Psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA
![Photo of Sherelle Jones, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78ab2683-96ca-4b31-b260-e6a07442cd7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sherelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320 (Online Only)
My ultimate goal as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to be able to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat commonly occurring mental health conditions while providing a personalize holistic care approach.
My ultimate goal as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to be able to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat commonly occurring mental health conditions while providing a personalize holistic care approach.
![Photo of Michele Davidson, PhD, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, CFN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b35175a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, CFN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Accepting New Patients: I am passionate about partnering with patients and their families to work together to address mental health conditions along with life transition issues. I work with women and men of all ages with various mental health issues, including pregnant and postpartum women. I use a combination of coaching, therapy, medication management, and goal setting to help patients develop a plan of care based on their goals. As a nurse midwife, I have expertise in women's mental health issues. I also have expertise in treating adults transitioning to college or the workforce and adults in role transition.
Accepting New Patients: I am passionate about partnering with patients and their families to work together to address mental health conditions along with life transition issues. I work with women and men of all ages with various mental health issues, including pregnant and postpartum women. I use a combination of coaching, therapy, medication management, and goal setting to help patients develop a plan of care based on their goals. As a nurse midwife, I have expertise in women's mental health issues. I also have expertise in treating adults transitioning to college or the workforce and adults in role transition.
![Photo of Amy Gallardo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ae2c5c2-7b90-4a49-881f-62c8f634c928/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Gallardo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Amy can help you by really listening and having compassion for what you’re going through. Look, life is tough, Amy is here to make it a little easier with medication management. In her spare time, Amy enjoys reading a good book and gardening.
Amy Gallardo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Amy can help you by really listening and having compassion for what you’re going through. Look, life is tough, Amy is here to make it a little easier with medication management. In her spare time, Amy enjoys reading a good book and gardening.
![Photo of Shahauna Mallery, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73566c61-b04b-4e6e-b77b-113d714fd229/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shahauna Mallery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Shahauna is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. She worked as a psychiatric RN for many years prior to becoming a psychiatric NP. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective and a multitude of resources during treatment planning.
Shahauna is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. She worked as a psychiatric RN for many years prior to becoming a psychiatric NP. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective and a multitude of resources during treatment planning.
![Photo of Stanisha Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c73f886-727b-4c13-8055-a52fda1bcb9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stanisha Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320 (Online Only)
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
![Photo of Abdul Mateen - Peace of Mind Behavioral Health, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d11444f3-ef91-4541-93aa-562c003c695b/1/320x400.jpeg)
*ACCEPTING NEW TELEPSYCH PATIENTS ACROSS VIRGINIA *CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY* AFTER SCHOOL APPOINTMENTS. It can be very frustrating to see your child suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger issues or school problems. What’s even more frustrating is when you are trying to seek help for your child but can’t find someone who specializes in treating children. Because of a severe shortage of child & adolescent psychiatrists, many children do not get the proper treatment they need.
*ACCEPTING NEW TELEPSYCH PATIENTS ACROSS VIRGINIA *CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY* AFTER SCHOOL APPOINTMENTS. It can be very frustrating to see your child suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger issues or school problems. What’s even more frustrating is when you are trying to seek help for your child but can’t find someone who specializes in treating children. Because of a severe shortage of child & adolescent psychiatrists, many children do not get the proper treatment they need.
![Photo of Quanda Griffin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/add03f6d-f6ba-4831-aec1-110ffa7aef39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Quanda Griffin is a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2009. She has an AND from Norfolk State University, a BSN from Norfolk State University, an MS from Hampton University, and a Post-Masters Certificate from University of Virginia. Quanda can offer assistance in helping you to learn how to manage life stressors, changes, and related problems that can be challenging and overwhelming. She will help you to recognize thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are counterproductive and keeping you from being the best version of you.
Quanda Griffin is a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2009. She has an AND from Norfolk State University, a BSN from Norfolk State University, an MS from Hampton University, and a Post-Masters Certificate from University of Virginia. Quanda can offer assistance in helping you to learn how to manage life stressors, changes, and related problems that can be challenging and overwhelming. She will help you to recognize thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are counterproductive and keeping you from being the best version of you.
