Psychiatrists in Columbia, SC
![Photo of Kimberly G Kinard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/911a46ca-7787-4424-b5d9-e71ed3bbe6cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
![Photo of Kimberly Hammonds, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c26f36b7-5586-45fd-bde3-67ceaac86fdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
![Photo of Ramesh Gihwala, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/528076a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you frustrated, discouraged and overwhelmed with all the choices and options you have for getting help? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. You just want to get help for your issues, not field a bunch of different doctors offices. This is a common frustration in mental health treatment- you as the client don't get the best support because its spread out, not localized.
Are you frustrated, discouraged and overwhelmed with all the choices and options you have for getting help? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. You just want to get help for your issues, not field a bunch of different doctors offices. This is a common frustration in mental health treatment- you as the client don't get the best support because its spread out, not localized.
![Photo of Melissa Harris Kannaday M. D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520ef763-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you living the quality of life that you desire? Perhaps you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, worrying frequently and feeling anxious? Perhaps you are no longer enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed and want to feel “like yourself” again? Maybe you’ve noticed that you are having issues with your attention, leading to poor school or work performance? Perhaps the way you are feeling is affecting your relationships with your significant other, your colleagues, friends, family, or children? You no longer feel like yourself emotionally and you want to feel better. Dr. Kannaday can develop a plan to help you.
Are you living the quality of life that you desire? Perhaps you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, worrying frequently and feeling anxious? Perhaps you are no longer enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed and want to feel “like yourself” again? Maybe you’ve noticed that you are having issues with your attention, leading to poor school or work performance? Perhaps the way you are feeling is affecting your relationships with your significant other, your colleagues, friends, family, or children? You no longer feel like yourself emotionally and you want to feel better. Dr. Kannaday can develop a plan to help you.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caf8ad6b-92b3-41b8-9313-fc75f3138669/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Raynia McGee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47690a11-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I realize the challenges of finding a provider who is caring, compassionate and comprehensive in their care. My clinical background is in providing quality care in way that shows you are valued and understood. I specialize in providing medication management for mental health issues in a professional, thoughtful and non-judgemental environment.
As a psychiatrist, I realize the challenges of finding a provider who is caring, compassionate and comprehensive in their care. My clinical background is in providing quality care in way that shows you are valued and understood. I specialize in providing medication management for mental health issues in a professional, thoughtful and non-judgemental environment.
![Photo of William R. Hall, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0928d4b3-91c2-4c19-b41a-5c300cfd2a98/1/320x400.jpeg)
William R. Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and have been working in mental health for several years now. I have experience with adult and geriatric patients, and specialize in Medication Management treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia and PTSD. As my client, you can expect to have a better understanding of the issues you may struggle with, and I will work with you to develop a mutually agreed upon treatment plan. All of my clients can expect to be treated with empathy, and without judgement. You may use my website link to book your appointment, or call for a free 15 minute phone consultation!
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and have been working in mental health for several years now. I have experience with adult and geriatric patients, and specialize in Medication Management treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia and PTSD. As my client, you can expect to have a better understanding of the issues you may struggle with, and I will work with you to develop a mutually agreed upon treatment plan. All of my clients can expect to be treated with empathy, and without judgement. You may use my website link to book your appointment, or call for a free 15 minute phone consultation!
Omega Psychiatric Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29203
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
![Photo of Dr. Felicia L Walker - Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e107a41-c73a-4cab-8b8a-c65caa6ba838/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
Dr. Walker's philosophy centers on an empathetic, holistic approach to psychiatric care, recognizing the connections between mind, body, and spirit. She employs a biopsychosocial and cultural model, considering various aspects of your life in the journey toward mental wellness. Acknowledging that medication is not always the starting point for everyone, she provides education on a broad spectrum of options—from vitamins and supplements to traditional psychiatric treatments—ensuring you are well-informed to make decisions about your care.
Dr. Walker's philosophy centers on an empathetic, holistic approach to psychiatric care, recognizing the connections between mind, body, and spirit. She employs a biopsychosocial and cultural model, considering various aspects of your life in the journey toward mental wellness. Acknowledging that medication is not always the starting point for everyone, she provides education on a broad spectrum of options—from vitamins and supplements to traditional psychiatric treatments—ensuring you are well-informed to make decisions about your care.
![Photo of Demetris Wright - A Practitioner's Touch, LLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3e63ea6-0081-4f30-b67a-874725f22285/1/320x400.png)
A Practitioner's Touch, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29204 (Online Only)
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
![Photo of Dr. Shy Wilson, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/547689cf-fc2b-4c46-ad0f-7102073fab76/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shy Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I believe in holistic health: whole person care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and temporal dimensions of individuals and families across the lifespan. Mental and emotional health are the bedrock foundation of a healthy, fulfilling life. I partner with motivated clients to create their vision of success through psychiatric assessment, coaching (health, career and life goals), lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction) and medication management (traditional and integrative) in a serene, supportive environment for east meets west, truly individualized care.
I believe in holistic health: whole person care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and temporal dimensions of individuals and families across the lifespan. Mental and emotional health are the bedrock foundation of a healthy, fulfilling life. I partner with motivated clients to create their vision of success through psychiatric assessment, coaching (health, career and life goals), lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction) and medication management (traditional and integrative) in a serene, supportive environment for east meets west, truly individualized care.
