Psychiatrists in Cold Spring Harbor, NY
![Photo of Lesley Rothschild, MS, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/327c27ff-f2c7-4c36-a8b5-4f21b93418f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lesley Rothschild
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is Board Certified to treat children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in psychopharmacology and my treatment philosophy centers on caring for the whole person as well as integrating holistic intervention’s when possible. I see patients between the ages of 5 and 65 years of age. Please note that I do not sub-specialize in geriatrics. Pharmacogenetic DNA testing via Genomind and GeneSight is available for appropriate patients.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is Board Certified to treat children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in psychopharmacology and my treatment philosophy centers on caring for the whole person as well as integrating holistic intervention’s when possible. I see patients between the ages of 5 and 65 years of age. Please note that I do not sub-specialize in geriatrics. Pharmacogenetic DNA testing via Genomind and GeneSight is available for appropriate patients.
![Photo of Victoria Fink, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4773d0bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are struggling to find emotional balance, but want to live a healthier, happier life - I would gladly help you and welcome you to my office. My psychiatry practice is focused on treating mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and other related mental health conditions in late adolescence and adulthood. My other area of expertise is the management of mood disorders during and after pregnancy. I strive to ensure the most empathic, supporting and contemporary treatment in a safe and welcoming environment.
If you are struggling to find emotional balance, but want to live a healthier, happier life - I would gladly help you and welcome you to my office. My psychiatry practice is focused on treating mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and other related mental health conditions in late adolescence and adulthood. My other area of expertise is the management of mood disorders during and after pregnancy. I strive to ensure the most empathic, supporting and contemporary treatment in a safe and welcoming environment.
![Photo of Arusha Farahani MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b1f05cc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Arusha Farahani MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724 (Online Only)
Everyone deserves the chance to have a mind that is calm, clear and content. As a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist I treat an array of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. While I specialize in medication management I consider the individual as a whole and provide comprehensive treatment plans that include non-medication strategies to help you live your best life. I encourage a collaborative approach and want patients to be active in treatment planning and decision-making. [I do not accept insurance but I am happy to provide invoices for you to submit for out-of-network benefits.]
Everyone deserves the chance to have a mind that is calm, clear and content. As a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist I treat an array of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. While I specialize in medication management I consider the individual as a whole and provide comprehensive treatment plans that include non-medication strategies to help you live your best life. I encourage a collaborative approach and want patients to be active in treatment planning and decision-making. [I do not accept insurance but I am happy to provide invoices for you to submit for out-of-network benefits.]
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caa56e5a-ab24-4efc-8926-09774f441e02/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Child & Adult Clinical Psychiatry NY & Deep TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Aleksandra Krunic, MD, a top psychiatrist serving patients in Long Island and New York with a variety of advanced treatments for mental health disorders, is announcing new BrainsWay’s Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) for the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Aleksandra Krunic, MD, lead psychiatrist and founder of the practice, has been utilizing a similar helmet for the treatment of depression with great patient outcomes. Deep TMS has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for depression since 2013 and received approval for OCD in August of 2018.
Aleksandra Krunic, MD, a top psychiatrist serving patients in Long Island and New York with a variety of advanced treatments for mental health disorders, is announcing new BrainsWay’s Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) for the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Aleksandra Krunic, MD, lead psychiatrist and founder of the practice, has been utilizing a similar helmet for the treatment of depression with great patient outcomes. Deep TMS has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for depression since 2013 and received approval for OCD in August of 2018.
![Photo of Lee Anne Nadell, PMHNP-, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6db908f8-60cb-4250-8f6f-6c0c5804a129/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lee Anne Nadell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I have spent years working with a range of clients all struggling with some aspect of their lives ranging from anxiety and stress to depression. These clients initially present feeling frustrated and powerless due to a seemingly outsized challenge but with the necessary treatment positive outcomes have come out of conflict and have served for opportunities for growth. Working in collaboration with quality therapists and using pharmacological treatment when appropriate the implications can be boosted self-esteem, untangled emotional dilemmas, support during grief or trauma, or the discovery of courage after a loss, divorce or illness
I have spent years working with a range of clients all struggling with some aspect of their lives ranging from anxiety and stress to depression. These clients initially present feeling frustrated and powerless due to a seemingly outsized challenge but with the necessary treatment positive outcomes have come out of conflict and have served for opportunities for growth. Working in collaboration with quality therapists and using pharmacological treatment when appropriate the implications can be boosted self-esteem, untangled emotional dilemmas, support during grief or trauma, or the discovery of courage after a loss, divorce or illness
![Photo of Bob Kalani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6638c3aa-b663-4684-b124-0af320f0f874/2/320x400.jpeg)
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We have had the satisfaction of seeing 100s of our clients achieve success and their lives changed through the shared partnership and treatment planning with us. Unlike the traditional mental health practitioner who focuses on only the problems or deficits and dominates the treatment decision making, we focus on client strengths, empowerment and choices, preventive, skill acquisition, quality-of-life. We like to talk to our clients, our clients feel they are heard and understood.
