Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL
![Photo of Marek Hirsch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49f04f17-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am the Medical Director of Metropolitan Behavioral Services, where we provide medication management and therapy services to patients in Jacksonville, FL. I invite you to visit our welcoming office location, where we see all of our patients in person.
I am the Medical Director of Metropolitan Behavioral Services, where we provide medication management and therapy services to patients in Jacksonville, FL. I invite you to visit our welcoming office location, where we see all of our patients in person.
![Photo of Gaurav Agarwal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11ff9826-a15c-4cd0-97e0-78b66eded811/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Agarwal is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist. He was elected chief resident from his residency program at the University of Central Florida. He graduated cum laude from the American University of Antigua where he obtained his medical degree, and received a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Irvine.
Dr. Agarwal is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist. He was elected chief resident from his residency program at the University of Central Florida. He graduated cum laude from the American University of Antigua where he obtained his medical degree, and received a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Irvine.
![Photo of Shanique Ampiah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64429fe6-2092-452c-944d-48ff042fb7df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ampiah is an Adult & Pediatric Psychiatrist who believes in the power of early intervention and its ability to change the trajectory of psychiatric illness. Dr. Ampiah provides comprehensive, compassionate care and works to align with her patients and their families to achieve the best overall outcome while employing a biopsychosocial model guided by empiric data. She also focuses on behavioral intervention foremost with medications only when indicated. She will work alongside your child's treatment team to ensure full collaboration.
Dr. Ampiah is an Adult & Pediatric Psychiatrist who believes in the power of early intervention and its ability to change the trajectory of psychiatric illness. Dr. Ampiah provides comprehensive, compassionate care and works to align with her patients and their families to achieve the best overall outcome while employing a biopsychosocial model guided by empiric data. She also focuses on behavioral intervention foremost with medications only when indicated. She will work alongside your child's treatment team to ensure full collaboration.
![Photo of Emmanuel Appiadu, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33890f36-58e1-4aca-9f93-95b500044de5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emmanuel Appiadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32217
I’m an experienced Dual Certified Mental Health & Family Medicine Provider. I have an extensive history in treating Children, Adults and Geriatric population. I treat clients with ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, Conduct/Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Personality Disorders, & those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder etc. My work history includes Criminal Justice, Department of Children & Family, Group Homes, Substances Use & Addiction. I am a Certified Addiction Provider with over 10 years experience in treating patients with Suboxone, Sublocade & Vivitrol.
I’m an experienced Dual Certified Mental Health & Family Medicine Provider. I have an extensive history in treating Children, Adults and Geriatric population. I treat clients with ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, Conduct/Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Personality Disorders, & those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder etc. My work history includes Criminal Justice, Department of Children & Family, Group Homes, Substances Use & Addiction. I am a Certified Addiction Provider with over 10 years experience in treating patients with Suboxone, Sublocade & Vivitrol.
![Photo of Sujal Kotadia, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4563da3-52f3-4b47-8757-5a71c773f2f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kotadia is a board-certified psychiatrist who completed his psychiatry residency training program at Nassau University Medical Center in Long Island, NY. After completing training, he has been practicing outpatient psychiatry and specializes in the evaluation and management of major psychiatric disorders including depression, and anxiety. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Kotadia may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Kotadia is a board-certified psychiatrist who completed his psychiatry residency training program at Nassau University Medical Center in Long Island, NY. After completing training, he has been practicing outpatient psychiatry and specializes in the evaluation and management of major psychiatric disorders including depression, and anxiety. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Kotadia may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Diane Edgar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf22dfb5-5995-4e4f-9f45-02600e3e6c20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Diane Edgar completed her psychiatry residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, NJ. She received her bachelor's degree in Chemistry at Florida International University in Miami, FL and stayed to complete medical school at their Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. As a South Florida native, she is fluent in English and Spanish and has experience in treating individuals from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
Dr. Diane Edgar completed her psychiatry residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, NJ. She received her bachelor's degree in Chemistry at Florida International University in Miami, FL and stayed to complete medical school at their Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. As a South Florida native, she is fluent in English and Spanish and has experience in treating individuals from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Hailey Lafferty, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23c845b4-67cc-4fc2-8706-bb1c1730497e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hailey Lafferty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a holistic approach to mental well being. I understand that our physical health and mental health are connected and heavily based upon our life experiences and genetics. I know that stability and healing require hard work and I want to partner alongside clients with education and shared decision making to help them become the healthiest versions of themselves. I have completed perinatal mental health training and I recognize the difficulties adjusting to motherhood, seeking to be a support for those along this journey.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a holistic approach to mental well being. I understand that our physical health and mental health are connected and heavily based upon our life experiences and genetics. I know that stability and healing require hard work and I want to partner alongside clients with education and shared decision making to help them become the healthiest versions of themselves. I have completed perinatal mental health training and I recognize the difficulties adjusting to motherhood, seeking to be a support for those along this journey.
