Psychiatrists in Boise, ID
![Photo of Emily Davidson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30fc9872-51e5-4e24-b713-545a4abe42b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I’m Emily. I am a holistic and integrative PMHNP committed to helping you achieve optimal mental well-being. I treat adults, adolescents and children. I offer a warm, compassionate space and personalized approach. I am trained in traditional psychiatry and have also completed an internship in integrative psychiatry. My goal is to get to the root cause of your issues, rather than just apply a “bandaid” solution. I will work alongside you to heal your body, mind and spirit
Hi there! I’m Emily. I am a holistic and integrative PMHNP committed to helping you achieve optimal mental well-being. I treat adults, adolescents and children. I offer a warm, compassionate space and personalized approach. I am trained in traditional psychiatry and have also completed an internship in integrative psychiatry. My goal is to get to the root cause of your issues, rather than just apply a “bandaid” solution. I will work alongside you to heal your body, mind and spirit
![Photo of Nick Hovda, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b501dcbd-a906-48da-bb9d-eb59335453e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are antidepressant medications not providing the relief you hoped for? In my psychiatry residency, I saw scores of patients with depression, anxiety, and PTSD who did not respond well to the traditional first line treatments of antidepressant medications (SSRIs, SNRIs) plus cognitive behavioral therapy. Many had tried over 10 meds and had years of therapy/counseling without benefit. These frustrating experiences led me to develop and pursue interests in mental health treatments that are more likely to be effective—mainly intensive dynamic psychotherapy and ketamine- assisted psychotherapy.
Are antidepressant medications not providing the relief you hoped for? In my psychiatry residency, I saw scores of patients with depression, anxiety, and PTSD who did not respond well to the traditional first line treatments of antidepressant medications (SSRIs, SNRIs) plus cognitive behavioral therapy. Many had tried over 10 meds and had years of therapy/counseling without benefit. These frustrating experiences led me to develop and pursue interests in mental health treatments that are more likely to be effective—mainly intensive dynamic psychotherapy and ketamine- assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Elisa M Salazar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a103e56-ad08-4d70-aeb4-5a18c9f19cef/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am experienced assessing and treating patients age 16-65 for a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. I have additional experience in treating late adolescents and young adults (age 16-25) in first onset of psychosis and other mental illness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am experienced assessing and treating patients age 16-65 for a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. I have additional experience in treating late adolescents and young adults (age 16-25) in first onset of psychosis and other mental illness.
![Photo of Christopher Chandler, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45eac005-9c4d-47ec-b5de-f7b2e1bd8ca2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients at Omega Health Services. Chris grew up on a farm in upstate New York and spent 25 years in the US Army, mostly in Infantry and special operations units. He has a BA in History and Military Science from the State University of New York and Syracuse University, where he was a Distinguished Military Graduate. Chris is a graduate of the University of Utah’s Physician Associate Program, which is consistently ranked among the top 5 programs in the country. He has practiced in Arizona, Washington, Wyoming, and Idaho, and has a particular experience in sleep medicine, internal medicine, and psychiatry.
Accepting New Patients at Omega Health Services. Chris grew up on a farm in upstate New York and spent 25 years in the US Army, mostly in Infantry and special operations units. He has a BA in History and Military Science from the State University of New York and Syracuse University, where he was a Distinguished Military Graduate. Chris is a graduate of the University of Utah’s Physician Associate Program, which is consistently ranked among the top 5 programs in the country. He has practiced in Arizona, Washington, Wyoming, and Idaho, and has a particular experience in sleep medicine, internal medicine, and psychiatry.
![Photo of Talia Sierra, PA-C, DMSc, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47e189f4-2994-4e3c-86e6-f58ec70162c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! Are you ready to embark on your journey to well-being? I provide compassionate, personalized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Mental health can profoundly impact your well-being and I want to help you develop your individual path to healing. As a doctorally trained PA I specialize in understanding the unique nuances of each individual's mental health journey and address concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more. Your mental health is my priority and my goal is to empower you toward lasting transformation!
Welcome! Are you ready to embark on your journey to well-being? I provide compassionate, personalized care tailored to meet your unique needs. Mental health can profoundly impact your well-being and I want to help you develop your individual path to healing. As a doctorally trained PA I specialize in understanding the unique nuances of each individual's mental health journey and address concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more. Your mental health is my priority and my goal is to empower you toward lasting transformation!
![Photo of Angela G Hernandez - Psychiatry 121, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/998c81f5-5f7b-4e2d-99b8-57e4c906f860/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry 121
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Angela provides medication management, testing and treatment for adolescents and adults who are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorder, PTSD, women’s health issues including PMDD and postpartum depression.
Angela provides medication management, testing and treatment for adolescents and adults who are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorder, PTSD, women’s health issues including PMDD and postpartum depression.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a59c195-9a20-406e-addb-ec55379367d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Idaho for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Insurances accepted.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Idaho for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Insurances accepted.
