Psychiatrists in Woods Cross, UT
![Photo of Anneliesa Allred, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9682a48-9954-41b1-bdaf-a8278fd63d28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anneliesa Allred
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Woods Cross, UT 84087 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Anna, I've been practicing psychiatry for 4 1/2 years and I love it! I am a nurse practitioner with training in both psychiatry and acute care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, my dog and traveling. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Anna, I've been practicing psychiatry for 4 1/2 years and I love it! I am a nurse practitioner with training in both psychiatry and acute care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, my dog and traveling. I look forward to meeting you!
![Photo of Garrett Jefferies, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e272db10-d228-47ea-ae9f-8cdd90427b59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Garrett Jefferies
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woods Cross, UT 84087
I believe that success in mental health is ultimately achieved through sustainable lifestyle change and that medications and therapy are often necessary tools in that process. No matter where you feel that you are with your mental health right now, there are tools to help. I specialize in helping clients reach mental stability using all tools available and then adding coaching for sustainable lifestyle changes that will ultimately help ensure long-term mental health.
I believe that success in mental health is ultimately achieved through sustainable lifestyle change and that medications and therapy are often necessary tools in that process. No matter where you feel that you are with your mental health right now, there are tools to help. I specialize in helping clients reach mental stability using all tools available and then adding coaching for sustainable lifestyle changes that will ultimately help ensure long-term mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Sarah T Porter, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b670d41-112e-46e0-bf77-6ce63e771a5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah T Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
![Photo of Armando (Manny) Slack, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4caa9970-f809-4641-aef4-0d6923bb7d65/1/320x400.jpeg)
Armando (Manny) Slack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84104
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults who are experiencing both minor and more severe mental health conditions and feel that they can benefit from the addition of medication to their treatment plan. I encourage my patients to take an active role in therapy in addition to medication management for ideal results.
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults who are experiencing both minor and more severe mental health conditions and feel that they can benefit from the addition of medication to their treatment plan. I encourage my patients to take an active role in therapy in addition to medication management for ideal results.
![Photo of Spencer Lowe, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b52366-20df-44c2-8f25-1eaa6eb877ba/1/320x400.png)
Spencer Lowe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bountiful, UT 84010
Dr. Spencer Lowe graduated from the University of Utah with a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree and is board certified as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Educator. Spencer is a member of the Utah Air National Guard with 18 years of service. Spencer has a passion for working with clients to improve their mental health surrounding depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders to optimize health and wellness.
Dr. Spencer Lowe graduated from the University of Utah with a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree and is board certified as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Educator. Spencer is a member of the Utah Air National Guard with 18 years of service. Spencer has a passion for working with clients to improve their mental health surrounding depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders to optimize health and wellness.
![Photo of Alana Jacobs-Davis, PhD, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99259628-e5b4-4343-b8f3-be56ac43d1c6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alana Jacobs-Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Centerville, UT 84014 (Online Only)
Upon graduating from the University of Kansas and Wichita State University with a Masters in Nursing in December 1992, I embarked on a fulfilling journey dedicated to mental health care. Joining the outpatient mental health team at the wonderful George Whalen Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, I had the privilege of providing medication management and various individual and group psychotherapies for 26 years. In May 2006, earning my Doctorate from the College of Nursing at the University of Utah was a significant milestone that deepened my commitment to serving others.
Upon graduating from the University of Kansas and Wichita State University with a Masters in Nursing in December 1992, I embarked on a fulfilling journey dedicated to mental health care. Joining the outpatient mental health team at the wonderful George Whalen Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, I had the privilege of providing medication management and various individual and group psychotherapies for 26 years. In May 2006, earning my Doctorate from the College of Nursing at the University of Utah was a significant milestone that deepened my commitment to serving others.
![Photo of Annette Ephroni, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fae6a0d3-e265-4301-ad3d-38aa2a293a93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annette Ephroni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025 (Online Only)
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy as well as regular psychotherapy clients. I works with adults and couples in regular psychotherapy. I am trained as a Sexologist Diplomate.
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy as well as regular psychotherapy clients. I works with adults and couples in regular psychotherapy. I am trained as a Sexologist Diplomate.
