Psychiatrists in Ramsey, NJ
![Photo of Dr. Krishan Chirimunj, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e936bb6-950d-4794-a743-2518f955da6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children, teens, college students and young adults and can serve patients of all ages. I can work with patients on a range of psychiatric issues.
I work with children, teens, college students and young adults and can serve patients of all ages. I can work with patients on a range of psychiatric issues.
![Photo of Nika Dyakina, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dff5f87-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am General Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist and specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults across developmental span. I completed my Psychiatry training at Rutgers/UMDNJ and Child/Adolescent Fellowship at Columbia-Cornell NYPH program. I stayed on for 6 years, as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Columbia University, and served as an Associate Director of Pediatric Psychiatry Emergency & Consultation-Liaison Services of Children's Hospital of NY (MSCHONY). What I find most rewarding is individual clinical work. For the past 10 years, I focused on this in my private practice & continue to cherish every moment
I am General Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist and specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults across developmental span. I completed my Psychiatry training at Rutgers/UMDNJ and Child/Adolescent Fellowship at Columbia-Cornell NYPH program. I stayed on for 6 years, as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Columbia University, and served as an Associate Director of Pediatric Psychiatry Emergency & Consultation-Liaison Services of Children's Hospital of NY (MSCHONY). What I find most rewarding is individual clinical work. For the past 10 years, I focused on this in my private practice & continue to cherish every moment
![Photo of Mohab Hanna - MedPsych Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c1677a3-42d2-4c80-ae5d-fe4198d08784/1/320x400.jpeg)
At MedPsych Associates we provide the best possible comprehensive care by collaborating as a team. Our diverse and dynamic team of professionals has years of expertise working with children, adolescents, and adults in various environments such as schools, clinical practices, corporate environments, and teaching hospitals.
At MedPsych Associates we provide the best possible comprehensive care by collaborating as a team. Our diverse and dynamic team of professionals has years of expertise working with children, adolescents, and adults in various environments such as schools, clinical practices, corporate environments, and teaching hospitals.
![Photo of George Eskandar, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd8a5199-5ece-42b9-8cb5-b0acb7b5ea71/1/320x400.jpeg)
My passion lies particularly in working with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety disorders. I deeply value a collaborative approach, working closely with my clients, their families, and their therapeutic support systems to provide comprehensive care and support.
My passion lies particularly in working with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety disorders. I deeply value a collaborative approach, working closely with my clients, their families, and their therapeutic support systems to provide comprehensive care and support.
![Photo of Samantha Ceceli, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ef8ca4a-c61d-42a2-b08f-661b6b35f7a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a certified Physician Assistant who specializes in delivering compassionate and effective psychiatric care. I have received rigorous training in treating psychiatric disorders from the nation's leading institutions and experts, with a special focus on depression and anxiety disorders (including PTSD), OCD, and ADHD. My expertise extends to individuals of all ages and stages of life to help restore mental health and well-being. I am a University of Virginia and California Baptist University alum with prior experience at Mount Sinai and NYU.
I am a certified Physician Assistant who specializes in delivering compassionate and effective psychiatric care. I have received rigorous training in treating psychiatric disorders from the nation's leading institutions and experts, with a special focus on depression and anxiety disorders (including PTSD), OCD, and ADHD. My expertise extends to individuals of all ages and stages of life to help restore mental health and well-being. I am a University of Virginia and California Baptist University alum with prior experience at Mount Sinai and NYU.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. For Example, I to specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. For Example, I to specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
![Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Opening: One Week, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68ae4132-7555-4d30-923a-9634ab60e19b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson - Next Opening: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446 (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 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
Ramsey, NJ 07446
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 Magdalena Spariosu, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d213a71-0ccd-4753-af23-374ebcae46ea/4/320x400.png)
Hello and welcome to my page! As a Brain Injury Medicine Psychiatrist, I am passionate about helping high-achieving individuals who are facing the challenges of medical and neurological co-morbidities, particularly those who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whether recently or in the past. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance to patients recovering from TBI, who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, memory deficits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they work towards reclaiming their sense of self and achieving their optimal well-being once again.
Hello and welcome to my page! As a Brain Injury Medicine Psychiatrist, I am passionate about helping high-achieving individuals who are facing the challenges of medical and neurological co-morbidities, particularly those who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whether recently or in the past. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance to patients recovering from TBI, who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, memory deficits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they work towards reclaiming their sense of self and achieving their optimal well-being once again.
