Psychiatrists in Springfield, IL
![Photo of Melinda Rader, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17725866-41b0-43dc-88ef-ce84b3a61066/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindy Rader is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She has an AND from Lincolnland Community College, a BSN from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, an MSN from University of Phoenix, and a Postgraduate PMHNP certification from Saint Louis University. Mindy offers medication management with a supportive and collaborative attitude. She has a nonjudgmental manner and spends the time needed to get to know each of her clients so that she can understand each person’s unique history and needs.
Mindy Rader is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She has an AND from Lincolnland Community College, a BSN from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, an MSN from University of Phoenix, and a Postgraduate PMHNP certification from Saint Louis University. Mindy offers medication management with a supportive and collaborative attitude. She has a nonjudgmental manner and spends the time needed to get to know each of her clients so that she can understand each person’s unique history and needs.
![Photo of Kimberly A Earl, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53ceed43-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly A Earl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62703
My background include services focusing on depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, Adult ADHD, High Functioning Adult Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and addiction issues. I work well with clients who are invested in treatment, appreciate a holistic approach, work for mental wellness and clarity, enjoy collaboration and have a desire to achieve life balance. A collaborative approach with a therapist is essential and required in some cases. Insured patients needing continued Suboxone treatment will be considered; initial consult will determine if appropriate to my clinic.
My background include services focusing on depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, Adult ADHD, High Functioning Adult Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and addiction issues. I work well with clients who are invested in treatment, appreciate a holistic approach, work for mental wellness and clarity, enjoy collaboration and have a desire to achieve life balance. A collaborative approach with a therapist is essential and required in some cases. Insured patients needing continued Suboxone treatment will be considered; initial consult will determine if appropriate to my clinic.
![Photo of Dr. Lori Anne Hopwood, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc10ef4-0098-4662-ba41-d8edd9250b29/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lori Anne Hopwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I provided non-judgmental, empathetic care. Over the years, I have developed a special interested in increasing access to mental health services. My goal is to effectively assess, diagnose and treat your mental health challenges. I provide safe, quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
I provided non-judgmental, empathetic care. Over the years, I have developed a special interested in increasing access to mental health services. My goal is to effectively assess, diagnose and treat your mental health challenges. I provide safe, quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
![Photo of Zackary Ladson, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462e1717-e30f-490d-a013-a9d897de46ba/2/320x400.png)
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
![Photo of Umesh Rao Chakunta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/832a13fd-93f5-4050-889b-2110e8cdaabb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Umesh Rao Chakunta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Umesh Rao Chakunta is an Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2012. Following Medical Education in India, Dr. Chakunta completed Adult Psychiatry Residency at University of South Dakota in Sioux Falls and Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Mount Sinai school of Medicine in New York. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. Dr. Chakunta has a special Interest in managing mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety disorders, and behavioral problems associated with dementia.
Dr. Umesh Rao Chakunta is an Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2012. Following Medical Education in India, Dr. Chakunta completed Adult Psychiatry Residency at University of South Dakota in Sioux Falls and Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Mount Sinai school of Medicine in New York. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. Dr. Chakunta has a special Interest in managing mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety disorders, and behavioral problems associated with dementia.
![Photo of Melissa Hinds, APRN, NNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfbe00f0-024a-492c-a8ee-f318a8325b59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Hinds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Illinois. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 22 years with experience in emergency medicine, women's health, neonatology, and psychiatry. I offer psychotropic medication management as well as trauma-focused psychotherapy. Utilizing a holistic approach, I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Each client's treatment plan is highly individualized and developed utilizing a shared decision-making model.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Illinois. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 22 years with experience in emergency medicine, women's health, neonatology, and psychiatry. I offer psychotropic medication management as well as trauma-focused psychotherapy. Utilizing a holistic approach, I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Each client's treatment plan is highly individualized and developed utilizing a shared decision-making model.
![Photo of Meagan Maas, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa9c86c8-f725-4b26-958b-12c1d9946e4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have a wide range of experiences working with children, adolescents, and adults in clinical, educational, and research settings over the past fourteen years, and see clients 35 years of age and under!
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have a wide range of experiences working with children, adolescents, and adults in clinical, educational, and research settings over the past fourteen years, and see clients 35 years of age and under!
![Photo of Jordan K Mandeville, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41bc2ec9-436e-4fde-ae10-3b3eda786e49/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about psychiatric care for both adults and children. Caring for and treating people with mental health issues has been my ambition and drives my commitment to the behavioral health community. My background in nursing and continuing studies in psychiatric care help me help you invest in treatments and therapies that will work best for each individual. Together we can work on your care, assess your needs and proceed with measures necessary to meet your mental health requirements.
