Psychiatrists in Zapata, TX
![Photo of Raul Correa - Novelty Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84893477-d40d-452c-80f6-a2b21501e5ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a Nonprofit Organization that treats a wide range of Psychiatric / Mental Health conditions. We work with any age group from children to the geriatric population. Our mission is to provide Comprehensive, Accessible and Affordable Holistic-Based Mental-Health care to the communities we serve without regard to background or insurance status in a caring environment that Fosters overall Recovery and Growth.
We are a Nonprofit Organization that treats a wide range of Psychiatric / Mental Health conditions. We work with any age group from children to the geriatric population. Our mission is to provide Comprehensive, Accessible and Affordable Holistic-Based Mental-Health care to the communities we serve without regard to background or insurance status in a caring environment that Fosters overall Recovery and Growth.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Gerardo Castillo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b8716db-be23-4fdd-880d-3932745e2452/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gerardo Castillo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is trained to provide a wide range of mental health services and behavioral services to patients and families in a variety of settings. I can diagnose, conduct psychotherapy, and prescribe medications for patients who have mental health disorders, behavioral issues, medical organic brain disorders, or substance abuse problems. I am licensed to provide psychosocial and physical assessments of mental health patients, establish treatment plans, and manage patient care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is trained to provide a wide range of mental health services and behavioral services to patients and families in a variety of settings. I can diagnose, conduct psychotherapy, and prescribe medications for patients who have mental health disorders, behavioral issues, medical organic brain disorders, or substance abuse problems. I am licensed to provide psychosocial and physical assessments of mental health patients, establish treatment plans, and manage patient care.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/deffd2c1-d2aa-4ed8-ba3c-cf4b16b7c354/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78040 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
![Photo of Ifeoma Irokwe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a89b620-9aa0-4fac-ac6f-2f196e871357/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
Welcome to Effulgence Psychiatry, where your journey to mental wellness is honored with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to holistic care. My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a mental health nurse practitioner, I envision my clients as individuals with unique struggles, seeking solace in their darkest moments. Understanding their needs for compassionate care, I strive to empower them to reclaim their lives, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. My goal is to foster an environment where clients feel heard, valued, and supported, paving the way for them to pursue a future filled with hope, resilience, and fulfillment.
![Photo of Bridgett Gant, MSM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64fe4426-b8d7-459b-9d80-b5342a5605cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bridgett Gant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78040 (Online Only)
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine facing the difficulties of life, whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or navigating a significant life change. My ideal client is someone seeking understanding and practical solutions for their mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
![Photo of Tajuana Shuler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9bd5ad7-1ef9-4567-8ce9-e1b93aa6a19d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78040 (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
Navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or life transitions can be daunting. My ideal client is someone looking for practical solutions and empathetic support in their mental health journey. They aim to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They value a therapeutic partnership that respects their individuality and personal goals. At Legion Health, we provide a compassionate and empowering environment where your unique needs are prioritized.
![Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1443cc8a-8a16-4864-ab7d-8626a9787270/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78040 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
![Photo of Michael John Solon, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d1e0532-4ca0-44ae-aaa8-58f17e5c75bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Deena Velazquez Dong- Psychiatry Texas, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09138022-0751-4c5e-a3ce-e18921022a82/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deena Velazquez Dong- Psychiatry Texas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edinburg, TX 78541
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and often at your wits' end? Struggling to be your best self in your career, educational pursuit, or family life (spouse/partner/parent)? Difficulty staying focused, making careless mistakes, racing thoughts, or trouble turning your brain off at night? Finding yourself feeling guilty or ashamed of constantly feeling on edge, irritable, or lashing out at others? Exhausted, unmotivated, sad, and just 'meh' about things? Let's talk about getting you back on track to being your optimal self.
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and often at your wits' end? Struggling to be your best self in your career, educational pursuit, or family life (spouse/partner/parent)? Difficulty staying focused, making careless mistakes, racing thoughts, or trouble turning your brain off at night? Finding yourself feeling guilty or ashamed of constantly feeling on edge, irritable, or lashing out at others? Exhausted, unmotivated, sad, and just 'meh' about things? Let's talk about getting you back on track to being your optimal self.
![Photo of Dr. Dolani Ajanaku, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9775f1c9-f7c8-4692-b2ff-d2f143f5e02d/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you want personalized psychiatric care from a medical doctor with robust training and experience, you are in the right place. I am a Psychiatrist with advanced training in Child and Adolescent psychiatry. Using a holistic approach I provide you with treatment options that are fitted best to your goals and priorities. That includes thorough psychiatric evaluation, appropriated medical workup, tailored follow up sessions, discussions on lifestyle changes, therapy and medication management.
If you want personalized psychiatric care from a medical doctor with robust training and experience, you are in the right place. I am a Psychiatrist with advanced training in Child and Adolescent psychiatry. Using a holistic approach I provide you with treatment options that are fitted best to your goals and priorities. That includes thorough psychiatric evaluation, appropriated medical workup, tailored follow up sessions, discussions on lifestyle changes, therapy and medication management.
