Psychiatrists in Riverdale, NY
![Photo of Dr. Dobgima Erick, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c48feaa-be18-45c6-9d6f-cf88f9122441/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dobgima Erick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Riverdale, NY 10463
Does everything seem to be a burden for you these days? Do you find it difficult to keep on going? Does it feel like nobody seems to understand what your are going through but always judging you? Are your finding it difficult to concentrate and function at work, at school, at home, with your co-workers, friends, family and other loved ones? Are your struggling with regulating your emotions?... You are not alone. Help is available. It's private, discrete, judgement free, and at your own pace. Medication is not always the answer (unless clinically necessary); so let's connect and explore the options together.
Does everything seem to be a burden for you these days? Do you find it difficult to keep on going? Does it feel like nobody seems to understand what your are going through but always judging you? Are your finding it difficult to concentrate and function at work, at school, at home, with your co-workers, friends, family and other loved ones? Are your struggling with regulating your emotions?... You are not alone. Help is available. It's private, discrete, judgement free, and at your own pace. Medication is not always the answer (unless clinically necessary); so let's connect and explore the options together.
![Photo of Adena Chaviva Blickstein, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c20bd9c6-14d2-4f32-8e98-4f8060b88d68/1/320x400.png)
My name is Dr. Blickstein. I am a child/adolescent psychiatrist and the Founder of Teal Dragon Healing, LLC. We focus on healing conflict within families through our Family Reunification Programs. In our programs with offer comprehensive Family Evaluations, medication management and Attunement Training. If you feel uncomfortable with your parenting style or feel that your parenting is the source of your child's distress and seek to improve and become a more resilient and grounded parent, then please reach out. Our approach sees the entire family as needing support when a child is suffering from mental illness.
My name is Dr. Blickstein. I am a child/adolescent psychiatrist and the Founder of Teal Dragon Healing, LLC. We focus on healing conflict within families through our Family Reunification Programs. In our programs with offer comprehensive Family Evaluations, medication management and Attunement Training. If you feel uncomfortable with your parenting style or feel that your parenting is the source of your child's distress and seek to improve and become a more resilient and grounded parent, then please reach out. Our approach sees the entire family as needing support when a child is suffering from mental illness.
![Photo of Ketie Saintelus, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2c9927f-1fd9-4f24-9bf4-16b54f14facd/1/320x400.png)
Ketie Saintelus is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, licensed by the state of New York to provide family-centered healthcare to patients of all ages. Her scope of practice encompasses health promotion, disease prevention, diagnosis and management of common and complex health medical and psychiatry problems.
Ketie Saintelus is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, licensed by the state of New York to provide family-centered healthcare to patients of all ages. Her scope of practice encompasses health promotion, disease prevention, diagnosis and management of common and complex health medical and psychiatry problems.
![Photo of Therese J Calabrese, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13d38686-b2f5-4a70-8e15-3b64025567c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therese J Calabrese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Riverdale, NY 10471 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Jennifer Furst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10457 (Online Only)
I believe in finding common ground with clients and getting to know them as human beings as we work on any psychiatric or psychosocial issues. I work hard to create a collaborative partnership in which the client feels that their concerns are truly heard and addressed. Clients can expect to come away with a clear understanding of how I conceive of their diagnosis and what options exist for treatment. I aim to provide education and skills as well as medication and therapeutic interaction. I want you to understand the WHY of any treatment I recommend so that you can make your best decisions for your health.
I believe in finding common ground with clients and getting to know them as human beings as we work on any psychiatric or psychosocial issues. I work hard to create a collaborative partnership in which the client feels that their concerns are truly heard and addressed. Clients can expect to come away with a clear understanding of how I conceive of their diagnosis and what options exist for treatment. I aim to provide education and skills as well as medication and therapeutic interaction. I want you to understand the WHY of any treatment I recommend so that you can make your best decisions for your health.
![Photo of Faith Ogala - Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS), MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6848bdb8-1e55-4cde-92de-a18f8721990d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10467
Now Accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. Visit our website: www.mbspsych.org.
Now Accepting NEW Patients. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence-based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual and in-person visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. Visit our website: www.mbspsych.org.
![Photo of Faiq A Hameedi, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54fb1e48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Anxiety & Depression Center of Scarsdale is a unique, private psychiatry practice located in lower Westchester County and the Bronx. Dr. Hameedi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the discreet treatment of individuals experiencing mental illness and psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Hameedi understands that each individual is unique and requires a custom-tailored approach to address that person’s needs. Our goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment so that our patients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers which limit their potential.
