Psychiatrists in Aldie, VA
![Photo of Meghan Linehan, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb0235cf-52d2-4160-8dba-f7dadafeae0f/1/320x400.png)
Meghan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for helping people. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Christopher Newport University before going on to earn a BSN from Shenandoah University.
Meghan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for helping people. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Christopher Newport University before going on to earn a BSN from Shenandoah University.
![Photo of Veronique Kom, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caeeb6ee-5dd9-48c6-8f90-dcf27f01df6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to having a positive impact on the community and reducing Mental Health stigma. I believe that most things in life have their negative and positive side. It all depends on which side of the perspective we chose to look at.
I am committed to having a positive impact on the community and reducing Mental Health stigma. I believe that most things in life have their negative and positive side. It all depends on which side of the perspective we chose to look at.
![Photo of Elia Tessera, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e78cabd-7cdb-431b-8efb-6ad1f6936295/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elia Tessera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aldie, VA 20105
I'm committed to continuous learning to provide evidence-based treatment modalities. I firmly believe in a holistic approach to health and I see the importance of mental health in achieving your optimal overall health and well-being. When I practice I want decision making to be shared, working together as a team.
I'm committed to continuous learning to provide evidence-based treatment modalities. I firmly believe in a holistic approach to health and I see the importance of mental health in achieving your optimal overall health and well-being. When I practice I want decision making to be shared, working together as a team.
![Photo of Christina Rinderle, MSN, APRN, NNP-C, PMHNP-C, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b90b61ed-13e3-4948-a9a7-32d241ff15dd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Rinderle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NNP-C, PMHNP-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aldie, VA 20105
As a nurse practitioner, I consider and value a holistic approach when considering treatment goals. The transition to parenthood is a life changing experience with significant physical and psychological adjustments for the entire family. Many parents experience mood changes and feel overwhelmed during pregnancy and/or after the birth of their child. When these symptoms do not resolve on their own, worsen in severity and begin to affect a person’s quality of life, they may be experiencing a perinatal mental health disorder.
As a nurse practitioner, I consider and value a holistic approach when considering treatment goals. The transition to parenthood is a life changing experience with significant physical and psychological adjustments for the entire family. Many parents experience mood changes and feel overwhelmed during pregnancy and/or after the birth of their child. When these symptoms do not resolve on their own, worsen in severity and begin to affect a person’s quality of life, they may be experiencing a perinatal mental health disorder.
![Photo of Casie Kassell - Columbia Associates: Aldie, MSN, NP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22914f84-71a7-4974-8da9-e0beaa3ad456/1/320x400.jpeg)
Columbia Associates: Aldie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-BC
Verified Verified
Aldie, VA 20105
Columbia Associates is an outpatient mental health care provider dedicated to serving Virginia and the local area of Aldie. At our Aldie clinic we provide a broad array of services including psychotherapy, group therapy, child & adolescent therapy, child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, medication management, and TMS therapy. TMS therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an effective, non-invasive, low-risk treatment that has shown success in treating major depressive disorder and other forms of treatment resistant depression.
Columbia Associates is an outpatient mental health care provider dedicated to serving Virginia and the local area of Aldie. At our Aldie clinic we provide a broad array of services including psychotherapy, group therapy, child & adolescent therapy, child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, medication management, and TMS therapy. TMS therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an effective, non-invasive, low-risk treatment that has shown success in treating major depressive disorder and other forms of treatment resistant depression.
![Photo of Igor Pryadkin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbace486-596b-4d65-8eac-01be16e7073c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be challenging, and it's okay to seek help when you are facing difficulties, As a dedicated certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm here to provide you with compassionate and personalized care. Services I offer is Anxiety and Stress Management, Mood disorders, Trauma and PTSD counseling, Anger management, OCD & Compulsive Habits, Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) support, Autism spectrum guidance, Behavioral issues, Grief counseling, Insomnia Solutions, Parenting support.
Life can be challenging, and it's okay to seek help when you are facing difficulties, As a dedicated certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm here to provide you with compassionate and personalized care. Services I offer is Anxiety and Stress Management, Mood disorders, Trauma and PTSD counseling, Anger management, OCD & Compulsive Habits, Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) support, Autism spectrum guidance, Behavioral issues, Grief counseling, Insomnia Solutions, Parenting support.
![Photo of Divya Gongireddy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd0bcdc2-b120-47b2-8a77-886e3791101f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Divya Gongireddy, M.D. is board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed both her residency in General Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System. Dr. Gongireddy’s clinical interests include PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and mood disorders.
