Psychiatrists in Balcones Heights, TX
![Photo of Valentina Okechi - Restore primary care wellness and behavioral healt, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa93b5e9-e77a-462b-bfd8-537a47f085e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Restore primary care wellness and behavioral healt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Balcones Heights, TX 78201
The ideal client for me is someone who is grappling with various challenges that life presents. They may be feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, including work, relationships, and personal well-being. This individual might be someone who struggles to manage their tasks and responsibilities, feeling burdened by their never-ending to-do list. My ideal client is someone who recognizes that they are not alone in their struggles and is open to seeking support.
The ideal client for me is someone who is grappling with various challenges that life presents. They may be feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, including work, relationships, and personal well-being. This individual might be someone who struggles to manage their tasks and responsibilities, feeling burdened by their never-ending to-do list. My ideal client is someone who recognizes that they are not alone in their struggles and is open to seeking support.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Taiwo Elemuren - Livewell Mental Health , PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eba87adc-4343-4c05-9716-4b5cdcab5d4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Livewell Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201 (Online Only)
Taiwo Elemuren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner since 2015 and has extensive knowledge, and experience, in psychiatry. She provides patient-centered psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Her goal is to continually provide unbiased and all-inclusive care to individuals regardless of race, gender, and sexual orientation.
Taiwo Elemuren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner since 2015 and has extensive knowledge, and experience, in psychiatry. She provides patient-centered psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Her goal is to continually provide unbiased and all-inclusive care to individuals regardless of race, gender, and sexual orientation.
![Photo of Munira Jiwani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfe8f2cb-4e03-427f-99fc-5cafe3c1024e/1/320x400.png)
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. My name is Munira Jiwani, and I've just opened more slots at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance carriers, such as Cigna, Aetna, United, and more. My schedule fills up fast, but currently, I can see new patients as early as next week on Mondays and Tuesdays (morning and afternoon).
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. My name is Munira Jiwani, and I've just opened more slots at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance carriers, such as Cigna, Aetna, United, and more. My schedule fills up fast, but currently, I can see new patients as early as next week on Mondays and Tuesdays (morning and afternoon).
![Photo of Michael John Solon, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d1e0532-4ca0-44ae-aaa8-58f17e5c75bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael John Solon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individualized and evidenced-based care to pediatric and adult patients with diverse psychiatric and behavioral needs. I am available in-person in the Rio Grande Valley and via telehealth across Texas.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides individualized and evidenced-based care to pediatric and adult patients with diverse psychiatric and behavioral needs. I am available in-person in the Rio Grande Valley and via telehealth across Texas.
![Photo of Jessy Cecil, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ec69c14-5568-42bd-8c36-9f12f90b6fc6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessy Cecil is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of extensive nursing experience. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Phoenix, and Post-Master’s certification in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Herzing University. Her approach is holistic and patient-centered care in collaboration with other healthcare providers. She places patients’ safety as the priority in addition to quality and cost-effectiveness. She believes that not one size fits all.
Jessy Cecil is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of extensive nursing experience. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Phoenix, and Post-Master’s certification in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Herzing University. Her approach is holistic and patient-centered care in collaboration with other healthcare providers. She places patients’ safety as the priority in addition to quality and cost-effectiveness. She believes that not one size fits all.
![Photo of Ugochi Azubuike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb9b0cdd-c964-4929-bd79-69fa0e6b876b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ugochi Azubuike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
![Photo of Alexandrea Wallace, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f5099ce-5a07-49dd-9457-fb84199ac47e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandrea Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
Alexandrea Wallace is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience providing quality and compassionate care as mental health registered nurse and licensed vocational nurse. She believes in providing holistic and individualized care to her clients. Alexandrea Wallace aims to effectively diagnose and treat clients with individualized treatment plans with pharmacological and non-pharmacological options.