I am passionate about psychiatric care for both adults and children. Caring for and treating people with mental health issues has been my ambition and drives my commitment to the behavioral health community. My background in nursing and continuing studies in psychiatric care help me help you invest in treatments and therapies that will work best for each individual. Together we can work on your care, assess your needs and proceed with measures necessary to meet your mental health requirements.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7744f309-a35b-4489-8f85-15064720a753/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Geneva A. Sanders, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9439ee6-2bf4-4e67-8840-43aec44d1734/1/320x400.jpeg)
Geneva A. Sanders is an accomplished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, with a wealth of clinical experience spanning over eight years in both medical and psychiatric settings. Throughout her career, Geneva has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and has actively participated in professional organizations, including her membership in the prestigious Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. With her diverse clinical background and extensive education, Geneva brings a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to her practice, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality of care.
Geneva A. Sanders is an accomplished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Illinois, with a wealth of clinical experience spanning over eight years in both medical and psychiatric settings. Throughout her career, Geneva has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and has actively participated in professional organizations, including her membership in the prestigious Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. With her diverse clinical background and extensive education, Geneva brings a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to her practice, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality of care.
![Photo of Dr. Elizabeth O'Brien - Mind-Body Pediatric Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c865cc55-1a1b-4f82-96ba-4664e6a0ad53/3/320x400.png)
Mind-Body Pediatric Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704 (Online Only)
No Waitlist - Immediate Openings Available! Evening Appointments. Are you seeking a mental health provider who truly understands and listens? Specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, I am committed to helping young individuals flourish by tackling issues such as anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. Step into a supportive and nurturing space where every aspect of your child's unique needs is carefully addressed. My approach is thorough and holistic, involving medication management, customized therapy, nutritional advice, lifestyle coaching, and optimized sleep practices.
No Waitlist - Immediate Openings Available! Evening Appointments. Are you seeking a mental health provider who truly understands and listens? Specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, I am committed to helping young individuals flourish by tackling issues such as anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. Step into a supportive and nurturing space where every aspect of your child's unique needs is carefully addressed. My approach is thorough and holistic, involving medication management, customized therapy, nutritional advice, lifestyle coaching, and optimized sleep practices.
15 Second Videos
Lori Anne Hopwood
Umesh Rao Chakunta
Chenhang Zou
![Photo of Chandra Pierson-Rye, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b645f22a-367c-403c-847a-007f757372ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chandra A. Pierson-Rye is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. She has over 20 years of diverse clinical experience. She received her Bachelor's in Science & Nursing (BSN) from MacMurray college, her Master's in Nursing & Science (MSN) from Maryville University, and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Illinois University “ Edwardsville (SIU-E). She is a member of several organizations, including Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.
Chandra A. Pierson-Rye is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. She has over 20 years of diverse clinical experience. She received her Bachelor's in Science & Nursing (BSN) from MacMurray college, her Master's in Nursing & Science (MSN) from Maryville University, and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Illinois University “ Edwardsville (SIU-E). She is a member of several organizations, including Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e5253ad-b32e-4397-91c3-bb3d7ca2307c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
![Photo of Stacey Davis, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3582157-a8bc-4838-982b-5f21b0968dec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.
I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.
![Photo of Amber Altidor, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17c209e7-8c83-401a-b275-cf564869ad1d/2/320x400.png)
Amber Altidor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35d66910-274a-45e9-9b5e-9102af647021/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Zoelife Psychiatric Services- Ally Wade, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90bd2e50-62b8-4c2c-8b89-c8590cb49bb3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zoelife Psychiatric Services- Ally Wade
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703 (Online Only)
Our clinic is accepting new patients. We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders. Email us or call us today to book an appointment.
Our clinic is accepting new patients. We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders. Email us or call us today to book an appointment.
![Photo of Dr. Andrew J Matrick, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81dfa0b5-ec5c-4de0-a27b-4fa51e8b0a54/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Northwestern-trained, board-certified physician psychiatrist with experience treating a broad range of mental health conditions. I utilize evidence-based medication strategies, integrative strategies (exercise, sleep hygiene and psychotherapy) to provide a comprehensive treatment approach that takes the whole person into account.
I am a Northwestern-trained, board-certified physician psychiatrist with experience treating a broad range of mental health conditions. I utilize evidence-based medication strategies, integrative strategies (exercise, sleep hygiene and psychotherapy) to provide a comprehensive treatment approach that takes the whole person into account.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Danielle Silva, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d0343fe-6929-4e44-8390-ce9776359a80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
Hello, I'm Danielle Silva, a licensed and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with four years of experience. I specialize in providing compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in managing mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to collaborating with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and enhance overall well-being. I typically work with patients across the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
Online Psychiatrists
See more therapy options for Springfield
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Springfield, IL
10+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in Springfield, IL who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
78% | Medication Management |
72% | ADHD |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
61% | Grief |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Springfield, IL see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Springfield?
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.