The Anxiety & Depression Center of Scarsdale is a unique, private psychiatry practice located in lower Westchester County and the Bronx. Dr. Hameedi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the discreet treatment of individuals experiencing mental illness and psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Hameedi understands that each individual is unique and requires a custom-tailored approach to address that person’s needs. Our goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment so that our patients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers which limit their potential.
![Photo of Paul Izak Campion, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1330b138-11d1-4407-bbef-bb9b799d19e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
With board certification in adult as well as geriatric psychiatry, I have the training and experience to treat clients across the entire adult age range. I believe firmly in an existential and holistic approach to clients--whether the treatment involves psychotherapy, medication management, or both.
With board certification in adult as well as geriatric psychiatry, I have the training and experience to treat clients across the entire adult age range. I believe firmly in an existential and holistic approach to clients--whether the treatment involves psychotherapy, medication management, or both.
![Photo of Christine Harrington, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c792ae1-3666-405f-9d0b-7f42515950e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Harrington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10467 (Online Only)
I am a doctorally prepared Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, working with clients of all ages. I have been practicing for over 12 years and have been providing services via telehealth for over 5 years now. I am board certified by ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and as a Nurse Executive, Advanced. I have worked in behavioral health for over 20 years.
I am a doctorally prepared Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, working with clients of all ages. I have been practicing for over 12 years and have been providing services via telehealth for over 5 years now. I am board certified by ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and as a Nurse Executive, Advanced. I have worked in behavioral health for over 20 years.
![Photo of Virginia Contreras Md, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2646f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At our office we offer personalized attention to all of our patients. We take great pride in making everyone feel welcome . Please stop by and let us serve you. It will be our pleasure. We specialize in Major Depression , Bipolar Disorder, Panic Disorder, Substance Dependence, LGBT issues, Life Coaching and others.
At our office we offer personalized attention to all of our patients. We take great pride in making everyone feel welcome . Please stop by and let us serve you. It will be our pleasure. We specialize in Major Depression , Bipolar Disorder, Panic Disorder, Substance Dependence, LGBT issues, Life Coaching and others.
![Photo of Dr. Karen Yan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d766d6c7-90e2-4408-8d96-1eb40e2bbb4e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yan graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Harvard University with honors in Economics. She holds a law degree from Harvard and was a practicing attorney before pursuing her medical education at New York University School of Medicine. While in medical school, she won the Best Research Presentation Award for the Jack Cary Eichenbaum Summer Scholars Program. She received her residency training in psychiatry at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she served on the Mental Health Crisis Response Team during the Covid pandemic.
Dr. Yan graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Harvard University with honors in Economics. She holds a law degree from Harvard and was a practicing attorney before pursuing her medical education at New York University School of Medicine. While in medical school, she won the Best Research Presentation Award for the Jack Cary Eichenbaum Summer Scholars Program. She received her residency training in psychiatry at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she served on the Mental Health Crisis Response Team during the Covid pandemic.
![Photo of Edele Louigarde - Uplifting Health NP in Psychiatry, PLLC., PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/483106c4-be5f-40be-a9e1-5cd850b10271/1/320x400.png)
Uplifting Health NP in Psychiatry, PLLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bronx, NY 10467
Your mental health matters. Empowering mental wellness and navigating life's challenges. As a compassionate and dedicated practitioner, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those facing mental health struggles. Through my professional expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals on their journey towards wellness. Together we can work towards a brighter future where mental well-being is prioritized and celebrated.
Your mental health matters. Empowering mental wellness and navigating life's challenges. As a compassionate and dedicated practitioner, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those facing mental health struggles. Through my professional expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals on their journey towards wellness. Together we can work towards a brighter future where mental well-being is prioritized and celebrated.
![Photo of Abbey Lynn Faruzzo - Graham Windham, DO, LCSW, LMSW, LMHC, PNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02f06513-110b-4f29-9c1b-54920f7f145d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Graham Windham Community Mental Health Services offer a variety of evidence-based treatment for children and young adults, 5-25 years of age, based on our comprehensive psychiatric and biopsychosocial evaluations. We offer individual therapy, family therapy, psychopharmacology management, and support services. Each treatment plan will be determined based on the needs of the individual client. We also offer bilingual services in Spanish.
Graham Windham Community Mental Health Services offer a variety of evidence-based treatment for children and young adults, 5-25 years of age, based on our comprehensive psychiatric and biopsychosocial evaluations. We offer individual therapy, family therapy, psychopharmacology management, and support services. Each treatment plan will be determined based on the needs of the individual client. We also offer bilingual services in Spanish.
