Psychiatrists in Bell County, TX
![Photo of Janet Oladipo, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b24c8f82-03ee-480f-8f0e-f18e26fca8c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janet Oladipo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76549 (Online Only)
Janet Oladipo is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Janet earned her first associate degree in nursing from Albany State University, Albany, Georgia and Bachelor’s degree in nursing from University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
Janet Oladipo is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Janet earned her first associate degree in nursing from Albany State University, Albany, Georgia and Bachelor’s degree in nursing from University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
![Photo of Seresea Mitchell-Smith, FNP-C, CME, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8dd4061-45bc-4364-898c-3a36de81bb79/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seresea Mitchell-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, CME, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76549
Mindful Primary & Psych Care is an integrative clinic focused on providing compassionate and holistic care to address the community's primary and mental health needs. Our clinic is the first in the area to offer primary care and psychiatric services to the community. As we know that physical decline can affect your mental health, and your mental health can affect your physical health. The clinic practice supports evidence-based medicine guidelines. While we are small, we have a BIG heart dedicated to keeping you focused on your health and wellness.
Mindful Primary & Psych Care is an integrative clinic focused on providing compassionate and holistic care to address the community's primary and mental health needs. Our clinic is the first in the area to offer primary care and psychiatric services to the community. As we know that physical decline can affect your mental health, and your mental health can affect your physical health. The clinic practice supports evidence-based medicine guidelines. While we are small, we have a BIG heart dedicated to keeping you focused on your health and wellness.
![Photo of Marilyn I Omomen, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd91f09-6449-43bf-b80c-90e29b4e1e26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marilyn I Omomen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502 (Online Only)
I cater to the mental health needs of clients 6 years old through 100 years. I can help you navigate through the stressors of life through psychotherapy and medication management. I desire to get you to the best version of your lives.
I cater to the mental health needs of clients 6 years old through 100 years. I can help you navigate through the stressors of life through psychotherapy and medication management. I desire to get you to the best version of your lives.
![Photo of Nadia Bening - Texas Hill Country TMS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53a26038-36d3-460f-9fdc-63a14b6d85c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Need something different than medications and traditional therapy? We accept Tricare/insurance and offer the most advanced treatment for depression and anxiety available. TMS is a powerful yet non-invasive office procedure that uses magnetic fields to activate underactive depression circuits in the brain and inhibit overactive anxiety pathways. TMS is NOT shock therapy. It can be done as monotherapy or in addition to antidepressant medication. At Texas Hill Country TMS, over 90% of our patients with severe, treatment-resistant clinical depression and anxiety have experienced a significant clinical response with long-term outcomes.
Need something different than medications and traditional therapy? We accept Tricare/insurance and offer the most advanced treatment for depression and anxiety available. TMS is a powerful yet non-invasive office procedure that uses magnetic fields to activate underactive depression circuits in the brain and inhibit overactive anxiety pathways. TMS is NOT shock therapy. It can be done as monotherapy or in addition to antidepressant medication. At Texas Hill Country TMS, over 90% of our patients with severe, treatment-resistant clinical depression and anxiety have experienced a significant clinical response with long-term outcomes.
![Photo of Mistee J Jefferies, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6c4de87-631a-4f7c-a972-850c33f65f06/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work across the life spectrum providing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to help patients live their best lives.
I work across the life spectrum providing psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to help patients live their best lives.
![Photo of Marilyn Omomen, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dc0e283-9b01-4448-b3e5-380b8e76853c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marilyn Omomen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502 (Online Only)
It gets overwhelming to face day to day situations which can be anxiety provoking. Life hits us, with no age group left out of daily stressors. Adolescents dealing with identity issues, fears of "belonging" and some initial worry about a successful future. Young adults get concerned about finding the perfect life partner and dealing with relationship issues, there are anxieties about "adulting." That middle age adult worrying about continued success, the complex family dynamics and mid-life crisis and the older adults with concerns of end of life and health concerns. Everyone wishes for calm and stable mind, a balanced life.
It gets overwhelming to face day to day situations which can be anxiety provoking. Life hits us, with no age group left out of daily stressors. Adolescents dealing with identity issues, fears of "belonging" and some initial worry about a successful future. Young adults get concerned about finding the perfect life partner and dealing with relationship issues, there are anxieties about "adulting." That middle age adult worrying about continued success, the complex family dynamics and mid-life crisis and the older adults with concerns of end of life and health concerns. Everyone wishes for calm and stable mind, a balanced life.
![Photo of Paul R. Whitelock - Paul R. Whitelock, M.D. & Associates, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76185322-154f-47f6-b14d-fcb5a0e3a40f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul R. Whitelock, M.D. & Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502 (Online Only)
With over 4 decades of psychiatric experience, we approach each patients’ care with expertise, respect and kindness. From young children to senior citizens, we provide personal and in-depth evaluation and expert medication management in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Offices located in Austin, San Marcos & Temple Texas!
With over 4 decades of psychiatric experience, we approach each patients’ care with expertise, respect and kindness. From young children to senior citizens, we provide personal and in-depth evaluation and expert medication management in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Offices located in Austin, San Marcos & Temple Texas!
![Photo of Dr. Nadia Bening-Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b47a43c-6a2d-4b5a-9e4b-8c1846982cc5/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Nadia Bening-Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76541
Experience transformational treatment for depression and anxiety. Dripping Springs, Killeen and Burnet. Dr. Nadia Bening specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). TMS is a powerful yet non-invasive procedure, typically covered by insurance, that uses magnetic fields to activate underactive depression circuits in the brain and inhibit overactive anxiety pathways. It can be done as monotherapy or in addition to antidepressant medication. At Texas Hill Country TMS, over 90% of our patients with severe, treatment-resistant clinical depression have experienced a significant clinical response with long-term outcomes.
