Psychiatrists in Warwick, NY
![Photo of Mary FitzGerald Switala, DNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d0b012e-dfd2-4025-88cb-2617e6e3e95e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary FitzGerald Switala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
Warwick, NY 10990
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.
![Photo of Kathleen J Boyle, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49b9b5be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen J Boyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Warwick, NY 10990
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner and have worked in the outpatient setting for the past 20 years. I focus on creating a comfortable environment for individuals so that healing can begin from the first encounter. Each individual is unique and their treatment plan is developed with their specific needs in mind. Empowering others to uncover their inner pain is facilitated so that happiness can replace that discomfort. Healing is a process and individuals who are depressed, anxious and suffering from other behavioral disorders will be guided on that journey to wellness.
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner and have worked in the outpatient setting for the past 20 years. I focus on creating a comfortable environment for individuals so that healing can begin from the first encounter. Each individual is unique and their treatment plan is developed with their specific needs in mind. Empowering others to uncover their inner pain is facilitated so that happiness can replace that discomfort. Healing is a process and individuals who are depressed, anxious and suffering from other behavioral disorders will be guided on that journey to wellness.
![Photo of Maryann Ryan, APRN, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50448ed3-f93e-45fe-8d7e-b0826a756567/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maryann Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warwick, NY 10990
My primary goal in providing mental healthcare is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where every individual feels valued, heard, and acknowledged. As a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in both psychiatry and family medicine, I am capable of providing a comprehensive range of services, with a specific emphasis on medication management. We offer interpreter services for most languages and American Sign Language (ASL). In recognizing the importance of flexibility and patient choice, we provide the option for in-office or video consultations.
My primary goal in providing mental healthcare is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where every individual feels valued, heard, and acknowledged. As a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in both psychiatry and family medicine, I am capable of providing a comprehensive range of services, with a specific emphasis on medication management. We offer interpreter services for most languages and American Sign Language (ASL). In recognizing the importance of flexibility and patient choice, we provide the option for in-office or video consultations.
![Photo of Barbara Marie Marszalek, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ef59e94-0029-4de3-83b9-fb5c6d64b8ea/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD? Are you looking to connect with someone to help you find a way to heal? To pull the triggers away from you? I offer personalized integrative psychiatric care for those struggling mentally, emotionally or with addictions in Orange County NY. I specialize in ART ( Accelerated Resolution Therapy). It is a unique approach to psychotherapy to replace negative images in the unconscious mind that triggers and symptoms of PTSD with positive ones that my clients chose, hence removing the triggers causing the intrusive thoughts to completely STOP. You are important. You are worth it.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD? Are you looking to connect with someone to help you find a way to heal? To pull the triggers away from you? I offer personalized integrative psychiatric care for those struggling mentally, emotionally or with addictions in Orange County NY. I specialize in ART ( Accelerated Resolution Therapy). It is a unique approach to psychotherapy to replace negative images in the unconscious mind that triggers and symptoms of PTSD with positive ones that my clients chose, hence removing the triggers causing the intrusive thoughts to completely STOP. You are important. You are worth it.
![Photo of Gregory Okorongwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dff43d75-88a6-42ec-9ee6-014fb615c3fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of adults with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I offer a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, individual psychotherapy and medication management. I offer personalized mental health services combining therapy and medications in a single appointment to save you time and money. I believe that mental health care should be accessible.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of adults with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I offer a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, individual psychotherapy and medication management. I offer personalized mental health services combining therapy and medications in a single appointment to save you time and money. I believe that mental health care should be accessible.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Monaco - Dr. Stephanie Monaco, MD, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d03ad084-a516-4bba-a98a-ad4662ef0bfc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Dr. Monaco. I have a true interest in helping others and an incredible understanding of people. I am a Mount Sinai Beth Israel trained psychiatrist with years of experience in medication treatment and psychotherapy. I also have additional specialization in mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy including supportive, cognitive and psychodynamic techniques. I provide medication management, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. I have practices in Manhattan & Goshen (New York) and Denver (Colorado).
