Psychiatrists in Watkins Glen, NY
![Photo of Christy Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5569b47b-1b89-4ea9-b7c9-00a1bd84a60b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christy Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Waitlist for new clients
I started my career in behavioral health almost 20 years ago and have continued to expand my knowledge as a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Keuka college with a masters in nursing education in 2014 and went on to receive my PMHNP from Binghamton University in 2016 with high honors. My specialty area ranges across the lifespan with areas of interest including child, adolescent, LGBTQ, sexuality, trauma and general wellness. I keep up to date with evidence based practice and advocate fiercely for my patients. I welcome everyone into my office not with judgement but with hope and compassion.
I started my career in behavioral health almost 20 years ago and have continued to expand my knowledge as a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Keuka college with a masters in nursing education in 2014 and went on to receive my PMHNP from Binghamton University in 2016 with high honors. My specialty area ranges across the lifespan with areas of interest including child, adolescent, LGBTQ, sexuality, trauma and general wellness. I keep up to date with evidence based practice and advocate fiercely for my patients. I welcome everyone into my office not with judgement but with hope and compassion.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Bruce Bassi - TelepsychHealth, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86afdbc4-0ad1-4af1-ae0f-cf6c6e32aed4/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
![Photo of Danielle Esposito - Owl Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12e072ba-cba8-4a07-b53d-9ad01d407e76/1/320x400.png)
Owl Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seneca, NY 14224
Some adults with ADHD did not have symptoms in childhood or were not diagnosed. So ADHD in adults may go undetected. Untreated ADHD can have catastrophic consequences for an adult’s career and relationships. In some cases, ADHD may manifest as another problem, such as depression or substance abuse. For people with ADHD, not taking medication is often more dangerous than using medication.ADHD is a disease, but it also comes with its own unique set of skills—high energy, creativity, a desire to try new things, and much more. People with ADHD can and do succeed at the highest levels in every profession.
Some adults with ADHD did not have symptoms in childhood or were not diagnosed. So ADHD in adults may go undetected. Untreated ADHD can have catastrophic consequences for an adult’s career and relationships. In some cases, ADHD may manifest as another problem, such as depression or substance abuse. For people with ADHD, not taking medication is often more dangerous than using medication.ADHD is a disease, but it also comes with its own unique set of skills—high energy, creativity, a desire to try new things, and much more. People with ADHD can and do succeed at the highest levels in every profession.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7a2fc85-b151-46d6-9e81-9e4c0ff8ae8c/1/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Marti K Klaver @ Mindset Integrative Services, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35f9e651-d64e-48dc-a4af-1d161b800c2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marti K Klaver @ Mindset Integrative Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
At Mindset Integrative, my mission is to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. My goal has always been for patients to have the least amount of medication that is effective for them. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and I strive to make that a reality for my clients, therefore I will be offering financing for those in need. Now accepting the following insurances: Oscar Health, United Healthcare, Oxford Live, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield New York (formerly Empire), Cigna, Aetna and Horizon BCBS of New Jersey.
At Mindset Integrative, my mission is to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. My goal has always been for patients to have the least amount of medication that is effective for them. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and I strive to make that a reality for my clients, therefore I will be offering financing for those in need. Now accepting the following insurances: Oscar Health, United Healthcare, Oxford Live, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield New York (formerly Empire), Cigna, Aetna and Horizon BCBS of New Jersey.
![Photo of Marjorie Baker Price, RN, CH, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/baecdeb7-3653-4fbf-ab68-bbab476c8676/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ideal clients come to me with a level of desperation after having tried unsuccessfully with some traditional psychological modalities. Clients typically need assistance with traumas and stress as well as self-care maintenance.
Ideal clients come to me with a level of desperation after having tried unsuccessfully with some traditional psychological modalities. Clients typically need assistance with traumas and stress as well as self-care maintenance.
![Photo of La Carla Denise Holmes, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eed7fca7-a57e-453c-bfd1-09f29321bcfc/1/320x400.jpeg)
La Carla Denise Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14615
La Carla is a Rochester native who has been in the nursing field for almost 25 years. During this time, she has gained abundant experience in various areas, including Hospice, Long-Term Care, and Mental Health. She has been instrumental in helping aspiring nursing professionals succeed. Intrigued by helping individuals who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders reach their fullest potential, she has embarked on a rewarding journey that offers fulfillment to lifelong happiness.
