Psychiatrists in Logan, UT
![Photo of Brian Longhurst Merrill, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/022a3d4b-607b-4ed7-a0eb-f7adfdf8b47c/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified psychiatrist, I am experienced in diagnosing and managing a variety of mental health difficulties. These conditions include: depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders/social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and substance-related difficulties . These conditions are extremely disruptive to a person's ability to function in work, school, relationships, or even have the capacity to enjoy recreational pursuits. I am best matched with those that have a goal of alleviating these symptoms and being as functional as possible.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I am experienced in diagnosing and managing a variety of mental health difficulties. These conditions include: depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders/social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and substance-related difficulties . These conditions are extremely disruptive to a person's ability to function in work, school, relationships, or even have the capacity to enjoy recreational pursuits. I am best matched with those that have a goal of alleviating these symptoms and being as functional as possible.
![Photo of Aubrey Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc4036dd-91a5-4832-acc0-226ef5157ad8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with a passion for helping others navigate the complex world of mental health. I believe in fostering a safe and trusting environment where patients and their families can openly discuss their concerns. I aim for a holistic and collaborative approach as we seek for the best treatment options.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with a passion for helping others navigate the complex world of mental health. I believe in fostering a safe and trusting environment where patients and their families can openly discuss their concerns. I aim for a holistic and collaborative approach as we seek for the best treatment options.
![Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f10895db-2008-418c-ac1c-d33d46b9013f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Logan, UT 84321 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, and various other mental health needs.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, and various other mental health needs.
![Photo of Daniel Hammond, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf7ecc50-1b6b-4b3e-81ba-536cfa29166e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel works collaboratively with clients to realize a state of balance, equanimity, and wellness by using individualized, proven approaches that include medication management, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapy utilizing motivational interviewing and the Socratic Method.
Daniel works collaboratively with clients to realize a state of balance, equanimity, and wellness by using individualized, proven approaches that include medication management, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapy utilizing motivational interviewing and the Socratic Method.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2f4259d-16dc-4777-8b01-25ca158eb082/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b32f20d1-3ecb-42bd-bb3e-8fc784836ba7/1/320x400.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 Satu H Woodland - Hope Mental Health, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ac7fab2-0064-40bf-82d9-3375351886e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! We are a mental health clinic providing psych evals, med management and psychotherapy. I am the Clinic owner and Clinician. When you schedule with me, you will be signing up for a team. Currently, there are 3 interns that work with me. An intern will take your medical history and psychiatric history, then I will come on and the intern and I will create the treatment plan. On subsequent visits, you will see the intern and he/she will bring me on when the medication and/or treatment plan needs to be changed. All of us provide Integrative Psychiatry using the most recent medications and supplements.
Hello! We are a mental health clinic providing psych evals, med management and psychotherapy. I am the Clinic owner and Clinician. When you schedule with me, you will be signing up for a team. Currently, there are 3 interns that work with me. An intern will take your medical history and psychiatric history, then I will come on and the intern and I will create the treatment plan. On subsequent visits, you will see the intern and he/she will bring me on when the medication and/or treatment plan needs to be changed. All of us provide Integrative Psychiatry using the most recent medications and supplements.
![Photo of Anna Blonquist - Yellow Daisy , BC-NP, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, ADRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/677ae6d4-aa95-4f37-a7d9-ee767645841e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yellow Daisy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC-NP, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, ADRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Logan, UT 84321
As a medication prescriber I want to make sure that you have been educated about the various treatment options. These options often include non-medication treatment, nutritional supplements and prescription medications. Before prescribing any medication it is important that your questions and concerns have been addressed and that you are onboard with the plan.
As a medication prescriber I want to make sure that you have been educated about the various treatment options. These options often include non-medication treatment, nutritional supplements and prescription medications. Before prescribing any medication it is important that your questions and concerns have been addressed and that you are onboard with the plan.
![Photo of Christopher Searle, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab9ed662-0dac-4671-8904-6d22ccdea60f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Searle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Logan, UT 84321 (Online Only)
People First. You are never your diagnosis. Let's focus on your human experience and let's discover what it's like to be you. I provide a positive, non-judgemental environment where you are free to be yourself.
People First. You are never your diagnosis. Let's focus on your human experience and let's discover what it's like to be you. I provide a positive, non-judgemental environment where you are free to be yourself.
![Photo of Rachal Green - Utah Behavior Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccaa098b-ae8c-48de-8203-51659515be8c/1/320x400.png)
Families are the foundation of our communities. Our purpose is to provide a professional, family-oriented, and cohesive medical treatment team to better serve our clients, their families, and the community. We specialize in medication management of many psychiatric disorders including trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, insomnia, autism, ADHD, bipolar I & II, behaviors related to trauma/abuse/autism/ADHD and others.
