Psychiatrists in Cary, NC
![Photo of Cherry Nhor, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6f0135b-f017-420d-a605-1773fb51ff6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cherry understands how impactful mental health is on overall well-being. She is passionate about decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and increasing access to care. Cherry practices positive psychology, endorsing a collaborative, multi-system approach to create the best plan for each individual.
Cherry understands how impactful mental health is on overall well-being. She is passionate about decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and increasing access to care. Cherry practices positive psychology, endorsing a collaborative, multi-system approach to create the best plan for each individual.
![Photo of Adrienne Emery Ramirez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de4c3c6a-0931-4260-bc62-8a2b8125a387/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been neglecting your mental health needs? Do you feel that there is some aspect of your mental health and life goals that you could improve upon? You are not alone! I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan. I work with various diagnosis including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and adjustment disorders. Together we will tailor your care plan to address the areas of your life you consider to be most important. I find it best to use a combination of medication management, CBT, coaching, and mindfulness therapies to help you reach your goals.
Have you been neglecting your mental health needs? Do you feel that there is some aspect of your mental health and life goals that you could improve upon? You are not alone! I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan. I work with various diagnosis including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and adjustment disorders. Together we will tailor your care plan to address the areas of your life you consider to be most important. I find it best to use a combination of medication management, CBT, coaching, and mindfulness therapies to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Richard Ortegon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efb61745-b46c-4e4b-84b3-c84ca05f4fcd/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist specializing in treatment of adolescent and adult anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder, and trauma-based disorders. I completed my training at Boston University Medical Campus (BUMC) prior to completing before having my psychiatry residency at the University of Connecticut (UConn Health) where I worked in both adolescent and adult mental health clinics.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist specializing in treatment of adolescent and adult anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder, and trauma-based disorders. I completed my training at Boston University Medical Campus (BUMC) prior to completing before having my psychiatry residency at the University of Connecticut (UConn Health) where I worked in both adolescent and adult mental health clinics.
![Photo of Ria Battaglino, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d2f82a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist that practices holistic psychiatry and integrative medicine.
I help my patients to achieve optimal mental health via a holistic approach that addresses each individual's physical, mental and spiritual health. I am experienced in complex medication management and psychotherapy as well as incorporating natural, medication-free options that may be just as essential to your overall well being. My belief is that mental health and emotional perspective heavily influence physical health and vice-versa. I address the complex psychiatric issues that arise from this interaction to help you feel your best emotionally and physically.
I am a board certified psychiatrist that practices holistic psychiatry and integrative medicine.
I help my patients to achieve optimal mental health via a holistic approach that addresses each individual's physical, mental and spiritual health. I am experienced in complex medication management and psychotherapy as well as incorporating natural, medication-free options that may be just as essential to your overall well being. My belief is that mental health and emotional perspective heavily influence physical health and vice-versa. I address the complex psychiatric issues that arise from this interaction to help you feel your best emotionally and physically.
![Photo of Shirley Carrenard-Mcdowell - EtteillaWellness Services, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92bf58c0-99ae-4771-9b01-930b169367d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
EtteillaWellness Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513 (Online Only)
Hello everyone. I'm NP, Shirley. Welcome to Etteilla Wellness Services. I am so excited to finally share my dream with you of opening a private practice. Etteilla is my mother's name, spelled backward. Her tragic death inspired me to create a platform to help those who feel trapped and lost. I'm dual certified In psychiatric care and family medicine. I have 26 years of medical experience and provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for helping others, I strive to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and a purpose-filled life.
Hello everyone. I'm NP, Shirley. Welcome to Etteilla Wellness Services. I am so excited to finally share my dream with you of opening a private practice. Etteilla is my mother's name, spelled backward. Her tragic death inspired me to create a platform to help those who feel trapped and lost. I'm dual certified In psychiatric care and family medicine. I have 26 years of medical experience and provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for helping others, I strive to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and a purpose-filled life.
![Photo of Jessica Bullard, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8204d6a0-26b8-4dca-ab77-101d771da751/1/320x400.jpeg)
I partner with my patients to find the best treatment options for their circumstances. Although medication is often an important part of treatment, providing other resources to patients to help with their mental health is an important part of my approach to patient care. Currently accepting patients aged 4-65 years old.
I partner with my patients to find the best treatment options for their circumstances. Although medication is often an important part of treatment, providing other resources to patients to help with their mental health is an important part of my approach to patient care. Currently accepting patients aged 4-65 years old.
![Photo of Saliha Baloch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0022f798-6fbf-447d-97ec-f37906e2310b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you miss being happy? Are you overwhelmed with treatment options and do not know how to move forward to optimal mental health? I can help you navigate this confusing journey of mental health care.
Do you miss being happy? Are you overwhelmed with treatment options and do not know how to move forward to optimal mental health? I can help you navigate this confusing journey of mental health care.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bfb6f21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Board certified Psychiatrists (Child & Adult), Psychologists and Therapists in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) provide comprehensive psychiatric care and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Depression and OCD.
