Psychiatrists in Southampton, NY
![Photo of Mindy E Prager, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7d661e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new patients and have availability within 2 weeks. I am a psychiatric medical doctor in private practice offering very detailed psychiatric evaluations, and integrated psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I would be happy to do medication consults for people who already have a therapist- and I will actively communicate and coordinate care with your therapist. I'm also a skilled, empathic psychotherapist as well as a psychopharmacologist, so you can avoid splitting your treatment. I treat people with depressions, bipolar disorders,anxiety, panic, obsessions, compulsions, schizophrenia, and
I am accepting new patients and have availability within 2 weeks. I am a psychiatric medical doctor in private practice offering very detailed psychiatric evaluations, and integrated psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I would be happy to do medication consults for people who already have a therapist- and I will actively communicate and coordinate care with your therapist. I'm also a skilled, empathic psychotherapist as well as a psychopharmacologist, so you can avoid splitting your treatment. I treat people with depressions, bipolar disorders,anxiety, panic, obsessions, compulsions, schizophrenia, and
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Telepsychiatry Services in Hampton New York, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe5dd6b-5acf-4cfa-9db2-f9f0578683a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatry Services in Hampton New York
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southampton, NY 11968 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
![Photo of Mian A Siddique, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e286760-3855-467c-a299-4415a0afbf54/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist in New York, practicing via Telemedicine and accepting new patients residing in New York and Florida. I did my psychiatric training at The University of the State of New York and have over 50 years of experience.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist in New York, practicing via Telemedicine and accepting new patients residing in New York and Florida. I did my psychiatric training at The University of the State of New York and have over 50 years of experience.
![Photo of Sidra Ghafoor, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e55404-fec5-40ab-8f90-3b9ec078712b/1/320x400.png)
I believe that healing begins at the level of mind, body and spirit, integrating a patient’s whole life experience into the treatment plan. I provide comprehensive treatment options combining psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities. Working with me you will develop insight into yourself and begin to effect change and make progress in the problem areas of your life. I am ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry. In addition to treating addictions, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders; I specialize in women's mental health.
I believe that healing begins at the level of mind, body and spirit, integrating a patient’s whole life experience into the treatment plan. I provide comprehensive treatment options combining psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities. Working with me you will develop insight into yourself and begin to effect change and make progress in the problem areas of your life. I am ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry. In addition to treating addictions, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders; I specialize in women's mental health.
![Photo of Frederick Scholl - Frederick Scholl Psychiatry, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ad930e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Frederick Scholl Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southampton, NY 11968
Frederick Scholl MSN, APRN, PMHNP is a board-certified practitioner in psychiatry, licensed and registered in NYS. He specializes in treating a number of conditions with medication, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. In addition, we are now offering medication assisted treatment with Suboxone for opioid dependence. Frederick is a consultant for several area hospitals. His extensive experience includes emergency psychiatry, geriatric, adult, forensic and outpatient care.
Frederick Scholl MSN, APRN, PMHNP is a board-certified practitioner in psychiatry, licensed and registered in NYS. He specializes in treating a number of conditions with medication, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. In addition, we are now offering medication assisted treatment with Suboxone for opioid dependence. Frederick is a consultant for several area hospitals. His extensive experience includes emergency psychiatry, geriatric, adult, forensic and outpatient care.
![Photo of Rena Ferguson - Rena Ferguson, MD, PC, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f7ce8a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Here at 1000 Main, we treat anyone who wants to live their potential. We work on what you put in your mouth, what thoughts you put in your head, and what words come out of your mouth (and heart). Many people come saying, "Is this all my life is going to be ? Maybe I was meant to feel so bad." We help answer those questions. We may believe in you more than you believe in you. We believe depression and mental illness are a perfect storm of biology, psychology, and environment. We are equipped to look at them all so you can have brighter skies ahead.
Here at 1000 Main, we treat anyone who wants to live their potential. We work on what you put in your mouth, what thoughts you put in your head, and what words come out of your mouth (and heart). Many people come saying, "Is this all my life is going to be ? Maybe I was meant to feel so bad." We help answer those questions. We may believe in you more than you believe in you. We believe depression and mental illness are a perfect storm of biology, psychology, and environment. We are equipped to look at them all so you can have brighter skies ahead.
