Psychiatrists in Hamburg, NY
![Photo of John Stagg, PMHNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53a34073-0158-4825-b140-7b6b4d259362/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Stagg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NY 14075 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm John, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions, you’re not alone. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, unsure of how to move forward. You might experience constant worry, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, or a pervasive sense of sadness. Balancing responsibilities at work, school, or home may be affecting your relationships and overall well-being. I understand these feelings and am here to help you find a path to healing and growth.
Hi, I'm John, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions, you’re not alone. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, unsure of how to move forward. You might experience constant worry, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, or a pervasive sense of sadness. Balancing responsibilities at work, school, or home may be affecting your relationships and overall well-being. I understand these feelings and am here to help you find a path to healing and growth.
![Photo of Paul L Fazekas - Paul L. Fazekas, PhD, NP (ADHD-telepsychiatry), PhD, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47f8d98c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul L. Fazekas, PhD, NP (ADHD-telepsychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamburg, NY 14075
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Fazekas received his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and Master of Science as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is licensed in NY State both as a Clinical Psychologist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. These unique credentials provide him the ability to offer comprehensive ADHD services for adults including neuropsychiatric assessments and prescriptions & medication management.
Dr. Fazekas received his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and Master of Science as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is licensed in NY State both as a Clinical Psychologist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. These unique credentials provide him the ability to offer comprehensive ADHD services for adults including neuropsychiatric assessments and prescriptions & medication management.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25641336-593c-4c79-982a-cf3f562d9b4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd6d0a7b-e04e-4c65-9d10-d72f2606f293/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Abigail Specht, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd0c8700-ef0b-4b1a-a4d5-682fb7a37b4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health and well-being are essential to living a meaningful and happy life. When mental illness takes over, it can cause people to isolate, feel overwhelmed, and feel that they may never get better. I am here to help you and your loved ones through this journey. My goal is to help you or your child reach their fullest potential through evidence-based psychiatric care. I will achieve this goal through medication management, psychotherapy, and education, to help you live your best life.
Mental health and well-being are essential to living a meaningful and happy life. When mental illness takes over, it can cause people to isolate, feel overwhelmed, and feel that they may never get better. I am here to help you and your loved ones through this journey. My goal is to help you or your child reach their fullest potential through evidence-based psychiatric care. I will achieve this goal through medication management, psychotherapy, and education, to help you live your best life.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5cd0cfe-32b0-4905-be5d-7981c34c7bf5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NY 14075 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
![Photo of Joann Liberta - Joann Liberta, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7e80847-ae5e-45ca-9ced-8667cbda7416/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joann Liberta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamburg, NY 14075
I am a dedicated board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over two decades of experience with working in both medical and psychiatric settings providing care to clients with a wide variety of health concerns. Common conditions treated include- depression, bipolar/mood dysregulation, anxiety/panic disorder, ADHD. PTSD, OCD, PMDD, and insomnia. I specialize in medication management in combination with brief individual supportive psychotherapy for the treatment of most mental health problems.
I am a dedicated board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over two decades of experience with working in both medical and psychiatric settings providing care to clients with a wide variety of health concerns. Common conditions treated include- depression, bipolar/mood dysregulation, anxiety/panic disorder, ADHD. PTSD, OCD, PMDD, and insomnia. I specialize in medication management in combination with brief individual supportive psychotherapy for the treatment of most mental health problems.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Ryan M Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14220
While trained broadly in mental health, I have extensive experience helping those with depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I take great joy in helping my patients overcome their difficulties so that they can obtain the happiness and quality of life they're seeking.
While trained broadly in mental health, I have extensive experience helping those with depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I take great joy in helping my patients overcome their difficulties so that they can obtain the happiness and quality of life they're seeking.
![Photo of Robert Miljour, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/536e5ec9-10ab-4184-b03b-50de24d1e783/2/320x400.png)
We all walk a different path, but human emotion is universal. Sometimes our emotions become overwhelming and we feel buried by them, paralyzed. I know this because I've been down those roads and I've come out the other side. My formal training makes me qualified to provide treatment, but my life experiences make me capable of providing care. As a member of the LGBTQ community, nonjudgement is my top priority. I offer a genuinely safe space for ALL.
We all walk a different path, but human emotion is universal. Sometimes our emotions become overwhelming and we feel buried by them, paralyzed. I know this because I've been down those roads and I've come out the other side. My formal training makes me qualified to provide treatment, but my life experiences make me capable of providing care. As a member of the LGBTQ community, nonjudgement is my top priority. I offer a genuinely safe space for ALL.