Board certified Psychiatrists (Child & Adult), Psychologists and Therapists in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) provide comprehensive psychiatric care and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Depression and OCD.
![Photo of Camille Hudimac, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c20490d2-f8b4-47d2-b563-1b77fadd3f6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Camille Hudimac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents and adults with mental health concerns and substance abuse.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents and adults with mental health concerns and substance abuse.
![Photo of Ashley Cunningham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83d543b4-4678-4fb0-98b6-859dc693a583/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513 (Online Only)
My name is Ashley. I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with Mindful Healing Group LLC. We are accepting new North Carolina and New York patients for either in-person or telehealth. We treat a wide range of mental health disorders. Our specialty includes ADHD screening and Medication management. We also aim to make health care more affordable by offering finance options so you can make monthly payment installments instead of one large payment. Initial visits are $150, and follow-up visits are $75. We are now accepting patients for Addiction Disorders, including opioid and alcohol use disorders.
My name is Ashley. I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with Mindful Healing Group LLC. We are accepting new North Carolina and New York patients for either in-person or telehealth. We treat a wide range of mental health disorders. Our specialty includes ADHD screening and Medication management. We also aim to make health care more affordable by offering finance options so you can make monthly payment installments instead of one large payment. Initial visits are $150, and follow-up visits are $75. We are now accepting patients for Addiction Disorders, including opioid and alcohol use disorders.
![Photo of Colleen Rich, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ecd6470-867e-4790-b945-b6f3009572db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen's primary focus is ensuring her patients feel comfortable. She educates and listens to her patients compassionately, creating an open, judgment-free environment. By helping patients develop the confidence and resources they need to be in control of their daily lives, Colleen aims to increase their happiness and improve their relationships. She believes that mental health is the foundation for patients to progress in all aspects of their lives.
Colleen's primary focus is ensuring her patients feel comfortable. She educates and listens to her patients compassionately, creating an open, judgment-free environment. By helping patients develop the confidence and resources they need to be in control of their daily lives, Colleen aims to increase their happiness and improve their relationships. She believes that mental health is the foundation for patients to progress in all aspects of their lives.
15 Second Videos
Adrienne Emery Ramirez
Richard Ortegon
Olivia Sappelt
Gretchen Barnes
Rachel Frische
Cana Psychiatric Health
Tian Duke-Sui
Leistey Tindall
Malcolm Noell McLeod
![Photo of Lori Sloan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46cf99d7-47a4-463e-9dca-58c1b3f1e57f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Sloan, PMHNP-BC Lori Sloan is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 1995. She is Board certified by the ANCC in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing as a registered nurse prior to becoming an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Mount Olive and a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University. Lori has an ability to cultivate therapeutic relationships with patients with empathy and respect by allowing them to express concerns and worries without fear of judgment.
Lori Sloan, PMHNP-BC Lori Sloan is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 1995. She is Board certified by the ANCC in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing as a registered nurse prior to becoming an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Mount Olive and a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University. Lori has an ability to cultivate therapeutic relationships with patients with empathy and respect by allowing them to express concerns and worries without fear of judgment.
![Photo of Olivia Sappelt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8478cfb3-b0d0-4a25-b27c-99375963a549/3/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new clients! As a psychiatric provider, I have a primary focus in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and more. Whether you are new to taking psychiatric medications, rekindling issues that you have not prioritized for the last few years, need a new provider who better suits you, or have a current provider who is leaving their practice or retiring- I am here for you and your mental health needs. Psychotherapy has amazing benefits, but sometimes more help is needed. My goal is to truly understand you, your concerns, and your struggles.
Currently accepting new clients! As a psychiatric provider, I have a primary focus in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and more. Whether you are new to taking psychiatric medications, rekindling issues that you have not prioritized for the last few years, need a new provider who better suits you, or have a current provider who is leaving their practice or retiring- I am here for you and your mental health needs. Psychotherapy has amazing benefits, but sometimes more help is needed. My goal is to truly understand you, your concerns, and your struggles.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Adelman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d969b13-b314-4e4f-85b7-7596cdc52751/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Adelman has cared for children and adolescents with behavioral health issues for most of his clinical life. Dr. Adelman was drawn to this field due to the real-world nature of his everyday work. His holistic approach to therapy helps patients and families identify resiliency factors to allow them to move to a place of greater self-respect and self-efficacy. Dr. Adelman is experienced in pediatrics, psychiatry, and child psychiatry. His “triple board” training helps him understand both normal development in children and various developmental challenges.
Dr. Michael Adelman has cared for children and adolescents with behavioral health issues for most of his clinical life. Dr. Adelman was drawn to this field due to the real-world nature of his everyday work. His holistic approach to therapy helps patients and families identify resiliency factors to allow them to move to a place of greater self-respect and self-efficacy. Dr. Adelman is experienced in pediatrics, psychiatry, and child psychiatry. His “triple board” training helps him understand both normal development in children and various developmental challenges.