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![Photo of Dr. Joan M Burns, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b84e08e4-4a6c-4d5b-bcb5-f8383bf3de3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Joan M Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206 (Online Only)
I provide care to patients (14 and older) with a wide range of mental health concerns, specializing in mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as psychotic, neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, and OCD. I also provide prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum psychiatric care.
I provide care to patients (14 and older) with a wide range of mental health concerns, specializing in mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as psychotic, neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, and OCD. I also provide prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum psychiatric care.
![Photo of Clarence Johnson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f733c6ae-a292-4c89-a23c-26b8ee0fac1b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarence Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
www.reflectivemindsmw.com. Visit my website to request an appointment! Openings within the week! HI! Also treating ADHD! As a compassionate and highly-skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. I have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, and I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
www.reflectivemindsmw.com. Visit my website to request an appointment! Openings within the week! HI! Also treating ADHD! As a compassionate and highly-skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. I have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, and I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
![Photo of Jared J. Carbone - Southern Om Telepsychiatric Services , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34331eea-5a62-4c13-b631-02f8d09fab07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Southern Om Telepsychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29204
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC has worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. Jared has had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Jared specializes in treating adult mood and other disorders including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and adult ADHD. Jared incorporates the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents of SC.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC has worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. Jared has had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Jared specializes in treating adult mood and other disorders including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and adult ADHD. Jared incorporates the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents of SC.
![Photo of Patricia Carter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/263ff143-16b8-4503-80ad-6f10c6875c8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 10 years of experience, she is knowledgeable in caring for and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence-based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 10 years of experience, she is knowledgeable in caring for and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence-based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
![Photo of Ashley Staten - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/766f4037-9241-47b4-8872-d8b24e2f6f75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29205 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Mary Goldin, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f0cb472-0494-4a54-887b-33b9831536ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Goldin is an energetic, compassionate, and passionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who goes beyond traditional methods to focus on the complete well-being of each individual across the lifespan. Mary meets each person where they are in life, helping to build that bridge to where they strive to be.
Mary Goldin is an energetic, compassionate, and passionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who goes beyond traditional methods to focus on the complete well-being of each individual across the lifespan. Mary meets each person where they are in life, helping to build that bridge to where they strive to be.
![Photo of Dr. Dorothy J Nivens, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/745841bc-8a7d-4900-8cb4-682762716bcf/3/320x400.png)
Dr. Dorothy J Nivens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner licensed and accepting new clients in NC, SC, NJ, and MD. My clinical background includes over 28 years of nursing experience in various medical platforms. I am an active Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing member. I work with the clients to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have experience working with, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner licensed and accepting new clients in NC, SC, NJ, and MD. My clinical background includes over 28 years of nursing experience in various medical platforms. I am an active Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing member. I work with the clients to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have experience working with, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Leilani Lee - Total Care Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d696ad5-81ff-491f-a6d4-f32ba8506de7/2/320x400.png)
As a telehealth company, Total Care Psychiatry focuses on providing comprehensive psychiatric treatment to patients in the comfort of their home. We will work closely with your primary care provider to assure quality care and limit the over prescribing of medications. We aim to provide evidence-based care with proven positive outcomes. Forensic Psychiatry services are also available by a board-certified Forensic Psychiatrist. A board-certified clinical pharmacist, Dr. Katie Touma, is also available for medication consultation and to review your response to medications.
As a telehealth company, Total Care Psychiatry focuses on providing comprehensive psychiatric treatment to patients in the comfort of their home. We will work closely with your primary care provider to assure quality care and limit the over prescribing of medications. We aim to provide evidence-based care with proven positive outcomes. Forensic Psychiatry services are also available by a board-certified Forensic Psychiatrist. A board-certified clinical pharmacist, Dr. Katie Touma, is also available for medication consultation and to review your response to medications.
![Photo of Jennifer Shierlock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/752a1f9e-997e-4550-9030-813e7970ccdd/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a personalized approach to treatment, integrating evidence-based medicine and a holistic understanding of your unique needs and circumstances. I'm dedicated to understanding who you are as a whole person, not just a diagnosis or set of symptoms. My style is one of warmth, compassion, and empathy. Through psychotherapy, medication management, and collaborative goal-setting, I want to help you navigate your mental health journey with confidence and resilience. I am here to help promote healing, growth and the achievement of your goals.
I use a personalized approach to treatment, integrating evidence-based medicine and a holistic understanding of your unique needs and circumstances. I'm dedicated to understanding who you are as a whole person, not just a diagnosis or set of symptoms. My style is one of warmth, compassion, and empathy. Through psychotherapy, medication management, and collaborative goal-setting, I want to help you navigate your mental health journey with confidence and resilience. I am here to help promote healing, growth and the achievement of your goals.
See more therapy options for Columbia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Columbia, SC
20+
Average cost per session
$165
Psychiatrists in Columbia, SC who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
88% | Medication Management |
84% | Sleep or Insomnia |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | Aetna |
84% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Columbia, SC see their clients
56% | Online Only | |
44% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Columbia?
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.