La Carla is a Rochester native who has been in the nursing field for almost 25 years. During this time, she has gained abundant experience in various areas, including Hospice, Long-Term Care, and Mental Health. She has been instrumental in helping aspiring nursing professionals succeed. Intrigued by helping individuals who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders reach their fullest potential, she has embarked on a rewarding journey that offers fulfillment to lifelong happiness.
![Photo of Dr. Cecile Matip - Fulton Family Tele- Psychiatry, Online services, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaccb360-3d2f-4ebb-aee1-75449f88c645/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fulton Family Tele- Psychiatry, Online services
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Fulton, NY 13069 (Online Only)
Being a mother of 6 children I know the importance of mental health and how difficult it is to find the right doctor, so I created a online private practice. One aspect of my practice involves helping patients of all ages to reassess their current medication regimen or explore the possibility of tapering off their medication. I understand that medication can be a useful tool in managing mental health symptoms, it is important to regularly reassess the effectiveness and side effects of any medication a patient is taking and evaluate the benefits and risks of their current medication to determine if any changes need to be made.
Being a mother of 6 children I know the importance of mental health and how difficult it is to find the right doctor, so I created a online private practice. One aspect of my practice involves helping patients of all ages to reassess their current medication regimen or explore the possibility of tapering off their medication. I understand that medication can be a useful tool in managing mental health symptoms, it is important to regularly reassess the effectiveness and side effects of any medication a patient is taking and evaluate the benefits and risks of their current medication to determine if any changes need to be made.
![Photo of Claudine Sapini, DNP , PMHNBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/386ef162-dc49-4f33-acad-88fa5ddcfb1c/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
![Photo of Joann Liberta - Joann Liberta, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7e80847-ae5e-45ca-9ced-8667cbda7416/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joann Liberta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orchard Park, NY 14127
Waitlist for new clients
I am a dedicated board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over two decades of experience with working in both medical and psychiatric settings providing care to clients with a wide variety of health concerns. Common conditions treated include- depression, bipolar/mood dysregulation, anxiety/panic disorder, ADHD. PTSD, OCD, PMDD, and insomnia. I specialize in medication management in combination with brief individual supportive psychotherapy for the treatment of most mental health problems.
I am a dedicated board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over two decades of experience with working in both medical and psychiatric settings providing care to clients with a wide variety of health concerns. Common conditions treated include- depression, bipolar/mood dysregulation, anxiety/panic disorder, ADHD. PTSD, OCD, PMDD, and insomnia. I specialize in medication management in combination with brief individual supportive psychotherapy for the treatment of most mental health problems.
![Photo of Paige Cool, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3af27bfe-175c-4c78-aa73-f42c4a740ac0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Cool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14610 (Online Only)
I started my career at University of Rochester Medical Center and I have 10 years of experience working in psychiatry ranging from outpatient clinics to inpatient settings. I work with children and adolescents as well as adults. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I received my master’s degree from the University of Rochester. Since 2019 I have lived and worked as a nurse practitioner in Denver, Colorado and now that I am back in New York, I look forward to help you in your mental health journey.
I started my career at University of Rochester Medical Center and I have 10 years of experience working in psychiatry ranging from outpatient clinics to inpatient settings. I work with children and adolescents as well as adults. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I received my master’s degree from the University of Rochester. Since 2019 I have lived and worked as a nurse practitioner in Denver, Colorado and now that I am back in New York, I look forward to help you in your mental health journey.
![Photo of Bryan Jay Burroughs - Bryan J. Burroughs NP in Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/576105f3-9b77-4fb8-bcb7-da52922e2ec3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bryan J. Burroughs NP in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14624
Here at Bryan J. Burroughs NP in Psychiatry PLLC, we know how difficult and stressful it can be to find a psychiatrist during these times of uncertainty and confusion. Our goal is to make this process as seamless as possible for you. If you’re someone who struggles with mental health issues, finding the right Psychiatrist can make a world of difference in yours and your family’s lives. We will be with you every step of the way on your journey of mental health healing and wellness. Should you require professional assistance we encourage you to contact us to book an appointment.
Here at Bryan J. Burroughs NP in Psychiatry PLLC, we know how difficult and stressful it can be to find a psychiatrist during these times of uncertainty and confusion. Our goal is to make this process as seamless as possible for you. If you’re someone who struggles with mental health issues, finding the right Psychiatrist can make a world of difference in yours and your family’s lives. We will be with you every step of the way on your journey of mental health healing and wellness. Should you require professional assistance we encourage you to contact us to book an appointment.