Families are the foundation of our communities. Our purpose is to provide a professional, family-oriented, and cohesive medical treatment team to better serve our clients, their families, and the community. We specialize in medication management of many psychiatric disorders including trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, insomnia, autism, ADHD, bipolar I & II, behaviors related to trauma/abuse/autism/ADHD and others.
![Photo of Diane Richardson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6dddd6b-ad58-4140-ad5c-f1260149bc40/2/320x400.png)
Diane Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Logan, UT 84341 (Online Only)
I believe that mental and physical health are connected, and I have a passion for educating my clients to recognize potential biological issues that may be limiting their ability to manage their moods, behaviors, and/or motivation for success. I am a certified integrative mental health professional and provide services beyond medication management for those who express interest, including pharmacogenetic testing, neurotoxicity evaluations, specific condition testing, supplement and dietary recommendations, and education/referrals for additional supportive therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen treatment, etc.
I believe that mental and physical health are connected, and I have a passion for educating my clients to recognize potential biological issues that may be limiting their ability to manage their moods, behaviors, and/or motivation for success. I am a certified integrative mental health professional and provide services beyond medication management for those who express interest, including pharmacogenetic testing, neurotoxicity evaluations, specific condition testing, supplement and dietary recommendations, and education/referrals for additional supportive therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen treatment, etc.
15 Second Videos
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Morgan Alexander
Ronil Shah
Hope Mental Health
Yellow Daisy
Utah Behavior Services
Diane Richardson
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Allyce K Jones, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN, NCMP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5482895e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Allyce K Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN, NCMP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Providence, UT 84332
Are you struggling with postpartum anxiety or postpartum depression? Are you pregnant and experiencing mental health symptoms? Are you still having symptoms after seeing your midwife, obstetric provider, or therapist? I specialize in treating women in pregnancy, postpartum, and throughout the reproductive years. I often see women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, infertility, pregnancy or infant loss, and for preconception counseling.
Are you struggling with postpartum anxiety or postpartum depression? Are you pregnant and experiencing mental health symptoms? Are you still having symptoms after seeing your midwife, obstetric provider, or therapist? I specialize in treating women in pregnancy, postpartum, and throughout the reproductive years. I often see women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, infertility, pregnancy or infant loss, and for preconception counseling.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Sean M. Erickson, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6058d43b-6fc4-4aad-96b7-7a66e6ea231a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sean M. Erickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84098
Sean has been practicing as a Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for over 10 years, is a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse-Advanced Practice, and has a strong passion for his work. Through his experience working with school systems, foster care, juvenile justice, unhoused/homeless health care, farm workers, Native Americans, and Veterans, he has developed a Solid framework for serving, wanting to connect, grow, and thrive.
Sean has been practicing as a Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for over 10 years, is a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse-Advanced Practice, and has a strong passion for his work. Through his experience working with school systems, foster care, juvenile justice, unhoused/homeless health care, farm workers, Native Americans, and Veterans, he has developed a Solid framework for serving, wanting to connect, grow, and thrive.
![Photo of Deven Jennings, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e33d7cb-96b1-4243-9eb5-b400b53f0f2a/1/320x400.png)
Deven Jennings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Deven Jennings earned his Doctor of Nursing Practice with an emphasis in Psychiatric-Mental Health in May of 2021. He has worked in mental health for the past 5 years in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services. Deven graduated from Brigham Young University in April 2016 and joined Huntsman Mental Health Institute on the geriatric and medical psychiatric unit in inpatient services. He worked for 2 years as a charge nurse before returning to graduate school to earn his DNP. He worked as a graduate assistant and outpatient psychiatric nurse with the College of Nursing at the University of Utah.
Deven Jennings earned his Doctor of Nursing Practice with an emphasis in Psychiatric-Mental Health in May of 2021. He has worked in mental health for the past 5 years in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services. Deven graduated from Brigham Young University in April 2016 and joined Huntsman Mental Health Institute on the geriatric and medical psychiatric unit in inpatient services. He worked for 2 years as a charge nurse before returning to graduate school to earn his DNP. He worked as a graduate assistant and outpatient psychiatric nurse with the College of Nursing at the University of Utah.
![Photo of Elizabeth A Harrop - Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51878edc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
We have 4 medication providers and 5 therapists to help with anxiety and depression to PTSD. Including Medical Weight Loss, Eating disorders, Addictions, Trauma, Military's Issues, Family or Couples issues, Grieve and Loss, Mood Disorders, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. We offer DBT group on Monday nights.
We have 4 medication providers and 5 therapists to help with anxiety and depression to PTSD. Including Medical Weight Loss, Eating disorders, Addictions, Trauma, Military's Issues, Family or Couples issues, Grieve and Loss, Mood Disorders, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. We offer DBT group on Monday nights.
