Psychiatrists in Shrewsbury, MA
We are helping people with mental health disorders to improve their lives by providing integrated, individualized mental health care
We are helping people with mental health disorders to improve their lives by providing integrated, individualized mental health care
![Photo of Zafar N Naqvi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd9401cc-9d73-41d9-8636-abc8c9cac3a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you’re looking for a trusted confidant to your mental health who listens to you and offers treatment that gets to the root of the problem and considers medication an option, not the only option, who believes in bare minimum Psychiatry medications at a time supports double-benefits medications then you’re at the right place. Integrated tailor-made mental health treatment simultaneously works for both our Brain and Mind. I work with you in providing effective & optimizing treatment for you so you can be yourself again and stop living in a dazed world’ via gradually learning to feel happy when precise chemicals in your brain are
If you’re looking for a trusted confidant to your mental health who listens to you and offers treatment that gets to the root of the problem and considers medication an option, not the only option, who believes in bare minimum Psychiatry medications at a time supports double-benefits medications then you’re at the right place. Integrated tailor-made mental health treatment simultaneously works for both our Brain and Mind. I work with you in providing effective & optimizing treatment for you so you can be yourself again and stop living in a dazed world’ via gradually learning to feel happy when precise chemicals in your brain are
![Photo of Chelsea Griswold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1f67130-a2bf-45ba-979e-44662193d29c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Griswold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Chelsea is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked with all age groups in both community outpatient and hospital-based outpatient settings. Recently, she worked with children and adolescents, helping them and their parents navigate the school system while working on mental health concerns. Chelsea feels that choosing medication therapy is a decision that should be made by patient and provider, not just the provider. She specializes in anxiety, depression, aggression or anger, trauma, bipolar illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and ADHD, among others.
Chelsea is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked with all age groups in both community outpatient and hospital-based outpatient settings. Recently, she worked with children and adolescents, helping them and their parents navigate the school system while working on mental health concerns. Chelsea feels that choosing medication therapy is a decision that should be made by patient and provider, not just the provider. She specializes in anxiety, depression, aggression or anger, trauma, bipolar illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and ADHD, among others.
![Photo of Us For More Information - EleMental Wellness Center , PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce5a730-32da-4a2d-b870-439737778f78/2/320x400.jpeg)
EleMental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Ademola S Obele - A&M Community Healthcare, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f76db54-b3fa-469b-91da-bf2ba20c785f/2/320x400.jpeg)
A&M Community Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I have a strong passion for mental health care and have worked in this field for over a decade. Unfortunately, I have noticed a concerning shortage of mental healthcare services. That's why A&M Community Healthcare is committed to providing our community with mental health services. We work with clients to provide accurate diagnoses and collaborate with clients on their recovery journeys. Our services are evidence-based and include behavioral health and substance use support.
I have a strong passion for mental health care and have worked in this field for over a decade. Unfortunately, I have noticed a concerning shortage of mental healthcare services. That's why A&M Community Healthcare is committed to providing our community with mental health services. We work with clients to provide accurate diagnoses and collaborate with clients on their recovery journeys. Our services are evidence-based and include behavioral health and substance use support.
![Photo of Amberly Chaplin, PMHNP, LMHC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c37f3e43-f428-43f5-8fe5-5e160892e1c0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amberly Chaplin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01546 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults who are experiencing depression and anxiety to help them understand their symptoms, and together we find the best treatment. In addition to medication management and brief therapy, I incorporate nutritional practices when applicable. I have extensive experience working with people with substance use disorders, and although I am unable to provide detox or acute withdrawal treatment in this setting, I can provide consults with recommendations for your PCP or other provider. I also enjoy helping those with an addiction rebuild their health and identity. Please note: I can not Rx controlled substances at this time.
I work with adults who are experiencing depression and anxiety to help them understand their symptoms, and together we find the best treatment. In addition to medication management and brief therapy, I incorporate nutritional practices when applicable. I have extensive experience working with people with substance use disorders, and although I am unable to provide detox or acute withdrawal treatment in this setting, I can provide consults with recommendations for your PCP or other provider. I also enjoy helping those with an addiction rebuild their health and identity. Please note: I can not Rx controlled substances at this time.