![Photo of Sharlene Willock, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae621d84-ddb1-43d6-a91a-c06025cb037c/2/320x400.png)
Sharlene Willock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southampton, NY 11968
Hello, my name is Sharlene and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University. I have over 22 years of nursing experience. My specializations include Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and some bipolar. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
Hello, my name is Sharlene and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University. I have over 22 years of nursing experience. My specializations include Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and some bipolar. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
![Photo of Carol Ann Payton, PMHNP , FNP, MBA , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d00d2ad5-4e2b-4cdf-a6a6-2616f85cf4f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carol Ann Payton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Southampton, NY 11968
Over the past 18 years, I have gained knowledge and experience to provide mental health and wellness needs to our community. I have dedicated my life to healthcare in many aspects, including in-patient and out-patient care, leadership, and quality. I have achieved a Master's in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner 2016 (FNP), a Master’s in Business Administration 2020 (MBA), and a Master's as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (2021). I am board certified and provide treatment across the patient's life span. I also provide psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and other modalities to meet patients Mental Health needs.
Over the past 18 years, I have gained knowledge and experience to provide mental health and wellness needs to our community. I have dedicated my life to healthcare in many aspects, including in-patient and out-patient care, leadership, and quality. I have achieved a Master's in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner 2016 (FNP), a Master’s in Business Administration 2020 (MBA), and a Master's as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (2021). I am board certified and provide treatment across the patient's life span. I also provide psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and other modalities to meet patients Mental Health needs.
![Photo of Peter R. Bourque Jr. Np, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9877093-0ece-4485-85e9-369f548a9260/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter R. Bourque Jr. Np
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Southampton, NY 11968 (Online Only)
I am devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services for over 12 years. I pride myself in my expertise with both the diagnosis and treatment of the occurrence of mental illness and believe that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. I take a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
I am devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services for over 12 years. I pride myself in my expertise with both the diagnosis and treatment of the occurrence of mental illness and believe that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. I take a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
![Photo of Catherine Poulos, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a7d49c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Poulos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southampton, NY 11968
At East End Mental Health, we believe in the integrative approach to behavioral health and psychiatric care. We offer our clients comprehensive array of treatment options which include individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychotherapy groups, psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacotherapies, and laboratory diagnostic/genetic testing services.
At East End Mental Health, we believe in the integrative approach to behavioral health and psychiatric care. We offer our clients comprehensive array of treatment options which include individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychotherapy groups, psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacotherapies, and laboratory diagnostic/genetic testing services.
![Photo of Bahar Hadjiesmaeiloo - Creative Care Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6613977-12e2-4660-88c7-74216a518cab/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Creative Care Psychiatry, we know that each person comes with his/her/their own unique set of experiences. With this understanding we apply the highest standard of evidenced based medicine to a patient-centered treatment approach. Patients are active participants in the development of their treatment plans. It is our belief that health and wellness come with an holistic approach to patient care.
At Creative Care Psychiatry, we know that each person comes with his/her/their own unique set of experiences. With this understanding we apply the highest standard of evidenced based medicine to a patient-centered treatment approach. Patients are active participants in the development of their treatment plans. It is our belief that health and wellness come with an holistic approach to patient care.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Michael Roman - Transform with Roman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf7248d7-3066-4f15-9321-6d3ccda2be9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Transform with Roman, we specialize in providing high level concierge medication management services for our adolescent and adult patients. Located in Connecticut and New York, we are committed to delivering outstanding results while reaching a broad patient base through our virtual concierge psychiatry platform.
At Transform with Roman, we specialize in providing high level concierge medication management services for our adolescent and adult patients. Located in Connecticut and New York, we are committed to delivering outstanding results while reaching a broad patient base through our virtual concierge psychiatry platform.
![Photo of Lauren Tableman, MS, RN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecf7adee-126f-4267-9e96-f76d57c6dad4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Tableman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Sagaponack, NY 11962
We as people are complex individuals who are more than just a diagnosis. I work with individuals from all walks of life, especially those who suffer silently & hide in plain sight. I treat a myriad of disorders, but my expertise lies in that of depressive and bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, anxiety, panic attacks, & insomnia.
We as people are complex individuals who are more than just a diagnosis. I work with individuals from all walks of life, especially those who suffer silently & hide in plain sight. I treat a myriad of disorders, but my expertise lies in that of depressive and bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, anxiety, panic attacks, & insomnia.
![Photo of Louisa J. Steinberg, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d18d14-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Columbia-trained, board certified psychiatrist. I have broad expertise in providing treatment of mental health issues. In my practice, I use an individualized, empathic, collaborative approach to the treatment of psychiatric conditions. Psychiatry is a unique specialty that requires us to not only treat the brain, but also the mind. Therefore, I offer a variety of treatment approaches, including medication management, several types of psychotherapy, and family/couples therapy. I offer telepsychiatry services to residents throughout NY.
I am a Columbia-trained, board certified psychiatrist. I have broad expertise in providing treatment of mental health issues. In my practice, I use an individualized, empathic, collaborative approach to the treatment of psychiatric conditions. Psychiatry is a unique specialty that requires us to not only treat the brain, but also the mind. Therefore, I offer a variety of treatment approaches, including medication management, several types of psychotherapy, and family/couples therapy. I offer telepsychiatry services to residents throughout NY.
