Psychiatrists in Hopewell Junction, NY
![Photo of Kathleen Fanning Woods, RN, MSN, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/422dbb0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Fanning Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, NPP
Verified Verified
Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
Not accepting new clients
From our first meeting, we begin a relationship built upon kindness, empathy, trust and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address the important issues that are bringing you here. Through my years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have realized that mental health encompasses more than just words, it includes physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and deal with stressful situations, how we make choices, interact with others and find solutions. I would like the opportunity to work with you in discovering and treating the issues that are affecting you.
From our first meeting, we begin a relationship built upon kindness, empathy, trust and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address the important issues that are bringing you here. Through my years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have realized that mental health encompasses more than just words, it includes physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and deal with stressful situations, how we make choices, interact with others and find solutions. I would like the opportunity to work with you in discovering and treating the issues that are affecting you.
![Photo of Varinder S Rathore - Suboxone Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba7a3e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suboxone Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
Welcome to Suboxone/Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury. Opioid/Heroin Addiction is a national epidemic and our mission is to provide outpatient Suboxone/Buprenorphine treatment for patients with opioid dependence in a discreet manner. We also have state of the art therapist and counselors. Dr Varinder Rathore MD (“DR V”) is Double Board Certified in Adult & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment). We are conveniently located a mile from Danbury Hospital at 72 North Street, Danbury, CT 06810. https://www.suboxonedoctorny.com/
Welcome to Suboxone/Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury. Opioid/Heroin Addiction is a national epidemic and our mission is to provide outpatient Suboxone/Buprenorphine treatment for patients with opioid dependence in a discreet manner. We also have state of the art therapist and counselors. Dr Varinder Rathore MD (“DR V”) is Double Board Certified in Adult & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment). We are conveniently located a mile from Danbury Hospital at 72 North Street, Danbury, CT 06810. https://www.suboxonedoctorny.com/
![Photo of Varinder S Rathore MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45307121-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"I am Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MICA (Mentally Ill-Chemical Abuse) patients. I was born and raised in the Hudson Valley and thus feel a distinct sense of pride practicing here. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at Albany Medical Center & Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Albert Einstein Medical Center where he was an Assistant Professor. I have years of experience in treating patients with a vast range of psychiatric conditions including Major Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Bipolar Disorder and ADD/ADHD.
"I am Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MICA (Mentally Ill-Chemical Abuse) patients. I was born and raised in the Hudson Valley and thus feel a distinct sense of pride practicing here. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at Albany Medical Center & Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Albert Einstein Medical Center where he was an Assistant Professor. I have years of experience in treating patients with a vast range of psychiatric conditions including Major Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Bipolar Disorder and ADD/ADHD.
![Photo of Varinder Singh Rathore - Northern Medical Group Behavioral Health Division, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bee4f89-5dca-4af7-9aca-cbb6fcdf0576/3/320x400.jpeg)
Northern Medical Group Behavioral Health Division
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
Opiate addiction effects 1.9 million Americans and has the potential to destroy individuals and families but their is help.. We offer evidence-based medication assisted treatments including buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv) for opioid dependence. We offer personalized one-on-one care for every patient to reclaim their lives. Varinder S. Rathore MD is Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry with 15+ years experience with opioid dependence treatment. As a former Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical he is one of the most skilled addiction physicians in the country. We can help you. Call us today.
Opiate addiction effects 1.9 million Americans and has the potential to destroy individuals and families but their is help.. We offer evidence-based medication assisted treatments including buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv) for opioid dependence. We offer personalized one-on-one care for every patient to reclaim their lives. Varinder S. Rathore MD is Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry with 15+ years experience with opioid dependence treatment. As a former Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical he is one of the most skilled addiction physicians in the country. We can help you. Call us today.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Prof. Nancy Gartin Checchi, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CTN-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d70731f-44ad-41d3-989f-ee1c0ba3f51f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Prof. Nancy Gartin Checchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CTN-B
Verified Verified
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
I love working with my clients and building a strong therapeutic relationship with them is a priority to me. I provide treatment to children and adults. I maintain a private practice in Newburgh, NY and offer telemedicine appointments. I am the Graduate Coordinator and a Professor for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Mount Saint Mary College. I have a therapy dog in the office who is a golden retriever named Mac. Please let me know if you are allergic or prefer him not to be in the office for our appointments.
I love working with my clients and building a strong therapeutic relationship with them is a priority to me. I provide treatment to children and adults. I maintain a private practice in Newburgh, NY and offer telemedicine appointments. I am the Graduate Coordinator and a Professor for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Mount Saint Mary College. I have a therapy dog in the office who is a golden retriever named Mac. Please let me know if you are allergic or prefer him not to be in the office for our appointments.
