Psychiatrists in Vancouver, WA

Photo of Mercie Health - Mercie Health Psych with Dr. Sylvia .U. Nwakanma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mercie Health Psych with Dr. Sylvia .U. Nwakanma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98661
I am interested in helping those that are serious about their mental health. Just inquiring about potential services to help with your mental health is a great start. I take management of mental health using medication management with some talk therapy very seriously. Everyone literally does not fit in the same box of medications. My name is Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma, I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Mercie Health, a psychiatric and wellness center. We have same WEEK appointment! We provide in-person, as well as virtual consultations.
I am interested in helping those that are serious about their mental health. Just inquiring about potential services to help with your mental health is a great start. I take management of mental health using medication management with some talk therapy very seriously. Everyone literally does not fit in the same box of medications. My name is Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma, I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Mercie Health, a psychiatric and wellness center. We have same WEEK appointment! We provide in-person, as well as virtual consultations.
(281) 247-8505 View (281) 247-8505
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(360) 525-1875 View (360) 525-1875
Photo of April Urquidez, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Urquidez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98686  (Online Only)
I see patients via video visit across OR and WA. I practice a patient centered approach and listen to my patients' needs. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) across the lifespan. I have over 20 years of healthcare experience working in inpatient and outpatient treatment settings. I have extensive training in conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and prescribing medications, and supplements. I have experience in providing nutritional and wellness counseling.
I see patients via video visit across OR and WA. I practice a patient centered approach and listen to my patients' needs. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) across the lifespan. I have over 20 years of healthcare experience working in inpatient and outpatient treatment settings. I have extensive training in conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and prescribing medications, and supplements. I have experience in providing nutritional and wellness counseling.
(360) 382-2860 View (360) 382-2860
Photo of Tate J. Lander, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tate J. Lander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
Accepting new clients! I am the owner of Ally Mental Health. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I appreciate the courage and strength that it takes to ask for help. I celebrate your bravery! I have a very patient centered approach and enjoy partnering with my clients. Prior to getting my specialty in psychiatric mental health, I had thirteen years experience as a family nurse practitioner specializing in emergency medicine and urgent care.
Accepting new clients! I am the owner of Ally Mental Health. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I appreciate the courage and strength that it takes to ask for help. I celebrate your bravery! I have a very patient centered approach and enjoy partnering with my clients. Prior to getting my specialty in psychiatric mental health, I had thirteen years experience as a family nurse practitioner specializing in emergency medicine and urgent care.
(360) 347-9604 View (360) 347-9604
Photo of Karen Suzanne McNulty, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Suzanne McNulty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
"Do you have a goal to accept or change old habits? Maybe you want to sleep more peacefully? Navigate life transitions with more resilience? Handle stress confidently? Parent harmoniously? Relate authentically? Emotional wellness therapy can help to nurture confidence and grow skills in what matters most to you. Through compassionate insightful attention to your strengths and dreams, experience more of the essence of what you desire. Learn what obstacles may have to teach. Evidence based health psychology tools are offered to support you on your journey to greater inner peace."
"Do you have a goal to accept or change old habits? Maybe you want to sleep more peacefully? Navigate life transitions with more resilience? Handle stress confidently? Parent harmoniously? Relate authentically? Emotional wellness therapy can help to nurture confidence and grow skills in what matters most to you. Through compassionate insightful attention to your strengths and dreams, experience more of the essence of what you desire. Learn what obstacles may have to teach. Evidence based health psychology tools are offered to support you on your journey to greater inner peace."
(360) 215-5385 View (360) 215-5385
Photo of Benjamin Huckett, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benjamin Huckett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
I see patients with a wide range of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and more. I enjoy working with clients who have a history of treatment resistance or failure.
I see patients with a wide range of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and more. I enjoy working with clients who have a history of treatment resistance or failure.