Alexandrea Wallace is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience providing quality and compassionate care as mental health registered nurse and licensed vocational nurse. She believes in providing holistic and individualized care to her clients. Alexandrea Wallace aims to effectively diagnose and treat clients with individualized treatment plans with pharmacological and non-pharmacological options.
![Photo of Navjot Hughes, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9104d0f8-9750-4d43-8d96-5f1a4be8f408/2/320x400.png)
Navjot Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201
Everyone deserves to experience mental wellness. I specialize in helping you overcome overwhelm, anxiety, and relationship stress. By regulating your emotions and building a strong relationship with yourself, you'll gain clarity, discover your purpose, and rediscover the joy of each day. With access to medication management, therapy, and empowerment coaching, I'll guide you on your journey to a healthier you. Book your free 15-minute phone call to discover how to transform your mental health.
Everyone deserves to experience mental wellness. I specialize in helping you overcome overwhelm, anxiety, and relationship stress. By regulating your emotions and building a strong relationship with yourself, you'll gain clarity, discover your purpose, and rediscover the joy of each day. With access to medication management, therapy, and empowerment coaching, I'll guide you on your journey to a healthier you. Book your free 15-minute phone call to discover how to transform your mental health.
![Photo of Pamela Allahar - Pamela Allahar, Psychiatric Nurse—Medication Mgmt, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5914904-b260-40b0-be80-e452050c0b22/4/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela Allahar, Psychiatric Nurse—Medication Mgmt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201 (Online Only)
Do you need help with psychiatric medication? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? Need to adjust your medication for the best results? Working together, we will find the medications that work best for you. If your therapist has suggested medication, we can work collaboratively to get the best results for you. Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement to your well-being. As a board- certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can give you the support that you need with short wait times and virtual appointments.
Do you need help with psychiatric medication? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? Need to adjust your medication for the best results? Working together, we will find the medications that work best for you. If your therapist has suggested medication, we can work collaboratively to get the best results for you. Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement to your well-being. As a board- certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can give you the support that you need with short wait times and virtual appointments.
![Photo of Agnes Ayeh, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74a57308-a318-46a6-a3c6-9828a735fa74/2/320x400.png)
Agnes Ayeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201
Licensed to see clients in MD, New York, New Mexico, Iowa, Texas and Oregon. My philosophy of care is always providing patient centered. In addition, motivational and cognitive therapy are great strategies to use but focusing on the patient’s current needs should never be strayed away. Experienced in depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorders, intimate partner violence, and more. I believe in providing compassionate care to clients of all ages.
Licensed to see clients in MD, New York, New Mexico, Iowa, Texas and Oregon. My philosophy of care is always providing patient centered. In addition, motivational and cognitive therapy are great strategies to use but focusing on the patient’s current needs should never be strayed away. Experienced in depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorders, intimate partner violence, and more. I believe in providing compassionate care to clients of all ages.
![Photo of Lindsey Sansing, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b6467a-bf12-4b91-9f68-538dc30b7dac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Sansing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201 (Online Only)
Lindsey is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and received her training and education from The University of Texas at Austin. Her primary areas of interest are working with clients struggling with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and PTSD. She has a wide array of training and experience providing trauma-informed care to Veterans and first responders, as well as to survivors of child abuse, sexual assault, exploitation, and domestic violence. If you live in Texas and are 15+, she can see you via telehealth. Schedule now: www.texasmindandbody.com.
Lindsey is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and received her training and education from The University of Texas at Austin. Her primary areas of interest are working with clients struggling with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and PTSD. She has a wide array of training and experience providing trauma-informed care to Veterans and first responders, as well as to survivors of child abuse, sexual assault, exploitation, and domestic violence. If you live in Texas and are 15+, she can see you via telehealth. Schedule now: www.texasmindandbody.com.
![Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b93cccec-c890-42ea-b708-dcceb41fac69/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
![Photo of Ricardo Calderon, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468bd883-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ricardo Calderon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
I specialize in the management of mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorder, insomnia, OCD, and ADHD. I treat clients using a patient-centered approach. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and provider and that is what I strive for with all of my clients. I can assist you in fulfilling your mental health needs through psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Whether you've received treatment in the past or are seeking a mental health provider for the first time, I'll do my best to help you reach your goals effectively and safely.
