly for panic attacks, depression or other disturbing symptoms, don't hesitate to call. Most people try to manage their emotional problems without seeking professional assistance and wait until the last minute to get help. If you are in this situation, call, and I will try to see you within 24 hours. I will listen to your history and gather information so we can form a plan together to improve how you are feeling.
If you need help promptly for panic attacks, depression or other disturbing symptoms, don't hesitate to call. Most people try to manage their emotional problems without seeking professional assistance and wait until the last minute to get help. If you are in this situation, call, and I will try to see you within 24 hours. I will listen to your history and gather information so we can form a plan together to improve how you are feeling.
![Photo of Mona Maaty, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/baa93404-434e-490d-9d50-d389c89edcfd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common emotions that we experience at some point in our lives and sometimes these emotions can feel overpowering. Many individuals also experience lingering anxiety, fear, and hopelessness, associated with painful and traumatic events. My goal is to help you rediscover your innate strength and empower you to navigate life’s challenges and ultimately reclaim joy. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common emotions that we experience at some point in our lives and sometimes these emotions can feel overpowering. Many individuals also experience lingering anxiety, fear, and hopelessness, associated with painful and traumatic events. My goal is to help you rediscover your innate strength and empower you to navigate life’s challenges and ultimately reclaim joy. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
![Photo of Linda A Perry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0754f89d-ce5f-4b13-84fb-672541015735/4/320x400.jpeg)
Linda A Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006 (Online Only)
If you or your child no longer feel real joy, I’d like to help. The core of my practice is judicious medication management. I’ve been doing this for many years: first as a nurse-midwife, now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am still dual-credentialed in both. I treat people of all types, but most frequently children and perinatal women. My patients, big and small, grapple with issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, OCD and eating disorders. Issues around fertility, pregnancy, parenting and menopause remain among my strengths, even though I rarely deliver babies anymore (and I miss it, sometimes!). My approach is holistic.
If you or your child no longer feel real joy, I’d like to help. The core of my practice is judicious medication management. I’ve been doing this for many years: first as a nurse-midwife, now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am still dual-credentialed in both. I treat people of all types, but most frequently children and perinatal women. My patients, big and small, grapple with issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, OCD and eating disorders. Issues around fertility, pregnancy, parenting and menopause remain among my strengths, even though I rarely deliver babies anymore (and I miss it, sometimes!). My approach is holistic.
![Photo of Cherie Elfenbein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b7a375a-1b71-446f-9fbe-f9b7a322878d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified in adult psychiatry and I work with clients to attain mental wellness in all areas of one life. My practice is collaborative and integrates psychopharmacology with my interest/training in nutrition, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mindbody therapies. My areas of expertise are in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma. I search for the underlying physiologic causes that can contribute to your symptoms or challenges. Supplements, vitamins, and herbs may be recommended along with or instead of medicine. Genetic testing is offered to individualize treatment. Women’s health is another area of expertise.
I am board certified in adult psychiatry and I work with clients to attain mental wellness in all areas of one life. My practice is collaborative and integrates psychopharmacology with my interest/training in nutrition, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mindbody therapies. My areas of expertise are in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma. I search for the underlying physiologic causes that can contribute to your symptoms or challenges. Supplements, vitamins, and herbs may be recommended along with or instead of medicine. Genetic testing is offered to individualize treatment. Women’s health is another area of expertise.
![Photo of Marcel Kaganovskaya, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d57acdb4-016b-4edf-8f13-b2d4a0de7c91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marcel Kaganovskaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner I focus on giving you the tools to achieve the best version of yourself. Times may be hard, but I am here to help. I enjoy working with various communities such as LGBTQI+ & see patients of all ages. I assist clients with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention- Deficit/Hyperactive Disorders (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), daily stress and other mental health needs. I accept most insurances in NY & NJ. Feel free to make an appointment today & visit my website at: www.mindfulcognition.com
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner I focus on giving you the tools to achieve the best version of yourself. Times may be hard, but I am here to help. I enjoy working with various communities such as LGBTQI+ & see patients of all ages. I assist clients with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention- Deficit/Hyperactive Disorders (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), daily stress and other mental health needs. I accept most insurances in NY & NJ. Feel free to make an appointment today & visit my website at: www.mindfulcognition.com
![Photo of Valsamma Joy, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/228bd39d-d1e8-4731-a788-2911467d01ab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Valsamma Joy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. My ideal client is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome, and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them . I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. My ideal client is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome, and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them . I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Julia Nuzzo, APRN-CN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9e708ba-2237-4058-aeec-0cc8a2352810/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Nuzzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078 (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a Master’s educated, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Practice Nurse with a holistic approach to all aspects of patient care. I have an extensive background in the critical care setting, helping to stabilize acutely ill patients with psychiatric and medical conditions. My passion to help patients achieve full wellness is complimented by holistic care.
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a Master’s educated, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Practice Nurse with a holistic approach to all aspects of patient care. I have an extensive background in the critical care setting, helping to stabilize acutely ill patients with psychiatric and medical conditions. My passion to help patients achieve full wellness is complimented by holistic care.
![Photo of Emmanuel Anyanwu, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3059d2e-ee7f-4b90-a849-7a79fa71f211/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Emmanuel Anyanwu, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral-Prepared and Board-Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing a holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across all ages. I am registered in NJ and NY. If you are struggling with Depression and Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, ADHD, PTSD and Substance Use, Dr. Emmanuel is here to help. I have over 15 years clinical background in nursing and psychiatric mental health and substance use. At Sunrise Health, we work with our clients and their families to optimize patient outcomes and improve their quality of life.