Divya Gongireddy, M.D. is board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed both her residency in General Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System. Dr. Gongireddy’s clinical interests include PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Temitope Akinladenu, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0774dcba-8e3f-40b8-b228-d3387a57f1db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aldie, VA 20105
I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared, nationally board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared, nationally board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of LaRay Imani Price - Women's InnerFitness and Wellness Ctr, PhD, PsyD, LCSW-C, LCPC, MSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7b0989d-f1a7-4882-8648-f5a79afd1d52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Women's InnerFitness and Wellness Ctr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PsyD, LCSW-C, LCPC, MSW
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147 (Online Only)
You've been carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, feeling the strain of emotional turmoil and the relentless demands of life. The stress, the anxiety, and the sadness seem almost too much to bear. But you don't have to face it alone. We see and hear you at Women's InnerFitness & Wellness Center, LLC. Our compassionate team of mental health professionals is here to help you navigate the stormy waters of your emotions and find a safe harbor. Rediscover your inner strength and experience the transformative power of expert psychological care.
You've been carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, feeling the strain of emotional turmoil and the relentless demands of life. The stress, the anxiety, and the sadness seem almost too much to bear. But you don't have to face it alone. We see and hear you at Women's InnerFitness & Wellness Center, LLC. Our compassionate team of mental health professionals is here to help you navigate the stormy waters of your emotions and find a safe harbor. Rediscover your inner strength and experience the transformative power of expert psychological care.
We treat a variety of psychiatric conditions including (but not limited to) psychiatric emergencies and urgent consults for depression, anxiety, psychosis, panic attacks, drug detox, and Medication Assisted Treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. We see patient 6 yrs old and up.
We treat a variety of psychiatric conditions including (but not limited to) psychiatric emergencies and urgent consults for depression, anxiety, psychosis, panic attacks, drug detox, and Medication Assisted Treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. We see patient 6 yrs old and up.
![Photo of Carol Harkrader, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2154a405-f5c2-4e28-bf49-b763835e4c65/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Harkrader grew up in Virginia and attended the University of Virginia Medical School. For over thirty years, she had a private practice of General Psychiatry in Loudoun County, VA. After closing that practice at the end of 2021, she joined Lifestance to work as primarily as a Consultant and supervisor of Psychiatric Nurse practitioners.
Dr. Harkrader grew up in Virginia and attended the University of Virginia Medical School. For over thirty years, she had a private practice of General Psychiatry in Loudoun County, VA. After closing that practice at the end of 2021, she joined Lifestance to work as primarily as a Consultant and supervisor of Psychiatric Nurse practitioners.
![Photo of Brent Coyle, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e14fea49-dc4d-41c0-a753-b38019c7a449/2/320x400.png)
Brent R. Coyle, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with the additional distinction of "Distinguished Fellow," with over 36 years of experience in psychiatry in various settings, including inpatient, academic, and outpatient. Dr. Coyle received his M.D. from The University of Minnesota, Mpls. campus, and he completed his Psychiatric Residency at Wilford Hall, USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health and well-being.
Brent R. Coyle, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with the additional distinction of "Distinguished Fellow," with over 36 years of experience in psychiatry in various settings, including inpatient, academic, and outpatient. Dr. Coyle received his M.D. from The University of Minnesota, Mpls. campus, and he completed his Psychiatric Residency at Wilford Hall, USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Helen Lancy, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5b870e-271a-4e79-b046-d5e7eaf88591/2/320x400.jpeg)
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147 (Online Only)
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
![Photo of Elizabeth Onyejekwe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/546cbc4d-859a-462e-8e9e-702595350a6d/3/320x400.png)
I am a psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with people to treat conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trichotillomania, Tics, Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, Autism, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, PTSD, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Intermittent Explosive disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Personality disorders, perinatal and post-natal mood disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy with a holistic approach. I customize treatment to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
I am a psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with people to treat conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trichotillomania, Tics, Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, Autism, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, PTSD, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Intermittent Explosive disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Personality disorders, perinatal and post-natal mood disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy with a holistic approach. I customize treatment to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Thomas J Pillion, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/112754b9-09d3-4227-b05c-5e6846e9dc02/2/320x400.png)
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or problems with interpersonal relationships, I would like to help you to restore a sense of balance in your life. Using either medication or psychotherapy, we can work together toward identifying and removing the obstacles that interfere with living a more happy and satisfying life. I trained in general adult psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and received my MD from the University of Texas. I see primarily adults and am not taking new child or adolescent patients at this time.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or problems with interpersonal relationships, I would like to help you to restore a sense of balance in your life. Using either medication or psychotherapy, we can work together toward identifying and removing the obstacles that interfere with living a more happy and satisfying life. I trained in general adult psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and received my MD from the University of Texas. I see primarily adults and am not taking new child or adolescent patients at this time.
