Psychiatrists in Franklin County, OH
![Photo of Nick Baston, NP, RN, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1565bdc1-68a2-46ce-b0f0-4877e0582abd/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Baston earned Doctoral of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah after completing a Masters degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the Ohio State University. After Dr. Baston completed his Masters degree, he moved to a community mental health center in Columbus, Ohio where he treated a severe and persistently mental ill population consisting of schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Dr. Baston earned Doctoral of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah after completing a Masters degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the Ohio State University. After Dr. Baston completed his Masters degree, he moved to a community mental health center in Columbus, Ohio where he treated a severe and persistently mental ill population consisting of schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8e7b84f-2861-4ab4-9eba-8a208ec97a1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
![Photo of Lacey Kolb, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da30c99a-c11c-4d7d-a922-bb0aee4fc6a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner who sees patients across the lifespan. I attended the Ohio State University where I received my Masters in Nursing. I have work in both community mental health and private practice settings. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and value collaboration with therapists and other health care providers. My focus of treatment is to reduce debilitating symptoms, foster wellness and improve each individual's quality of life. I believe in partnership within medical decision making and values each patient’s active participation in their treatment.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner who sees patients across the lifespan. I attended the Ohio State University where I received my Masters in Nursing. I have work in both community mental health and private practice settings. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and value collaboration with therapists and other health care providers. My focus of treatment is to reduce debilitating symptoms, foster wellness and improve each individual's quality of life. I believe in partnership within medical decision making and values each patient’s active participation in their treatment.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a692770-c3a9-414a-984d-b7bb1127bd2e/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
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 Anyi Ernestine Alemnji Asongacha, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34fedf3e-ebfd-4b4e-9175-1e3d77eb6121/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anyi Ernestine Alemnji Asongacha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43232
A psychiatric nurse practitioner is uniquely positioned to address the multifaceted needs of potential clients. With expertise in both mental health and nursing, we emphasize not just medication management but also therapy, education, and support tailored to clients' individual needs. Potential clients seek their assistance for a variety of reasons, ranging from managing chronic mental illnesses to coping with life transitions, trauma, or stressors. They value a provider who listens attentively, respects their experiences, and collaborates with them to develop personalized treatment plans that promote wellness and recovery.
A psychiatric nurse practitioner is uniquely positioned to address the multifaceted needs of potential clients. With expertise in both mental health and nursing, we emphasize not just medication management but also therapy, education, and support tailored to clients' individual needs. Potential clients seek their assistance for a variety of reasons, ranging from managing chronic mental illnesses to coping with life transitions, trauma, or stressors. They value a provider who listens attentively, respects their experiences, and collaborates with them to develop personalized treatment plans that promote wellness and recovery.
![Photo of Christopher Messmer, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc0ba6c1-1ef8-4172-b673-86a919cc41fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Messmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
My clients appreciate how I listen intently, ask critical questions and make them feel at ease immediately with unconditional care and warmth. I have been working with patients to improve their wellbeing and morale with kind words, support and pharmaceutical expertise since 1990, when I started my career in the United States Navy Healthcare field. I believe in being completely thorough by telling you everything you should expect with medications and what it will take to feel better sooner rather than later.
My clients appreciate how I listen intently, ask critical questions and make them feel at ease immediately with unconditional care and warmth. I have been working with patients to improve their wellbeing and morale with kind words, support and pharmaceutical expertise since 1990, when I started my career in the United States Navy Healthcare field. I believe in being completely thorough by telling you everything you should expect with medications and what it will take to feel better sooner rather than later.
![Photo of Laurie Saurborn, APRN, PMHNP, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd470dd7-9ea9-4d7b-8423-c6b33557ace1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Saurborn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
The world doesn't stop spinning during times of change or crisis. If you are in search of a provider who excels at creating collaborative treatment plans to help you reach your immediate and long term goals, I can help.