![Photo of Claudine Sapini, DNP , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6fb9d9c-cc87-4ea3-b500-4ce1592394bd/1/320x400.png)
Claudine Sapini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
North Syracuse, NY 13212
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
![Photo of Asia L Todd-Peralta, PMHNP, MS, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/293bd3c0-a950-4927-89ea-ed2f9688d817/1/320x400.jpeg)
Asia L Todd-Peralta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MS, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14626
Hello! I have 10 years experience working in healthcare. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, concerning alcohol use, and trauma/PTSD with the goal to change harmful habits and narratives that have controlled their mental health, discover self-acceptance, and recognize their true value and potential. I provide a safe space for deep healing and life-changing care that includes medication, lifestyle interventions, sleep optimization, mindfulness, and more.
Hello! I have 10 years experience working in healthcare. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, concerning alcohol use, and trauma/PTSD with the goal to change harmful habits and narratives that have controlled their mental health, discover self-acceptance, and recognize their true value and potential. I provide a safe space for deep healing and life-changing care that includes medication, lifestyle interventions, sleep optimization, mindfulness, and more.
![Photo of Kelly Dorman, FPMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec482b22-1c73-43ca-ae36-1abd7e5f05a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
In order to assist her patients with the journey, she strives to meet each person right where they are in the life process. She values education and autonomy in treatment and wants her patients to know that she comes from a place free of judgement. Kelly aims to facilitate a therapeutic space where patients feel comfortable to speak at ease. Kellys treatment approach is grounded in empowering each individual with access and space to help themselves identify personal goals, address individual barriers and move forward. Her interest focuses on individual wellness & treatment optimization.
In order to assist her patients with the journey, she strives to meet each person right where they are in the life process. She values education and autonomy in treatment and wants her patients to know that she comes from a place free of judgement. Kelly aims to facilitate a therapeutic space where patients feel comfortable to speak at ease. Kellys treatment approach is grounded in empowering each individual with access and space to help themselves identify personal goals, address individual barriers and move forward. Her interest focuses on individual wellness & treatment optimization.
![Photo of Nicholas Ravvin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62d27a86-82a2-403f-b621-f7250a960246/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients today! I work together with patients with a variety of diagnoses and are interested in learning more about themselves, meeting personal goals, and discussing whether medications may play a central role in their journey.
Accepting new patients today! I work together with patients with a variety of diagnoses and are interested in learning more about themselves, meeting personal goals, and discussing whether medications may play a central role in their journey.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43adbd3d-943d-4b8d-966a-bf7237dc5cce/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14604 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in New York state via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual visit today. Evening/weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $249, Follow-ups $99. Also accepting some insurances.
We are board-certified to Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in New York state via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual visit today. Evening/weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $249, Follow-ups $99. Also accepting some insurances.
![Photo of Stephanie Carletta, PMHNPBC, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52fb29a9-bf93-49b6-8816-0d245e96d42f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Carletta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
*OPENINGS AVAILABLE for a limited time.* Have you struggled emotionally despite engaging in talk therapy? Have you experienced difficulty in finding the mental health medication plan that works best for you without side effects or impersonal, ineffective treatment? Are you dually experiencing physical health concerns without an informed medical team? I'm here to help you through these difficulties with expertise, empathy, and the patience needed to explore your symptoms thoroughly with the goal of finding the right solutions for you. I have advanced training in functional psychiatry that will make your experience with me unique.
*OPENINGS AVAILABLE for a limited time.* Have you struggled emotionally despite engaging in talk therapy? Have you experienced difficulty in finding the mental health medication plan that works best for you without side effects or impersonal, ineffective treatment? Are you dually experiencing physical health concerns without an informed medical team? I'm here to help you through these difficulties with expertise, empathy, and the patience needed to explore your symptoms thoroughly with the goal of finding the right solutions for you. I have advanced training in functional psychiatry that will make your experience with me unique.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdec0d84-4784-4755-9db1-30eba26f3ebf/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14609
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccde833b-4f21-4eb4-b301-289706436873/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Watkins Glen
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Watkins Glen, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Watkins Glen, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Excellus BlueCross BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Watkins Glen, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Watkins Glen?
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.