![Photo of Katia Hall - Alpha Psychiatric Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/070a5780-b4ab-40f3-9845-1b12ec5aa643/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Our mission is to provide quality, culturally competent mental health care to those in Chesapeake, Virginia and the surrounding areas that make up Hampton Roads.
Our mission is to provide quality, culturally competent mental health care to those in Chesapeake, Virginia and the surrounding areas that make up Hampton Roads.
![Photo of Marci Bowen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/559f5ec9-2099-47be-b25c-2a98af2976a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marci Bowen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
**Currently accepting new clients for, medication management, on a case-by-case basis** Life can be difficult and challenge us in many ways. Sometimes we are unable to just “shake it off” or “try harder” to not feel a certain way. That’s where I come in. I believe in working as a team to gain symptom control and get life back on track. Medications are beneficial to manage acute symptoms while the real foundational work is done in therapy. I approach each client holistically and tailor care to your specific needs. If you're ready to do the work then I'm here for the journey.
**Currently accepting new clients for, medication management, on a case-by-case basis** Life can be difficult and challenge us in many ways. Sometimes we are unable to just “shake it off” or “try harder” to not feel a certain way. That’s where I come in. I believe in working as a team to gain symptom control and get life back on track. Medications are beneficial to manage acute symptoms while the real foundational work is done in therapy. I approach each client holistically and tailor care to your specific needs. If you're ready to do the work then I'm here for the journey.
![Photo of Dr. Angel D. Blair, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28b5442b-86a6-45e9-8607-6bfc196a168a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angel D. Blair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23323 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strongly believe that mental health matters and so do you. No one should have to go through difficult experiences and situations alone. Although, there is still a stigma that surrounds mental health, I thrive in providing an empathetic and nonjudgmental safe space for my patients. Providing a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, encouragement, and partnership while taking into account each patient holistically is my priority.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strongly believe that mental health matters and so do you. No one should have to go through difficult experiences and situations alone. Although, there is still a stigma that surrounds mental health, I thrive in providing an empathetic and nonjudgmental safe space for my patients. Providing a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, encouragement, and partnership while taking into account each patient holistically is my priority.
![Photo of Brence Brooks, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4d5785-0386-4d9f-8c67-ba9fa0094406/1/320x400.png)
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322 (Online Only)
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Aligning Paths Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
We're excited to announce that we're now accepting new clients starting as young as age 7. Our services encompass a wide range of specialties, from medication management to weight loss management, independent veteran examinations, & medical cannabis evaluations. Our dedicated team has extensive experience in treating various conditions, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many more. We’re here to address the challenges you face with understanding and expertise. Your mental health is invaluable & you're not alone; we're here to walk with you on your path to a brighter, healthier future.
We're excited to announce that we're now accepting new clients starting as young as age 7. Our services encompass a wide range of specialties, from medication management to weight loss management, independent veteran examinations, & medical cannabis evaluations. Our dedicated team has extensive experience in treating various conditions, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many more. We’re here to address the challenges you face with understanding and expertise. Your mental health is invaluable & you're not alone; we're here to walk with you on your path to a brighter, healthier future.
![Photo of Rachel F Firman, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f8c575f-ea3a-400a-84c0-74a9abcacbdb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel F Firman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. I believe that together we can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. I treat adult patients 18-64 years old. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. I am a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. I believe that together we can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. I treat adult patients 18-64 years old. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. I am a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
![Photo of Geranameo Vladimir Bullock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22c2780d-c225-4869-85af-e213cb1524da/2/320x400.jpeg)
I see a variety of individuals: children, adolescents, and adults. While I have a physical office space, I also do virtual appointments. I also treat some people in nursing home or group home settings. I take time in my appointments to get to know the person, the sources of the symptoms experienced, and explore the various aspects of the individual for a wholistic treatment.
I see a variety of individuals: children, adolescents, and adults. While I have a physical office space, I also do virtual appointments. I also treat some people in nursing home or group home settings. I take time in my appointments to get to know the person, the sources of the symptoms experienced, and explore the various aspects of the individual for a wholistic treatment.