![Photo of Daniel Lozano - RGV Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/541baca8-1ee7-4f18-891b-ff5d3810dfba/2/320x400.jpeg)
RGV Psychiatry, PLLC is an in-person and televideo Adult Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic that opened in 2023 and is operated by an RGV-Native Psychiatrist, Daniel Lozano, M.D. Our physical location is in Weslaco, Texas, where private visits can be scheduled by appointment only.
RGV Psychiatry, PLLC is an in-person and televideo Adult Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic that opened in 2023 and is operated by an RGV-Native Psychiatrist, Daniel Lozano, M.D. Our physical location is in Weslaco, Texas, where private visits can be scheduled by appointment only.
![Photo of Munira Jiwani, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b13a34ca-c22f-4164-9cf0-84333e929c2c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Munira Jiwani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78040 (Online Only)
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant life transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine facing life’s challenges, whether it's anxiety, depression, or significant life transitions. My ideal client seeks understanding and practical solutions for mental health concerns. They aim to regain control, rediscover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you’re looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
![Photo of Smink Achila, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b535cea2-f385-4137-9c97-6da137c057e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78040 (Online Only)
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![Photo of Raul Anthony Correa - Novelty Behavioral Health, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5146ba9d-3804-4bc6-8a9a-b0024934dfdc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Novelty Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edinburg, TX 78539
We are a Nonprofit Organization that treats a wide range of Psychiatric / Mental Health conditions. We work with any age group from children to the geriatric population. Our mission is to provide Comprehensive, Accessible and Affordable Holistic-Based Mental-Health care to the communities we serve without regard to background or insurance status in a caring environment that Fosters overall Recovery and Growth.
We are a Nonprofit Organization that treats a wide range of Psychiatric / Mental Health conditions. We work with any age group from children to the geriatric population. Our mission is to provide Comprehensive, Accessible and Affordable Holistic-Based Mental-Health care to the communities we serve without regard to background or insurance status in a caring environment that Fosters overall Recovery and Growth.
![Photo of Dr. Chipo Ndlovu, PhD , NPD-BC, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea0c5018-c41b-4c59-8a26-77c35f1e25f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chipo Ndlovu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD , NPD-BC, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504
Here at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness, we are committed to your mental well-being. We provide comprehensive and person-centered psychiatric mental health services including psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Our mission at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness is to provide behavioral health services to Texans, including immigrant / international populations and underserved populations.
Here at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness, we are committed to your mental well-being. We provide comprehensive and person-centered psychiatric mental health services including psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Our mission at Proginosko Behavioral Health & Wellness is to provide behavioral health services to Texans, including immigrant / international populations and underserved populations.
![Photo of Maritza Bujanos, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a30746d4-02d9-4e9b-b2db-9fb985bf8179/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maritza Bujanos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner since 2020. I maintain a comprehensive approach to care, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing mental health medications if indicated for adults ages 20+. I take a holistic approach to care, including dietary changes, addition of movement and improving sleep. I am committed in collaborating with my clients and committed to develop a manageable and sustainable treatment plan. Please refer to my Alma website link for available appointments.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner since 2020. I maintain a comprehensive approach to care, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing mental health medications if indicated for adults ages 20+. I take a holistic approach to care, including dietary changes, addition of movement and improving sleep. I am committed in collaborating with my clients and committed to develop a manageable and sustainable treatment plan. Please refer to my Alma website link for available appointments.
![Photo of Ajibola Fat-Anthony - Unique Behavioral Clinic, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/522e5140-685b-485f-9afb-b7c171024444/3/320x400.jpeg)
Unique Behavioral Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose and treat patient from age 6-99 years old. At Unique Behavioral Clinic, we prioritize your mental well-being by providing compassionate mental health care in a timely manner so that you can focus on your daily tasks.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose and treat patient from age 6-99 years old. At Unique Behavioral Clinic, we prioritize your mental well-being by providing compassionate mental health care in a timely manner so that you can focus on your daily tasks.
![Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d87ed2fe-82d4-47b9-94e2-df65b46fb207/1/320x400.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 Ricardo A Mendiola, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fff31bd-59d3-447a-b473-7d18c08c971b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ricardo A Mendiola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
AUGUST 2024 - Accepting New Patients - I'm Board Certified as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health in Multi-States (Texas, Rhode Island, Washington, Colorado, and New Hampshire), I'm bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients with compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder..
AUGUST 2024 - Accepting New Patients - I'm Board Certified as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health in Multi-States (Texas, Rhode Island, Washington, Colorado, and New Hampshire), I'm bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients with compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder..
![Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d242c4a8-0c7d-40e3-83cf-d3e294518884/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78040 (Online Only)
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.
See more therapy options for Zapata
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Zapata, TX
< 10
Psychiatrists in Zapata, TX who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | American Behavioral |
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
How Psychiatrists in Zapata, TX see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Zapata?
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.