Psychiatrists in Orange, TX
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Texas below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jocelyn Jingwa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c02e88aa-6000-4207-a414-c6d412d47fc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
Jocelyn Jingwa, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13 years of experience in mental health nursing and in delivering quality care in various mental health settings Focus areas of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders. Depressive disorders. Schizophrenic disorders. Bipolar disorders. Insomnia disorders. ADHD/ADD. Post-traumatic stress disorders
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Beverly Winn, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98b10ffe-80f6-4069-a746-b7931cdf0f51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beverly Winn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaumont, TX 77706 (Online Only)
Passionate about mental health and finding the best treatment for you when symptoms are keeping you from having a productive and fulfilled life.
Passionate about mental health and finding the best treatment for you when symptoms are keeping you from having a productive and fulfilled life.
![Photo of Angela Marie Rainey - Riceland Behavioral Health , FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ec6d192-092d-4450-bc20-cc5bdfb5eae0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Riceland Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Beaumont, TX 77707
I have experience with working with and treating patients with a variety of psychiatric diagnoses, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Dementia, Alzheimer’s. I have worked with underserved populations in community mental health that are stable or in crisis. Medication management and counselling for Geriatrics but I am comfortable with patients from age 18 and up.
I have experience with working with and treating patients with a variety of psychiatric diagnoses, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Dementia, Alzheimer’s. I have worked with underserved populations in community mental health that are stable or in crisis. Medication management and counselling for Geriatrics but I am comfortable with patients from age 18 and up.
![Photo of Nwamaka Emeruem, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb9d2bdf-a9b9-4358-b489-33ab0d8fe1e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nwamaka Emeruem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
![Photo of Jim Simon, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f38a3242-6dd0-4e6c-86c4-63a7245dfa85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jim Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
Jim is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings a wealth of knowledge about mental health and experience in behavioral health management to our clinic where he serves as our Clinical Director and provides medication management for our patients. Jim has an MSN from Seattle University and worked in behavioral health administration prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse. As an RN, he worked as a staff nurse on a medical-psych unit and as a charge nurse on an adolescent psych unit and an adult psychiatric intensive care unit. He became a nurse to work in psychiatry and has always worked in psychiatry – he loves every day on the job.
![Photo of Kenneth Ihaza, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ea11cc6-5b33-4941-b973-9e65bd4cc459/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kenneth Ihaza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
A board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has been in practice since 2017.
A board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has been in practice since 2017.
![Photo of Tariro Matsikire, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae4037f7-04a9-4778-8d4b-4a81f035c7cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tariro Matsikire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Description As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), I provide comprehensive care to both children and adults facing a wide range of mental health challenges. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and experiences of individuals across different age groups, I am committed to supporting the well-being of both children and adults. In my practice, I work closely with children, adolescents, and their families to address mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, DMDD, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, and more
Description As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), I provide comprehensive care to both children and adults facing a wide range of mental health challenges. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and experiences of individuals across different age groups, I am committed to supporting the well-being of both children and adults. In my practice, I work closely with children, adolescents, and their families to address mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, DMDD, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, and more
![Photo of Emmanuel Okoroafor - Recovery Mental Healthcare PLLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db2ae4cf-1c64-4f87-9872-17436c34f9aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Recovery Mental Healthcare PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Emmanuel Okoroafor is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in the state of Texas, Holding a dual speciality in Psychiatric nurse practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. He holds a Family nurse practitioner degree from Simons University in Boston and a Psychiatric nurse practitioner certification at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Emmanuel uses his knowledge and experience to help clients ease into recovery from mental health disorders especially Substance use disorder. Specialize in Opioid use disorder and treat with (Suboxone/Buprenorphine), Book now.
Emmanuel Okoroafor is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in the state of Texas, Holding a dual speciality in Psychiatric nurse practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. He holds a Family nurse practitioner degree from Simons University in Boston and a Psychiatric nurse practitioner certification at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Emmanuel uses his knowledge and experience to help clients ease into recovery from mental health disorders especially Substance use disorder. Specialize in Opioid use disorder and treat with (Suboxone/Buprenorphine), Book now.
