Psychiatrists in Montgomery, NJ
![Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81e36bd6-9126-40e2-8a8f-bed5c323fa23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
![Photo of Merritt Hubsher - ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4402f6d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center is a comprehensive Child, Adolescent & Adult psychotherapy center, available ONLINE throughout NJ & NY, from the comfort of your home, and in person in northern NJ. Our three board certified child, adolescent & adult psychiatrists are devoted to the evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral, social, academic & employment difficulties, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, learning issues, bullying & video game addiction, and collaborate with our highly trained therapists to find solutions and bring stability to the child, adult or family.
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center is a comprehensive Child, Adolescent & Adult psychotherapy center, available ONLINE throughout NJ & NY, from the comfort of your home, and in person in northern NJ. Our three board certified child, adolescent & adult psychiatrists are devoted to the evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral, social, academic & employment difficulties, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, learning issues, bullying & video game addiction, and collaborate with our highly trained therapists to find solutions and bring stability to the child, adult or family.
![Photo of Hasan Memon - Garden Psych, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef661c8-5149-407f-b2b6-1a9e4f6fe708/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have a busy life? Do you wish for you and your family to be as successful as possible? Garden Psych is a mental health practice with focus on telepsychiatry. The advantage of Garden Psych is using telemedicine to take less time off school or work. We are open on WEEKDAY EVENINGS and WEEKENDS! We have helped thousands of adults and children become more successful in their lives. Our award winning team of experts can help you do the same!
Do you have a busy life? Do you wish for you and your family to be as successful as possible? Garden Psych is a mental health practice with focus on telepsychiatry. The advantage of Garden Psych is using telemedicine to take less time off school or work. We are open on WEEKDAY EVENINGS and WEEKENDS! We have helped thousands of adults and children become more successful in their lives. Our award winning team of experts can help you do the same!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b0afca-62dc-41fb-a5c5-649bc978f17b/2/320x400.png)
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/629002c9-bd5d-4e4b-8f23-a5a1026828de/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
![Photo of Matthew E Barnas - Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45faeb2d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
My practice specializes in Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. We offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of cognitive disorders (i.e. Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, Vascular, and Frontotemporal Dementias), mood and anxiety disorders (i.e. Depression, Bipolar Disorder, GAD, Panic DO, etc), Insomnia, and "Behavioral Disturbances" associated with Dementia (including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations).
My practice specializes in Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. We offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of cognitive disorders (i.e. Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, Vascular, and Frontotemporal Dementias), mood and anxiety disorders (i.e. Depression, Bipolar Disorder, GAD, Panic DO, etc), Insomnia, and "Behavioral Disturbances" associated with Dementia (including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations).
![Photo of Gordon Kusi - Godbridge Integrated Health, DNP, PMHNP, ANP-BC, APN-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7bb9102-22f8-4f71-ae21-ccb519ef7d06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Godbridge Integrated Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ANP-BC, APN-c
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
As a board certified provider in both Psychiatry and Internal Medicine, Dr. Gordon Kusi not only provides comprehensive care, but also care that is compassionate, patient-centered, knowledgeable and evidence based. He received his bachelor’s master’s and doctoral education from Rutgers University and a post-masters from Wilkes University. Dr. Kusi is highly esteemed among his clients who speak well of his respect, love for his profession, and compassion he expressed while providing care. He believes the client is the most important person in the treatment arena and not only should be listened to, but also the focus should be on.
As a board certified provider in both Psychiatry and Internal Medicine, Dr. Gordon Kusi not only provides comprehensive care, but also care that is compassionate, patient-centered, knowledgeable and evidence based. He received his bachelor’s master’s and doctoral education from Rutgers University and a post-masters from Wilkes University. Dr. Kusi is highly esteemed among his clients who speak well of his respect, love for his profession, and compassion he expressed while providing care. He believes the client is the most important person in the treatment arena and not only should be listened to, but also the focus should be on.
![Photo of Caren Goldstein, MSN, APN, PMHNP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c16d6570-30d2-4dfe-8e4f-2506cc33c194/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caren Goldstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raritan, NJ 08869
I am a Family Psychiatric Advanced Nurse Practitioner, with many years in the field, treating children, adolescents, adults and families. I perform psychiatric evaluations, design comprehensive treatment plans, prescribes medication and provides brief therapy. I have experience reinforcing DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills as well as behavior modification. I have a passion for working with youth on the autistic spectrum as well as with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and behavior problems. Experience working with Child Study Teams as well as working with schools and guidance counselors to recommend accommodations for 504 plans and IEPs.
I am a Family Psychiatric Advanced Nurse Practitioner, with many years in the field, treating children, adolescents, adults and families. I perform psychiatric evaluations, design comprehensive treatment plans, prescribes medication and provides brief therapy. I have experience reinforcing DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills as well as behavior modification. I have a passion for working with youth on the autistic spectrum as well as with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and behavior problems. Experience working with Child Study Teams as well as working with schools and guidance counselors to recommend accommodations for 504 plans and IEPs.
![Photo of Asma Mian - Alexander Road Associates, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc41fb0b-cff0-47ae-b8dc-3c6c52f6c056/1/320x400.png)
ARA has been serving the Princeton area for over thirty years. ARA offers psychiatry, psychotherapy, psycho/educational testing and substance abuse counseling for people of all ages. ARA is dedicated to providing thoughtful and compassionate integrated care for our patients. Psychiatrists and therapists collaborate to offer evidence-based treatments including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy and psycho-pharmacological intervention. ARA child, adolescent and adult psychiatrists are skilled in diagnosis & psychopharmacology.