Hello, I'm Dr. Monaco. I have a true interest in helping others and an incredible understanding of people. I am a Mount Sinai Beth Israel trained psychiatrist with years of experience in medication treatment and psychotherapy. I also have additional specialization in mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy including supportive, cognitive and psychodynamic techniques. I provide medication management, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. I have practices in Manhattan & Goshen (New York) and Denver (Colorado).
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Cassandra Fortune - Mindful NP Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0f0e65c-d7c7-4916-85ce-281ccfaa79e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful NP Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Monroe, NY 10950
providing psychotherapy and medication management. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. Will work with my clients to explore their concerns, set goals and develop strategies for growth and healing.
providing psychotherapy and medication management. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. Will work with my clients to explore their concerns, set goals and develop strategies for growth and healing.
![Photo of Avesta Miriam Khursand, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/509b0c77-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Avesta Miriam Khursand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tuxedo Park, NY 10987
I have experience in treating patients of all ages and different backgrounds.
I have experience in treating patients of all ages and different backgrounds.
![Photo of Mitchell Cabisudo - Vitality Psychiatry Group Practice, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3a55094-bf2e-461a-a1e3-926c33453ca2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mitchell Cabisudo is a double board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist who has been trained in different schools of psychotherapy and has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the use of life-saving medications. After completing his adult residency training in Albany, NY, he pursued further specialization in Pediatric Psychiatry at Westchester Medical Center. Dr. Cabisudo crucially understands the limitations and unfortunate repercussions of the use of medication. Therefore prior to contemplating to prescribing, he integrates the basic fundamentals yet profound complexities surrounding a person's life which can significantly dictate the overall changes in one's behavior and emotions.
Dr. Mitchell Cabisudo is a double board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist who has been trained in different schools of psychotherapy and has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the use of life-saving medications. After completing his adult residency training in Albany, NY, he pursued further specialization in Pediatric Psychiatry at Westchester Medical Center. Dr. Cabisudo crucially understands the limitations and unfortunate repercussions of the use of medication. Therefore prior to contemplating to prescribing, he integrates the basic fundamentals yet profound complexities surrounding a person's life which can significantly dictate the overall changes in one's behavior and emotions.
![Photo of Anthony Collica, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe89cca0-6580-4df9-8cda-716b5f873e51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony Collica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Goshen, NY 10924
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and started practicing in 2021(PMHNP), but have been working in mental health in various roles since 2006 at 19 years of age. I graduated from Binghamton University Magna Cum Laude, with my Masters of Science. I help patients work through and over to the other side of their anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal ideation, impulse control and psychosis. My approach to treatment is a patient centered approach while utilizing medication and CBT and motivational interviewing skills. No two patients are identical, and my treatment approach reflects that viewpoint.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and started practicing in 2021(PMHNP), but have been working in mental health in various roles since 2006 at 19 years of age. I graduated from Binghamton University Magna Cum Laude, with my Masters of Science. I help patients work through and over to the other side of their anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal ideation, impulse control and psychosis. My approach to treatment is a patient centered approach while utilizing medication and CBT and motivational interviewing skills. No two patients are identical, and my treatment approach reflects that viewpoint.
![Photo of Jacqueline B Dongmo - Orange County NP in Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db45030b-016a-489b-a65f-47666aeb2088/2/320x400.jpeg)
Orange County NP in Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goshen, NY 10924
My ideal client desires to achieve a sense of balance and happiness, even in times of stress. They seek ways to experience calmness, clarity of mind, and rejuvenation. They want to learn effective techniques to manage stress, prioritize self-care, and establish a deeper connection with their true selves. Ultimately, their goal is to feel more joyful, energetic, and fully engaged in their daily routine while balancing work and personal life and maintaining good health.