![Photo of Dina Fisher, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b04e278-135b-4440-959d-b0825f482295/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dina Fisher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orchard Park, NY 14127
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and use a shared decision making model/ trauma informed care to provide evaluation, treatment and medication management. I have worked in the mental health field as a nurse/ counselor since 1988, and decided I wanted to further my career as an NP so went back to school in 2015 when my children were older. I have worked in many areas in psychiatry and feel that experience has only improved my practice to be more comprehensive and well rounded.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and use a shared decision making model/ trauma informed care to provide evaluation, treatment and medication management. I have worked in the mental health field as a nurse/ counselor since 1988, and decided I wanted to further my career as an NP so went back to school in 2015 when my children were older. I have worked in many areas in psychiatry and feel that experience has only improved my practice to be more comprehensive and well rounded.
![Photo of Brenda Lis, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c82f1c-1b02-4b43-8bee-d0ddc52c9c8a/2/320x400.png)
Having grown up in an economically disadvantaged community, I witnessed the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their families; and having raised three children on my own, I know what it is to struggle. My experiences fueled my passion for mental health care, and I bring this empathy and understanding to every patient interaction. I am deeply committed to helping my patients overcome their challenges and treating each individual with the same care and attention I would give to my own loved ones.
Having grown up in an economically disadvantaged community, I witnessed the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their families; and having raised three children on my own, I know what it is to struggle. My experiences fueled my passion for mental health care, and I bring this empathy and understanding to every patient interaction. I am deeply committed to helping my patients overcome their challenges and treating each individual with the same care and attention I would give to my own loved ones.
![Photo of Danielle Esposito, PMH-NP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffcfc115-ec75-4aca-aa1e-16fae2ea9107/3/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Esposito
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Seneca, NY 14224
I work with those struggling to be heard, valued, understood, and accepted. I aim to affirm and respect everyone's life journey as perceived by the individual, while assisting them through their wellness journey. Everyone deserves an emotionally and culturally safe space that allows free-flowing communication to occur, thus, encouraging personal development and emotional healing. I guide client-focused conversations and act as a partner in the use of therapeutic techniques to facilitate empowerment and triumph over one's aversions.
I work with those struggling to be heard, valued, understood, and accepted. I aim to affirm and respect everyone's life journey as perceived by the individual, while assisting them through their wellness journey. Everyone deserves an emotionally and culturally safe space that allows free-flowing communication to occur, thus, encouraging personal development and emotional healing. I guide client-focused conversations and act as a partner in the use of therapeutic techniques to facilitate empowerment and triumph over one's aversions.
![Photo of Mary Arlow, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8eee6e9-cfb6-41e7-b62e-118a2f0ef9b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Arlow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14220
Not accepting new clients
My journey into providing mental health services for the community began about 16 years ago while I was employed as a registered nurse at a local hospital. After being assigned to the hospital's inpatient mental health unit, I fell in love with the specialty. I have focused my career on providing mental health services since. I have gained well rounded experience in the field of mental health over the past sixteen years, and have worked in a variety of different settings including the psychiatric emergency room, inpatient hospital, outpatient clinics, and education.
My journey into providing mental health services for the community began about 16 years ago while I was employed as a registered nurse at a local hospital. After being assigned to the hospital's inpatient mental health unit, I fell in love with the specialty. I have focused my career on providing mental health services since. I have gained well rounded experience in the field of mental health over the past sixteen years, and have worked in a variety of different settings including the psychiatric emergency room, inpatient hospital, outpatient clinics, and education.
![Photo of Debra J Stacey, MSNE, AGPCNP, FPMHNP, APRN, CDE, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e13795-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Debra J Stacey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSNE, AGPCNP, FPMHNP, APRN, CDE
Verified Verified
West Seneca, NY 14224 (Online Only)
Telehealth visits available! I have an extensive nursing practice history in almost every inpatient and outpatient area specializing in Primary Care, Women's Health, Diabetes, Mental Health and Chronic Disease management providing a more comprehensive outcome improving both mental and physical health. As a nurse, I utilize a more proactive and wellness based approach to partner with clients in the areas of diagnosis and treatment. Individual sessions can be scheduled for psychiatric/mental health evaluation, management and psychotherapy. Onsite counseling is also available.
Telehealth visits available! I have an extensive nursing practice history in almost every inpatient and outpatient area specializing in Primary Care, Women's Health, Diabetes, Mental Health and Chronic Disease management providing a more comprehensive outcome improving both mental and physical health. As a nurse, I utilize a more proactive and wellness based approach to partner with clients in the areas of diagnosis and treatment. Individual sessions can be scheduled for psychiatric/mental health evaluation, management and psychotherapy. Onsite counseling is also available.