The world doesn't stop spinning during times of change or crisis. If you are in search of a provider who excels at creating collaborative treatment plans to help you reach your immediate and long term goals, I can help.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/775e6508-6b48-4956-b469-397bc3c8dd53/1/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Mike Tichy, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f73a406-a2d8-4513-852a-d3cdce75e6c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
![Photo of Joshua Ndematebem, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c565c0fe-0828-4908-a161-43fedab2b543/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua is a down-to-earth and welcoming psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is skilled in medication management for adolescents and adults with mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, stress and trauma-related disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction related disorders (non-opioid) and others. He is experienced in outpatient and inpatient treatment modalities
Joshua is a down-to-earth and welcoming psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is skilled in medication management for adolescents and adults with mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, stress and trauma-related disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction related disorders (non-opioid) and others. He is experienced in outpatient and inpatient treatment modalities
![Photo of Mourine J Nyangoro, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36cde39e-f568-4783-a036-17ac746e97b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mourine J Nyangoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43229
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
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![Photo of Stephen Jon Bittner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72a8e5cd-ceb3-452c-b2ae-1181280d0aa8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Jon Bittner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Bittner is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience. He believes that it is often more effective if the same therapist provides both medication and therapy as it allows for a more comprehensive, individualized and conservative treatment approach. His services include, but are not limited to diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety and panic, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. He has a special interest and expertise in treating individuals and families coping with chronic and life-threatening illness as well as grief and loss.
Dr. Bittner is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience. He believes that it is often more effective if the same therapist provides both medication and therapy as it allows for a more comprehensive, individualized and conservative treatment approach. His services include, but are not limited to diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety and panic, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. He has a special interest and expertise in treating individuals and families coping with chronic and life-threatening illness as well as grief and loss.
Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and indecision often bring people to treatment. I am a practicing psychiatrist applying psychodynamic psychotherapy, contemporary psychoanalysis, and medication management to help patients. People often think that their problems are unclear, confusing, and that there are no real answers. People often wish that their lives could be better or that they could have a greater sense of wellbeing. It could be work or school performance, or relationship difficulties. These problems can be helped, in a way that brings lasting benefit.
Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and indecision often bring people to treatment. I am a practicing psychiatrist applying psychodynamic psychotherapy, contemporary psychoanalysis, and medication management to help patients. People often think that their problems are unclear, confusing, and that there are no real answers. People often wish that their lives could be better or that they could have a greater sense of wellbeing. It could be work or school performance, or relationship difficulties. These problems can be helped, in a way that brings lasting benefit.
![Photo of Amy Everhart, MSN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/628182c2-ed94-4d85-b0cd-8cbacd83667f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Everhart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Want to know what makes psychiatric care at Well Balanced Women different? It’s the power of human connection through lived experiences. It’s the real life stuff that can’t be taught in school or in books. It’s the fact that we as women are all in this together. My favorite part of my practice is the relationships I build with my patients and the success stories that follow. At Well Balanced Women, you will never be a number. I will always take the time to get to know you. All of your worries, fears, and concerns are safe with me. I am just a regular mom of 3 ready to help you feel your best so you can get back to living your life!
Want to know what makes psychiatric care at Well Balanced Women different? It’s the power of human connection through lived experiences. It’s the real life stuff that can’t be taught in school or in books. It’s the fact that we as women are all in this together. My favorite part of my practice is the relationships I build with my patients and the success stories that follow. At Well Balanced Women, you will never be a number. I will always take the time to get to know you. All of your worries, fears, and concerns are safe with me. I am just a regular mom of 3 ready to help you feel your best so you can get back to living your life!
![Photo of Sarah Rossetter - Sarah Rossetter, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9f3a3ab-596b-4880-bc29-f5aaad2b6db4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Unsure if medication is the right choice for you? Are you looking for a doctor who will truly listen and understand your needs? Dr. Rossetter combines a warm, compassionate interaction style with medical expertise to offer truly personalized care.
Unsure if medication is the right choice for you? Are you looking for a doctor who will truly listen and understand your needs? Dr. Rossetter combines a warm, compassionate interaction style with medical expertise to offer truly personalized care.