The mission of our practice is to provide Person-Centered Care and empower our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their desirable goals. We have had the satisfaction of seeing 100s of our clients achieve success and their lives changed through the shared partnership and treatment planning with us. Unlike the traditional mental health practitioner who focuses on only the problems or deficits and dominates the treatment decision making, we focus on client strengths, empowerment and choices, preventive, skill acquisition, quality-of-life. We like to talk to our clients, our clients feel they are heard and understood.
![Photo of Jessica Barofsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b87ed0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Barofsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743 (Online Only)
I work together with clients and their families to understanding greater the underlying issues from which many psychiatric manifestations are stemming from, providing psychoeducation, and then picking the best suited, personalized treatment plan to address the specific needs of each client.
I work together with clients and their families to understanding greater the underlying issues from which many psychiatric manifestations are stemming from, providing psychoeducation, and then picking the best suited, personalized treatment plan to address the specific needs of each client.
![Photo of Romane Melissa Abbensetts, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e944309-a4d9-4966-a308-aeacd2354d90/1/320x400.jpeg)
Romane Melissa Abbensetts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, focused in providing Client Centered Care to adults with various mental health needs. To optimize care, first I will perform a comprehensive mental health assessment, individual psychotherapy and medication management. My objective is to evaluate both your physical and mental health well-being in order to formulate a diagnosis, and develop an invidualized treatment plan; to provide unbiased humane care, and effective treatment for all.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, focused in providing Client Centered Care to adults with various mental health needs. To optimize care, first I will perform a comprehensive mental health assessment, individual psychotherapy and medication management. My objective is to evaluate both your physical and mental health well-being in order to formulate a diagnosis, and develop an invidualized treatment plan; to provide unbiased humane care, and effective treatment for all.
![Photo of Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fbfd505-e6cc-4514-ac2e-ec1150f983ba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743 (Online Only)
Book an appointment online today via our website corepsychiatry.org!
Book an appointment online today via our website corepsychiatry.org!
![Photo of Andrea Carlsen - North Shore TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46c601e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
North Shore TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Not accepting new clients
I am accepting new patients for TMS therapy & Ketamine treatment with Spravato. I am not currently accepting new patients into my solo psychiatric or functional medicine practice. My approach to each patient is guided by my belief that each of us has a purpose in life's journey. I have been providing TMS since 2010 and have seen TMS change to lives of our patients, from adolescents to senior adults. I am committed to helping my patients fight their depression and reclaim their health.
I am accepting new patients for TMS therapy & Ketamine treatment with Spravato. I am not currently accepting new patients into my solo psychiatric or functional medicine practice. My approach to each patient is guided by my belief that each of us has a purpose in life's journey. I have been providing TMS since 2010 and have seen TMS change to lives of our patients, from adolescents to senior adults. I am committed to helping my patients fight their depression and reclaim their health.
Psychiatric & Psychotherapy Services
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MS, NP
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
"The mission of my practice is to provide Person-Centered Care" and empower my clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve "their" desirable goals. I've had the satisfaction of seeing my clients achieve success and their lives changed through the shared partnership and treatment planning with me. Unlike the traditional mental health practitioner who focuses only on the problems or deficits, and dominates the treatment of decision making; I focus on my client's strengths, skill acquisition, quality-of-life, and choices. I like to talk to my clients. My clients feel they are heard and understood.
"The mission of my practice is to provide Person-Centered Care" and empower my clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve "their" desirable goals. I've had the satisfaction of seeing my clients achieve success and their lives changed through the shared partnership and treatment planning with me. Unlike the traditional mental health practitioner who focuses only on the problems or deficits, and dominates the treatment of decision making; I focus on my client's strengths, skill acquisition, quality-of-life, and choices. I like to talk to my clients. My clients feel they are heard and understood.
![Photo of Ruslan Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8980e83a-303f-4d5b-b1fb-a94d8fce88e0/1/320x400.png)
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743 (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Megan B Resnick, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a47a1da5-e87a-4ac7-92c5-5459ea6bf997/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan B Resnick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
I work with adults ages 18 and older struggling with Anxiety, Panic disorder, ADHD, OCD, Depression, as well as, a several other psychiatric diagnoses. I offer concierge style of approach, my treatment plans are individual to your needs and treatment goals. I am open and supportive of a holistic approach to achieving wellness, with the options to utilize medication management when necessary. I will require a screening assessment prior to initial intake. I am an provider with CIGNA, OSCAR, BC/BS, AETNA, United Heath, Oxford ONLY. No community plans are accepted. Private pay is accepted.
