Psychiatrists in Swedesboro, NJ
![Photo of Debra Shearer - Shearer Mental Health and Wellness, EdD, MSN, FNP-BC, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9403533a-cdef-4e0e-9e43-8c02c97cef0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shearer Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, MSN, FNP-BC, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swedesboro, NJ 08085
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for adolescent, adult, and gerontology patients. I manage several psychiatric issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic disorder, bipolar disorders, and depression and behavioral problems related to neurocognitive disorders and Parkinson’s disease. I manage several college students with ADD, anxiety, and depression. I listen to patients and respect their insight in deciding on a course of treatment. My goal for patients is to have them feel comfortable and safe with me while working together for mental wellness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for adolescent, adult, and gerontology patients. I manage several psychiatric issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic disorder, bipolar disorders, and depression and behavioral problems related to neurocognitive disorders and Parkinson’s disease. I manage several college students with ADD, anxiety, and depression. I listen to patients and respect their insight in deciding on a course of treatment. My goal for patients is to have them feel comfortable and safe with me while working together for mental wellness.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Danielle Berju - Psychiatry For You (Danielle Berju, APN, PMHNP-Bc), APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be5974e8-fbb3-418f-9e70-16bc76ed72f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry For You (Danielle Berju, APN, PMHNP-Bc)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! I'm Danielle. My job is to help you get on the right medications (if needed) and help get you off medications that are not working. However, medication is only one part of helping you feel your best. Therefore, I also include therapy and holistic wellness (support with nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mindfulness) as part of my integrative treatment. My goal is for you to feel safe, heard, included and well informed in your treatment decisions. Please note: As a telehealth only practice, due to DEA regulations/ prescribing philosophy, this practice does not prescribe controlled medications (ex: stimulants, benzodiazepines)
Hi there! I'm Danielle. My job is to help you get on the right medications (if needed) and help get you off medications that are not working. However, medication is only one part of helping you feel your best. Therefore, I also include therapy and holistic wellness (support with nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mindfulness) as part of my integrative treatment. My goal is for you to feel safe, heard, included and well informed in your treatment decisions. Please note: As a telehealth only practice, due to DEA regulations/ prescribing philosophy, this practice does not prescribe controlled medications (ex: stimulants, benzodiazepines)
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc98cda3-8871-4cb1-950c-84fdfff9235a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many people suffer with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. As a psychiatric advanced practice nurse, my goal is to meet patients where they are and provide holistic, evidence based care. We will work together to reduce symptoms and reach your goals. Together we will develop a treatment plan which may include therapy and/or psychotropic medications.
Many people suffer with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. As a psychiatric advanced practice nurse, my goal is to meet patients where they are and provide holistic, evidence based care. We will work together to reduce symptoms and reach your goals. Together we will develop a treatment plan which may include therapy and/or psychotropic medications.
![Photo of Whitney Supernavage - WLS Psychiatric Services, MSN, APN, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49fa9c91-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
WLS Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Logan Township, NJ 08085
I have dedicated years to treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I work with clients & their families to achieve positive relationships & personal fulfillment.
I have dedicated years to treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I work with clients & their families to achieve positive relationships & personal fulfillment.
![Photo of Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/149056cf-85f2-4409-a429-20581b66113b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Mickleton, NJ 08056 (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 Laura G Leahy, DrNP, APRN, PMH-FNP, CARN-AP, FAANP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44af3756-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura G Leahy
Psychiatric Nurse, DrNP, APRN, PMH-FNP, CARN-AP, FAANP
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
Not accepting new clients
As a Psychiatric & Addictions Advanced Practice Nurse, Therapist and Master Psychopharmacologist, I evaluate the physical, behavioral and emotional issues which are impacting one's quality of life. I partner with my patients to develop a treatment plan which may include various forms of therapy and/or Psychotropic medications to address the issues at hand. To request an appointment, please complete the inquiry https://app.luminello.com/lauraleahypmhnp/form or visit www.APNSolutions.com
As a Psychiatric & Addictions Advanced Practice Nurse, Therapist and Master Psychopharmacologist, I evaluate the physical, behavioral and emotional issues which are impacting one's quality of life. I partner with my patients to develop a treatment plan which may include various forms of therapy and/or Psychotropic medications to address the issues at hand. To request an appointment, please complete the inquiry https://app.luminello.com/lauraleahypmhnp/form or visit www.APNSolutions.com
![Photo of Deborah Marie Toole - Deborah Toole LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc3a771-b79e-4f1e-b59c-d26a354e5b83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Toole LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Royal, NJ 08061
My approach to treating my clients consists of compassion, client centered treatments. I offer medication management as well as some therapy. The most important aspect of treatment is good communication and really listening to the client and their experiences. Personal trauma and experiences along with current events have created an increasingly stressful environment. It is more important than ever that clients have access to mental health services. Using compassion and empathy I will create a safe environment for YOU the client.