![Photo of Cassi Shelly, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec09e507-d630-4e52-9027-d4ef8d46d79a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassi Shelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Peaceful Mind Psychiatry is a Telehealth based company dedicated to virtually providing patients in Idaho and Washington with medication management services. This service is geared towards helping you achieve the mental wellness you deserve and need to live a happy and full life. Here are some of the diagnoses we are adept in treating: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia / Schizoaffective disorders, ADHD, Substance Use Disorders, insomnia.
Peaceful Mind Psychiatry is a Telehealth based company dedicated to virtually providing patients in Idaho and Washington with medication management services. This service is geared towards helping you achieve the mental wellness you deserve and need to live a happy and full life. Here are some of the diagnoses we are adept in treating: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia / Schizoaffective disorders, ADHD, Substance Use Disorders, insomnia.
![Photo of Davonna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39cf6315-8ca0-4614-8b71-0c4604baa09f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Davonna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
![Photo of Krystal Demoney-Hendrickson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/738d97d7-8605-460f-b4ee-aa718bf8d0f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Krystal Demoney-Hendrickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702 (Online Only)
Currently, I am licensed in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington! As a mental health practitioner, I aim to enhance mental wellness and soothe the frayed nerves of those overwhelmed by life experiences. My restorative approach to mental health, attracts clients interested in the root cause of their mental health symptoms. I believe in treatment from a holistic perspective, involving mind, physical body, intuition, and spirit.
Currently, I am licensed in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington! As a mental health practitioner, I aim to enhance mental wellness and soothe the frayed nerves of those overwhelmed by life experiences. My restorative approach to mental health, attracts clients interested in the root cause of their mental health symptoms. I believe in treatment from a holistic perspective, involving mind, physical body, intuition, and spirit.
![Photo of Carey Crill, PMHNP-C, PNP-C , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/518d4b10-e398-4eac-a0a8-7c6d3b158b09/1/320x400.jpeg)
I love working with children and families. I also love working with developmentally delayed children and adults. I will see all ages of clients though. I believe that every client I see wants to be as functional as the people that they see around them. My goal is to get them to a place where they feel that they can function within their role in society and feel fulfilled. Everyone in this world needs validation and to feel loved and needed. Often when we are struggling with mental health issues, those needs aren't being met. I want to get my patients to a place where they functioning and meeting those needs.
I love working with children and families. I also love working with developmentally delayed children and adults. I will see all ages of clients though. I believe that every client I see wants to be as functional as the people that they see around them. My goal is to get them to a place where they feel that they can function within their role in society and feel fulfilled. Everyone in this world needs validation and to feel loved and needed. Often when we are struggling with mental health issues, those needs aren't being met. I want to get my patients to a place where they functioning and meeting those needs.
15 Second Videos
Davonna Wilson
Alex B Wills
Dana McKee
Hope Mental Health
Steven K Elrod
Brightside Health
Olivier Djoumessi
Amanda Gwardys-Cook
Radouane Laktib
Sami Phuyal
Mental Health Clinic Of Idaho
Anna Blonquist
Stability Mental Health
Alicia Johnson
![Photo of Alex B Wills, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff7a258-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
When you're tired of pretending to be happy or not getting effective treatment, it's time to see me at Perma Mental Health. I provide a safe, warm, non-judgmental environment for you or your loved ones to heal. Together we will discuss your concerns and develop solutions to free you from anxiety and depression. Once free, you will find joy and a new sense of well-being.
When you're tired of pretending to be happy or not getting effective treatment, it's time to see me at Perma Mental Health. I provide a safe, warm, non-judgmental environment for you or your loved ones to heal. Together we will discuss your concerns and develop solutions to free you from anxiety and depression. Once free, you will find joy and a new sense of well-being.
![Photo of Featherstone (Rachel) Featherstone, WHNP-BC, MSN, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee28164c-79cf-4334-9b22-87ce23352877/3/320x400.jpeg)
Featherstone (Rachel) Featherstone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, WHNP-BC, MSN, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83701 (Online Only)
Parenting is a journey--you don't have to do it alone. Originally, the mission of Eucalyptus Health focused on parents, but the need for affirming psychiatric providers for the LGBTQIA+ community and veterans became increasingly apparent. Given my knowledge base of the brain, hormones, sexuality, gender roles, eating disorders, and pregnancy, as well as my lived experience as a nonbinary person and Army veteran, I am delighted to help people get back to enjoying their lives to the fullest.
Parenting is a journey--you don't have to do it alone. Originally, the mission of Eucalyptus Health focused on parents, but the need for affirming psychiatric providers for the LGBTQIA+ community and veterans became increasingly apparent. Given my knowledge base of the brain, hormones, sexuality, gender roles, eating disorders, and pregnancy, as well as my lived experience as a nonbinary person and Army veteran, I am delighted to help people get back to enjoying their lives to the fullest.
