Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA
![Photo of Nicole (Nikki) Gallegos, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6023322c-4032-46bd-8142-b88a46ea9576/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole (Nikki) Gallegos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Online Only)
Do you believe in the importance of recognizing the interconnected nature of mind, body, and spirit? It's a beautiful philosophy rooted in the understanding that genuine healing involves addressing every aspect of who you are. Hello! I'm Nikki, a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 16 years of nursing experience in various healthcare settings (emergency rooms, in-patient/hospital, long-term care, corrections, pediatric special needs, geriatrics, & sexual assault). As an Air Force veteran, a proud mother of three, & an active Catholic parishioner, my journey deeply influences how I approach mental health & well-being.
Do you believe in the importance of recognizing the interconnected nature of mind, body, and spirit? It's a beautiful philosophy rooted in the understanding that genuine healing involves addressing every aspect of who you are. Hello! I'm Nikki, a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 16 years of nursing experience in various healthcare settings (emergency rooms, in-patient/hospital, long-term care, corrections, pediatric special needs, geriatrics, & sexual assault). As an Air Force veteran, a proud mother of three, & an active Catholic parishioner, my journey deeply influences how I approach mental health & well-being.
![Photo of Sonja McFadden, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59477180-27db-4743-974a-2088dd7fce02/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sonja McFadden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS in person or virtually, with immediate openings and evening availability. I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I care for children, teens and adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, panic, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, insomnia, grief, eating disorders, and postpartum anxiety/depression. I am Certified in Clinical Hypnotherapy/Age Regression, Trauma/Inner Child Healing, Somatic Therapy and HypnoBreathwork. I have an Advanced Certification in Obesity for Weight Management. I offer personalized treatment that address the mind, body, and spirit.
I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS in person or virtually, with immediate openings and evening availability. I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I care for children, teens and adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, panic, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, insomnia, grief, eating disorders, and postpartum anxiety/depression. I am Certified in Clinical Hypnotherapy/Age Regression, Trauma/Inner Child Healing, Somatic Therapy and HypnoBreathwork. I have an Advanced Certification in Obesity for Weight Management. I offer personalized treatment that address the mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Katharine W Heatwole - Ocean Psychiatric Group, P.C., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9ce1eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ocean Psychiatric Group P.C, is a collaborative group of Neurological and Mental Health professionals who will serve your needs with competence, integrity and compassion. We are a group of individuals licensed in Psychiatry, Neurology, Clinical Psychology, Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing. Our practice is complemented by Prescribing Nurse Practitioners, Board Certified in Psychiatric and Family Medicine . We are committed to provide excellent patient care within our specialties, in a confidential and comfortable environment.
Ocean Psychiatric Group P.C, is a collaborative group of Neurological and Mental Health professionals who will serve your needs with competence, integrity and compassion. We are a group of individuals licensed in Psychiatry, Neurology, Clinical Psychology, Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing. Our practice is complemented by Prescribing Nurse Practitioners, Board Certified in Psychiatric and Family Medicine . We are committed to provide excellent patient care within our specialties, in a confidential and comfortable environment.
![Photo of Harpreet Kang, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6e5446-0e7d-4401-938c-3fc149afc691/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
![Photo of Trish Parker, PMHNP, BC, DNP-S, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e320a871-fa98-4386-8395-5a0067c4b89e/1/320x400.png)
Trish Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
As a retired military provider, I firmly believe that every individual deserves to lead a fulfilling life, irrespective of their race, religion, sexuality, nationality, or age. I am drawn to clients who are driven to effect positive changes in their lives and are willing to invest their time and energy in achieving their aspirations. What they all have in common is a desire to plant the seeds of change and growth. As your provider, I help nurture those seeds, providing guidance, support, and accountability. Together, we work to cultivate a life that is fulfilling, purposeful, and meaningful.
As a retired military provider, I firmly believe that every individual deserves to lead a fulfilling life, irrespective of their race, religion, sexuality, nationality, or age. I am drawn to clients who are driven to effect positive changes in their lives and are willing to invest their time and energy in achieving their aspirations. What they all have in common is a desire to plant the seeds of change and growth. As your provider, I help nurture those seeds, providing guidance, support, and accountability. Together, we work to cultivate a life that is fulfilling, purposeful, and meaningful.