![Photo of Dr. Syeda Inamfatimah Hasan - Syeda I Hasan MD, Pc DFAPA, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d6927ed-9afb-4447-930e-3dcd03af5047/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist in child & adolescent/Adult medicine with 20+ years of experience. Associated with the field of psychiatry, my work experience and professionalism have led me to establish myself as a strong candidate for dealing with patients with chronic mental ailments. I offer psychiatric consultations, evaluations & medication management through telemedicine.
I am a board certified psychiatrist in child & adolescent/Adult medicine with 20+ years of experience. Associated with the field of psychiatry, my work experience and professionalism have led me to establish myself as a strong candidate for dealing with patients with chronic mental ailments. I offer psychiatric consultations, evaluations & medication management through telemedicine.
![Photo of Laura Van De Laar, MSN, RN, NP-P, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3ba5b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Van De Laar
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, RN, NP-P
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
I am a Columbia University-trained, board certified nurse practitioner treating clients from age five through adulthood. I am licensed in N.Y. and Ct. and provide thorough psychiatric evaluations with appropriate academic and testing recommendations, referrals to numerous community resources, alternative/supplementary treatment modalities where appropriate, medication evaluation/management and referrals for the right therapeutic support(s). I utilize genomic testing when appropriate or upon request. While I prefer in-person visits, telehealth and virtual appointments are also available.
I am a Columbia University-trained, board certified nurse practitioner treating clients from age five through adulthood. I am licensed in N.Y. and Ct. and provide thorough psychiatric evaluations with appropriate academic and testing recommendations, referrals to numerous community resources, alternative/supplementary treatment modalities where appropriate, medication evaluation/management and referrals for the right therapeutic support(s). I utilize genomic testing when appropriate or upon request. While I prefer in-person visits, telehealth and virtual appointments are also available.
![Photo of Kelli Hamilton, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b231da96-a959-466d-ab0e-60202bd6b1de/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lagrangeville, NY 12540 (Online Only)
I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health emphasizing care of the mind and body. As a provider who is board certified in psychiatric mental health and primary care, I am equipped to partner with my clients to meet their psychological and medical needs with an open mind. I recognize the profound impact that mental health has on physical health, as well as the physical health impact on mental health. I partner with clients using psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based pharmacology. In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.
I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health emphasizing care of the mind and body. As a provider who is board certified in psychiatric mental health and primary care, I am equipped to partner with my clients to meet their psychological and medical needs with an open mind. I recognize the profound impact that mental health has on physical health, as well as the physical health impact on mental health. I partner with clients using psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based pharmacology. In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.
![Photo of Diana Lankenau, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ff35b56-62dc-46f9-9146-fbde9c2c6ca9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diana Lankenau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Chelsea, NY 12512 (Online Only)
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
![Photo of Kimberly Levitt, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bf05189-84bf-4e88-b3c9-037d8dd142d0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Levitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lagrangeville, NY 12540 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric NP practicing in New York and Connecticut. I earned both my BSN and MSN at NYU. My wholistic approach to treatment involves combining evidence-based psychopharmacology with a therapeutic process that prioritizes the individual and their goals over their symptoms. I have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. I rely on my clinical experience for diagnosis and pharmacology, however what sets me apart is my ability to relate to others.
I am a board certified psychiatric NP practicing in New York and Connecticut. I earned both my BSN and MSN at NYU. My wholistic approach to treatment involves combining evidence-based psychopharmacology with a therapeutic process that prioritizes the individual and their goals over their symptoms. I have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. I rely on my clinical experience for diagnosis and pharmacology, however what sets me apart is my ability to relate to others.
![Photo of Ann Rodriguez - Ann Rodriguez PC, NPP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e275d30-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that treating the whole person is essential to providing the best care for clients not only focusing on specific problem. I provide a multifaceted approach to treatment and concentrate on an individual strengths. An in-depth assessment and prioritizing of client needs is the first step in the development of treatment goals.
I believe that treating the whole person is essential to providing the best care for clients not only focusing on specific problem. I provide a multifaceted approach to treatment and concentrate on an individual strengths. An in-depth assessment and prioritizing of client needs is the first step in the development of treatment goals.
![Photo of Marcia Jarvis - Orenda Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a55c8f9-dbed-44dd-bd96-5429700e2e82/1/320x400.png)
Orenda Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lagrangeville, NY 12540 (Online Only)
Dr. Jarvis, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, considering the mind, body, and spirit. She values the patient as an active partner in their care, striving to empower them in managing their health journey. Dr. Jarvis offers comprehensive services, including psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and culturally sensitive care. Patients under her care feel genuinely supported, heard, and empowered, fostering hope for positive improvements in their situations.