![Photo of Gabriel Obu, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8358bd0-76dd-4821-8fa8-e1554b2d1431/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
Are you experiencing depression? Be aware that innovative treatment options are now available, promising relief from depressive symptoms within weeks. These are not SSRI's or SNRI's, but they are covered by insurance and do not require significant out-of-pocket expenses. There is help and hope available for you. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
![Photo of Chigane Abraham - Patterns Psychiatry, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f211653b-697b-447a-b44b-169b3af8831a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77015 (Online Only)
Negative thought patterns can leave one feeling stuck and in a depressive state. With plans, goals, and visions unattainable due to the mental battle of self-doubt, isolation, and hopelessness. Did you know the longer one lasts in a chronic state of anxiety, the dire the need for treatment becomes? Anxiety can result in emotional paralysis- or a feeling of not being able to move due to multiple brain tabs open. How do we treat anxiety and other mood struggles? Research suggests talk therapy as the first-line treatment for negative mood episodes. However, medications may be an additional tool and can be an option for you
Negative thought patterns can leave one feeling stuck and in a depressive state. With plans, goals, and visions unattainable due to the mental battle of self-doubt, isolation, and hopelessness. Did you know the longer one lasts in a chronic state of anxiety, the dire the need for treatment becomes? Anxiety can result in emotional paralysis- or a feeling of not being able to move due to multiple brain tabs open. How do we treat anxiety and other mood struggles? Research suggests talk therapy as the first-line treatment for negative mood episodes. However, medications may be an additional tool and can be an option for you
![Photo of Martine Senatus - VIP Integrative Health Care , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1183b81-ccf6-4489-99c5-31e5a846fddc/1/320x400.jpeg)
VIP Integrative Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77072 (Online Only)
Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! New patients are welcome! Same day/Next day appointments available! Call us for Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, Prescriptions, and Addiction. We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health challenges.
Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! New patients are welcome! Same day/Next day appointments available! Call us for Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, Prescriptions, and Addiction. We specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health challenges.
![Photo of Mallory Hale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e23d7928-a3e3-4a00-8188-6de30931de71/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a nurse for 17 years. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 4 years. I believe in a holistic approach to mental healthcare. I specialize in psychiatric medication management in addition to supportive therapy.
I have been a nurse for 17 years. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 4 years. I believe in a holistic approach to mental healthcare. I specialize in psychiatric medication management in addition to supportive therapy.
![Photo of Delisa Brooks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/964fc597-6b5e-4e6b-a9dd-026f66ea7093/1/320x400.png)
Delisa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009 (Online Only)
Delisa Brooks, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a mental health certified nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice, managing a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan. Being a dual-certified educated nurse practitioner, I utilize both family and mental health education backgrounds to meet patients’ needs with a holistic model. I establish a healthcare partnership that considers all the patient’s needs and circumstances and uses interventions from a variety of scientific disciplines to help people regain and maintain optimum health.
Delisa Brooks, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a mental health certified nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice, managing a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan. Being a dual-certified educated nurse practitioner, I utilize both family and mental health education backgrounds to meet patients’ needs with a holistic model. I establish a healthcare partnership that considers all the patient’s needs and circumstances and uses interventions from a variety of scientific disciplines to help people regain and maintain optimum health.
![Photo of Yejide Oludare - Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0afc9fff-dda4-44f6-93a4-ed9fed5c9faf/4/320x400.jpeg)
Moods and Mind Behavioral Service PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. My name is Yejide Oludare, Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently providing telemedicine appointment to Texas resident., takes pride in providing compassionate, and evidence based care for clients. I specialize in treating various mood disorders not limited to Adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, , OCD, Panic disorder, Insomnia, Substance Use Disorder, and postpartum depression.
