Psychiatrists in Somerset County, NJ
![Photo of Brook Evans, PA-C, MSPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e07f605-2d1b-431d-9f8b-476f3c5b407b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts? Is your goal to tune down the impulsive, negative talk and to be able to cope and manage daily anxiety? I am here to help. I am fully transparent with my patients about my own mental health struggles. I believe sharing my own experiences allows patients to better relate and recognize that I am able to understand what they are experiencing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts? Is your goal to tune down the impulsive, negative talk and to be able to cope and manage daily anxiety? I am here to help. I am fully transparent with my patients about my own mental health struggles. I believe sharing my own experiences allows patients to better relate and recognize that I am able to understand what they are experiencing.
![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 Joseph A Donnellan - Joseph A. Donnellan, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b2392f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I have 27 years experience as a board-certified psychiatrist in central New Jersey. My specialties are eating disorders, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have been the medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset (formerly Somerset Medical Center) for 22 years and I am the Chief of Psychiatry there, a position I have held since 1999. I have a private-practice in Hillsborough, which I started in 1993. I believe that one size does NOT fit all and every patient needs a unique treatment plan that should be developed together between professional and patient.
Hi! I have 27 years experience as a board-certified psychiatrist in central New Jersey. My specialties are eating disorders, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have been the medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset (formerly Somerset Medical Center) for 22 years and I am the Chief of Psychiatry there, a position I have held since 1999. I have a private-practice in Hillsborough, which I started in 1993. I believe that one size does NOT fit all and every patient needs a unique treatment plan that should be developed together between professional and patient.
![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 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 Julian Fils, PMHNP-, MSN, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e94e792-2927-4097-ad95-c9362daeb967/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julian Fils
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, MSN, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedminster, NJ 07921
Do you ever wonder if the feelings you are experiencing are normal? Are you wondering why you are so forgetful, why you have trouble concentrating, or why you are easily distracted? Perhaps you find it difficult to wake up in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you are sometimes tearful for no apparent reason? Are you having difficulty falling asleep at night or waking up multiple times throughout the night, leaving you feeling exhausted the following day? Did you experience trauma that left you feeling anxious and tense? These challenges do not have to be faced alone!
Do you ever wonder if the feelings you are experiencing are normal? Are you wondering why you are so forgetful, why you have trouble concentrating, or why you are easily distracted? Perhaps you find it difficult to wake up in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you are sometimes tearful for no apparent reason? Are you having difficulty falling asleep at night or waking up multiple times throughout the night, leaving you feeling exhausted the following day? Did you experience trauma that left you feeling anxious and tense? These challenges do not have to be faced alone!
![Photo of Dolores Suzansky, MSN, RN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dfd1668-8a0f-4513-8855-cbc64e504e73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dolores Suzansky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging period in your life? Have your symptoms persisted despite multiple medication trials without success? I am Dolores Suzansky (MSN, RN, APN, PMHNP-BC, RNC-NIC), a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing with Oasis Better Health, working with clients to manage symptoms via psychopharmacology. I also have twenty years of experience as an RN supporting parents of babies in the NICU and mothers during the peripartum period. I work with adolescent, adult, and older adult clients.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging period in your life? Have your symptoms persisted despite multiple medication trials without success? I am Dolores Suzansky (MSN, RN, APN, PMHNP-BC, RNC-NIC), a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing with Oasis Better Health, working with clients to manage symptoms via psychopharmacology. I also have twenty years of experience as an RN supporting parents of babies in the NICU and mothers during the peripartum period. I work with adolescent, adult, and older adult clients.
![Photo of Ann Rhatican, PMH, CNS, APNC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb6c1cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
As an APN I have a strong conviction in the Mind Body connection which has led me to a holistic approach to care. My extensive experience in medical nursing as well as behavioral health nursing gives me a unique perspective, enabling me to identify the biopsychosocial needs of the client.My practice includes not only psychotherapy but also medication monitoring. In my prescriptive practice I work closely and collaborate with behavioral health clinicians and pschologists.