![Photo of Ariel Cotallat, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d07ff407-db12-4baa-a0e4-32a0d9226352/1/320x400.png)
Ariel Cotallat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bronx, NY 10467 (Online Only)
In my practice, I specialize in helping individuals manage conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD through medication management and brief supportive therapy. I also provide support for personal challenges related to relationships, self-esteem, and sexual health. Having had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, including my LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, I've gained valuable insights and approaches. This varied experience helps me deeply connect with each person I work with, ensuring our journey together is both healing and empowering.
In my practice, I specialize in helping individuals manage conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD through medication management and brief supportive therapy. I also provide support for personal challenges related to relationships, self-esteem, and sexual health. Having had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, including my LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, I've gained valuable insights and approaches. This varied experience helps me deeply connect with each person I work with, ensuring our journey together is both healing and empowering.
![Photo of Marsha Desrosiers, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d480d78-f94a-4c00-815c-01f2846d8445/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marsha Desrosiers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10467
I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. My passion for psychiatry stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of mental well-being as a cornerstone of overall health. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients, each with unique needs and challenges, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each individual. I specialize in the treatment of various mental health concerns. My approach is holistic to support my patients in achieving their mental health goals. I provide telehealth services to allow for flexibility.
I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. My passion for psychiatry stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of mental well-being as a cornerstone of overall health. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients, each with unique needs and challenges, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each individual. I specialize in the treatment of various mental health concerns. My approach is holistic to support my patients in achieving their mental health goals. I provide telehealth services to allow for flexibility.
![Photo of Dr. Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c647aaa5-4c1e-409f-9e52-d7cce8149677/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City . I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family/marital therapy, as well as psychiatric medication management. I believe that brain health is the key to every form of well being, and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms, has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include hallucinations, irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work-the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City . I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family/marital therapy, as well as psychiatric medication management. I believe that brain health is the key to every form of well being, and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms, has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include hallucinations, irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work-the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Beatriz Isaza, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65d9bb8a-7cfc-47cd-83b4-9b02421a84c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beatriz Isaza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10470 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Beatriz and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating, Bipolar Disorder, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Beatriz and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating, Bipolar Disorder, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Shannon R Dingle, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d596acc4-4436-49b9-809a-bb7f996db3f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon R Dingle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bronx, NY 10463 (Online Only)
Appreciation for the human spirit is an integral aspect of my approach to medication intervention and psychotherapy. I am aware of the courage it often takes to ask for, and accept clinical/psychopharmacological help. Collaboration in this process is most important. I strive to prescribe medication based on a detailed assessment. However, medication management does not lend itself to overnight fixes; It takes commitment and a patient who is onboard with the process. For individuals who are interested in talk therapy only, I am open to providing the service without medication. Some people may benefit from both, however.
Appreciation for the human spirit is an integral aspect of my approach to medication intervention and psychotherapy. I am aware of the courage it often takes to ask for, and accept clinical/psychopharmacological help. Collaboration in this process is most important. I strive to prescribe medication based on a detailed assessment. However, medication management does not lend itself to overnight fixes; It takes commitment and a patient who is onboard with the process. For individuals who are interested in talk therapy only, I am open to providing the service without medication. Some people may benefit from both, however.
![Photo of Kemisola “Kemi” Ebietomiye, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3f0161b-bbc0-4292-ad10-6a0e6d683ea4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kemisola “Kemi” Ebietomiye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10468 (Online Only)
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring a unique blend of experiences to practice. With a solid foundation forged during my eight-year tenure in the United States Army, I developed resilience, discipline and a commitment to service. I attended Chamberlain University for my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and earned my Master of Science in Nursing in Leadership and Administration from Capella University. Subsequently, I obtained a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from Walden University.
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring a unique blend of experiences to practice. With a solid foundation forged during my eight-year tenure in the United States Army, I developed resilience, discipline and a commitment to service. I attended Chamberlain University for my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and earned my Master of Science in Nursing in Leadership and Administration from Capella University. Subsequently, I obtained a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from Walden University.
![Photo of Wendy Reiss, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45fcbfc5-cd12-490b-ad5a-5693db76e3da/2/320x400.png)
With a decade-long experience in psychiatric medication management and a very personable style, Wendy will be your ally in your quest for balance and well-being. She specializes in anxiety, depression and substance use and is well versed in several treatment modalities. Wendy sees patients via TeleHealth only.
With a decade-long experience in psychiatric medication management and a very personable style, Wendy will be your ally in your quest for balance and well-being. She specializes in anxiety, depression and substance use and is well versed in several treatment modalities. Wendy sees patients via TeleHealth only.
See more therapy options for Riverdale
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Riverdale, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Riverdale, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
75% | Depression |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Coping Skills |
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Addiction |
50% | Life Coaching |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Riverdale, NY see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Riverdale?
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.