One small crack does not mean you are broken, it means you were put to the test, and you didn’t fall apart. My name is Yejide Oludare, Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently providing telemedicine appointment to Texas resident., takes pride in providing compassionate, and evidence based care for clients. I specialize in treating various mood disorders not limited to Adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, , OCD, Panic disorder, Insomnia, Substance Use Disorder, and postpartum depression.
![Photo of Bradley Vessel, FNP-BC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c1ebd39-0509-4199-abd7-712bbbf02dbf/1/320x400.png)
Bradley Vessel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I truly believe that Mental Health is fundamental at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. It is also my belief that every individual is unique with varying perspectives about life. From the initial interaction, I focus on providing an environment that is safe, comfortable, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive. This environment provides an opportunity to collaborate and establish a positive relationship with my clients. I am trained in the use of medication management, brief psychotherapy, and relaxation techniques to help individuals reach their desired goals.
I truly believe that Mental Health is fundamental at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. It is also my belief that every individual is unique with varying perspectives about life. From the initial interaction, I focus on providing an environment that is safe, comfortable, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive. This environment provides an opportunity to collaborate and establish a positive relationship with my clients. I am trained in the use of medication management, brief psychotherapy, and relaxation techniques to help individuals reach their desired goals.
![Photo of Rodah Symekah, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b910ade-b493-47ca-b2ec-a2e6ce2b13c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner who resides in Texas. I conduct physical and psychological assessments.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner who resides in Texas. I conduct physical and psychological assessments.
![Photo of Bridget Ngwen Shu - Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/031a9eff-2458-43cc-ac12-3f066df7e561/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Health and Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Bridget N. Shu, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background as a certified medical assistant. She developed a holistic approach to patient care during her nursing career, leading to a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University Utah. With experience in medical and psychiatry hospitals, she recognized the impact of mental health on daily lives and relationships. Mrs. Shu furthered her education with a master’s in nursing specializing in Mental Health from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX.
Bridget N. Shu, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a background as a certified medical assistant. She developed a holistic approach to patient care during her nursing career, leading to a bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University Utah. With experience in medical and psychiatry hospitals, she recognized the impact of mental health on daily lives and relationships. Mrs. Shu furthered her education with a master’s in nursing specializing in Mental Health from Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, TX.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/069f0e30-d729-42a7-b0dd-b4f1c8b7f95a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Esther Nkwanyuo, PMHNP, , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04aa5508-552c-432a-a121-56c2fac80929/1/320x400.jpeg)
Esther Nkwanyuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Esther Morgan N, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC. An experienced national board certified provider. Helping patients and their families navigate the difficulty associated with Mental health. I provide quality and cost affordable care to all my clients On the first encounter I collect information’s from the client and start to build a therapeutic relationship with the client. Giving each of my client an opportunity to know me, gain trust and answer any questions or doubts one might have concerning their mental health. I will create a new plan in collaboration with the client. A plan that is feasible, effective, and affordable for them.
Esther Morgan N, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC. An experienced national board certified provider. Helping patients and their families navigate the difficulty associated with Mental health. I provide quality and cost affordable care to all my clients On the first encounter I collect information’s from the client and start to build a therapeutic relationship with the client. Giving each of my client an opportunity to know me, gain trust and answer any questions or doubts one might have concerning their mental health. I will create a new plan in collaboration with the client. A plan that is feasible, effective, and affordable for them.
![Photo of Barkat Ali, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26599829-20f7-4338-8dd5-91cc29946867/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I graduated from the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS), Jamshoro Sindh, with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). I also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, in 2016. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in 2022 from Northern Kentucky University with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (lifespan), licensed in Texas.
Hello, I graduated from the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS), Jamshoro Sindh, with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). I also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, in 2016. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in 2022 from Northern Kentucky University with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (lifespan), licensed in Texas.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Orange, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Orange, TX who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Orange, TX see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Orange?
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.