![Photo of Charlie Health, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d830a141-6389-4f99-8e88-c52fde9b9d87/1/320x400.png)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
![Photo of Austin B Imus - Austin B Imus DO Mental Health, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44190831-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Austin B Imus DO Mental Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Farmington, UT 84025 (Online Only)
I have been in practice for over 20 years. I am skilled in treating refractory depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have had extra training on the medical side of illnesses and make sure your illness is not being caused by or contributed to by a medical condition. Please call my office phone mail number 801-923-8044 to leave a message. I am currently accepting patients on a limited basis. I am currently doing Telepsychiatry only. I will need a referral from your primary care provider if you're seeking treatment for ADHD.
I have been in practice for over 20 years. I am skilled in treating refractory depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have had extra training on the medical side of illnesses and make sure your illness is not being caused by or contributed to by a medical condition. Please call my office phone mail number 801-923-8044 to leave a message. I am currently accepting patients on a limited basis. I am currently doing Telepsychiatry only. I will need a referral from your primary care provider if you're seeking treatment for ADHD.
![Photo of Aubri Hansen, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/246d6780-0b6b-4249-8537-5d7d19479cb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with pediatric to geriatric patients and am comfortable working with individuals of all ages and stages of life who feel that they need support from medication to improve their mental health. Ideally, my patients are also active in therapy and the services I offer can support them on their path to healing.
I have experience working with pediatric to geriatric patients and am comfortable working with individuals of all ages and stages of life who feel that they need support from medication to improve their mental health. Ideally, my patients are also active in therapy and the services I offer can support them on their path to healing.
![Photo of Dr. Kara Applegate - Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6178dfcd-7569-4208-971a-df0658803f20/1/320x400.png)
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy: Dedicated to Your Mental Well-being. At Clear Sky, we understand the profound impact of mental health on your overall quality of life. Our experienced team of therapists and psychiatrists is committed to providing practical and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based approaches, we offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whatever your mental health concerns, let us guide you towards a brighter tomorrow.
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy: Dedicated to Your Mental Well-being. At Clear Sky, we understand the profound impact of mental health on your overall quality of life. Our experienced team of therapists and psychiatrists is committed to providing practical and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based approaches, we offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whatever your mental health concerns, let us guide you towards a brighter tomorrow.
![Photo of Adam Creer, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a34b9a0c-508f-45a9-b966-ead5a2786544/1/320x400.png)
Adam Creer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025
Adam Creer is a board-certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.. He has worked in the healthcare field since 2004. He has worked as a nurse aide, nurse, nurse educator and nurse practitioner. Adam’s experience working in healthcare has led him to become an advocate for individuals with mental health disorders. He believes that primary prevention begins with mental health. He is excited to work with individuals to improve their mental health and well-being.
Adam Creer is a board-certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.. He has worked in the healthcare field since 2004. He has worked as a nurse aide, nurse, nurse educator and nurse practitioner. Adam’s experience working in healthcare has led him to become an advocate for individuals with mental health disorders. He believes that primary prevention begins with mental health. He is excited to work with individuals to improve their mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Erika Bales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee23fcb8-4cb0-461d-bd74-5a4f8755de01/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
![Photo of Eva Falkner, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ec4df5a-1f05-4136-bcb3-45e838ff3aa0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eva Falkner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84104 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to caring for people in need of medication management for anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. I also care for pregnant or postpartum clients in need of medication management or therapy. I want to help people achieve or return to their highest level of functioning and satisfaction in life.
I am dedicated to caring for people in need of medication management for anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. I also care for pregnant or postpartum clients in need of medication management or therapy. I want to help people achieve or return to their highest level of functioning and satisfaction in life.
![Photo of Dr. Brittany Bullock, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3064d802-fb3e-4ba2-abff-08dbc41810d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Brittany Bullock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
I am a compassionate and dedicated mental health professional with a genuine passion for helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration, working closely with each client to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Recognizing that mental health is a multi-faceted issue, I also emphasize the importance of self-care, stress management, and overall wellness in my practice. I educate and support my clients in adopting healthy lifestyle habits that contribute to their mental and emotional well-being.