![Photo of Kassimier Thompson - Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed132b17-fcab-406a-a478-8c5f8be111b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322 (Online Only)
100% Telepsychiatry Fee for Service Practice NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in VA and NC. Our mission is to integrate mental health and wellness into everyday living. Dr. Thompson chose to become a psychiatrist because everyone has a story, and deserves having someone who can both hear and hold their pain. She loves watching the progression in individual’s lives. People usually come to see her because they are in despair and not sure where to turn to find relief. Dr. Thompson likes taking the journey with her patients to take them from a state of crisis and uncertainty and helping them achieve stability and wellness from the inside out.
100% Telepsychiatry Fee for Service Practice NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in VA and NC. Our mission is to integrate mental health and wellness into everyday living. Dr. Thompson chose to become a psychiatrist because everyone has a story, and deserves having someone who can both hear and hold their pain. She loves watching the progression in individual’s lives. People usually come to see her because they are in despair and not sure where to turn to find relief. Dr. Thompson likes taking the journey with her patients to take them from a state of crisis and uncertainty and helping them achieve stability and wellness from the inside out.
![Photo of Rachel Firman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed66ef90-c6bc-4856-9e9a-19f26aa9c98b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. She believes that together the two of you can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. She treats adult patients 18-64 years old. Rachel is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. She is also a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Rachel is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. She believes that together the two of you can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. She treats adult patients 18-64 years old. Rachel is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. She is also a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
![Photo of Justin Ray - South Chesapeake Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/549bede7-bd91-4961-a1e1-089f51105c12/2/320x400.jpeg)
South Chesapeake Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Welcome to South Chesapeake Psychiatry, where we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on medication management. At our practice, we understand the importance of personalized treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by experienced mental health professionals and a dedicated team of office staff, we are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care, we strive to empower our clients to make informed decisions about their mental health and well-being.
Welcome to South Chesapeake Psychiatry, where we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on medication management. At our practice, we understand the importance of personalized treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by experienced mental health professionals and a dedicated team of office staff, we are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care, we strive to empower our clients to make informed decisions about their mental health and well-being.
![Photo of James Paul Callis - In Harmony Wellness, MS, MPA, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a1df77f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatry. Part of an excellent team at In Harmony Wellness, in northern Chesapeake, VA (near Chesapeake Square Mall) Serve to manage Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit disorders, and more. Provides services ages 15 -75 years old. Experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health since 1988 with diverse populations and multiple capacities including psychotherapy in 1990s. Patients are encouraged to embrace total health while working on better mental health.
Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatry. Part of an excellent team at In Harmony Wellness, in northern Chesapeake, VA (near Chesapeake Square Mall) Serve to manage Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit disorders, and more. Provides services ages 15 -75 years old. Experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health since 1988 with diverse populations and multiple capacities including psychotherapy in 1990s. Patients are encouraged to embrace total health while working on better mental health.
![Photo of Elise Gallie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62319ddd-e567-4cb5-81a4-861ed3f117a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elise Gallie is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and a graduate from Eastern Kentucky University. While a master's student at EKU, Elise earned the honor of being inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing and graduated with magna cum laude distinction. Before pursuing her career as a nurse practitioner, she has spent seven years working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings as a floor nurse and nurse manager.
Elise Gallie is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and a graduate from Eastern Kentucky University. While a master's student at EKU, Elise earned the honor of being inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing and graduated with magna cum laude distinction. Before pursuing her career as a nurse practitioner, she has spent seven years working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings as a floor nurse and nurse manager.
![Photo of Debbie Valerie Greenidge, AGNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15588488-67bd-49e7-84e5-1fbe6e3d56e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide medication management for mental health services for Major Depression Anxiety ADHD Bipolar Disorder Schizophrenia etc I provide care from a holistic approach to promote mental spiritual and emotional wellness
I provide medication management for mental health services for Major Depression Anxiety ADHD Bipolar Disorder Schizophrenia etc I provide care from a holistic approach to promote mental spiritual and emotional wellness
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Number of Psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA
60+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
82% | Aetna |
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chesapeake?
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.