![Photo of Marion Fitzsimmons, PhD, NP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f67eb674-2ad6-45d8-b9fb-0bd6dea81554/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marion Fitzsimmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, NP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14218 (Online Only)
When the worry, or the pain, or the fear of our current situation is standing in front of us like a brick wall, what if we could see beyond that present wall? Would seeing what lies beyond the present change how it's affecting us? When triggered by the right stressors, the genes we are born with can lead to anxiety, depression, mood swings, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations. And throughout life, we may experience abuse, neglect, loss, poverty, trauma and situations that make us feel “stuck.”
When the worry, or the pain, or the fear of our current situation is standing in front of us like a brick wall, what if we could see beyond that present wall? Would seeing what lies beyond the present change how it's affecting us? When triggered by the right stressors, the genes we are born with can lead to anxiety, depression, mood swings, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations. And throughout life, we may experience abuse, neglect, loss, poverty, trauma and situations that make us feel “stuck.”
![Photo of Anne Hewitt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae37698e-a047-4de2-bd25-417d548fbceb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've experienced firsthand the weight of anxiety and the grip of depression. But from these struggles, I've emerged with a burning resolve to be a light for others. My aim is to serve as a beacon of hope and understanding, offering compassionate care rooted in honesty and clinical expertise. My approach to treatment is grounded in the belief that healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood.
I've experienced firsthand the weight of anxiety and the grip of depression. But from these struggles, I've emerged with a burning resolve to be a light for others. My aim is to serve as a beacon of hope and understanding, offering compassionate care rooted in honesty and clinical expertise. My approach to treatment is grounded in the belief that healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood.
![Photo of Danielle Esposito - Owl Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12e072ba-cba8-4a07-b53d-9ad01d407e76/1/320x400.png)
Owl Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seneca, NY 14224
Some adults with ADHD did not have symptoms in childhood or were not diagnosed. So ADHD in adults may go undetected. Untreated ADHD can have catastrophic consequences for an adult’s career and relationships. In some cases, ADHD may manifest as another problem, such as depression or substance abuse. For people with ADHD, not taking medication is often more dangerous than using medication.ADHD is a disease, but it also comes with its own unique set of skills—high energy, creativity, a desire to try new things, and much more. People with ADHD can and do succeed at the highest levels in every profession.
Some adults with ADHD did not have symptoms in childhood or were not diagnosed. So ADHD in adults may go undetected. Untreated ADHD can have catastrophic consequences for an adult’s career and relationships. In some cases, ADHD may manifest as another problem, such as depression or substance abuse. For people with ADHD, not taking medication is often more dangerous than using medication.ADHD is a disease, but it also comes with its own unique set of skills—high energy, creativity, a desire to try new things, and much more. People with ADHD can and do succeed at the highest levels in every profession.
Emily Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orchard Park, NY 14127 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management in adults ages 18 and older. I work with clients from all different backgrounds including those who have a history of receiving mental health treatment in the past and those who are seeking help for the first time.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management in adults ages 18 and older. I work with clients from all different backgrounds including those who have a history of receiving mental health treatment in the past and those who are seeking help for the first time.
![Photo of Sarah Lynn Otwell, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fabae05-677e-4449-ac6a-8fbc3711336d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Lynn Otwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Orchard Park, NY 14127
Not accepting new clients
Currently NOT taking new patients at the moment. Here to help people who are ready to be active in their treatment and improve their quality of life. PLEASE email me at sarahotwellnp(at)gmail.com for the quickest response. I take blue cross blue shield/highmark, Independent health and Univera. Once I review email I will contact you personally to set up an appointment. Response may take a few days, your patience is appreciated!
Currently NOT taking new patients at the moment. Here to help people who are ready to be active in their treatment and improve their quality of life. PLEASE email me at sarahotwellnp(at)gmail.com for the quickest response. I take blue cross blue shield/highmark, Independent health and Univera. Once I review email I will contact you personally to set up an appointment. Response may take a few days, your patience is appreciated!
![Photo of Esposito Danielle - Adapt Psychiatry, PhD, PMHNP, NP, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89b248b5-cb8c-4070-8043-2ffb5e95e253/1/320x400.png)
Adapt Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, NP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14218
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Number of Psychiatrists in Hamburg, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hamburg, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Medication Management |
86% | Stress |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Hamburg, NY see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hamburg?
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.