Psychiatrists in Ashland, OR
![Photo of Juliana Ayres, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37d77dbe-058e-418f-a01c-7ece069056f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal patient recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and lifestyle. They confront mental health challenges such as mood disorders, anxiety, or OCD, often accompanied by physical symptoms like fatigue, sleep issues, and brain fog. They seek holistic assessment and personalized treatment plans to address their unique needs. Their goals include symptom relief, improved functioning, and overall well-being. They value collaboration, empowerment and education.
The ideal patient recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and lifestyle. They confront mental health challenges such as mood disorders, anxiety, or OCD, often accompanied by physical symptoms like fatigue, sleep issues, and brain fog. They seek holistic assessment and personalized treatment plans to address their unique needs. Their goals include symptom relief, improved functioning, and overall well-being. They value collaboration, empowerment and education.
![Photo of Armando Javier Brito, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a81e078-4841-4a8e-ada2-6ef462543df9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide compassionate, non-judgmental and patient-centered care to individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns. I understand that not every treatment option may work for everyone.
I provide compassionate, non-judgmental and patient-centered care to individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns. I understand that not every treatment option may work for everyone.
![Photo of Warren Tom Roseland Jr, BS, BSN, MS, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/446876fd-63e7-4401-bca0-9372c5dcd307/1/320x400.jpeg)
Warren Tom Roseland Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, BSN, MS, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520 (Online Only)
Healing Relationships are the result of careful listening, dialogue, respect, trust, collaboration, and clear and concise education in midst of a persons real life and in as real time as possible. This requires both real time and asynchronous interaction using all aspects of technology for communication. The care must be affordable and focused on best outcomes. > Telehealth for ALL of Oregon.<
Healing Relationships are the result of careful listening, dialogue, respect, trust, collaboration, and clear and concise education in midst of a persons real life and in as real time as possible. This requires both real time and asynchronous interaction using all aspects of technology for communication. The care must be affordable and focused on best outcomes. > Telehealth for ALL of Oregon.<
![Photo of Megan Sapp, PMHNP, CNM, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49818b2d-9aac-45ea-9f8a-de1415e989fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Sapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520 (Online Only)
2024 - Current openings! To get started, complete a new patient form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a psychiatric NP, I specialize in supporting people through life transitions. With a background a Nurse Midwife, I have special interest in serving clients who are pregnant, postpartum, experiencing perinatal loss or fertility challenges, or affected by hormonal changes. I bring a comprehensive understanding of reproductive and physical health to assist clients in weighing options for care and building a treatment plan that is consistent with their goals and values.
2024 - Current openings! To get started, complete a new patient form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a psychiatric NP, I specialize in supporting people through life transitions. With a background a Nurse Midwife, I have special interest in serving clients who are pregnant, postpartum, experiencing perinatal loss or fertility challenges, or affected by hormonal changes. I bring a comprehensive understanding of reproductive and physical health to assist clients in weighing options for care and building a treatment plan that is consistent with their goals and values.
![Photo of Dr. Trisha Vaughn - MotherRoot Integrated Wellness, ND, PMHNP, CNM/NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13ca3ec9-a2f8-4689-9c37-afd633b88306/1/320x400.jpeg)
MotherRoot Integrated Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, PMHNP, CNM/NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
MotherRoot offers psychiatric services across the lifespan from adolescence to the aging adult. I know that strong mental health is a priority for growth. I offer a range of services including medication management for ADHD, OCD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, Panic and Perinatal Mood Disorders. Please visit my website motherrootinc.com for more.
MotherRoot offers psychiatric services across the lifespan from adolescence to the aging adult. I know that strong mental health is a priority for growth. I offer a range of services including medication management for ADHD, OCD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, Panic and Perinatal Mood Disorders. Please visit my website motherrootinc.com for more.
![Photo of Dr. Christopher Galbick, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31c223e4-188b-4f63-9889-93efce318cf5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Galbick sees OHP patients with Jackson Care Connect, Health Share of Oregon, and Columbia Pacific CCO. He is currently welcoming new patients and can usually offer appointment availability within 2 weeks! He specializes in medication management, and he emphasizes active listening and empathy in his approach to patient care.
Dr. Galbick sees OHP patients with Jackson Care Connect, Health Share of Oregon, and Columbia Pacific CCO. He is currently welcoming new patients and can usually offer appointment availability within 2 weeks! He specializes in medication management, and he emphasizes active listening and empathy in his approach to patient care.