I am a compassionate and dedicated mental health professional with a genuine passion for helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration, working closely with each client to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Recognizing that mental health is a multi-faceted issue, I also emphasize the importance of self-care, stress management, and overall wellness in my practice. I educate and support my clients in adopting healthy lifestyle habits that contribute to their mental and emotional well-being.
![Photo of Dieunette Omwanghe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28690c74-7c2e-4b4d-8f51-893ac26295a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dieunette Omwanghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Hello, and thank you for considering working with Dieunette Omwanghe. When you meet with Dieunette, you're not just meeting a professional but someone who brings truthful interest in your mental health goals and a profound passion for your health, growth, and prosperity. Iye Collaborative's commitment goes beyond conventional standards. She sees individuals as unique, not just patients but as people with specific needs and aspirations. Dieunette's approach to healthcare is rooted in collaboration and individualization. She believes in a holistic care model that addresses not just symptoms but the entirety of your well-being.
Hello, and thank you for considering working with Dieunette Omwanghe. When you meet with Dieunette, you're not just meeting a professional but someone who brings truthful interest in your mental health goals and a profound passion for your health, growth, and prosperity. Iye Collaborative's commitment goes beyond conventional standards. She sees individuals as unique, not just patients but as people with specific needs and aspirations. Dieunette's approach to healthcare is rooted in collaboration and individualization. She believes in a holistic care model that addresses not just symptoms but the entirety of your well-being.
![Photo of Rachel Jenkins-Lloyd, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71476463-74f8-4fc8-ab3a-0a321419ba3c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Jenkins-Lloyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
Rachel JenkinsLloyd is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2003. She has a Masters in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Utah. Rachel offers medication management from a Feminist Empowerment Perspective. She has an extensive background in trauma informed care including EMDR and previous work in ketamine assisted therapy. Rachel believes strongly in educating clients in their medication choices then supporting them in their care. Outside of work, Rachel loves reading, especially biographies.
Rachel JenkinsLloyd is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2003. She has a Masters in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Utah. Rachel offers medication management from a Feminist Empowerment Perspective. She has an extensive background in trauma informed care including EMDR and previous work in ketamine assisted therapy. Rachel believes strongly in educating clients in their medication choices then supporting them in their care. Outside of work, Rachel loves reading, especially biographies.
![Photo of Sumer Dawn Anderson, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e3e7f6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sumer Dawn Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Our patients are individuals of all ages and all backgrounds who may require medication to help them live happy, healthy, and productive lives. They may be struggling with attention deficit disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, sexual disorders, behavioral disorders, borderline personality disorder, and many other difficulties. Some of our patients require treatment for opioid addiction with buprenorphine (i.e. Suboxone, Subutex, Zubzolve).
Our patients are individuals of all ages and all backgrounds who may require medication to help them live happy, healthy, and productive lives. They may be struggling with attention deficit disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, sexual disorders, behavioral disorders, borderline personality disorder, and many other difficulties. Some of our patients require treatment for opioid addiction with buprenorphine (i.e. Suboxone, Subutex, Zubzolve).
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b01c071b-9c0f-4416-9e71-dd4707aef237/1/320x400.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 Jamie Mathews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2810e2e2-d7bc-4330-986d-d505c1eea837/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Mathews is an APRN, PMHNP-BC who has been a Nurse for over 20 years. She taught psychiatric patient care over 14 years after working in Home Health/Hospice, ICU, and Med-Surg. She became passionate for mental health and caring for others who need support and assistance for improved mental health while training nursing students in psychiatric hospitals, and has grown her knowledge of and interest in mental health ever since. Jamie works at a psychiatric hospital and works outpatient psychiatric care which she feels is the best of both worlds.
Jamie Mathews is an APRN, PMHNP-BC who has been a Nurse for over 20 years. She taught psychiatric patient care over 14 years after working in Home Health/Hospice, ICU, and Med-Surg. She became passionate for mental health and caring for others who need support and assistance for improved mental health while training nursing students in psychiatric hospitals, and has grown her knowledge of and interest in mental health ever since. Jamie works at a psychiatric hospital and works outpatient psychiatric care which she feels is the best of both worlds.
See more therapy options for Woods Cross
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Woods Cross, UT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Woods Cross, UT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Suicidal Ideation |
100% | Stress |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in Woods Cross, UT see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Woods Cross?
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.