My approach to treating my clients consists of compassion, client centered treatments. I offer medication management as well as some therapy. The most important aspect of treatment is good communication and really listening to the client and their experiences. Personal trauma and experiences along with current events have created an increasingly stressful environment. It is more important than ever that clients have access to mental health services. Using compassion and empathy I will create a safe environment for YOU the client.
![Photo of Amy Carnall - Clarity Psychiatric Care, DNP, APN, PMHNP, RNFA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4ee58d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarity Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP, RNFA
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
Clarity Psychiatric Care is a boutique-style practice specializing in psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry). Our providers, Cristina Sertway and Dr. Amy Carnall, offer office hours in Haddonfield and Elmer and Pennington, NJ. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cristina and Dr. Amy are University of Pennsylvania, holistically-trained nurse practitioners, emphasizing patient and family-centered care.
Clarity Psychiatric Care is a boutique-style practice specializing in psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry). Our providers, Cristina Sertway and Dr. Amy Carnall, offer office hours in Haddonfield and Elmer and Pennington, NJ. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cristina and Dr. Amy are University of Pennsylvania, holistically-trained nurse practitioners, emphasizing patient and family-centered care.
![Photo of Maria Leotti, AHNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb6b193-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Leotti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AHNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 (Online Only)
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Gideon Thuo, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0847fffe-3f96-4c39-bb6b-b5cbcdba6b90/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am pleased to offer Saturday Morning appointments to accommodate the needs of working individuals. I will use my listening skills and knowledge of pharmacology to enhance your mental health care so we can work together towards wellness.
I am pleased to offer Saturday Morning appointments to accommodate the needs of working individuals. I will use my listening skills and knowledge of pharmacology to enhance your mental health care so we can work together towards wellness.
![Photo of Ernst Renondeau, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e2fbe1d-0823-4632-a531-ec6c949efc26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ernst Renondeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08817 (Online Only)
Ernst is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Trained and experience in treating individuals (ages 5-99) struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorders, thoughts disorders and many other mental illnesses. Ernst is a caring and empathetic practitioner who uses pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options to deliver optimal care to clients. Ernst has been in the nursing field for two decades and has provided mental health services to clients at various healthcare settings.
Ernst is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Trained and experience in treating individuals (ages 5-99) struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorders, thoughts disorders and many other mental illnesses. Ernst is a caring and empathetic practitioner who uses pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options to deliver optimal care to clients. Ernst has been in the nursing field for two decades and has provided mental health services to clients at various healthcare settings.
![Photo of Andrea Papa, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34e55caf-1f88-4569-98f5-d54f29fce4df/1/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
![Photo of Zindadil Gandhi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48eb4b0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Irritability, Guilt, Feeling of lack of control, Inability to pay attention, Sleeplessness are few of the many reasons that keep us from feeling happy. When experienced on daily basis, these can significantly interfere with our performance and relationships. We wish to be happy, to perform at our best. When these experiences are due to a psychiatric condition, it warrants appropriate treatment. I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I practice Evidence Based Psychiatry to treat multiple psychiatric and behavioral conditions in Children, Teenagers and Adults.
Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Irritability, Guilt, Feeling of lack of control, Inability to pay attention, Sleeplessness are few of the many reasons that keep us from feeling happy. When experienced on daily basis, these can significantly interfere with our performance and relationships. We wish to be happy, to perform at our best. When these experiences are due to a psychiatric condition, it warrants appropriate treatment. I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I practice Evidence Based Psychiatry to treat multiple psychiatric and behavioral conditions in Children, Teenagers and Adults.
![Photo of Harriet Asamoah - K Mental Wellness LLC / , DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9aabe6ee-9b57-4057-954d-fb436435de54/3/320x400.jpeg)
K Mental Wellness LLC /
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08691 (Online Only)
Start your journey to mental wellness today at K Mental Wellness if you are struggling with challenging mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, mood swings & much more. Dr. Harriet Asamoah, a doctorate prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at K Mental Wellness is ready to assist you to reach your mental wellness potential using evidence-based treatment approaches and patient centered care. A HIPPA compliant telehealth platform is used to provide mental health services to clients in the comfort of their homes to increase access to care. Telehealth require access to a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Start your journey to mental wellness today at K Mental Wellness if you are struggling with challenging mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, mood swings & much more. Dr. Harriet Asamoah, a doctorate prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at K Mental Wellness is ready to assist you to reach your mental wellness potential using evidence-based treatment approaches and patient centered care. A HIPPA compliant telehealth platform is used to provide mental health services to clients in the comfort of their homes to increase access to care. Telehealth require access to a smartphone, tablet or computer.