(360) 208-8621 View (360) 208-8621
Photo of Jessica Bentura-Jimenez - Jessica Jimenez-Agency Accepting New Patients!, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Jimenez-Agency Accepting New Patients!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684  (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing mental health services to the adult population. In her practice, she strives to achieve the highest care with respect and regard for her patients and their treatment preferences. She utilizes treatments aligned with evidence-based guidelines combined with clinical experience, personal observation, and patient input, in order to develop a treatment plan that is patient centered. Focused treatment areas include depression, treatment resistant depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD.
I am passionate about providing mental health services to the adult population. In her practice, she strives to achieve the highest care with respect and regard for her patients and their treatment preferences. She utilizes treatments aligned with evidence-based guidelines combined with clinical experience, personal observation, and patient input, in order to develop a treatment plan that is patient centered. Focused treatment areas include depression, treatment resistant depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD.
(360) 564-1990 View (360) 564-1990
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(360) 284-1939 View (360) 284-1939
Photo of Harleen Kang, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harleen Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
My name is Dr. Harleen Kang, I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing out of the great state of Washington. I come with over seven years’ experience in psychiatry and aim to continue providing excellent care to all those seeking help for their mental health. My primary areas of focus are anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, loss and grief, and adjustment issues. I primarily do medication management with minimal therapy.
My name is Dr. Harleen Kang, I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing out of the great state of Washington. I come with over seven years’ experience in psychiatry and aim to continue providing excellent care to all those seeking help for their mental health. My primary areas of focus are anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, loss and grief, and adjustment issues. I primarily do medication management with minimal therapy.
(360) 995-1668 View (360) 995-1668
Photo of Tchido Yao - Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
(360) 227-6060 View (360) 227-6060
Photo of Christopher Douglas Cator, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Douglas Cator
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
Everyone is welcome here for therapy and medication management. As a passionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will work collaboratively with you, the patient, to regain and maintain balance in your life. I primarily use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Using current evidence-based practices and your feedback, we will gather information, diagnose, and implement the best plan that fits your needs.
Everyone is welcome here for therapy and medication management. As a passionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will work collaboratively with you, the patient, to regain and maintain balance in your life. I primarily use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Using current evidence-based practices and your feedback, we will gather information, diagnose, and implement the best plan that fits your needs.
(360) 245-2444 View (360) 245-2444
Photo of Ed Kauffman, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ed Kauffman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGACNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Many people are having a hard time getting in to see a provider who is available, without exorbitant prices, and has the time for their patients. Our price is only $89/month and that includes any follow up appointments as well as text / phone calls. All direct with your provider. No middle men involved.
Many people are having a hard time getting in to see a provider who is available, without exorbitant prices, and has the time for their patients. Our price is only $89/month and that includes any follow up appointments as well as text / phone calls. All direct with your provider. No middle men involved.
(360) 467-6743 View (360) 467-6743
Photo of John Benson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
(360) 404-7788 View (360) 404-7788
Photo of David Califf, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Califf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
David is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a Doctorate in Nursing from Washington State University. David cares for patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia and panic disorders.
David is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a Doctorate in Nursing from Washington State University. David cares for patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia and panic disorders.
(360) 347-9728 View (360) 347-9728
Photo of Deb Kiehlmeier, DO, Psychiatrist
Deb Kiehlmeier
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! I am a board certified psychiatrist offering telepsychiatric services to patients throughout Washington. I do have some in-person availability for those local to Portland. I have experience diagnosing and treating all mental health disorders, but focus primarily on ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety (including PTSD), depressive disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience treating LGBTQIA+ patients.
Accepting new patients with immediate availability! I am a board certified psychiatrist offering telepsychiatric services to patients throughout Washington. I do have some in-person availability for those local to Portland. I have experience diagnosing and treating all mental health disorders, but focus primarily on ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety (including PTSD), depressive disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience treating LGBTQIA+ patients.