I work with adults ages 18 and older struggling with Anxiety, Panic disorder, ADHD, OCD, Depression, as well as, a several other psychiatric diagnoses. I offer concierge style of approach, my treatment plans are individual to your needs and treatment goals. I am open and supportive of a holistic approach to achieving wellness, with the options to utilize medication management when necessary. I will require a screening assessment prior to initial intake. I am an provider with CIGNA, OSCAR, BC/BS, AETNA, United Heath, Oxford ONLY. No community plans are accepted. Private pay is accepted.
![Photo of Catherine Costa, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/798fc786-6ba7-4243-b168-2383eafe2228/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Costa is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2013. Catherine started her journey within the medical field as an LPN many years ago. Subsequently she attained her Masters as a Registered Nurse and later her Post Masters Certificate as a Nurse Practitioner. Catherine believes in providing a holistic approach with compassion, empathy, and education. Catherine is committed to staying current within both the medical and psychiatric fields with an active participation in conferences, seminars, and electronic media.
Catherine Costa is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2013. Catherine started her journey within the medical field as an LPN many years ago. Subsequently she attained her Masters as a Registered Nurse and later her Post Masters Certificate as a Nurse Practitioner. Catherine believes in providing a holistic approach with compassion, empathy, and education. Catherine is committed to staying current within both the medical and psychiatric fields with an active participation in conferences, seminars, and electronic media.
![Photo of Marilyn Lika, NP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a4bfea4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is bilingual (English/Spanish). I am primarily in a private practice setting. Currently working with adolescents and adults utilizing both medication management and/or therapy for a wide range of Psychiatric Conditions. I look forward to meeting with you, together we will be able to formulate an individualized treatment plan.
I am a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is bilingual (English/Spanish). I am primarily in a private practice setting. Currently working with adolescents and adults utilizing both medication management and/or therapy for a wide range of Psychiatric Conditions. I look forward to meeting with you, together we will be able to formulate an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Yoel Wartenberg - Empire Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d4f3bbc-b764-44fe-afdd-0c7f7714266d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empire Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743 (Online Only)
Psychiatric practice specializing in medication management for the treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia, OCD, Panic Disorder, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Insurances Accepted, and now offering Tele-psychiatry in the New York, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island areas.
Psychiatric practice specializing in medication management for the treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia, OCD, Panic Disorder, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Insurances Accepted, and now offering Tele-psychiatry in the New York, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island areas.
![Photo of Debra Ann Noland, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79cca6b2-e0a7-4be6-a0ea-a94dc0ab5af1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I know that asking for help can be difficult so I want to give you Kudos for taking this first step! It isn't easy but I can assure you we will work together to help get you back on track-whether you are struggling with childhood trauma, a chronic illness or just need some help with everyday life. This may involve therapy, medication or a combination of the two.
I know that asking for help can be difficult so I want to give you Kudos for taking this first step! It isn't easy but I can assure you we will work together to help get you back on track-whether you are struggling with childhood trauma, a chronic illness or just need some help with everyday life. This may involve therapy, medication or a combination of the two.
![Photo of Ardouin Coriolan, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fe232c2-9029-4180-8669-0d87e42b847b/1/320x400.png)
Ardouin Coriolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743 (Online Only)
As a dedicated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in New York, I render hope for individuals battling mental illness and substance abuse. With a profound commitment to healing, I offer teletherapy services, leveraging technology to reach those in need regardless of location. Armed with a wealth of expertise and compassion, I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. Some common issues potential clients seeking treatment from me usually consist of : substance abuse, depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, and low motivation.
As a dedicated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in New York, I render hope for individuals battling mental illness and substance abuse. With a profound commitment to healing, I offer teletherapy services, leveraging technology to reach those in need regardless of location. Armed with a wealth of expertise and compassion, I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. Some common issues potential clients seeking treatment from me usually consist of : substance abuse, depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, and low motivation.
![Photo of Helen Daly, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b485e056-0a97-4fc4-84ca-e161d477ecdd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helen Daly is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2019. She has an AAS RN from Arapahoe Community College, a BSN, Magna Cum Laude from Molloy University and an MSN, APRN, PMHNP from Molloy University. Helen listens. She observes things that many people do not notice. She diagnoses and treats patients as if they were her own family, delivering care with a strong sense of empathy.
Helen Daly is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2019. She has an AAS RN from Arapahoe Community College, a BSN, Magna Cum Laude from Molloy University and an MSN, APRN, PMHNP from Molloy University. Helen listens. She observes things that many people do not notice. She diagnoses and treats patients as if they were her own family, delivering care with a strong sense of empathy.
See more therapy options for Cold Spring Harbor
Nearby Searches for Cold Spring Harbor
- Commack
- Dix Hills
- Farmingdale
- Hicksville
- Huntington
- Huntington Station
- Jericho
- Melville
- Northport
- Plainview
- Syosset
- Woodbury
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cold Spring Harbor, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Cold Spring Harbor, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Women's Issues |
50% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
24 Years
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Cold Spring Harbor, NY see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cold Spring Harbor?
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.