Dr. Emmanuel Anyanwu, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral-Prepared and Board-Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing a holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across all ages. I am registered in NJ and NY. If you are struggling with Depression and Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, ADHD, PTSD and Substance Use, Dr. Emmanuel is here to help. I have over 15 years clinical background in nursing and psychiatric mental health and substance use. At Sunrise Health, we work with our clients and their families to optimize patient outcomes and improve their quality of life.
Ernest Akwaboah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07102 (Online Only)
I treat adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
I treat adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
![Photo of Stella Okah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f68b01de-e1ec-472b-90ca-d96d64e6290b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, My name is Stella E. Okah, I'm a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board certified. I specialized ADHD, Addiction program/Detox, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, OCD, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, School Issues, Racism, Self Esteem, Self-Harming. Additionally, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older persons.
Hi, My name is Stella E. Okah, I'm a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board certified. I specialized ADHD, Addiction program/Detox, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, OCD, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, School Issues, Racism, Self Esteem, Self-Harming. Additionally, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older persons.
![Photo of Dr. Henrietta Okpala, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, B SN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc1795f1-6ce9-4db9-913f-a893524ec49e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Henrietta Okpala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, B SN
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07104 (Online Only)
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
![Photo of Ayodele Green, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4916990-1807-4447-9ad6-7311c6ec5cc3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. After I completed Medical School at Temple University in PA, I matriculated to a Psychiatry Residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in Newark, NJ. I have been seeing both adults, Children and Adolescents providing psychotherapy as well as medication management.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. After I completed Medical School at Temple University in PA, I matriculated to a Psychiatry Residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in Newark, NJ. I have been seeing both adults, Children and Adolescents providing psychotherapy as well as medication management.
![Photo of Michael Barness - Mindful Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/504e217c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Please visit our website and read our google reviews! www.mindfulmedicinemd.com
Please visit our website and read our google reviews! www.mindfulmedicinemd.com
![Photo of Ololade Ekwere, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fb92bfa-f8c5-4160-b420-c1a0ce0bcfe5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ololade Ekwere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078 (Online Only)
Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience caring for patients in different capacities. She understands the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, and works collaboratively with each patient to prioritize and meet their mental health needs. She is empathetic, listens, and practices using evidence-based guidelines in order to provide the best care.
Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience caring for patients in different capacities. She understands the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, and works collaboratively with each patient to prioritize and meet their mental health needs. She is empathetic, listens, and practices using evidence-based guidelines in order to provide the best care.
![Photo of Vida-Lynn Asiamah-Asare, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1386fb90-8a79-437b-a86d-c7cd9b8119a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vida-Lynn Asiamah-Asare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New Jersey. I received my Master's degree from Rutgers University, my graduate master's certification from Walden University, and my Doctor of Nursing degree from Chatham University.
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New Jersey. I received my Master's degree from Rutgers University, my graduate master's certification from Walden University, and my Doctor of Nursing degree from Chatham University.
![Photo of Claudine Destine, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce73be66-1030-4359-89ab-91afec365238/1/320x400.jpeg)
Claudine Destine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP) based in New Jersey. I received my Masters from William Paterson University. I am also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I have 8 years of experience providing primary care for individuals with medical and psychiatric illnesses. I use holistic and evidence-based approach to help individuals achieve their best lives.
Hello and welcome! I am a Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP) based in New Jersey. I received my Masters from William Paterson University. I am also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I have 8 years of experience providing primary care for individuals with medical and psychiatric illnesses. I use holistic and evidence-based approach to help individuals achieve their best lives.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Olukotun, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6aaf0d2a-31ec-4614-afac-f0b57cc58a21/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Michael Olukotun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Mental illness can be debilitating and negatively impact the lives of individuals. I believe treatment and healing can occur, if individuals are given the proper care and support. My goal is that every individual receives care in a collaborative and supportive context, which will empower them and produce positive treatment outcomes.
Mental illness can be debilitating and negatively impact the lives of individuals. I believe treatment and healing can occur, if individuals are given the proper care and support. My goal is that every individual receives care in a collaborative and supportive context, which will empower them and produce positive treatment outcomes.
![Photo of Salvatore Zullo, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6c44445-80ca-4037-900c-8c80ff94b019/2/320x400.jpeg)
Salvatore Zullo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Salvatore and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Men's Issues, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management.. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Salvatore and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Men's Issues, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management.. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
I am a Psychiatrist, Diplomat of American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am practicing for 20 + years and I will evaluate you comprehensively, with the best of my knowledge and experience. I might be able to assist you with short and long-term disability as well. Please email me 1025july gmail.com or may call my office 973 2186240. Thank you for reviewing my profile.
I am a Psychiatrist, Diplomat of American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am practicing for 20 + years and I will evaluate you comprehensively, with the best of my knowledge and experience. I might be able to assist you with short and long-term disability as well. Please email me 1025july gmail.com or may call my office 973 2186240. Thank you for reviewing my profile.
![Photo of Jake Rosenberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcf355db-f9be-4d68-b5af-309877d681d1/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Jake works with patients of all backgrounds to collaboratively target mental health concerns. Areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, addiction, and psychosis.
Dr. Jake works with patients of all backgrounds to collaboratively target mental health concerns. Areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, addiction, and psychosis.
See more therapy options for Caldwell
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Caldwell, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Caldwell, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Grief |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Caldwell, NJ see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Caldwell?
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.