Immediate openings available via in person and telehealth (Spruce app). You can call/text 541-656-2279 to initiate scheduling.
Immediate openings available via in person and telehealth (Spruce app). You can call/text 541-656-2279 to initiate scheduling.
![Photo of Dr. Carrie Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49acaca4-7109-45fe-9107-f442846c6e25/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carrie Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520 (Online Only)
Current Openings! To get started, please complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing contextualized whole-person mental health care that considers the many factors – genetic, social, environmental, and cultural – that contribute to someone’s overall health picture. My approach is collaborative, evidence-informed, and patient-centered. I partner with my clients in shared decision-making and deeply value the foundational importance of trust, safety, and human connection in a therapeutic relationship.
Current Openings! To get started, please complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing contextualized whole-person mental health care that considers the many factors – genetic, social, environmental, and cultural – that contribute to someone’s overall health picture. My approach is collaborative, evidence-informed, and patient-centered. I partner with my clients in shared decision-making and deeply value the foundational importance of trust, safety, and human connection in a therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Carrie Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d35bb68d-8a6c-4f61-ac72-3a73d30ddc53/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520 (Online Only)
Current Openings! To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing contextualized whole-person mental health care that considers the many factors – genetic, social, environmental, and cultural – that contribute to someone’s overall health picture. My approach is collaborative, evidence-informed, and patient-centered. I partner with my clients in shared decision-making and deeply value the foundational importance of trust, safety, and human connection in a therapeutic relationship.
Current Openings! To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing contextualized whole-person mental health care that considers the many factors – genetic, social, environmental, and cultural – that contribute to someone’s overall health picture. My approach is collaborative, evidence-informed, and patient-centered. I partner with my clients in shared decision-making and deeply value the foundational importance of trust, safety, and human connection in a therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Susan Joshua, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5388dc81-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. I am Susan Joshua MD, a psychiatrist who cares about your needs. I have 35 years experience in the field of adult psychiatry. I bring my skills and expertise, with an open heart, to help you with your current challenges and choices. We will use a comprehensive, integrative and holistic approach. An environment of care, support, and partnership will be created in order to assist you on your journey through challenging and chaotic times. We start with what needs attention today to address your immediate needs and goals. In doing so we will assess medication needs, therapy focus and lifestyle choices.
Welcome. I am Susan Joshua MD, a psychiatrist who cares about your needs. I have 35 years experience in the field of adult psychiatry. I bring my skills and expertise, with an open heart, to help you with your current challenges and choices. We will use a comprehensive, integrative and holistic approach. An environment of care, support, and partnership will be created in order to assist you on your journey through challenging and chaotic times. We start with what needs attention today to address your immediate needs and goals. In doing so we will assess medication needs, therapy focus and lifestyle choices.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e83a87da-b8a0-4b55-af25-1a39aa5062fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
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![Photo of Dr. Ana Verzone, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c669170d-a3a7-4b65-b46f-913e804bb080/1/320x400.png)
Ana is a doctorally-prepared PMHNP and FNP and mindfulness meditation teacher. She specializes in mindfulness-based and psychedelic-assisted therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and nature-based wilderness retreats to help people discover their soul purpose and make the most of this one precious life. She is the founder of Insight AK and is the host of the top-rated Rebel Buddhist podcast. Ana is an undeniable multi-passionate and consummate learner, with a degree in Clinical Psychology and multiple graduate degrees from UCSC, UCSF and Johns Hopkins University. She is also a Master Certified Life Coach.
Ana is a doctorally-prepared PMHNP and FNP and mindfulness meditation teacher. She specializes in mindfulness-based and psychedelic-assisted therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and nature-based wilderness retreats to help people discover their soul purpose and make the most of this one precious life. She is the founder of Insight AK and is the host of the top-rated Rebel Buddhist podcast. Ana is an undeniable multi-passionate and consummate learner, with a degree in Clinical Psychology and multiple graduate degrees from UCSC, UCSF and Johns Hopkins University. She is also a Master Certified Life Coach.
![Photo of Shannon Sheats - Shannon Sheats PMHNP at Siskiyou Behavioral Health, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f9a4006-0ed8-433e-8eb3-e34cad336241/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Sheats PMHNP at Siskiyou Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting new clients.