As an APN I have a strong conviction in the Mind Body connection which has led me to a holistic approach to care. My extensive experience in medical nursing as well as behavioral health nursing gives me a unique perspective, enabling me to identify the biopsychosocial needs of the client.My practice includes not only psychotherapy but also medication monitoring. In my prescriptive practice I work closely and collaborate with behavioral health clinicians and pschologists.
![Photo of Dr. Edna Hiers, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55e56acf-1534-4c21-9f65-e369f7518b65/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Edna Hiers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873 (Online Only)
We create a safe space for clients to get their mental health needs met. Seeking mental health care is not a sign of weakness. It is a form of strength. Our doctoral-level psychiatric nurse practitioner, Dr. Edna Hiers, focuses on the whole person. Her style is addressing the whole person while focusing on how the mental, physical, spiritual, and psychosocial aspects of an individual contributes to their mental wellness which is the key to diagnosis. She strives to provide high quality of care by actively listening to the needs of her clients and by providing psychiatric evaluations, therapy, medication management, referrals.
We create a safe space for clients to get their mental health needs met. Seeking mental health care is not a sign of weakness. It is a form of strength. Our doctoral-level psychiatric nurse practitioner, Dr. Edna Hiers, focuses on the whole person. Her style is addressing the whole person while focusing on how the mental, physical, spiritual, and psychosocial aspects of an individual contributes to their mental wellness which is the key to diagnosis. She strives to provide high quality of care by actively listening to the needs of her clients and by providing psychiatric evaluations, therapy, medication management, referrals.
![Photo of Gabriell Budoff, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6130ac9d-6425-413e-894c-5d663ab3a089/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriell Budoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
![Photo of Bianca K. Robinson, PMHNP , MSN , APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4203da1-aa16-4416-8042-37fbffc70070/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bianca K. Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , MSN , APN
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, NJ 08807 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters degree as a PMHNP-BC from Rutgers University in 2018. Since working under the umbrella of mental health since I was an RN (Hampton University graduate) having overall experience for 15yrs including 5 years and current as an APN, I believe with a pinch of mustard seed faith, time, patience and effort, the road to improving mental illness becomes less cluttered and more clear.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters degree as a PMHNP-BC from Rutgers University in 2018. Since working under the umbrella of mental health since I was an RN (Hampton University graduate) having overall experience for 15yrs including 5 years and current as an APN, I believe with a pinch of mustard seed faith, time, patience and effort, the road to improving mental illness becomes less cluttered and more clear.
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Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
![Photo of Dr. Luiza Asahme-Triolo, PsyD, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d35a99d3-4804-4bb5-8a8e-b0deb02622fb/5/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Luiza Asahme-Triolo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging time? Have you trialed numerous medications without any success, and continue to have symptoms? I am Dr. Asahme-Triolo (PsyD, PMHNP-BC) the founder and CEO of Oasis Better Health, and Southern Oasis Better Health, working with clients, both children/adolescents and adults, to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology. In addition, we have therapists available in the practice, able to see child, adolescent and adult clients, for individual therapy, utilizing various therapeutic modalities, for the best fit.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging time? Have you trialed numerous medications without any success, and continue to have symptoms? I am Dr. Asahme-Triolo (PsyD, PMHNP-BC) the founder and CEO of Oasis Better Health, and Southern Oasis Better Health, working with clients, both children/adolescents and adults, to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology. In addition, we have therapists available in the practice, able to see child, adolescent and adult clients, for individual therapy, utilizing various therapeutic modalities, for the best fit.
![Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08e64543-178d-49d8-8690-e3e7b706fa5e/2/320x400.png)
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
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 Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3205d76-a846-468d-b771-5913359dfb0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
![Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/919c5aaa-58a5-4b32-9e11-b587ce3e7bc2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
![Photo of Arnaldo Negron, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f49a0a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
![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
Bernardsville, NJ 07924 (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 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.
See more therapy options for Somerset County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Somerset County, NJ
80+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Somerset County, NJ who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | ADHD |
75% | Medication Management |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield |
How Psychiatrists in Somerset County, NJ see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Somerset County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.