Psychiatrists in North Carolina
![Photo of Bindu Mason, PMC, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a25654d1-38c4-4191-9fbb-aee5346d6455/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bindu Mason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMC, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Bindu Mason, CEO and Founder of Behavioral Health Wellness Outpatient Clinic, is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner licensed in NC with over 16 years of extensive experience. Bindu Mason's career has been dedicated to serving individuals with mental illnesses, and she is ready to bring this wealth of expertise to your care. Thank you for considering her. Bindu treats each client as a partner; together, you and her work toward a common goal. For Bindu, communication with her clients and their families is essential to providing the best care. Bindu provides compassionate and cutting-edge treatment.
Bindu Mason, CEO and Founder of Behavioral Health Wellness Outpatient Clinic, is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner licensed in NC with over 16 years of extensive experience. Bindu Mason's career has been dedicated to serving individuals with mental illnesses, and she is ready to bring this wealth of expertise to your care. Thank you for considering her. Bindu treats each client as a partner; together, you and her work toward a common goal. For Bindu, communication with her clients and their families is essential to providing the best care. Bindu provides compassionate and cutting-edge treatment.
![Photo of Rokima Knox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1e19450-24a3-4b3e-9d49-833725e3e55f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rokima Knox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden University. I have been in the field of nursing for over 17 years. I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I offer ADHD evaluation for adults using an affirming, neurodivergent approach. Assessment areas include Executive Function, Anxiety & Mood, Trauma / Attachment, Sensory, and Language with the consideration of health, sleep, and environment.
Hi! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden University. I have been in the field of nursing for over 17 years. I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I offer ADHD evaluation for adults using an affirming, neurodivergent approach. Assessment areas include Executive Function, Anxiety & Mood, Trauma / Attachment, Sensory, and Language with the consideration of health, sleep, and environment.
![Photo of Christopher R Bradley, MPAS , DMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25445e4a-1870-4c70-a50f-7ba4c42d25b0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher R Bradley
Physician Assistant, MPAS , DMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117
Best life brings the quality of care and patient's functional needs back to the forefront. Our mission is to care for our patients individually, to provide optimal treatment and proper management. The practice strives to provide not only hope for our patients, but a provider to listen to their needs. Best life works to improve patients mental health, while also focusing on their overall wellness.
Best life brings the quality of care and patient's functional needs back to the forefront. Our mission is to care for our patients individually, to provide optimal treatment and proper management. The practice strives to provide not only hope for our patients, but a provider to listen to their needs. Best life works to improve patients mental health, while also focusing on their overall wellness.
![Photo of Robin Peterson, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4733ac68-b1aa-4483-a610-8dd40bcd365b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Hello. My name is Robin. I have been a psychiatric Nurse for over 25 years. I have experience, knowledge and expertise working with a variety of clients. I use a person centered approach in order to meet the individualized needs of each client. I graduated from University of Texas in Austin with a Bachelor in Nursing and received a post masters certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Vanderbilt university. I retired from active duty 2016.
Hello. My name is Robin. I have been a psychiatric Nurse for over 25 years. I have experience, knowledge and expertise working with a variety of clients. I use a person centered approach in order to meet the individualized needs of each client. I graduated from University of Texas in Austin with a Bachelor in Nursing and received a post masters certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Vanderbilt university. I retired from active duty 2016.
![Photo of Amanda Mitchell, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b75d4810-1db3-40cc-bb3b-d0c2b38c0c0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Everyone goes through difficult times in their life. Sometimes we need a little more help than usual to pick up the pieces & keep moving forward. When you are struggling to cope with mental health symptoms, you need someone who will listen & who will provide a helping hand. That's what I try to do with all of my patients at Nautilus Mental Health. Medications may not "fix" everything, but they can be a very helpful tool to help you work toward optimal mental health, in combination with therapy & other important supports.
Everyone goes through difficult times in their life. Sometimes we need a little more help than usual to pick up the pieces & keep moving forward. When you are struggling to cope with mental health symptoms, you need someone who will listen & who will provide a helping hand. That's what I try to do with all of my patients at Nautilus Mental Health. Medications may not "fix" everything, but they can be a very helpful tool to help you work toward optimal mental health, in combination with therapy & other important supports.
![Photo of Claris Livingstone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc5b93f7-3cc7-47f9-8a16-39680f8376bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Originally from the Caribbean, Claris started her nursing career over 30 years ago and is currently a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Claris graduated from Walden University with her family medicine studies and then from Liberty University with her psychiatric studies. Claris has a combined nursing experiencing spanning from neonatal to geriatric nursing responding to various levels of urgent and severe medical conditions and stabilization of such conditions. Claris' current focus is family psychiatry. She is of the firm belief that mental health is vital in every stage of life.