![Photo of Savitha R Upadhya - Alpha Psychiatric Associates PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf82819-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist practicing in Cary area since 2008. I focus on comprehensive, thoughtful, and coordinated approach to understanding and solving emotional problems helping you and your loved ones achieve a healthier life. I work with your primary care physicians to attain overall improvement of your health. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, mood disorders, ADHD/OCD/PTSD, Post-partum Depression, anxiety.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist practicing in Cary area since 2008. I focus on comprehensive, thoughtful, and coordinated approach to understanding and solving emotional problems helping you and your loved ones achieve a healthier life. I work with your primary care physicians to attain overall improvement of your health. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, mood disorders, ADHD/OCD/PTSD, Post-partum Depression, anxiety.
![Photo of Amy K Tracy, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/010b0295-d597-449b-a8c3-d383f3a92a32/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amy K Tracy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
New appointments can be booked online at www.swiftcreekmhs.com. I provide holistic and individual care to people with mental health concerns. My experience ranges from mild to severe mental illness in the areas of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and adjustment disorders. I see children and adults. I have worked in mental health since 2007, in all levels of care, residential, out patient, intensive outpatient and inpatient. I began treating patients as an APRN in 2015. Not In Network with Medicaid!
New appointments can be booked online at www.swiftcreekmhs.com. I provide holistic and individual care to people with mental health concerns. My experience ranges from mild to severe mental illness in the areas of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and adjustment disorders. I see children and adults. I have worked in mental health since 2007, in all levels of care, residential, out patient, intensive outpatient and inpatient. I began treating patients as an APRN in 2015. Not In Network with Medicaid!
![Photo of Gretchen Barnes, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be369b1e-3a0f-4ef9-8c2c-e5fc4b1b859a/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a board-certified PA who offers medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients proactively improve their mental wellbeing.
I'm a board-certified PA who offers medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients proactively improve their mental wellbeing.
![Photo of Daniel Fish, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e08c6c6d-7780-4f46-aaa8-22e2bfb9e538/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel L. Fish is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He earned degrees at North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech Carilion Medical School, and completed his Psychiatry Residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Daniel considers himself a down-to-earth and personable Psychiatrist with a combination of life experience and excellent training. He specializes in discerning the impact of how life situations, medical conditions, and biochemical brain imbalances can commonly manifest psychiatrically in conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance.
Daniel L. Fish is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He earned degrees at North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech Carilion Medical School, and completed his Psychiatry Residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Daniel considers himself a down-to-earth and personable Psychiatrist with a combination of life experience and excellent training. He specializes in discerning the impact of how life situations, medical conditions, and biochemical brain imbalances can commonly manifest psychiatrically in conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance.
![Photo of Robin Trivette, PMHNPBC, MSN-Ed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a31d1bd-a20a-41ed-9c1d-3eb500291fb5/2/320x400.png)
Accepting New Clients: Are you seeking a more personalized approach to your mental health care? At my practice, I prioritize listening to your concerns and actively involving you in your treatment plan. Combining medication management with therapy, I ensure you receive thorough education and consistent follow-up. With expertise in mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, OCD, personality disorders, substance abuse, and ADHD. I offer a holistic approach to your mental health. Experience a different kind of care where your well-being is at the forefront.
Accepting New Clients: Are you seeking a more personalized approach to your mental health care? At my practice, I prioritize listening to your concerns and actively involving you in your treatment plan. Combining medication management with therapy, I ensure you receive thorough education and consistent follow-up. With expertise in mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, OCD, personality disorders, substance abuse, and ADHD. I offer a holistic approach to your mental health. Experience a different kind of care where your well-being is at the forefront.
![Photo of Audrey Wisner - Alpha Psychiatric Associates, PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4908af95-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
I am a Board Certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and have been serving in the area since 2013. I have earned my Master’s in Nursing at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. I earned my BA from Meredith College in Raleigh and my Nursing degree from Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia. I have previously worked as a nurse at UNC Hospital Psychiatric Inpatient Units, the WakeBrook Recovery Center and for Easter Seals Home Health. As a Nurse Practitioner I have worked in various outpatient clinics in Raleigh and Durham.
I am a Board Certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and have been serving in the area since 2013. I have earned my Master’s in Nursing at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. I earned my BA from Meredith College in Raleigh and my Nursing degree from Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia. I have previously worked as a nurse at UNC Hospital Psychiatric Inpatient Units, the WakeBrook Recovery Center and for Easter Seals Home Health. As a Nurse Practitioner I have worked in various outpatient clinics in Raleigh and Durham.
See more therapy options for Cary
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cary, NC
60+
Average cost per session
$162
Psychiatrists in Cary, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | Medication Management |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | Aetna |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Cary, NC see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cary?
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.