![Photo of Helene Anne Miller - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fef083e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We pride ourselves in providing a nurturing, clean and confidential atmosphere for our patients. We treat all ages and stages of development. We have emergency and same-day appointments. Confidentiality and privacy are maintained to the strictest of standards. We have modern electronic medical records and electronic prescribing.
We pride ourselves in providing a nurturing, clean and confidential atmosphere for our patients. We treat all ages and stages of development. We have emergency and same-day appointments. Confidentiality and privacy are maintained to the strictest of standards. We have modern electronic medical records and electronic prescribing.
![Photo of Rita Jane Grogan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d954a3dc-db96-4543-9e14-b19d9811cf00/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Cornell trained psychiatrist who is Board Certified with over 25 years of experience treating adults. I have an expertise in psychotherapy and psychiatric medication treatment. My emphasis is on establishing a safe, empathetic relationship where you can express your thoughts, feelings and memories in a nonjudgmental environment. My goal is helping you develop a richer emotional life by exploring current relationships as well as past experiences that may prevent you from reaching your full potential.
I am a Cornell trained psychiatrist who is Board Certified with over 25 years of experience treating adults. I have an expertise in psychotherapy and psychiatric medication treatment. My emphasis is on establishing a safe, empathetic relationship where you can express your thoughts, feelings and memories in a nonjudgmental environment. My goal is helping you develop a richer emotional life by exploring current relationships as well as past experiences that may prevent you from reaching your full potential.
![Photo of Ashkan Soltan - MindWell Urgent Care, MD, FAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adbb7300-0ae6-4ec4-81d5-04da80592ec8/3/320x400.jpeg)
MindWell Urgent Care
Psychiatrist, MD, FAACAP
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458 (Online Only)
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
MindWell Urgent Care is a revolutionary, first of its kind psychiatric practice that provides the residents of Texas with state of the art, same-day psychiatric care for a wide range of mental health issues. Currently, we are offering same-day psychiatric and telepsychiatry services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We are also offering telepsychiatry services throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma and New Jersey.
![Photo of Ashley Blake Strongwater, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, PMH-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dec13c90-e0be-4c28-9918-f60b688ecdff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Blake Strongwater
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allendale, NJ 07401
I am dedicated to providing warm, skillful, compassionate, and personalized care to each patient for a variety of mental health conditions via a combination of therapy and medication when indicated. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of successful treatment. I work diligently to create a safe, stigma-free, and welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, feelings, and to increase your general wellbeing using a whole-body approach. I tailor my treatment approach collaboratively with you to meet your unique needs and goals.
I am dedicated to providing warm, skillful, compassionate, and personalized care to each patient for a variety of mental health conditions via a combination of therapy and medication when indicated. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of successful treatment. I work diligently to create a safe, stigma-free, and welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, feelings, and to increase your general wellbeing using a whole-body approach. I tailor my treatment approach collaboratively with you to meet your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Cristin Famularo, APN, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5879e3d-b477-4dab-a804-13bc75bbaa9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cristin Famularo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saddle River, NJ 07458 (Online Only)
I am board certified as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, as well as certified as a Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist (PMHS). I work with the pediatric/adolescent/young adult population and their families who have an openness to therapy, self- improvement, emotional support, and who are seeking medication management. My clients depend on me to provide top notch care and I make sure to consistently deliver. My goal is a mutually agreed-upon treatment plan that allows my patients the best treatment in a nurturing, understanding, and compassionate environment.
I am board certified as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, as well as certified as a Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist (PMHS). I work with the pediatric/adolescent/young adult population and their families who have an openness to therapy, self- improvement, emotional support, and who are seeking medication management. My clients depend on me to provide top notch care and I make sure to consistently deliver. My goal is a mutually agreed-upon treatment plan that allows my patients the best treatment in a nurturing, understanding, and compassionate environment.
![Photo of James Welch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c9b2b0c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with patients seeking relief from the distress of emotional and biological illness that is impairing their function in life. I have thirty years experience trying to understand the unique factors that describe each individual's circumstances and seeking to find practical solutions for his or her areas of concern. I received my M.D. from the University of Texas at San Antonio Medical School, and completed residency training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. I supervised and taught residents at Mount Sinai before relocating my practice to New Jersey in 2001.