![Photo of Flora Wong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc1b5318-f3f5-4eef-bfee-315db8a0a963/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am Flora Wong, PMHNP-BC. I work with patients throughout their entire lifespan and who are struggling with many life challenges or transitions. My passion lies in helping individuals achieve optimal well-being, free from judgment or inequity. I offer medication management and supportive psychotherapy. I specialize in a wide variety of diagnoses such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, stress, family conflict, and many more.
Hi, I am Flora Wong, PMHNP-BC. I work with patients throughout their entire lifespan and who are struggling with many life challenges or transitions. My passion lies in helping individuals achieve optimal well-being, free from judgment or inequity. I offer medication management and supportive psychotherapy. I specialize in a wide variety of diagnoses such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, stress, family conflict, and many more.
![Photo of LaToya D Mullen - LaToya Mullen, Psychiatric Medication Management, PMHNP-B, MS, BN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45a73edb-4b84-4a68-a128-627fd2edb496/1/320x400.png)
LaToya Mullen, Psychiatric Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MS, BN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Do you need a prescription for psychiatric medication, or help balancing your medications? Has your therapist recommended medication? Do you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia or disordered sleep, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), mood disorders, or psychosis? Often, medication can help you achieve calm, focus, and balance. Working together, we will find and fine-tune the medications that address your needs. Medication, or medication combined with therapy, supports significant improvement for many clients. Reach out today for board-certified psychiatric support.
Do you need a prescription for psychiatric medication, or help balancing your medications? Has your therapist recommended medication? Do you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia or disordered sleep, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), mood disorders, or psychosis? Often, medication can help you achieve calm, focus, and balance. Working together, we will find and fine-tune the medications that address your needs. Medication, or medication combined with therapy, supports significant improvement for many clients. Reach out today for board-certified psychiatric support.
![Photo of Sahar Zaidi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d2f5d70-c9e6-4c2f-8fb9-de92be947e55/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with the compassion to provide personalized and integrated care. I understand the importance of treating the whole person and addressing their physical, emotional, and social well-being. By honoring everyone’s unique strengths and experiences, I strive to provide comprehensive care that encompasses all aspects of their health. Utilizing evidence-based methods, my commitment is to deliver the highest quality care to each patient I work with.
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with the compassion to provide personalized and integrated care. I understand the importance of treating the whole person and addressing their physical, emotional, and social well-being. By honoring everyone’s unique strengths and experiences, I strive to provide comprehensive care that encompasses all aspects of their health. Utilizing evidence-based methods, my commitment is to deliver the highest quality care to each patient I work with.
![Photo of Christopher Wall - Christopher Wall–Psychiatric Medication Management, NP, PMHNP-B, RN, BSN, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/268ea9d1-1ab8-417e-8d9e-6f77becebea4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Wall–Psychiatric Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP-B, RN, BSN, MA
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Do you need help getting the psychiatric medications that you need? Do you need support to adjust and fine-tune your medication for the best results? Has your therapist suggested that you consider or get assessed for psychotropic medications? Contact me via phone, text, or email. I graduated from Vanderbilt University with a master's degree in Nursing, substantial experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and an additional master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. I am looking forward to helping! Reach out today.
Do you need help getting the psychiatric medications that you need? Do you need support to adjust and fine-tune your medication for the best results? Has your therapist suggested that you consider or get assessed for psychotropic medications? Contact me via phone, text, or email. I graduated from Vanderbilt University with a master's degree in Nursing, substantial experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and an additional master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. I am looking forward to helping! Reach out today.
![Photo of Dr. Peace Peters, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e98a5098-968d-4689-8a08-64ed86d8eb25/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Peace Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20152 (Online Only)
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-trained board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Dr. Peace specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area. Her experience includes working in; general medicine and surgery, bariatric surgery, telemetry, orthopedics, pediatric medicine, Critical Care Unit and long-term care.
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-trained board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Dr. Peace specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area. Her experience includes working in; general medicine and surgery, bariatric surgery, telemetry, orthopedics, pediatric medicine, Critical Care Unit and long-term care.
See more therapy options for Aldie
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Aldie, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Aldie, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
50% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Elevance |
88% | CareFirst |
How Psychiatrists in Aldie, VA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Aldie?
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.