My ideal client desires to achieve a sense of balance and happiness, even in times of stress. They seek ways to experience calmness, clarity of mind, and rejuvenation. They want to learn effective techniques to manage stress, prioritize self-care, and establish a deeper connection with their true selves. Ultimately, their goal is to feel more joyful, energetic, and fully engaged in their daily routine while balancing work and personal life and maintaining good health.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Viga Naik, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cee324b-5ab7-4ce5-8d73-fb8f2b49863f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Viga Naik takes a holistic approach when practicing, understanding the importance of an integrative treatment care model. She believes optimal patient care goes beyond psychopharmacology and requires incorporation of psychotherapy and psychosocial intervention. She's a strong advocate for her patients dedicated to being an educator of mental illness to break self, societal and systemic stigmas. She believes a strong therapeutic alliance between clinician and patient is essential. She works on creating a safe & empathetic environment, providing psychoeducation to patients empowering them to play an active role in their treatment.
Dr. Viga Naik takes a holistic approach when practicing, understanding the importance of an integrative treatment care model. She believes optimal patient care goes beyond psychopharmacology and requires incorporation of psychotherapy and psychosocial intervention. She's a strong advocate for her patients dedicated to being an educator of mental illness to break self, societal and systemic stigmas. She believes a strong therapeutic alliance between clinician and patient is essential. She works on creating a safe & empathetic environment, providing psychoeducation to patients empowering them to play an active role in their treatment.
![Photo of Samuel Glazer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c06d1a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My expertise lies in treating addiction and alcohol abuse in high functioning Executives and Professionals. Many of my clients seek treatment because their substance use is threatening their success: they have much to lose, and want to regain control of their lives. Rather than classify patients as "addicts" and put them in a one-size-fits-all spiritual or CBT program, my practice philosophy is a fully individualized, humanistic treatment approach. Each person is assessed to formulate a customized plan that can include medication assisted treatment (now considered a gold standard) and/or individual psychotherapy.
My expertise lies in treating addiction and alcohol abuse in high functioning Executives and Professionals. Many of my clients seek treatment because their substance use is threatening their success: they have much to lose, and want to regain control of their lives. Rather than classify patients as "addicts" and put them in a one-size-fits-all spiritual or CBT program, my practice philosophy is a fully individualized, humanistic treatment approach. Each person is assessed to formulate a customized plan that can include medication assisted treatment (now considered a gold standard) and/or individual psychotherapy.
![Photo of Sharonda Clark, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93b09e22-5915-4e17-a2ac-80b4f9cb1af9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Clark is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in General and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Baylor College of Medicine and subsequent child fellowship at UT Health Science Center of Houston. She has provided quality patient-centered care in various community mental health, inpatient, outpatient, residential, consult liaison and emergency room settings in Texas and New Jersey. Additionally, Dr. Clark has held volunteer academic appointments where she instructed medical students, residents & fellows at Baylor College of Medicine, UT Southwestern and Rutgers.
Dr. Clark is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in General and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Baylor College of Medicine and subsequent child fellowship at UT Health Science Center of Houston. She has provided quality patient-centered care in various community mental health, inpatient, outpatient, residential, consult liaison and emergency room settings in Texas and New Jersey. Additionally, Dr. Clark has held volunteer academic appointments where she instructed medical students, residents & fellows at Baylor College of Medicine, UT Southwestern and Rutgers.
![Photo of Jay Lawrence Friedman - Tenafly Psychiatric Associates, L.L.C., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f48afe9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
201-568-8288 Private Individual Therapy Sessions, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Supportive Therapy. Treatment of Anxiety and Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Support Groups, Stress Relief, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Treatment of Stress causing Physical or Emotional Symptoms, Insomnia, PMS. Grief support, Healthy Weight support, Smoking-Alcohol-Substance-Cessation support. Holistic Mind and Body Approach. Repair and find balance. Calm, relax & energize. Memory and Dementia Evaluations, Competency Evaluations, Private care of patients at Assisted Living facilities, Independent living facilities, and Nursing Homes.