![Photo of Dr. Kenita Murray - The Comprehensive Care Center, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6612638-6021-4043-8379-6b71a021a7d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Comprehensive Care Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Online Only)
Immediate appointments available. Kenita Murray is a dual Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and has been working as a healthcare professional for the last 15 years. Kenita is an Army veteran who graduated with her Masters and Doctorate of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University.
Immediate appointments available. Kenita Murray is a dual Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and has been working as a healthcare professional for the last 15 years. Kenita is an Army veteran who graduated with her Masters and Doctorate of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University.
![Photo of Mariam Bouanane-Smith, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d960a0a-f98d-488d-b045-03d8da0c2afb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariam Bouanane-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Now accepting NEW Clients. Hello, my name is Mariam Bouanane-Smith, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about providing personalized and empathetic mental healthcare to individuals from diverse backgrounds. I have had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life in various settings, helping individuals of all ages overcome mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe every person deserves compassionate and effective mental healthcare.
Now accepting NEW Clients. Hello, my name is Mariam Bouanane-Smith, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about providing personalized and empathetic mental healthcare to individuals from diverse backgrounds. I have had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life in various settings, helping individuals of all ages overcome mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe every person deserves compassionate and effective mental healthcare.
![Photo of Amy Gallardo - Inspiration Health Addiction Treatment Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51845e0e-2b7f-4a06-b86c-692b6f5c0de7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inspiration Health Addiction Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
We are here to help anyone with a psychiatric mental health condition and/or substance use disorder.
We are here to help anyone with a psychiatric mental health condition and/or substance use disorder.
![Photo of Valentina Cimolai Md, CA, FL, NY, VA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82f977e6-daa2-4baa-b3cf-b77c279cad39/2/320x400.png)
Valentina Cimolai Md
Psychiatrist, CA, FL, NY, VA
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Online Only)
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. It is important to get to the root causes of the challenges you are facing and tap into your abilities to heal yourself. I am a board-certified psychiatrist in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, and Integrative Medicine and combine conventional treatments (medications and evidence-based therapies) with a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes, supplements, and mind-body techniques.
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. It is important to get to the root causes of the challenges you are facing and tap into your abilities to heal yourself. I am a board-certified psychiatrist in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, and Integrative Medicine and combine conventional treatments (medications and evidence-based therapies) with a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes, supplements, and mind-body techniques.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa972bf6-2cc3-4d08-a27b-358ca1277ab3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Morgan Foster, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a0d5da7-76ad-4f4d-aa06-09c1ab0993d9/1/320x400.png)
Morgan Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Choosing treatment for mental health is tough - I'm here to help guide you step by step in the process. With 8 years of experience in the psychiatric nursing field prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I gained tons of meaningful experiences helping treat mental illnesses across the entire lifespan, from toddlers to the elderly. I am here to treat each person holistically, and create a treatment plan that will fit THEM; telling someone to do something they don't agree with never works, right?
Choosing treatment for mental health is tough - I'm here to help guide you step by step in the process. With 8 years of experience in the psychiatric nursing field prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I gained tons of meaningful experiences helping treat mental illnesses across the entire lifespan, from toddlers to the elderly. I am here to treat each person holistically, and create a treatment plan that will fit THEM; telling someone to do something they don't agree with never works, right?
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![Photo of Javier Way - TrueWay Psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f803447-7662-4c4d-affa-fe666e54403a/2/320x400.jpeg)
TrueWay Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
Here at TrueWay we love to help people who are struggling mentally and need a sense of direction. You don’t need to know the exact cause of the underlying issue quite yet - that’s what we are here to help you figure out. Once you are able to identify the trigger and stressors in your life; you are better able to manage them. Whether that is with medications, nutrition, supplements, or talk therapy. At TrueWay we are here to help you find your way to mental wellness.