![Photo of Christopher Gakwa - Healthy Mind Behavioral Health Clinic, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75b6d331-4e9a-490f-886b-e1f1671f1487/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healthy Mind Behavioral Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
We are now offering medication management services through telehealth & in person. Please contact us to learn more and see if you qualify. We offer same day visits. Call Today 2082847100 or (986) 234-6010
We are now offering medication management services through telehealth & in person. Please contact us to learn more and see if you qualify. We offer same day visits. Call Today 2082847100 or (986) 234-6010
![Photo of Todd Salzsieder, PA-C, MPAS, M ED, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d85d89ea-acf6-4fb6-8f01-315fb3e74eda/2/320x400.jpeg)
We understand that seeking help for your mental health can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. We want your experience to be as stress-free as possible. We deliver care with empathy & understanding while still providing a solid guide to emotional wellness. Medication is only part of the process for achieving your mental health goals and while it is an important tool, we will push to keep your total medication burden as low as possible. We promote overall wellness such as exercise, diet, stress-reducing activities, and life balance. We will work with your other care providers to ensure continuity throughout your treatment.
We understand that seeking help for your mental health can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. We want your experience to be as stress-free as possible. We deliver care with empathy & understanding while still providing a solid guide to emotional wellness. Medication is only part of the process for achieving your mental health goals and while it is an important tool, we will push to keep your total medication burden as low as possible. We promote overall wellness such as exercise, diet, stress-reducing activities, and life balance. We will work with your other care providers to ensure continuity throughout your treatment.
![Photo of Josh Woodland, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48eb723b-3cf6-4458-960d-47b8f99f8b27/1/320x400.png)
Josh Woodland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706 (Online Only)
For a limited time, I am accepting new clients with limited availability within a week of booking. Rather than offering quick appointments and rushed prescriptions, my style is a holistic, personalized approach. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My clients often leave our sessions with a sense of relief, knowing they have a treatment plan that is tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
For a limited time, I am accepting new clients with limited availability within a week of booking. Rather than offering quick appointments and rushed prescriptions, my style is a holistic, personalized approach. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My clients often leave our sessions with a sense of relief, knowing they have a treatment plan that is tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
![Photo of Kristina Harrington - Omega Mental Health Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8b1b9b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Omega Mental Health has been serving the Treasure Valley community with quality healthcare since 1997. It has been our endeavor to bring to you the best healthcare available at affordable costs during hours that accommodate your schedule.
Omega Mental Health has been serving the Treasure Valley community with quality healthcare since 1997. It has been our endeavor to bring to you the best healthcare available at affordable costs during hours that accommodate your schedule.
![Photo of Kathryn Werner, PA-C, MPAS, CAQ, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d06433-d96b-4e21-b53a-5a0efad885e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS, CAQ
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression or insomnia? Have you been diagnosed with OCD, ADHD, or bipolar disorder? Or maybe you don't know exactly what's going on, but you know something is definitely off. You desperately want to get to the bottom of what's going on and get back to feeling like your self ASAP. Or maybe you're just tired of feeling like your providers don't really get you or your needs, and you're ready to work with someone who truly cares about the entire picture and not just prescribing meds.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression or insomnia? Have you been diagnosed with OCD, ADHD, or bipolar disorder? Or maybe you don't know exactly what's going on, but you know something is definitely off. You desperately want to get to the bottom of what's going on and get back to feeling like your self ASAP. Or maybe you're just tired of feeling like your providers don't really get you or your needs, and you're ready to work with someone who truly cares about the entire picture and not just prescribing meds.
![Photo of Tauna Young, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3a1ce2b-0c80-4cae-8099-c5823a3b9f75/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping people achieve “total health” by assisting them to honor the connection between the emotional and physical impacts of all of life’s experiences. I believe that as a healthcare provider who is passionate about promoting total health, it is my duty and honor to provide a safe, judgement-free zone where patients can discuss their mental health concerns in a positive environment.
I am passionate about helping people achieve “total health” by assisting them to honor the connection between the emotional and physical impacts of all of life’s experiences. I believe that as a healthcare provider who is passionate about promoting total health, it is my duty and honor to provide a safe, judgement-free zone where patients can discuss their mental health concerns in a positive environment.
![Photo of Duke Mutua Nyarecha - Dumu Psychiatry LLC., DNP, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d2300d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dumu Psychiatry LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704
As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner the most significant part of my work is to provide a healing presence. Healing presence is being consciously and compassionately in the present moment with another or with others, believing in and affirming their potential for wholeness, wherever they are in life. I have found this an invaluable tool when dealing with patients in a mental crisis. It has helped me dismantle mistrust, helped me create rapport, helped me creating a lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients. When you are completely present, you stay awake to each unfolding moment.
As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner the most significant part of my work is to provide a healing presence. Healing presence is being consciously and compassionately in the present moment with another or with others, believing in and affirming their potential for wholeness, wherever they are in life. I have found this an invaluable tool when dealing with patients in a mental crisis. It has helped me dismantle mistrust, helped me create rapport, helped me creating a lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients. When you are completely present, you stay awake to each unfolding moment.
See more therapy options for Boise
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boise, ID
70+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Boise, ID who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Medication Management |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
73% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Boise, ID see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
33% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boise?
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.