![Photo of Grace Mbuya - Mind Healing & Wellness Center, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee04a991-45ed-45d1-9fb1-9a921b406783/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Healing & Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
We are an Outpatient Mental Health clinic offering a patient focused, holistic approach in management of Psychiatric and Substance use treatment. We provide medication management and in-house therapy! You’re wondering if there’s even a chance to reclaim your time, energy, and hope. The answer is a resounding YES! When you find holistic, effective care that takes your whole self into account. I believe that with empathy, evidence based care treatment plan and strategies, you can achieve your most dearly-held goals.
We are an Outpatient Mental Health clinic offering a patient focused, holistic approach in management of Psychiatric and Substance use treatment. We provide medication management and in-house therapy! You’re wondering if there’s even a chance to reclaim your time, energy, and hope. The answer is a resounding YES! When you find holistic, effective care that takes your whole self into account. I believe that with empathy, evidence based care treatment plan and strategies, you can achieve your most dearly-held goals.
![Photo of Noel Warwick, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04ac07d0-30f7-4bfa-bb8e-301e83d04589/1/320x400.jpeg)
Noel Warwick is a Psychiatrist in Massachusetts who has been practicing since 2016. She obtained her medical degree from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. Noel is able to provide medication management and treatment for a variety of mental health conditions. She takes a patient-centered approach to prescribing and aim to minimize polypharmacy. Outside of work, Noel enjoys yoga, swimming and camping as well as spending time with her son.
Noel Warwick is a Psychiatrist in Massachusetts who has been practicing since 2016. She obtained her medical degree from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. Noel is able to provide medication management and treatment for a variety of mental health conditions. She takes a patient-centered approach to prescribing and aim to minimize polypharmacy. Outside of work, Noel enjoys yoga, swimming and camping as well as spending time with her son.
![Photo of Jillian Bonzani, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18adc332-02ba-4969-8c9d-8d63b2f979da/1/320x400.png)
Jillian Bonzani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Jillian is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Jillian’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Jillian completed her Master's Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Jillian is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Jillian’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Jillian completed her Master's Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
![Photo of Shaina LaBonte, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d222e117-333b-4d94-90e8-eb3f26ac92d6/1/320x400.png)
Shaina LaBonte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Shaina LaBonte is a double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 8 years of experience as a nurse practitioner working with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. She strives to provide quality care and is focused on patient-centered treatment.
Shaina LaBonte is a double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 8 years of experience as a nurse practitioner working with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. She strives to provide quality care and is focused on patient-centered treatment.
![Photo of Oliver Joseph - Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/687247fa-d31a-4a7e-8085-6d7cd3d2d097/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
At Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, our providers have a broad background in mental health conditions. We provide medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as brain injuries and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We also provide cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions as well as coping with phase of life transitions, men's and women's mental health, and relationship and peer difficulties. Please give us a call to see how we can help.
At Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, our providers have a broad background in mental health conditions. We provide medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as brain injuries and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We also provide cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions as well as coping with phase of life transitions, men's and women's mental health, and relationship and peer difficulties. Please give us a call to see how we can help.
![Photo of Claire Wakulyaka, DNP, CNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c87d838c-e0c2-42c8-a9ce-1472b08dadc2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Claire Wakulyaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I am accepting new patients. My name is Claire Wakulyaka. I want to help you work through your mental health challenges. The goal is to build a therapeutic relationship that will lead to better outcomes. You can expect a compassionate, empathetic, engaging, and safe environment where you are respected and listened to. The treatment plan may include medication management and/or brief therapy.
I am accepting new patients. My name is Claire Wakulyaka. I want to help you work through your mental health challenges. The goal is to build a therapeutic relationship that will lead to better outcomes. You can expect a compassionate, empathetic, engaging, and safe environment where you are respected and listened to. The treatment plan may include medication management and/or brief therapy.
![Photo of Vishal Biala, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6231e179-eb18-4901-b004-c9f392b41ea5/1/320x400.png)
“Accepting new patients” - I am a board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in wide range of psychiatric disorders. I work with both adolescents and adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders and other psychiatric disorders.
“Accepting new patients” - I am a board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in wide range of psychiatric disorders. I work with both adolescents and adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders and other psychiatric disorders.
Copley Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
At Copley Healthcare, we provide comprehensive care to patients of varied diagnosis, collaborating with a team of experienced professional, and providing complete continuum of care. Having skills in both behavioral and medical field allows us to treat patients with their comprehensive health in mind and achieve better results.