![Photo of Emmanuel Ameyibor, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87b10f16-94d8-43f1-a955-4c7d667bc672/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emmanuel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has over 6 years of mental health nursing experience caring for patients across the lifespan. He graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and earned his master’s degree (Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Emmanuel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has over 6 years of mental health nursing experience caring for patients across the lifespan. He graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and earned his master’s degree (Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
![Photo of Yahaya Animashaun - Victory Psych Consultation Services, PMHNP, - BC, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec85cc45-25fe-47ff-aeb8-49bbae1bb68a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victory Psych Consultation Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC, MA
Verified Verified
Blackwood, NJ 08012
I am a Board-Certified Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been providing proficient psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treating diverse psychiatric conditions across the lifespan since June 2021. I provide initial assessments and follow-ups, medication management, hospital ER psychiatric liaison consultation, and collaborative care. I have over twenty-five years of experience in psychiatric nursing care, managing patients with mental health crises, and caring for clients in both short and long-term settings. My professional strengths include the use of evidence-based treatment approaches.
I am a Board-Certified Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been providing proficient psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treating diverse psychiatric conditions across the lifespan since June 2021. I provide initial assessments and follow-ups, medication management, hospital ER psychiatric liaison consultation, and collaborative care. I have over twenty-five years of experience in psychiatric nursing care, managing patients with mental health crises, and caring for clients in both short and long-term settings. My professional strengths include the use of evidence-based treatment approaches.
![Photo of Cherie Elfenbein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b7a375a-1b71-446f-9fbe-f9b7a322878d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified in adult psychiatry and I work with clients to attain mental wellness in all areas of one life. My practice is collaborative and integrates psychopharmacology with my interest/training in nutrition, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mindbody therapies. My areas of expertise are in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma. I search for the underlying physiologic causes that can contribute to your symptoms or challenges. Supplements, vitamins, and herbs may be recommended along with or instead of medicine. Genetic testing is offered to individualize treatment. Women’s health is another area of expertise.
I am board certified in adult psychiatry and I work with clients to attain mental wellness in all areas of one life. My practice is collaborative and integrates psychopharmacology with my interest/training in nutrition, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mindbody therapies. My areas of expertise are in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma. I search for the underlying physiologic causes that can contribute to your symptoms or challenges. Supplements, vitamins, and herbs may be recommended along with or instead of medicine. Genetic testing is offered to individualize treatment. Women’s health is another area of expertise.
![Photo of Gabriela Andrade - Haddonfield Psychiatry & Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e4e42d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Andrade brings her wide range of experience and training to treat each person who comes to her as a unique, complex and multidimensional individual.
Dr. Andrade brings her wide range of experience and training to treat each person who comes to her as a unique, complex and multidimensional individual.
![Photo of Dr. Ulanda Marcus-Aiyeku - Remi's Room, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, NE-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a27ac55-a7bc-48fc-bec0-cec3c775bd08/3/320x400.jpeg)
Remi's Room, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NE-BC
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726 (Online Only)
As individuals, we are very much influenced by what our eyes have seen, our ears have heard, and what our hearts have felt. With over 25 years of healthcare experience in various clinical settings I understand the need for care that is individualized, delivered with cultural competence and designed to empower. I am a provider who understands stress, coping and the beauty of transformation.
As individuals, we are very much influenced by what our eyes have seen, our ears have heard, and what our hearts have felt. With over 25 years of healthcare experience in various clinical settings I understand the need for care that is individualized, delivered with cultural competence and designed to empower. I am a provider who understands stress, coping and the beauty of transformation.
![Photo of Donna Nelson-Henry - UMatter Telepsychiatry Services, MSN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ded1c9eb-28bc-4a08-a205-c1f9342b3f11/1/320x400.jpeg)
UMatter Telepsychiatry Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Bordentown, NJ 08505
Are you feeling hopelessness, overwhelmed, anxious and having difficulty meeting your daily goals and purpose? Umatter Telepsychiatry Services is here to support you as you navigate through life's challenges.
Are you feeling hopelessness, overwhelmed, anxious and having difficulty meeting your daily goals and purpose? Umatter Telepsychiatry Services is here to support you as you navigate through life's challenges.
See more therapy options for Swedesboro
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Swedesboro, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Swedesboro, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Swedesboro, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Swedesboro?
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.