I am not currently accepting new clients.
![Photo of Bradley Williamson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b61a59ee-5d0e-4b72-8384-fd1e6acfde42/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
![Photo of Lynn Wolf, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/868889bc-6a5c-41cc-924d-9d670fbf1edd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Wolf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520 (Online Only)
I am a Certified Nurse Midwife and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in women’s mental health across the lifespan. I enjoy connecting with women who are struggling with mood disorders while fostering a therapeutic relationship conducive to healing. If your not living your best life, we can build a plan to get you there.
I am a Certified Nurse Midwife and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in women’s mental health across the lifespan. I enjoy connecting with women who are struggling with mood disorders while fostering a therapeutic relationship conducive to healing. If your not living your best life, we can build a plan to get you there.
![Photo of Pamela Jean Rivera, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5472cee4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela Jean Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520 (Online Only)
I have had a diverse background in Mental Health. Beginning as a Mental Health Registered Nurse working; in-patient, out-patient and Psychiatric Emergency care settings for 20 years. I graduated from Oregon Health Sciences University in 2006 with board certification through American Nurses Association Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan). I have been trained to provide Primary Mental Health care to individuals and families from early childhood to older adults (8-65 years old).
I have had a diverse background in Mental Health. Beginning as a Mental Health Registered Nurse working; in-patient, out-patient and Psychiatric Emergency care settings for 20 years. I graduated from Oregon Health Sciences University in 2006 with board certification through American Nurses Association Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan). I have been trained to provide Primary Mental Health care to individuals and families from early childhood to older adults (8-65 years old).
![Photo of Tonya Escobar - Neupathway, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f69d966-be46-433f-ac7c-604ba3fbe518/1/320x400.png)
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ....... Hello, I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in supporting individuals across all ages through mental health challenges. My specialized expertise encompasses treating depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependencies. I employ personalized medication-assisted treatments such as Suboxone for opioid disorders. My approach focuses on fostering healing, empowerment, and guiding each individual's unique journey toward holistic wellness.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Haulek Tawmging - Online Kairos Psychiatry PLLC in Oregon, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93f3f1ff-a043-4f18-8237-f0a74163bcbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Online Kairos Psychiatry PLLC in Oregon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grants Pass, OR 97526 (Online Only)
We often risk our mental health in this busy world and people often have to choose between psychiatric/ therapy appointments or keeping up with other life responsibilities. Now you won't have to. My goal is to reduce fragmented care by providing accessible psychiatric care online, where ever you are. No more congested traffic or long drives, waiting room, missing work or school. Online psychiatry is privacy-friendly and customizable. I connect with teens, collegiates, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
We often risk our mental health in this busy world and people often have to choose between psychiatric/ therapy appointments or keeping up with other life responsibilities. Now you won't have to. My goal is to reduce fragmented care by providing accessible psychiatric care online, where ever you are. No more congested traffic or long drives, waiting room, missing work or school. Online psychiatry is privacy-friendly and customizable. I connect with teens, collegiates, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
![Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca156a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care. In-office visits near Portland, OR available!
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care. In-office visits near Portland, OR available!
![Photo of Paul Fickes - Paradigm Mental Health and Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd5a0b36-698a-4d39-b93b-ff8fd400461f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paradigm Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97501
Our ideal client wants help. They are ready for a change. It may be that they continue to have symptoms from that traumatic event in childhood, or maybe they can't shake that nagging thought in the back of their head that they would be better off dead. Some may have a lifelong mental health diagnosis that they are all too aware of. Others may be having a more and more difficult time with their work or spouse. Regardless, each of these people has the desire to improve, to move past their current state, to grow.
Our ideal client wants help. They are ready for a change. It may be that they continue to have symptoms from that traumatic event in childhood, or maybe they can't shake that nagging thought in the back of their head that they would be better off dead. Some may have a lifelong mental health diagnosis that they are all too aware of. Others may be having a more and more difficult time with their work or spouse. Regardless, each of these people has the desire to improve, to move past their current state, to grow.
See more therapy options for Ashland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ashland, OR
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Ashland, OR who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
88% | Medication Management |
82% | Anxiety |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
59% | ADHD |
59% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Aetna |
77% | Regence |
69% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Ashland, OR see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
25% | Male | |
8% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ashland?
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.