At Copley Healthcare, we provide comprehensive care to patients of varied diagnosis, collaborating with a team of experienced professional, and providing complete continuum of care. Having skills in both behavioral and medical field allows us to treat patients with their comprehensive health in mind and achieve better results.
![Photo of Jennifer Caraballo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ceb02f6-d9cf-4aae-a6fa-5710f9f5cfb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Caraballo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Jennifer Caraballo DNP- PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, school issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. Jennifer enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and across the life span providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
Jennifer Caraballo DNP- PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, school issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. Jennifer enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and across the life span providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
![Photo of Grace Ngumi - Bright Act Behavioral Health Center LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd912f2c-aadf-48af-b1dc-bd4c4b88708f/2/320x400.png)
Bright Act Behavioral Health Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Bright Act Behavioral Center LLC is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At Bright Act Behavioral Center We've been proudly attending to our patients’ mental health needs and have been working tirelessly to brighten peoples lives coupled with offering proactive quality Mental healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer services including Medication Management, Counselling, Substance abuse counselling and other related mental health needs. We guarantee to provide quality mental health.
Bright Act Behavioral Center LLC is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At Bright Act Behavioral Center We've been proudly attending to our patients’ mental health needs and have been working tirelessly to brighten peoples lives coupled with offering proactive quality Mental healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer services including Medication Management, Counselling, Substance abuse counselling and other related mental health needs. We guarantee to provide quality mental health.
At Copley Healthcare, a team of dedicated professionals with multiple years of experience in behavioral health, addiction and internal medicine, provide comprehensive psychiatric services to patients with varied diagnosis, including, but not limited to depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Complete continuum of care allows us to help our patients at different stages of their treatment, and coordinate their care.
At Copley Healthcare, a team of dedicated professionals with multiple years of experience in behavioral health, addiction and internal medicine, provide comprehensive psychiatric services to patients with varied diagnosis, including, but not limited to depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Complete continuum of care allows us to help our patients at different stages of their treatment, and coordinate their care.
![Photo of Bernard Waigi, MSN/MPH, PMHNP-B, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9db4ddb9-c4a9-4ee6-99a2-708efb0a4d52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bernard Waigi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MPH, PMHNP-B, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I am an experienced board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of the VA Boston Healthcare Nurse Practitioner Residency Program. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. I am well-versed with best practices and utilization of evidence-based care that is patient centered. I am also a very experienced educator, compassionate provider who works to build a strong relationship with patients and their loved ones. It is my believe that treatment works best when an empathic and trusting relationship exists between the patient and the clinician.
I am an experienced board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of the VA Boston Healthcare Nurse Practitioner Residency Program. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. I am well-versed with best practices and utilization of evidence-based care that is patient centered. I am also a very experienced educator, compassionate provider who works to build a strong relationship with patients and their loved ones. It is my believe that treatment works best when an empathic and trusting relationship exists between the patient and the clinician.
![Photo of Therese Melanie Binyame - NaHolistic HealthCare, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b75d9fd-386a-4def-af31-f2a753cb34ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
NaHolistic HealthCare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients. Are you looking for a psychiatric mental health provider? NaHolistic Healthcare is the right place for you. Therese Binyame is a Board-Certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in Mental Health field. She ensures high standards of culturally competent care for a wide variety of patients with diverse needs. Her practice is highly focused on evidence-based research and updated health guidelines. She ensures outstanding mental health care, medication management, empathy, and brief psychotherapy.
Accepting NEW Patients. Are you looking for a psychiatric mental health provider? NaHolistic Healthcare is the right place for you. Therese Binyame is a Board-Certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in Mental Health field. She ensures high standards of culturally competent care for a wide variety of patients with diverse needs. Her practice is highly focused on evidence-based research and updated health guidelines. She ensures outstanding mental health care, medication management, empathy, and brief psychotherapy.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Stacie Rose, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fe09b38-d64c-461f-9157-dd7d137d7e86/3/320x400.png)
Stacie Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Stacie is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing diagnostic mental health evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health concerns. Utilizing an integrative approach, treatment is a collaborative process that may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle/nutritional modifications, and complementary practices.
Stacie is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing diagnostic mental health evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health concerns. Utilizing an integrative approach, treatment is a collaborative process that may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle/nutritional modifications, and complementary practices.
See more therapy options for Shrewsbury
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Shrewsbury, MA
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Shrewsbury, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Shrewsbury, MA see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Shrewsbury?
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.