![Photo of Shane Carter, APRN, PMHNPBC, MSN-ED, QMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a335288-e071-4da4-9b14-8e514f2a6958/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shane Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, MSN-ED, QMP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
Shane is an advanced practice nurse (APRN) who holds dual master's degrees as an MSN-ED, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. Shane has worked in the medical field since 2004 and specialized in critical care nursing where he cared for his fellow veterans at the Salt Lake City Veterans Hospital. He has served in the military for 20 years and is currently a provider in the Utah Air National Guard med group. Shane treats a variety of mental health issues throughout the life span including children, adolescents, and adults. Shane is now accepting new patients, please call our office to set
Shane is an advanced practice nurse (APRN) who holds dual master's degrees as an MSN-ED, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. Shane has worked in the medical field since 2004 and specialized in critical care nursing where he cared for his fellow veterans at the Salt Lake City Veterans Hospital. He has served in the military for 20 years and is currently a provider in the Utah Air National Guard med group. Shane treats a variety of mental health issues throughout the life span including children, adolescents, and adults. Shane is now accepting new patients, please call our office to set
![Photo of Celeste Setters, PhD, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78678a3b-6cfd-465e-a4b2-10f35454842f/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Celeste Setters. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive training treating children, adolescents, and adults in multiple practice settings. My approach is aimed to treat the person as a whole and promote optimal life-long health.
My name is Dr. Celeste Setters. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive training treating children, adolescents, and adults in multiple practice settings. My approach is aimed to treat the person as a whole and promote optimal life-long health.
![Photo of Allison Page - Trailtalk: taking therapy off the couch., MS2, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6a95ee4-c60a-4fc2-b5b4-88427e0d62af/3/320x400.jpeg)
Trailtalk: taking therapy off the couch.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS2, APRN
Verified Verified
Park City, UT 84098
TrailtalkRX offers conservative medicine for active, functional individuals. We consider our client's genetic signature and the life events that might express those genes. We embrace the latest advances in the industry to help clients benefit from this combination of medication management and walk and talk therapy. TrailtalkRX helps our clients develop their Wellness Support Team: Primary Care Provider (PCP), Mental Health Therapist, and TrailtalkRX. Allison is dually licensed as a prescriber and mental health care therapist. Please refer to our website for more details about our Therapylite model of care.
TrailtalkRX offers conservative medicine for active, functional individuals. We consider our client's genetic signature and the life events that might express those genes. We embrace the latest advances in the industry to help clients benefit from this combination of medication management and walk and talk therapy. TrailtalkRX helps our clients develop their Wellness Support Team: Primary Care Provider (PCP), Mental Health Therapist, and TrailtalkRX. Allison is dually licensed as a prescriber and mental health care therapist. Please refer to our website for more details about our Therapylite model of care.
![Photo of Daniel Sly - Connections Nursing Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fecba542-e62b-4fd5-ae41-1cc1b2e2ae5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connections Nursing Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84116 (Online Only)
Life can be hard, especially when you’re worn down and experiencing mood instability such as anxiety, depression, and all of its accompanying challenges. These challenges may include insomnia, apathy, restlessness, cravings, hopelessness, panic symptoms, low self worth, obsessions and endless ruminating, thoughts of self harm, and many others. These issues and more often stem from an unstable mood and tendencies toward certain negative thoughts and emotions brought about by life’s unrelenting challenges.
Life can be hard, especially when you’re worn down and experiencing mood instability such as anxiety, depression, and all of its accompanying challenges. These challenges may include insomnia, apathy, restlessness, cravings, hopelessness, panic symptoms, low self worth, obsessions and endless ruminating, thoughts of self harm, and many others. These issues and more often stem from an unstable mood and tendencies toward certain negative thoughts and emotions brought about by life’s unrelenting challenges.
![Photo of Joseph Llavina, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af7f55d7-fabb-417b-8676-11b6d841fd89/2/320x400.png)
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in psychedelic assisted therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. As a former firefighter and paramedic, I also love to work with first responders. In my therapeutic approach, I integrate psychedelic assisted therapy with mindfulness-based therapy, somatic inquiry, and other forms of therapy. I believe in a collaborative process and a trauma-informed approach, ensuring a safe and supportive environment where my clients can heal and thrive.
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in psychedelic assisted therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. As a former firefighter and paramedic, I also love to work with first responders. In my therapeutic approach, I integrate psychedelic assisted therapy with mindfulness-based therapy, somatic inquiry, and other forms of therapy. I believe in a collaborative process and a trauma-informed approach, ensuring a safe and supportive environment where my clients can heal and thrive.
See more therapy options for Logan
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Logan, UT
10+
Average cost per session
$137
Psychiatrists in Logan, UT who prioritize treating:
73% | Anxiety |
73% | Medication Management |
64% | Depression |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Bipolar Disorder |
55% | ADHD |
55% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
89% | Regence |
78% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Logan, UT see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Logan?
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.