Originally from the Caribbean, Claris started her nursing career over 30 years ago and is currently a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Claris graduated from Walden University with her family medicine studies and then from Liberty University with her psychiatric studies. Claris has a combined nursing experiencing spanning from neonatal to geriatric nursing responding to various levels of urgent and severe medical conditions and stabilization of such conditions. Claris' current focus is family psychiatry. She is of the firm belief that mental health is vital in every stage of life.
![Photo of Gina Varalli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a541b73-dc9f-4498-b438-19d51cf04e6f/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on elevating mental well-being. My dedication to healing propels my practice and includes over 15 years’ experience in healthcare with 7 years’ experience in mental health exclusively. I have worked with patients from ages 6 and up, with a wide range of psychiatric needs. My approach is patient-centered and inclusive of individuals, reflecting my belief in addressing mental health comprehensively.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on elevating mental well-being. My dedication to healing propels my practice and includes over 15 years’ experience in healthcare with 7 years’ experience in mental health exclusively. I have worked with patients from ages 6 and up, with a wide range of psychiatric needs. My approach is patient-centered and inclusive of individuals, reflecting my belief in addressing mental health comprehensively.
![Photo of Dr. Gregory Helton, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cda2dcf-60a5-4c99-9c51-5e202f1518a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gergory Helton is fascinated by the mind. He wants his patients to understand themselves to help relieve their suffering. Dr. Helton helps patients suffering from psychosis with long-acting injectables.
Dr. Gergory Helton is fascinated by the mind. He wants his patients to understand themselves to help relieve their suffering. Dr. Helton helps patients suffering from psychosis with long-acting injectables.
![Photo of Nicole Lloyd Johnson, PA-C, CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e34d15b4-f574-41b2-bc58-91ab927c3726/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole believes that mind care is imperative for a sound mind and body relationship. She provides a safe atmosphere where her patients can find comfort and stability while working to reach their goals.
Nicole believes that mind care is imperative for a sound mind and body relationship. She provides a safe atmosphere where her patients can find comfort and stability while working to reach their goals.
![Photo of Morgan Stenger, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc593dd4-909e-47e1-b40a-ae20ab434c9c/2/320x400.png)
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
![Photo of Timothy Alan Balisky - Excel Psychiatric Associates, PA, MSN, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/839d48ed-6ac9-4fc8-9123-23fa6ac620bf/1/320x400.png)
Excel Psychiatric Associates, PA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Hello and welcome. My name is Timothy Balisky and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner. This means that I am a nurse practitioner with specialty training and board certification focused on psychiatric mental healthcare. Three particular areas that I focus on within this specialty of mental health are treatment resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I have a real passion for understanding the details that make up every person’s history, particularly as it relates to their struggle with mental illness.
Hello and welcome. My name is Timothy Balisky and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner. This means that I am a nurse practitioner with specialty training and board certification focused on psychiatric mental healthcare. Three particular areas that I focus on within this specialty of mental health are treatment resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I have a real passion for understanding the details that make up every person’s history, particularly as it relates to their struggle with mental illness.
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![Photo of Stoney Lee Bowman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/474b4c34-6f75-484d-a80c-6a710db5f98b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stoney Lee Bowman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701 (Online Only)
My clinical interests include treating psychiatric patients across the life spectrum. His clinical practice includes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy services. I am interested in a holistic approach to patient care including dealing with nutritional, exercise, sleep, and stress reduction strategies to improve overall mental health conditions. My clinical style has been described as friendly, conversational, and engaging.
My clinical interests include treating psychiatric patients across the life spectrum. His clinical practice includes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy services. I am interested in a holistic approach to patient care including dealing with nutritional, exercise, sleep, and stress reduction strategies to improve overall mental health conditions. My clinical style has been described as friendly, conversational, and engaging.
![Photo of Sydney Johnston, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f813b893-6ad7-43d7-bd86-be0e40b37270/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Johnston
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713 (Online Only)
I am wholeheartedly committed to building a trusting relationship with you on our journey towards a life brimming with happiness and fulfillment. Leveraging my extensive expertise in mental health, including but not limited to addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, anxiety, depression, drug abuse, eating disorders, loss, grief, and bereavement, life transitions, school issues, self-esteem, self-harming, sleep or insomnia, stress, substance abuse, women's issues, adjustment difficulties and disorders, phobias and fears, burnout, panic attacks/panic disorder, and many more—I prioritize transparent communication and honesty.