Dr. Jarvis, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, considering the mind, body, and spirit. She values the patient as an active partner in their care, striving to empower them in managing their health journey. Dr. Jarvis offers comprehensive services, including psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and culturally sensitive care. Patients under her care feel genuinely supported, heard, and empowered, fostering hope for positive improvements in their situations.
![Photo of Rita Kimball, NP-P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f071bf6d-e5cc-4a4a-8c4f-83e2e6c56b49/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rita Kimball
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for a variety of mental health diagnosis, including but not limited to PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD. I take most insurances, including Medicare and Fidelis/MVP Medicaid.
I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for a variety of mental health diagnosis, including but not limited to PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD. I take most insurances, including Medicare and Fidelis/MVP Medicaid.
![Photo of Michelle Fuhrmann, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25dac5d6-de77-4081-bc94-4ee6eca4c0cc/1/320x400.png)
Michelle Fuhrmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lagrangeville, NY 12540 (Online Only)
Michelle is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry. She has many years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. Her Masters Degree is from Pace University. Michelle is a trauma-informed provider with extensive experience as the Director of Nursing in a Correctional facility and understands First Responders, Veterans, and their challenges.
Michelle is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry. She has many years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. Her Masters Degree is from Pace University. Michelle is a trauma-informed provider with extensive experience as the Director of Nursing in a Correctional facility and understands First Responders, Veterans, and their challenges.
![Photo of Renata Krymkevich, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd6f929-ccc7-4c9d-a675-8f0e1f9b6c39/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years with a special area of expertise in affective disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as treating young adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. I am an independent practitioner and my office is very private. I pride myself to run on schedule. I make myself available for emergency appointments if needed, and respond to phone calls within 24 business hours.
I've been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years with a special area of expertise in affective disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as treating young adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. I am an independent practitioner and my office is very private. I pride myself to run on schedule. I make myself available for emergency appointments if needed, and respond to phone calls within 24 business hours.
![Photo of Kristina Manich, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e206f406-0200-4dbe-b882-8a3a0e62d141/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Manich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishkill, NY 12524
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management , I bring a wealth of experience in helping individuals of all ages navigate through a spectrum of mental health challenges.
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management , I bring a wealth of experience in helping individuals of all ages navigate through a spectrum of mental health challenges.
We treat a myriad of psychiatric emotional/mental health issues with medication management and psychotherapy. We serve the Hudson Valley. We have several therapist on staff to provide counseling to both adults, children and adolescent population.
We treat a myriad of psychiatric emotional/mental health issues with medication management and psychotherapy. We serve the Hudson Valley. We have several therapist on staff to provide counseling to both adults, children and adolescent population.
![Photo of Iva Lesniak - Iva Lesniak, DO, Psychiatry PLLC, DO, BC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0d7c06a-1389-4d70-8d13-f184fc8cf4e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
![Photo of Crystal Moschiano, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a312a3b-ebba-44c8-ab45-a9b04e8dc55f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal Moschiano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 (Online Only)
Crystal Moschiano is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric- Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her graduate degree from Hofstra University. She specializes in the management of mood and anxiety disorders, addiction psychiatry, and women’s health providing both psychotherapy and medication management.
Crystal Moschiano is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric- Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her graduate degree from Hofstra University. She specializes in the management of mood and anxiety disorders, addiction psychiatry, and women’s health providing both psychotherapy and medication management.
![Photo of Nadav Klein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd435a63-6587-4f57-82c8-00dcdcdff6e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
In life, we navigate personal relationships, our social and professional lives, and sometimes, medical illness. We want to feel fulfilled and meaningful. If you are looking to change and grow, I endeavor to meet you where you are to find the next step in your journey.
In life, we navigate personal relationships, our social and professional lives, and sometimes, medical illness. We want to feel fulfilled and meaningful. If you are looking to change and grow, I endeavor to meet you where you are to find the next step in your journey.
See more therapy options for Hopewell Junction
Nearby Searches for Hopewell Junction
- Beacon
- Brewster
- Carmel
- Croton Falls
- Fishkill
- Lagrangeville
- New Windsor
- Newburgh
- Poughkeepsie
- Shrub Oak
- Somers
- Wappingers Falls
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hopewell Junction, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hopewell Junction, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Medication Management |
75% | Depression |
75% | Anxiety |
75% | Addiction |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
24 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Empire BlueCross BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Hopewell Junction, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Male | |
25% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hopewell Junction?
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.