![Photo of Courtney Paton, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba23f04-2ad6-4326-b6e6-51d5550837ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Paton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sag Harbor, NY 11963 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with a Masters of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Sage College. My specializations includes Medication Management, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, OCD, schizophrenia and Eating Disorders. 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 Courtney and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with a Masters of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Sage College. My specializations includes Medication Management, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, OCD, schizophrenia and Eating Disorders. 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 Kenneth R Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05e0f387-5f40-4e5d-9bd8-76674fb968b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty-five years of clinical experience since my graduation from residency, and I maintain practices in psychiatry in New York City (in person or telemedicine Tuesday-Thursday), Sag Harbor Village (in person or telemedicine Friday), and Litchfield County, Connecticut (telemedicine only). Areas of expertise include psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, in-home and nursing home consultations and management, and work with patients suffering from medical illness; I have completed formal fellowships in these areas at Cornell, Columbia, and Memorial Sloan Kettering.
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty-five years of clinical experience since my graduation from residency, and I maintain practices in psychiatry in New York City (in person or telemedicine Tuesday-Thursday), Sag Harbor Village (in person or telemedicine Friday), and Litchfield County, Connecticut (telemedicine only). Areas of expertise include psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, in-home and nursing home consultations and management, and work with patients suffering from medical illness; I have completed formal fellowships in these areas at Cornell, Columbia, and Memorial Sloan Kettering.
![Photo of Michael Morhous, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03291871-84b8-4709-a21f-eca98bca82b2/3/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is devoted to helping patients surmount the obstacles that interfere with their ability to function optimally and live their best lives. Using evidence-based practices, I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is compatible with your goals and values as an individual. Some of my patients see great benefit from the judicious use of the right medications alone; others prefer treatment which involves only psychotherapy. Many find that a combination of these two treatment modalities brings the quickest and longest lasting results.
My practice is devoted to helping patients surmount the obstacles that interfere with their ability to function optimally and live their best lives. Using evidence-based practices, I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is compatible with your goals and values as an individual. Some of my patients see great benefit from the judicious use of the right medications alone; others prefer treatment which involves only psychotherapy. Many find that a combination of these two treatment modalities brings the quickest and longest lasting results.
![Photo of Susan Mogan, PMHNP, DNP, ANP-BC, AP-PMN, AHPCN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa609358-c8da-42f4-a1dc-83484270235d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Mogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, ANP-BC, AP-PMN, AHPCN
Verified Verified
Hampton Bays, NY 11946
Together through a trusting relationship clients and I will develop treatment plans that best suit each clients needs. I have practiced in multiple settings including office based, hospitals, Hospice/palliative care and home-care. My vast experience has provided a knowledge base that will help to provide the best care for my clients. I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorders and the symptoms of dementia. I am open-minded, warm and inquisitive and am passionate about helping others. I look forward to becoming a part of the community and helping as many clients as I can.
Together through a trusting relationship clients and I will develop treatment plans that best suit each clients needs. I have practiced in multiple settings including office based, hospitals, Hospice/palliative care and home-care. My vast experience has provided a knowledge base that will help to provide the best care for my clients. I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorders and the symptoms of dementia. I am open-minded, warm and inquisitive and am passionate about helping others. I look forward to becoming a part of the community and helping as many clients as I can.
![Photo of Nwamaka (Amy) Onyeogo - Diamond Mind & Body , MSN, AGNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b01e026f-487f-4679-af06-3f3c7277ee28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diamond Mind & Body
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sagaponack, NY 11962 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, making them feel safe, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.thediamondmindandbody.com.
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, making them feel safe, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.thediamondmindandbody.com.
![Photo of Sean X Luo, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dad72a86-6392-4708-b1fc-006fe6a4fcf7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Columbia-trained general and addiction psychiatrist and researcher. My practice focuses on delivering high-quality treatment to a small number of patients. I focus on complex substance use, co-morbid/dual diagnoses cases such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression, and behavioral addictions such as sex/gaming addiction. I conduct both talk therapy and use medications in my practice and work with both patients and their families. The goal is transformative change in behavior patterns to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
I am a Columbia-trained general and addiction psychiatrist and researcher. My practice focuses on delivering high-quality treatment to a small number of patients. I focus on complex substance use, co-morbid/dual diagnoses cases such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression, and behavioral addictions such as sex/gaming addiction. I conduct both talk therapy and use medications in my practice and work with both patients and their families. The goal is transformative change in behavior patterns to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
See more therapy options for Southampton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Southampton, NY
10+
Average cost per session
$282
Psychiatrists in Southampton, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
91% | Trauma and PTSD |
82% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | Aetna |
71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
71% | Other |
How Psychiatrists in Southampton, NY see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Southampton?
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.