I am wholeheartedly committed to building a trusting relationship with you on our journey towards a life brimming with happiness and fulfillment. Leveraging my extensive expertise in mental health, including but not limited to addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, anxiety, depression, drug abuse, eating disorders, loss, grief, and bereavement, life transitions, school issues, self-esteem, self-harming, sleep or insomnia, stress, substance abuse, women's issues, adjustment difficulties and disorders, phobias and fears, burnout, panic attacks/panic disorder, and many more—I prioritize transparent communication and honesty.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bfb6f21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Board certified Psychiatrists (Child & Adult), Psychologists and Therapists in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) provide comprehensive psychiatric care and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Depression and OCD.
Board certified Psychiatrists (Child & Adult), Psychologists and Therapists in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) provide comprehensive psychiatric care and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Depression and OCD.
![Photo of Hani Elwafi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a35123-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Transformance Health, we focus on helping clients become better versions of themselves, and to transform potential into reality. We apply evidence-based principles of neuroscience, psychology, ketamine assisted psychotherapy, meditation and mindfulness, stress management, nutrition, exercise, and pharmacology to promote thriving.
At Transformance Health, we focus on helping clients become better versions of themselves, and to transform potential into reality. We apply evidence-based principles of neuroscience, psychology, ketamine assisted psychotherapy, meditation and mindfulness, stress management, nutrition, exercise, and pharmacology to promote thriving.
![Photo of Kelly Cobb, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2172197-5d48-4a27-93b5-f6c0867c3eda/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Cobb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
I service clients across diverse age groups, from children to seniors, who are facing mental health challenges and substance misuse issues. Their needs often include managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and etc. as well as achieving emotional balance and improving their overall quality of life. Their goals are to find effective coping strategies, enhance their mental health, and lead fulfilling lives. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique circumstances and helps them achieve lasting well-being.
I service clients across diverse age groups, from children to seniors, who are facing mental health challenges and substance misuse issues. Their needs often include managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and etc. as well as achieving emotional balance and improving their overall quality of life. Their goals are to find effective coping strategies, enhance their mental health, and lead fulfilling lives. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique circumstances and helps them achieve lasting well-being.
![Photo of Amiee Myatt - Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efdb8818-7b54-4a3d-b238-9ab2c82be9da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562 (Online Only)
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
![Photo of Erin Elizabeth Klender - Common Ground Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb9d8189-66b7-4504-a54a-6f23d63c694a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Common Ground Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Common Ground Psychiatry is here to help North Carolina adults and teens get back to feeling happy again! We prescribe medication that makes sense for you and your unique situation, taking the time to listen, truly understand your goals, and educate you on all available options. Experience 100% confidential care in-person in our Davidson, or Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill location. The goal at Common Ground is to help you feel less anxious, more rested, and ready to crush your goals in relationships, business, parenthood, or whatever YOU want.
Common Ground Psychiatry is here to help North Carolina adults and teens get back to feeling happy again! We prescribe medication that makes sense for you and your unique situation, taking the time to listen, truly understand your goals, and educate you on all available options. Experience 100% confidential care in-person in our Davidson, or Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill location. The goal at Common Ground is to help you feel less anxious, more rested, and ready to crush your goals in relationships, business, parenthood, or whatever YOU want.
![Photo of Kesha Spaulding, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf04718-9c7f-4ba7-aff3-422b291345ef/1/320x400.png)
Kesha Spaulding
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615 (Online Only)
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar and trauma. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar and trauma. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Mattias Hartmann, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/247dde35-fa24-41c4-8cfb-bae68444937d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mattias was inspired to pursue a career in mental healthcare by a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to helping individuals facing mental health challenges. His journey to Animo Sano Psychiatry was driven by the clinic's patient-centered approach, its reputation for excellence, and its cohesive workflow as a group. He believes in the power of collaborative, evidence-based care, and is excited to contribute to the practice to help those with mental health needs.
Mattias was inspired to pursue a career in mental healthcare by a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to helping individuals facing mental health challenges. His journey to Animo Sano Psychiatry was driven by the clinic's patient-centered approach, its reputation for excellence, and its cohesive workflow as a group. He believes in the power of collaborative, evidence-based care, and is excited to contribute to the practice to help those with mental health needs.
See more therapy options for North Carolina
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$190
Psychiatrists in North Carolina who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in North Carolina see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in North Carolina?
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.