I specialize in the management of mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorder, insomnia, OCD, and ADHD. I treat clients using a patient-centered approach. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and provider and that is what I strive for with all of my clients. I can assist you in fulfilling your mental health needs through psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Whether you've received treatment in the past or are seeking a mental health provider for the first time, I'll do my best to help you reach your goals effectively and safely.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, with seven years of clinical practice at this level. I became an RN for 15 years. During my years as psychiatric provider, I have cared for patients, both acute and ambulatory, with a wide array of behavioral health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, personality disorders, autism, intellectual disability, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, PTSD and others.
![Photo of Delia Sanchez Patino, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afb66cea-839f-474a-99dc-47071c98b751/2/320x400.jpeg)
Delia Sanchez Patino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Mrs. Patino graduated with her master’s degree from Texas State University in Round Rock, Texas. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Clinic service model, insurance is not accepted at this time and payments are made at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care; rates are reasonable call for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Mrs. Patino graduated with her master’s degree from Texas State University in Round Rock, Texas. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing Examiners as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Clinic service model, insurance is not accepted at this time and payments are made at the time of service. This allows for more personalized care; rates are reasonable call for more information on the cost of initial consultation and follow-up visits.
![Photo of Armand Ntchana, NP, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddf4b136-2939-4442-b876-82999e3b1af6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health and substance abuse is my passion. I have worked both in outpatient and in-patient settings. Extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. Providing medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. With 24/7 Direct Access For Established Patients.
Mental health and substance abuse is my passion. I have worked both in outpatient and in-patient settings. Extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. Providing medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. With 24/7 Direct Access For Established Patients.
![Photo of Adefemi Taiwo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0221846a-0059-4469-a1ff-141616c1ccfe/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to clinical practice is based on a collaborative model and as such works well with patients who take an active interest in their treatment and are genuinely curious.
My approach to clinical practice is based on a collaborative model and as such works well with patients who take an active interest in their treatment and are genuinely curious.
![Photo of Nkechi Nduka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01e6dad0-ec1e-4d3a-9aaa-2adf07f31e77/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! Thank you for considering your mental health needs with me today. My name is Nkechi Nduka, and I'm excited to announce that I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and others). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but I currently have openings on Wednesdays, both morning and afternoon.
Hello! Thank you for considering your mental health needs with me today. My name is Nkechi Nduka, and I'm excited to announce that I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and others). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but I currently have openings on Wednesdays, both morning and afternoon.
![Photo of Martha Motari, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d453dc0-97c3-4ef2-9c03-0eee797e6209/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Motari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201
I AM Accepting new clients. Welcome! I'm Martha K. Motari, a dedicated and compassionate nursing professional. My expertise lies in conducting thorough mental health assessments for children and adults, identifying their needs, and developing personalized care plans. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, ensuring that each patient receives the most effective treatments available.
I AM Accepting new clients. Welcome! I'm Martha K. Motari, a dedicated and compassionate nursing professional. My expertise lies in conducting thorough mental health assessments for children and adults, identifying their needs, and developing personalized care plans. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, ensuring that each patient receives the most effective treatments available.
Dr. David A. Rodriguez is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2010. He has a Bachelor of Science from St. Mary's University, a Master of Science from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, a Medical Degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine, a Psychiatry Residency from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, and a Child and Adolescent Fellowship from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
Dr. David A. Rodriguez is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2010. He has a Bachelor of Science from St. Mary's University, a Master of Science from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, a Medical Degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine, a Psychiatry Residency from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, and a Child and Adolescent Fellowship from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Balcones Heights, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Balcones Heights, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Humana |
100% | Magellan |
How Psychiatrists in Balcones Heights, TX see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Balcones Heights?
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.