Psychiatrists in Norwood, NJ
![Photo of Dr. Michael Olla, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5a8e0d7-a421-4608-9245-914d79f09500/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Ollas is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery in Norwood, NJ, specializing in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management. Dr. Ollas combines behavioral therapies with the latest in psychopharmacology to treat addiction and substance use disorders. He provides crisis intervention, long-term mental health care, and Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Sublocade, supporting patients on their journey to lasting sobriety.
Dr. Michael Ollas is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery in Norwood, NJ, specializing in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management. Dr. Ollas combines behavioral therapies with the latest in psychopharmacology to treat addiction and substance use disorders. He provides crisis intervention, long-term mental health care, and Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Sublocade, supporting patients on their journey to lasting sobriety.
![Photo of Tulika Srivastava, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03a25d6b-c1c7-4cd0-b3e6-cdf95c8cd654/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Tulika Srivastava, a compassionate and dedicated child psychiatrist, board-certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry . My practice is a place of understanding and healing where the mental well being of children, adolescents and adults is the top priority. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in shaping a healthier future , I employ evidence based approaches tailored to each young patient’s needs. My comprehensive background in adult psychiatry allows me to extend quality care to adult patients too. I look forward to my patients having a healthier , more balanced future .
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Tulika Srivastava, a compassionate and dedicated child psychiatrist, board-certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry . My practice is a place of understanding and healing where the mental well being of children, adolescents and adults is the top priority. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in shaping a healthier future , I employ evidence based approaches tailored to each young patient’s needs. My comprehensive background in adult psychiatry allows me to extend quality care to adult patients too. I look forward to my patients having a healthier , more balanced future .
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Aerin Hyun, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9ba6ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aerin Hyun
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Waitlist for new clients
Board certified Columbia trained psychiatrist (NY and NJ licensed) specializing in Women's Reproductive Health, Psychoanalysis, Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology. My Ph.D. is in English Literature, providing an additional perspective that many find enhances the treatment process, which I view largely as integrative (between medicine and the humanities, mind and body, and eastern and western perspectives).
Board certified Columbia trained psychiatrist (NY and NJ licensed) specializing in Women's Reproductive Health, Psychoanalysis, Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology. My Ph.D. is in English Literature, providing an additional perspective that many find enhances the treatment process, which I view largely as integrative (between medicine and the humanities, mind and body, and eastern and western perspectives).
![Photo of William D Becker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10bdb4ca-1711-49f7-afc9-d93508b56e5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
![Photo of Nirmal Sathaye, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/538e6ccf-bc2c-4d68-aae2-7850554f02ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
![Photo of Dongjin Kim - Dongjin Kim NP in psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48a5c2fd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dongjin Kim NP in psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
My goal is your healthy well being. My passion is to assist you achieve your wellness leading to the goal of happiness. I am a board certified, licensed Psychiatric mental health NP in NY and NJ who can provide you with medication prescriptions and psychotherapy. I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 both in acute care hospitals and out-patient clinics, in NY and NJ. I see all age groups from children to adults including seniors over age 65.
My goal is your healthy well being. My passion is to assist you achieve your wellness leading to the goal of happiness. I am a board certified, licensed Psychiatric mental health NP in NY and NJ who can provide you with medication prescriptions and psychotherapy. I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 both in acute care hospitals and out-patient clinics, in NY and NJ. I see all age groups from children to adults including seniors over age 65.
![Photo of Dominic Joseph Ferro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4518f3e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a general psychiatrist treating a wide array of psychiatric problems. I have experience with patients with mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders as well as ADHD. I also treat adolescents with these problems. I also have experience working with people with personality disorders. I work with some people psychotherapeutically, but I also perform diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacology consultation for people in therapy with other mental health professionals. I am also certified to treat opiate dependence with buprenorphine (Suboxone).
I am a general psychiatrist treating a wide array of psychiatric problems. I have experience with patients with mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders as well as ADHD. I also treat adolescents with these problems. I also have experience working with people with personality disorders. I work with some people psychotherapeutically, but I also perform diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacology consultation for people in therapy with other mental health professionals. I am also certified to treat opiate dependence with buprenorphine (Suboxone).
![Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b2facd2-01c1-48e7-83ea-13c99c573421/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Demarest, NJ 07627 (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 Oyebola Asenuga - Oyebola Asenuga, PMHNP, APN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7361899-3c72-49b7-a597-4776819e9927/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oyebola Asenuga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601 (Online Only)
Nice to meet you! I'm Oyebola, the founder and owner of Restore Ark Healthcare. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey with over 13 years of clinical experience working in different types of mental healthcare settings. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive services to all patients in need.
Nice to meet you! I'm Oyebola, the founder and owner of Restore Ark Healthcare. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey with over 13 years of clinical experience working in different types of mental healthcare settings. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive services to all patients in need.
![Photo of Judith H Gurfein - Arista Psychological & Psychiatric Services, PhD, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d52d58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Arista Psychological & Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
ARISTA is a private mental health and chemical dependency practice which has been serving Manhattan and Bergen County, New Jersey, for over 25 years. Our health care professionals include licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and counselors with expertise in marriage, family, adults, teens, children, hypnotherapy and addictions. Arista's warm, highly qualified psychotherapists will ensure that you receive individualized care in a comfortable, confidential setting. Our goal is to match you with a therapist who has achieved success with patients who have problems similar to yours.