![Photo of Donita Jones, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c43a6a9-1066-4167-9dbf-ce3e40f9ab39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donita Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Thank you for looking at my profile! I have been providing mental health services to the community since 2018 but also have training and experience in family medicine, pediatrics, case management, OBGYN, emergency intervention, critical care, progressive care, IV therapy and TMS which gives me a well-rounded approach to managing a whole person. Our office utilizes an integrated approach in a non-judgmental environment and would be happy to assist on your journey!
Thank you for looking at my profile! I have been providing mental health services to the community since 2018 but also have training and experience in family medicine, pediatrics, case management, OBGYN, emergency intervention, critical care, progressive care, IV therapy and TMS which gives me a well-rounded approach to managing a whole person. Our office utilizes an integrated approach in a non-judgmental environment and would be happy to assist on your journey!
I'm a psychiatrist with many year of experiences. I have worked in hospitals, community mental health centers and private practice. I have treated many clients throughout the years. I've worked with clients who were diagnosed with: Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar I and II, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant, Conduct Disorder, and Adjustment Disorders. I've worked with individuals who were diagnosed with personality disorders.
I'm a psychiatrist with many year of experiences. I have worked in hospitals, community mental health centers and private practice. I have treated many clients throughout the years. I've worked with clients who were diagnosed with: Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar I and II, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant, Conduct Disorder, and Adjustment Disorders. I've worked with individuals who were diagnosed with personality disorders.
![Photo of Grace-Ann Sutherland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52510a1c-c07f-48a6-a9e9-136cc38126b5/1/320x400.png)
Grace-Ann Sutherland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! As a PMHNP, I am dedicated to creating a compassionate, judgment-free space where you feel heard and understood. My holistic approach focuses on both mind and body to foster healing and growth. With a blend of evidence-based practices and personalized care, I strive to empower you on your journey toward mental wellness. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, stress, complex life transitions, or difficult relationships, I am here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to unlock your potential and achieve your deserved peace.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! As a PMHNP, I am dedicated to creating a compassionate, judgment-free space where you feel heard and understood. My holistic approach focuses on both mind and body to foster healing and growth. With a blend of evidence-based practices and personalized care, I strive to empower you on your journey toward mental wellness. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, stress, complex life transitions, or difficult relationships, I am here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to unlock your potential and achieve your deserved peace.
![Photo of Gira Borad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b4c3df7-4d4f-48f6-b853-084cbf9b9323/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Borad is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has specialized in Addiction Psychiatry. She finished her residency from WVU campus of Charleston, WV and finished Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship from UPMC/Western Psychiatry Institute. She has previously worked as an Assistant Professor at WVU of Charleston, where she was involved in working with residents in inpatient and outpatient settings, provided psychiatric consult services to hospitalized patients, and was part of the Outpatient Comprehensive Opioid treatment program. She has interest in treating patients with mood , anxiety and psychotic disorders.
Dr. Borad is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has specialized in Addiction Psychiatry. She finished her residency from WVU campus of Charleston, WV and finished Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship from UPMC/Western Psychiatry Institute. She has previously worked as an Assistant Professor at WVU of Charleston, where she was involved in working with residents in inpatient and outpatient settings, provided psychiatric consult services to hospitalized patients, and was part of the Outpatient Comprehensive Opioid treatment program. She has interest in treating patients with mood , anxiety and psychotic disorders.
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![Photo of Imtiaz Rasul - Jacksonville Psychiatric Association, Inc., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b348ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacksonville Psychiatric Association, Inc.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
New Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist in Jacksonville, FL. Same day appointments are available. Dr. Imtiaz Rasul is specialized both in Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatry. We are located just across from The Avenues mall. We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care.
New Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist in Jacksonville, FL. Same day appointments are available. Dr. Imtiaz Rasul is specialized both in Child-Adolescent and Adult psychiatry. We are located just across from The Avenues mall. We are devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services and delivering excellent high quality health care.