201-568-8288 Private Individual Therapy Sessions, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Supportive Therapy. Treatment of Anxiety and Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Support Groups, Stress Relief, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Treatment of Stress causing Physical or Emotional Symptoms, Insomnia, PMS. Grief support, Healthy Weight support, Smoking-Alcohol-Substance-Cessation support. Holistic Mind and Body Approach. Repair and find balance. Calm, relax & energize. Memory and Dementia Evaluations, Competency Evaluations, Private care of patients at Assisted Living facilities, Independent living facilities, and Nursing Homes.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f099b120-cca1-40f4-abe9-81263134470a/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Andrea Marie Zafonte, MS, , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d8ad143-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Marie Zafonte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Individual psychotherapy and medication management for ages 17 and over. A A PMHNP must utilize theoretical, scientific and clinical knowledge to manage health and illness states. We assess a patient’s mental health and focus on health promotion and disease prevention. We are also responsible for diagnosing mental illness, interpreting data and facilitating treatment planning, including prescribing medication when needed. Acting as support for patients and their families. Each Patient will have their treatment tailored to your individual and medical needs based on evidence based practice best suited for you.
Individual psychotherapy and medication management for ages 17 and over. A A PMHNP must utilize theoretical, scientific and clinical knowledge to manage health and illness states. We assess a patient’s mental health and focus on health promotion and disease prevention. We are also responsible for diagnosing mental illness, interpreting data and facilitating treatment planning, including prescribing medication when needed. Acting as support for patients and their families. Each Patient will have their treatment tailored to your individual and medical needs based on evidence based practice best suited for you.
![Photo of Cristina Musat, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83d80f53-8172-4c50-a648-474a47abc8a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced and board-certified psychiatrist, dedicated to providing exceptional mental health care. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions, and am committed to helping you achieve mental health and well-being through evidence-based treatments and personalized care. I completed my medical degree in Romania and my residency in psychiatry at Maimonides Medical Center. I have extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am an experienced and board-certified psychiatrist, dedicated to providing exceptional mental health care. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions, and am committed to helping you achieve mental health and well-being through evidence-based treatments and personalized care. I completed my medical degree in Romania and my residency in psychiatry at Maimonides Medical Center. I have extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Dr. Mina Oza, MD is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over forty six years of experience in the medical field. She has worked extensively in inpatient, outpatient and private practice. She has served as supervisor for therapists, nurses, interns, residents and medical students. She graduated from Lady Hardinge Medical College, University Of Delhi medical school in 1974. She completed her training at the Elmhurst Hospital in NY. Her current areas of interest are child and adolescent psychiatry, peripartum and postpartum and women’s health. She now serves at the Medical Director of 2nd ARC psychiatric associates.
Dr. Mina Oza, MD is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over forty six years of experience in the medical field. She has worked extensively in inpatient, outpatient and private practice. She has served as supervisor for therapists, nurses, interns, residents and medical students. She graduated from Lady Hardinge Medical College, University Of Delhi medical school in 1974. She completed her training at the Elmhurst Hospital in NY. Her current areas of interest are child and adolescent psychiatry, peripartum and postpartum and women’s health. She now serves at the Medical Director of 2nd ARC psychiatric associates.
![Photo of Mark D Stracks, MD, MS, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d6a7ba5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to understand each of my clients as an individual and to craft treatment options that are most appropriate to their needs and preferences. I have found that, where possible, it is best to take a minimalist approach to medication interventions, balancing these with appropriate therapy interventions and focus on life changes that can improve a client's mental health or addiction difficulties. I bring many years of caring treatment experience to each of my client's individual needs. I look forward to working with you.
I strive to understand each of my clients as an individual and to craft treatment options that are most appropriate to their needs and preferences. I have found that, where possible, it is best to take a minimalist approach to medication interventions, balancing these with appropriate therapy interventions and focus on life changes that can improve a client's mental health or addiction difficulties. I bring many years of caring treatment experience to each of my client's individual needs. I look forward to working with you.
See more therapy options for Warwick
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Warwick, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Warwick, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
83% | Geriatric and Seniors |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Warwick, NY see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Warwick?
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.