Experience transformational treatment for depression and anxiety. Dripping Springs, Killeen and Burnet. Dr. Nadia Bening specializes in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). TMS is a powerful yet non-invasive procedure, typically covered by insurance, that uses magnetic fields to activate underactive depression circuits in the brain and inhibit overactive anxiety pathways. It can be done as monotherapy or in addition to antidepressant medication. At Texas Hill Country TMS, over 90% of our patients with severe, treatment-resistant clinical depression have experienced a significant clinical response with long-term outcomes.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cea4c5fb-075e-4110-a4d6-fd5c7572904e/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02098adc-1e1f-4666-b193-2bb434c9cd4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Georgia Dixon, PMHNP, FNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f13e490-d175-48cf-8217-0437fbb08518/1/320x400.jpeg)
Georgia Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76542 (Online Only)
As a seasoned and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), my mission is to provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a commitment to fostering holistic well-being, I am driven by a profound passion for psychiatry and a patient-centered philosophy that extends beyond conventional treatment modalities.
As a seasoned and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), my mission is to provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a commitment to fostering holistic well-being, I am driven by a profound passion for psychiatry and a patient-centered philosophy that extends beyond conventional treatment modalities.
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![Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26962782-6071-4d15-b9ea-0d9d801dad9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38e446d6-a44d-45b7-b5f9-2cdaebd9d96e/1/320x400.png)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Immaculate Minds, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/445c7d48-792a-4458-b70d-9a3d8fa35a40/2/320x400.png)
Immaculate Minds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502
Accepting New Patients Now! Welcome to Immaculate Minds, where we prioritize your mental well-being above all else. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional mental health and psychiatric services to patients of all ages, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Accepting New Patients Now! Welcome to Immaculate Minds, where we prioritize your mental well-being above all else. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional mental health and psychiatric services to patients of all ages, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
![Photo of Shalanda Cross- Psychiatry Texas, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d727359-d43b-4601-aa1a-fd1637c8f4a6/1/320x400.png)
Shalanda Cross- Psychiatry Texas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76540
A board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patient advocacy, behavioral interventions, and mood disorders. It is important as a provider that patients have a safe environment to discuss mental health issues without feeling stigmatized. Patients will work collaboratively to address unhealthy thoughts and actions, work towards improving mood disorders, create healthy goals, and regain self-confidence.
A board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patient advocacy, behavioral interventions, and mood disorders. It is important as a provider that patients have a safe environment to discuss mental health issues without feeling stigmatized. Patients will work collaboratively to address unhealthy thoughts and actions, work towards improving mood disorders, create healthy goals, and regain self-confidence.
![Photo of Stephanie G Bankston - Optimal Life Care, PLLC, PMHNP, APRN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4756ff5e-0f66-4b18-881a-046e178ff511/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimal Life Care, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76542
I've had the very fortunate opportunity to work with patients from various backgrounds, cultures and nationalities, in the US and abroad. I can honestly say that the common theme is the desire for stability. We know that mental health stability is imperative, before we can successfully manage our home, relationships, jobs/careers. It all begins with understanding that our brain is the most important organ in our body, so its' imbalance affects our functionality. Are you ready enjoy life, travel and explore the world, or just have peace of mind? Let Optimal Life Care help you get on track to living your BEST life.
I've had the very fortunate opportunity to work with patients from various backgrounds, cultures and nationalities, in the US and abroad. I can honestly say that the common theme is the desire for stability. We know that mental health stability is imperative, before we can successfully manage our home, relationships, jobs/careers. It all begins with understanding that our brain is the most important organ in our body, so its' imbalance affects our functionality. Are you ready enjoy life, travel and explore the world, or just have peace of mind? Let Optimal Life Care help you get on track to living your BEST life.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7509ed7-6d85-4188-a77f-6fbd69566176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Arif K Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr. Arif Mirza MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9709d7c6-ed68-4f0a-bd5a-f6348a1a6862/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![Photo of Misti B Maag, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91651f59-9a82-4e16-8cb1-0564cebfda7a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Maag is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over twenty years of experience in various areas of healthcare. She holds a Post-Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
Dr. Maag is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over twenty years of experience in various areas of healthcare. She holds a Post-Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
![Photo of Anne-Marie Odo - Semper Healthcare Services, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f37aa26-56e5-45bc-a312-763b728d68dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Semper Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients, wait time less than 48 hours. Dr. Anne-Marie Odo DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, ASN, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric mental Health Nurse practitioner who offers online and in-person sessions to Texas and New Mexico. Trained in both medication management and psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders, with a focus on Addiction, depression and anxiety. Dr. Odo sees adolescents and adults across the lifespan. I am conservative with prescribing medications and uses a combination of psychotherapy and wholistic care with clients.
Accepting NEW clients, wait time less than 48 hours. Dr. Anne-Marie Odo DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, ASN, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric mental Health Nurse practitioner who offers online and in-person sessions to Texas and New Mexico. Trained in both medication management and psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders, with a focus on Addiction, depression and anxiety. Dr. Odo sees adolescents and adults across the lifespan. I am conservative with prescribing medications and uses a combination of psychotherapy and wholistic care with clients.
See more therapy options for Bell County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bell County, TX
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Bell County, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
82% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Sleep or Insomnia |
82% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Bell County, TX see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bell County?
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.