![Photo of Zishan Majeed, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a8aeb3-ae87-4d00-ae96-136f7822a13f/2/320x400.png)
Zishan Majeed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257 (Online Only)
Zishan Majeed is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of Florida. Zishan has experience working with adults who are experiencing chronic anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, eating disorders, OCD, parenting difficulties, low self-esteem, and more. Zishan offers medication management services in English, Hindi, and Urdu.
Zishan Majeed is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of Florida. Zishan has experience working with adults who are experiencing chronic anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, eating disorders, OCD, parenting difficulties, low self-esteem, and more. Zishan offers medication management services in English, Hindi, and Urdu.
![Photo of Reaghan Hicks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6a4cbc4-8112-4e31-a3e6-052b53f6f049/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Reaghan Hicks is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at The College of Charleston followed by medical school at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Hicks completed Residency in General Psychiatry at The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at The Medical University of South Carolina.
Dr. Reaghan Hicks is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at The College of Charleston followed by medical school at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Hicks completed Residency in General Psychiatry at The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at The Medical University of South Carolina.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9489148c-b690-4782-b82f-93ba6299d6a3/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Amanda Alexander - Altitude Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a599766-2417-4100-b8c4-21f01eb1e042/1/320x400.jpeg)
Altitude Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257
At Altitude Health, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services that prioritize your well-being. Our mission is to offer personalized care plans and innovative treatment options to help you overcome mental health challenges and achieve a higher level of wellness. With our same-day appointments, customized plans, enhanced diagnostics, and continuum-of-care approach, Altitude Health is the leading choice for those seeking exceptional mental health care in Jacksonville, FL.
At Altitude Health, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services that prioritize your well-being. Our mission is to offer personalized care plans and innovative treatment options to help you overcome mental health challenges and achieve a higher level of wellness. With our same-day appointments, customized plans, enhanced diagnostics, and continuum-of-care approach, Altitude Health is the leading choice for those seeking exceptional mental health care in Jacksonville, FL.
![Photo of John C Tanner, DO, DFASAM, DABAM, CCFC, MRO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bec2f4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
John C Tanner
Psychiatrist, DO, DFASAM, DABAM, CCFC, MRO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
I believe in a holistic approach that includes a healthy lifestyle, even though the focus of my practice is primarily addictive and behavioral health care. I believe that I must carefully listen to my patients and understand what they want that I may have to offer. Sometimes patients want so-called treatments or medications that may do more harm than good. In those situations I attempt to help them understand their disorder and how to lead a more fulfilling life, but I will not prescribe medications or use treatments that are counterproductive to their recovery or wellbeing. Recovery is not an easy process in most cases.
I believe in a holistic approach that includes a healthy lifestyle, even though the focus of my practice is primarily addictive and behavioral health care. I believe that I must carefully listen to my patients and understand what they want that I may have to offer. Sometimes patients want so-called treatments or medications that may do more harm than good. In those situations I attempt to help them understand their disorder and how to lead a more fulfilling life, but I will not prescribe medications or use treatments that are counterproductive to their recovery or wellbeing. Recovery is not an easy process in most cases.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0089279b-29a1-4ea6-b87d-004eae90d03d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Dr. Sanaz Parsa, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0664cb1-684f-4bec-98a0-0e52dd97bf57/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have special expertise in treating individuals who have medical illnesses and are in need of medication support as a component of their care. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address their relationship or career issues. My style is professional, empathic and approachable. Psychoeducation is at the core of my practice. I collaborate regularly with your therapist/PCP to discuss and plan your best, most effective treatment course. Not everyone needs medications.
I have special expertise in treating individuals who have medical illnesses and are in need of medication support as a component of their care. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address their relationship or career issues. My style is professional, empathic and approachable. Psychoeducation is at the core of my practice. I collaborate regularly with your therapist/PCP to discuss and plan your best, most effective treatment course. Not everyone needs medications.
![Photo of Yolanda Cardona, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bae48b9-2714-4261-b259-504d83db0e29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yolanda Cardona
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32244 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone seeking psychiatric mental health services, possibly struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health challenges. They value a collaborative approach to care and seek personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs. They aspire to regain control over their mental health, improve their quality of life, and enhance their overall well-being.
My ideal client is someone seeking psychiatric mental health services, possibly struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health challenges. They value a collaborative approach to care and seek personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs. They aspire to regain control over their mental health, improve their quality of life, and enhance their overall well-being.
See more therapy options for Duval County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL
200+
Average cost per session
$159
Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | Aetna |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Duval County, FL see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
29% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Duval 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.