I work with patients seeking relief from the distress of emotional and biological illness that is impairing their function in life. I have thirty years experience trying to understand the unique factors that describe each individual's circumstances and seeking to find practical solutions for his or her areas of concern. I received my M.D. from the University of Texas at San Antonio Medical School, and completed residency training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. I supervised and taught residents at Mount Sinai before relocating my practice to New Jersey in 2001.
![Photo of Dr. Martin A Kron, MD, PLLC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c514cff1-88b9-4155-9732-fc1eae1588bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Dr. Martin Kron. Sometimes looking for a psychiatrist can be challenging because you want someone you can trust and open up to. Ever since I was young I have been told that I am an easy person to talk to. I truly enjoy practicing psychiatry and helping people improve their mental health. I am a good listener. I have a calming, nonjudgmental demeanor and I have always been told by my patients that they feel like they are understood and in good hands. I am a double board certified psychiatrist. I trained at Mt. Sinai Beth Israel in NYC and have worked with people in all walks of life.
Hello, my name is Dr. Martin Kron. Sometimes looking for a psychiatrist can be challenging because you want someone you can trust and open up to. Ever since I was young I have been told that I am an easy person to talk to. I truly enjoy practicing psychiatry and helping people improve their mental health. I am a good listener. I have a calming, nonjudgmental demeanor and I have always been told by my patients that they feel like they are understood and in good hands. I am a double board certified psychiatrist. I trained at Mt. Sinai Beth Israel in NYC and have worked with people in all walks of life.
![Photo of Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos - Nu Imagery Healthcare LLC, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b3018d7-5c94-4682-bc36-c780621f65c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nu Imagery Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES
Verified Verified
Mahwah, NJ 07430
We have specialists in pediatric and adolescent mental health, diabetes care, medical metabolic and weight management. We ensure that you understand how your own neuroendocrine system is influencing your symptoms through psycho-education, psychotherapy, and pharmacologic treatment options. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos, EDD, DNP, PMHNP and Michelle Reeves, DNP, PMHNP are certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners providing psychotherapy, diagnosis, and medication management. Ann Pinon, MSN, FNP & Donna Naturale, DNP, ANP, CDCES are nurse practitioners focusing on primary mental health care and obesity & diabetes.
We have specialists in pediatric and adolescent mental health, diabetes care, medical metabolic and weight management. We ensure that you understand how your own neuroendocrine system is influencing your symptoms through psycho-education, psychotherapy, and pharmacologic treatment options. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos, EDD, DNP, PMHNP and Michelle Reeves, DNP, PMHNP are certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners providing psychotherapy, diagnosis, and medication management. Ann Pinon, MSN, FNP & Donna Naturale, DNP, ANP, CDCES are nurse practitioners focusing on primary mental health care and obesity & diabetes.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458 (Online Only)
FPT
FPT
![Photo of Nechama Keller-Sabel, PMHNP, MSN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/441001e1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nechama Keller-Sabel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458
As a board certified licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have undertaken to help individuals restore their vitality and resume a life of meaning and purpose. Depression, anxiety, trauma, hyperactivity, and stress are some of the issues that are part of ones complicated life that can lead to dysfunction and suffering. A compassionate approach with an emphasis on ones cultural background, life experiences, and ones personal needs, help to shape the focus of my treatment. Setting realistic and far reaching goals that help individuals not only return to the life they once knew, but concentrate on a brighter and successful future filled with joy and accomplishment.
As a board certified licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have undertaken to help individuals restore their vitality and resume a life of meaning and purpose. Depression, anxiety, trauma, hyperactivity, and stress are some of the issues that are part of ones complicated life that can lead to dysfunction and suffering. A compassionate approach with an emphasis on ones cultural background, life experiences, and ones personal needs, help to shape the focus of my treatment. Setting realistic and far reaching goals that help individuals not only return to the life they once knew, but concentrate on a brighter and successful future filled with joy and accomplishment.
See more therapy options for Ramsey
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ramsey, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ramsey, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
89% | ADHD |
89% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Child |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Oxford |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
86% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Ramsey, NJ see their clients
89% | In Person and Online | |
11% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ramsey?
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.