(360) 776-3228 View (360) 776-3228
Photo of Nadine A. Smith PMHNP - Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am passionate about helping you to achieve optimal functioning in your pursuit to regain emotional and mental well-being. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide high-quality mental health care for adolescents and adults. I conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and collaboratively create individualized treatment plans. I give thorough consideration to the biological, psychological, and social factors impacting your mental health. Please note ALL visits are conducted VIRTUALLY.
Welcome! I am passionate about helping you to achieve optimal functioning in your pursuit to regain emotional and mental well-being. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide high-quality mental health care for adolescents and adults. I conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and collaboratively create individualized treatment plans. I give thorough consideration to the biological, psychological, and social factors impacting your mental health. Please note ALL visits are conducted VIRTUALLY.
(360) 553-0541 View (360) 553-0541
Photo of Wendy Anne Piper - Wendy Piper, DNP, PMHNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Wendy Piper, DNP, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
This behavior health outpatient practice treats teenagers, adults and seniors. My skills include assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals and families with psychiatric disorders using therapeutic skills, including the prescription of medication when needed, medication follow up and brief focused therapy. Book a session on my website. See website address at the right of this page or leave message on my site to call you. I try and answer all messages as quick as possible.
This behavior health outpatient practice treats teenagers, adults and seniors. My skills include assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals and families with psychiatric disorders using therapeutic skills, including the prescription of medication when needed, medication follow up and brief focused therapy. Book a session on my website. See website address at the right of this page or leave message on my site to call you. I try and answer all messages as quick as possible.
(360) 559-6997 View (360) 559-6997
Photo of Amber Curtis, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Curtis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Amber just relocated to Washington and is thrilled to finally explore the Pacific Northwest. She has been in the medical field for over 20 years, and having a passion for those who suffer from mental health disorders, became a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is able to treat patients in the states of Oregon and Washington.
Amber just relocated to Washington and is thrilled to finally explore the Pacific Northwest. She has been in the medical field for over 20 years, and having a passion for those who suffer from mental health disorders, became a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is able to treat patients in the states of Oregon and Washington.
(360) 585-0199 View (360) 585-0199
Photo of Dr. Miranda Van De Loo, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Miranda Van De Loo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
I do have appointment availability now. If your insurance matches up with one of these and you would like to schedule an appointment with me right away, you can call Mindful Therapy at 425-640-7009 Ext. 1 and request an intake with me. My style of appointment is fostering a collaborative environment with open communication where each person feels they are able to share what is most concerning them without fear of judgement.
I do have appointment availability now. If your insurance matches up with one of these and you would like to schedule an appointment with me right away, you can call Mindful Therapy at 425-640-7009 Ext. 1 and request an intake with me. My style of appointment is fostering a collaborative environment with open communication where each person feels they are able to share what is most concerning them without fear of judgement.
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Photo of Shannon Paris - Autism Diagnostics, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Autism Diagnostics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Autism diagnoses can have lengthy wait times and can be costly. Delays in getting a child diagnosed can set them back several years developmentally as they miss out on vital intervention time. At ASC, we strive to bridge the gap and increase access to care. Shannon Paris is a Center of Excellence Provider which is often required in Washington state for insurance to authorize vital services such as Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). Early diagnoses can also help with and increase access to developmental preschool and aid in the development of individualized education plans (IEP) to help set your child up for success in school.
Autism diagnoses can have lengthy wait times and can be costly. Delays in getting a child diagnosed can set them back several years developmentally as they miss out on vital intervention time. At ASC, we strive to bridge the gap and increase access to care. Shannon Paris is a Center of Excellence Provider which is often required in Washington state for insurance to authorize vital services such as Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). Early diagnoses can also help with and increase access to developmental preschool and aid in the development of individualized education plans (IEP) to help set your child up for success in school.
(360) 614-2011 View (360) 614-2011

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Vancouver, WA

100+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Vancouver, WA who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
93% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Vancouver, WA see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Vancouver?

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.