Here at TrueWay we love to help people who are struggling mentally and need a sense of direction. You don’t need to know the exact cause of the underlying issue quite yet - that’s what we are here to help you figure out. Once you are able to identify the trigger and stressors in your life; you are better able to manage them. Whether that is with medications, nutrition, supplements, or talk therapy. At TrueWay we are here to help you find your way to mental wellness.
Denise F Atkinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (Online Only)
I have over 18 years of advanced practice experience and am committed to my patients. I have experience with serious mental illness including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
I have over 18 years of advanced practice experience and am committed to my patients. I have experience with serious mental illness including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
![Photo of Lekisha Caprice Pride, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e316ef9b-0eae-4992-934e-d215e8481b32/1/320x400.png)
Lekisha Caprice Pride
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 18 and older.I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment where patients feel safe, heard, and supported.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 18 and older.I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment where patients feel safe, heard, and supported.
![Photo of Liliana Kim, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c4e45af-9322-4bf9-8a03-2859eed61807/3/320x400.jpeg)
Liliana Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Dr. Liliana Kim, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing care to patients in Virginia. Dr. Kim started her career as a critical care nurse in multiple, complex health care environments such as Neonatal ICU, Cardiac ICU, and General ICU. After earning her Doctorate degree in Family Nursing Practice at the Medical University of South Carolina, she participated in two major clinical research studies, that were part of the Operation Warp Speed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Liliana Kim, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing care to patients in Virginia. Dr. Kim started her career as a critical care nurse in multiple, complex health care environments such as Neonatal ICU, Cardiac ICU, and General ICU. After earning her Doctorate degree in Family Nursing Practice at the Medical University of South Carolina, she participated in two major clinical research studies, that were part of the Operation Warp Speed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
![Photo of Eric Lange, MPA, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32424eb3-d1d5-449c-9efc-06f97afd4393/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Accepting new patients. Evening hours available.
I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Accepting new patients. Evening hours available.
![Photo of Chiquita Collins, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a347adb-cca2-4927-88ac-4a2511a7eb94/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chiquita Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
The weight of the world, life, work, marriage and family can be difficult to navigate. Np Collins leads with nonjudgment, grace and genuine intentions. Every client receives undivided attention, thoughtfulness and proper research to develop a person centered treatment plan. We work in a setting combined practice performing person centered treatment with a staff of Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who specialize in conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating individuals with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and therapists who provide individual therapy using an array of treatment modalties.
The weight of the world, life, work, marriage and family can be difficult to navigate. Np Collins leads with nonjudgment, grace and genuine intentions. Every client receives undivided attention, thoughtfulness and proper research to develop a person centered treatment plan. We work in a setting combined practice performing person centered treatment with a staff of Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who specialize in conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating individuals with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and therapists who provide individual therapy using an array of treatment modalties.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec372beb-b437-4360-9504-5ec9d190912f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Ashley Lyons, DMSc, MPA, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ee9cc69-011f-4deb-82a3-23d75f60b586/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am comfortable treating psychiatric symptoms of depression, anxiety, addiction, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychotic disorders. I take a collaborative approach and always want my patients to feel heard. I look forward to working with you!
I am comfortable treating psychiatric symptoms of depression, anxiety, addiction, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychotic disorders. I take a collaborative approach and always want my patients to feel heard. I look forward to working with you!
![Photo of Brent Coyle, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a15f1206-3afb-402b-9282-a8af86c5f21f/2/320x400.png)
Brent R. Coyle, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with the additional distinction of "Distinguished Fellow," with over 36 years of experience in psychiatry in various settings, including inpatient, academic, and outpatient. Dr. Coyle received his M.D. from The University of Minnesota, Mpls. campus, and he completed his Psychiatric Residency at Wilford Hall, USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health and well-being.
Brent R. Coyle, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with the additional distinction of "Distinguished Fellow," with over 36 years of experience in psychiatry in various settings, including inpatient, academic, and outpatient. Dr. Coyle received his M.D. from The University of Minnesota, Mpls. campus, and he completed his Psychiatric Residency at Wilford Hall, USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health and well-being.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA
100+
Average cost per session
$187
Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Medication Management |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | ADHD |
66% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Aetna |
81% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Virginia Beach?
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.