![Photo of Erica Gantner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75c6ee6b-d2ac-4680-9fcf-b5d50b032629/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have background in medical and psychiatric care which promotes a holistic approach. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood disorders, trauma, schizophrenia, ADHD and substance use disorders. My background includes working with people in acute crisis and long term stabilization. I believe in working with each patient on an individual level and that no two patients are alike. Staying updated on emerging medication and therapeutic interventions allows me to provide optimal care.
As a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have background in medical and psychiatric care which promotes a holistic approach. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood disorders, trauma, schizophrenia, ADHD and substance use disorders. My background includes working with people in acute crisis and long term stabilization. I believe in working with each patient on an individual level and that no two patients are alike. Staying updated on emerging medication and therapeutic interventions allows me to provide optimal care.
![Photo of Sarah (Reid) Red Specializing In Anxiety, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0492eb45-4858-40f6-b28a-5ab2c4f46329/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah (Reid) Red Specializing In Anxiety
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Seeking help is hard. Here getting care is easy. - - Immediate openings for new patients - - Too often we are beaten down and we feel defeated, lose our self-confidence and our connection to others. It is important to me to restore that connection. I not only treat the mind - but also nurture the spirit - in a safe setting where you feel heard and receive compassionate, attentive care. Here you will have time to talk, and you will receive coaching and feedback from someone who listens and is invested in your success.
Seeking help is hard. Here getting care is easy. - - Immediate openings for new patients - - Too often we are beaten down and we feel defeated, lose our self-confidence and our connection to others. It is important to me to restore that connection. I not only treat the mind - but also nurture the spirit - in a safe setting where you feel heard and receive compassionate, attentive care. Here you will have time to talk, and you will receive coaching and feedback from someone who listens and is invested in your success.
![Photo of Rachel Jones, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87257452-7ed8-402d-9b43-1e2e87d3ac9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Jones is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with seven of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University and Wright State University and her bachelor's degree from Grace College in Indiana. She is certified through the American Nursing Credential Center. She has previously worked in inpatient, outpatient, emergency and foster care settings. She specializes in medication management for her clients and is also knowledgeable in motivational interviewing and supportive counseling. She sees clients up to age 40.
Rachel Jones is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with seven of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University and Wright State University and her bachelor's degree from Grace College in Indiana. She is certified through the American Nursing Credential Center. She has previously worked in inpatient, outpatient, emergency and foster care settings. She specializes in medication management for her clients and is also knowledgeable in motivational interviewing and supportive counseling. She sees clients up to age 40.
![Photo of Mark Skinner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45aa1fae-cb82-424a-8972-d42d3e2f4e0e/2/320x400.png)
Mark is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has over 8 years of experience managing and treating adults facing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. Mark is driven to provide the best possible care to each person. Mark completed his Master's degree in Nursing from the Ohio State University. He has a background in Social Work, which gives him a unique perspective for making treatment recommendations for the adults he works with.
Mark is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has over 8 years of experience managing and treating adults facing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. Mark is driven to provide the best possible care to each person. Mark completed his Master's degree in Nursing from the Ohio State University. He has a background in Social Work, which gives him a unique perspective for making treatment recommendations for the adults he works with.
![Photo of Nina Roslovic, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a08ded-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel like you've got one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake? Know where you want to go, but can't seem to get there? As a board-certified nurse practitioner, I provide therapy and medication for challenges including anxiety, low energy, depression, trouble sleeping, and grief. Office hours include evenings and weekends, and I offer a free 20-minute session if you'd like to see if we're a good fit. Check out my website: www.cooperativechange.com for more information.
Do you feel like you've got one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake? Know where you want to go, but can't seem to get there? As a board-certified nurse practitioner, I provide therapy and medication for challenges including anxiety, low energy, depression, trouble sleeping, and grief. Office hours include evenings and weekends, and I offer a free 20-minute session if you'd like to see if we're a good fit. Check out my website: www.cooperativechange.com for more information.
See more therapy options for Franklin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Franklin County, OH
200+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Franklin County, OH who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Medication Management |
59% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Franklin County, OH see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Franklin County?
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.