ARA has been serving the Princeton area for over thirty years. ARA offers psychiatry, psychotherapy, psycho/educational testing and substance abuse counseling for people of all ages. ARA is dedicated to providing thoughtful and compassionate integrated care for our patients. Psychiatrists and therapists collaborate to offer evidence-based treatments including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy and psycho-pharmacological intervention. ARA child, adolescent and adult psychiatrists are skilled in diagnosis & psychopharmacology.
![Photo of Ceretha Hall-Dyke, DNP, ANP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7a8a78f-4990-423e-b955-c85a72090115/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ceretha Hall-Dyke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876
My approach revolves around personalized care, prioritizing each individual's unique needs to address their mental health concerns effectively. I offer a range of treatments, including therapy, medication management, or a combination thereof. My aim is to cultivate a secure environment where clients can comfortably meet their mental health needs. Seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength.
My approach revolves around personalized care, prioritizing each individual's unique needs to address their mental health concerns effectively. I offer a range of treatments, including therapy, medication management, or a combination thereof. My aim is to cultivate a secure environment where clients can comfortably meet their mental health needs. Seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength.
![Photo of david O. Alabi - Eagle Health Services LLC, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5233d033-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Eagle Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Eagle Health Services provide a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. Dr. Alabi offers assessment, therapy and medication management. I endeavor to provide the best quality of care the industry could afford and take to heart my patients individualized needs. I work with the people in my care to help them understand, learn from, and manage their difficult feelings. I specialize in treating patients with varying mental health disorders including but not limited to ADHD, depression, sleep disturbance, bipolar and anxiety disorders with those struggling with substance abuse.
Eagle Health Services provide a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. Dr. Alabi offers assessment, therapy and medication management. I endeavor to provide the best quality of care the industry could afford and take to heart my patients individualized needs. I work with the people in my care to help them understand, learn from, and manage their difficult feelings. I specialize in treating patients with varying mental health disorders including but not limited to ADHD, depression, sleep disturbance, bipolar and anxiety disorders with those struggling with substance abuse.
![Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec688272-462e-43db-a78a-f64a59060113/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Martinsville, NJ 08836 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
![Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, MSN, ANP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ecbd5ce-31e3-492c-beb5-5de7f3411415/2/320x400.png)
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
Universal Behavioral Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
Many people today are faced with mental health challenges that could prevent them from achieving their dreams. I understand that we all have goals and aspirations and everyone should be given the opportunity to reach their highest potential in life and impact their generation. I have been privileged to work with clients experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, fear, low self-esteem, psychosis and drug addiction to ensure that they get back to a state of emotional well-being and mental health. I worked with clients using psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy interventions with excellent results.
Many people today are faced with mental health challenges that could prevent them from achieving their dreams. I understand that we all have goals and aspirations and everyone should be given the opportunity to reach their highest potential in life and impact their generation. I have been privileged to work with clients experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, fear, low self-esteem, psychosis and drug addiction to ensure that they get back to a state of emotional well-being and mental health. I worked with clients using psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy interventions with excellent results.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83640bd5-3956-4d5f-9434-618eaf3da02f/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cc962ac-984b-4c76-8eaf-469daf7d0fa4/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Huma Ansari - Mind Matters Psychiatry, LLC, MD, APN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d3b62aa-7b3a-44ff-96ea-bd29023833a1/1/320x400.png)
Mind Matters Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, APN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
At Mind Matters Psychiatry LLC, we offer truly individualized care for your psychiatric needs. We listen to your story, understand your struggles and then, together we develop a treatment plan that is uniquely individual to your needs. We are also happy to include your support system in your care, if you so desire as well as incorporate your religious/ spiritual beliefs, if that is important to you. With your permission, we will work closely with your PCP/ therapist to ensure a holistic approach in achieving complete well being. We offer treatment to adults and teenagers ages 14 and above.
At Mind Matters Psychiatry LLC, we offer truly individualized care for your psychiatric needs. We listen to your story, understand your struggles and then, together we develop a treatment plan that is uniquely individual to your needs. We are also happy to include your support system in your care, if you so desire as well as incorporate your religious/ spiritual beliefs, if that is important to you. With your permission, we will work closely with your PCP/ therapist to ensure a holistic approach in achieving complete well being. We offer treatment to adults and teenagers ages 14 and above.
![Photo of Adriana Banks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb236e3f-d13b-4df8-80fc-33a471f0f866/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client wants help, puts in the effort to improve their health and wellness, and believes there is hope and recovery. "If we want to transform reality, we begin with ourselves. We do not ask the world to change." - Alejandro Jodorowsky.
My ideal client wants help, puts in the effort to improve their health and wellness, and believes there is hope and recovery. "If we want to transform reality, we begin with ourselves. We do not ask the world to change." - Alejandro Jodorowsky.
![Photo of Racquel San Juan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbe1474b-231b-4342-9219-2ad1469afb61/1/320x400.png)
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
![Photo of Dr. Emad Mounir - Christian Wellness Center of NJ LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39083600-92d0-465f-96fb-c64fe936e390/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Emad Mounir is a Licensed Psychiatrist and ABPN board-certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, boasting 24+ years of experience. Dr. Mounir offers empathetic, reflective evaluation, and attentive listening during treatment. He suggests pharmacological and psycho-therapeutic interventions to alleviate suffering and elevate functioning, aligning with individual aspirations.
Dr. Emad Mounir is a Licensed Psychiatrist and ABPN board-certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, boasting 24+ years of experience. Dr. Mounir offers empathetic, reflective evaluation, and attentive listening during treatment. He suggests pharmacological and psycho-therapeutic interventions to alleviate suffering and elevate functioning, aligning with individual aspirations.
See more therapy options for Montgomery
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Montgomery, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Montgomery, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Montgomery?
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.