ARISTA is a private mental health and chemical dependency practice which has been serving Manhattan and Bergen County, New Jersey, for over 25 years. Our health care professionals include licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and counselors with expertise in marriage, family, adults, teens, children, hypnotherapy and addictions. Arista's warm, highly qualified psychotherapists will ensure that you receive individualized care in a comfortable, confidential setting. Our goal is to match you with a therapist who has achieved success with patients who have problems similar to yours.
![Photo of Jay Lawrence Friedman - Tenafly Psychiatric Associates, L.L.C., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f48afe9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
201-568-8288 Private Individual Therapy Sessions, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Supportive Therapy. Treatment of Anxiety and Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Support Groups, Stress Relief, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Treatment of Stress causing Physical or Emotional Symptoms, Insomnia, PMS. Grief support, Healthy Weight support, Smoking-Alcohol-Substance-Cessation support. Holistic Mind and Body Approach. Repair and find balance. Calm, relax & energize. Memory and Dementia Evaluations, Competency Evaluations, Private care of patients at Assisted Living facilities, Independent living facilities, and Nursing Homes.
201-568-8288 Private Individual Therapy Sessions, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Supportive Therapy. Treatment of Anxiety and Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Support Groups, Stress Relief, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Treatment of Stress causing Physical or Emotional Symptoms, Insomnia, PMS. Grief support, Healthy Weight support, Smoking-Alcohol-Substance-Cessation support. Holistic Mind and Body Approach. Repair and find balance. Calm, relax & energize. Memory and Dementia Evaluations, Competency Evaluations, Private care of patients at Assisted Living facilities, Independent living facilities, and Nursing Homes.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1135213f-8ef9-4eb4-aec8-217d3918b168/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Bergenfield, NJ 07621
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 Marina Nesterenko, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a55543b4-ee20-49ff-ae34-e5275375a972/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marina Nesterenko is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. She is a 1997 medical school graduate in Kiev, Ukraine and completed her Residency and Fellowship at State University of New York in Syracuse, NY. Areas of patient care for child/adolescent/adult include ADHD, PTSD, anger aggression, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.
Dr. Marina Nesterenko is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. She is a 1997 medical school graduate in Kiev, Ukraine and completed her Residency and Fellowship at State University of New York in Syracuse, NY. Areas of patient care for child/adolescent/adult include ADHD, PTSD, anger aggression, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.
![Photo of Scott Bienenfeld, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52fb5e8b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
SKYPE & FaceTime Telepsychiatry & Telemedicine sessions available. Specializing in complex depression, addiction and anxiety/trauma. We provide expert, cutting edge, psychiatric and psychological care, as well as Ketamine Infusions to those suffering from mental health issues and addiction – when and where you need it. Offices in NYC near Union Square, Grand Central Station and Tenafly, NJ
SKYPE & FaceTime Telepsychiatry & Telemedicine sessions available. Specializing in complex depression, addiction and anxiety/trauma. We provide expert, cutting edge, psychiatric and psychological care, as well as Ketamine Infusions to those suffering from mental health issues and addiction – when and where you need it. Offices in NYC near Union Square, Grand Central Station and Tenafly, NJ
![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
Hackensack, NJ 07601
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.
![Photo of Dr. Shimon Schwartz, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a079cae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As highly functioning parents in the fast-paced environments of New York City and New Jersey, you know the pressures and demands placed on children and young adults today. When you notice your child or young adult son struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or high-functioning autism, it’s natural to worry about their ability to keep up and thrive. You want the best psychiatric care to support their emotional well-being and ensure they can grow into successful, well-adjusted adults.
As highly functioning parents in the fast-paced environments of New York City and New Jersey, you know the pressures and demands placed on children and young adults today. When you notice your child or young adult son struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or high-functioning autism, it’s natural to worry about their ability to keep up and thrive. You want the best psychiatric care to support their emotional well-being and ensure they can grow into successful, well-adjusted adults.
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
I am a board certified Child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my Child Psychiatry specialty training at Rutgers NJMS in Newark, NJ. After graduation I held a full time faculty position at the same department. My work involved assessing patients presenting to the emergency room, perinatally acquired HIV clinic as well as working in the autism clinic. I was closely involved in training residents, medical students and child psychiatry fellows. I also have experience working in a collaborative care model where I guide pediatricians about treating various mental health issues.
I am a board certified Child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my Child Psychiatry specialty training at Rutgers NJMS in Newark, NJ. After graduation I held a full time faculty position at the same department. My work involved assessing patients presenting to the emergency room, perinatally acquired HIV clinic as well as working in the autism clinic. I was closely involved in training residents, medical students and child psychiatry fellows. I also have experience working in a collaborative care model where I guide pediatricians about treating various mental health issues.
![Photo of Douglas Saphier - Saphier Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e9a8ec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
![Photo of Jason Dean, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ec21f72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dean is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Dean delves deep into the root causes of anxiety and behavioral issues. Unlike many psychiatrists, Dr. Dean understands that symptoms are merely the surface of a much larger picture. By treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, Dr. Dean uncovers the underlying issues in social-emotional development, paving the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Dr. Dean is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Dean delves deep into the root causes of anxiety and behavioral issues. Unlike many psychiatrists, Dr. Dean understands that symptoms are merely the surface of a much larger picture. By treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, Dr. Dean uncovers the underlying issues in social-emotional development, paving the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Norwood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Norwood, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Norwood, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
50% | Addiction |
50% | Child |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Norwood, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Norwood?
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.