Psychiatrists in Middleburg, VA
![Photo of Belinda Walsh, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7ea9992-5c6b-4f09-85be-f5c71f237d8f/1/320x400.png)
Belinda Walsh is a licensed and board-certified as a nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health (PMHNP) and women's health (WHNP). She received a bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Virginia in 1997. She received a bachelor's in Nursing and a master's degree in Women's Health nurse practitioner in 2000 from Virginia Commonwealth University. In 2016, she received her post-master's degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from Virginia Commonwealth University after realizing the strong need for mental health care for obstetric patients.
Belinda Walsh is a licensed and board-certified as a nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health (PMHNP) and women's health (WHNP). She received a bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Virginia in 1997. She received a bachelor's in Nursing and a master's degree in Women's Health nurse practitioner in 2000 from Virginia Commonwealth University. In 2016, she received her post-master's degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from Virginia Commonwealth University after realizing the strong need for mental health care for obstetric patients.
![Photo of Michelle Stanley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3986412-2655-4f2d-8f58-ba9d285e724c/2/320x400.png)
Michelle lives, and has lived in the Shenandoah Valley area most of her life. She received her Associate's Degree in Nursing from Shepherd College, followed by her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Walden University. Michelle is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed to serve in Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia. She has been a registered nurse for greater than 25 years.
Michelle lives, and has lived in the Shenandoah Valley area most of her life. She received her Associate's Degree in Nursing from Shepherd College, followed by her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Walden University. Michelle is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed to serve in Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia. She has been a registered nurse for greater than 25 years.
![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 Dr. Kasie M. Cassell, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP-C, PMH-C, MSN/Ed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f85e5dfc-6a51-4520-8ceb-58fb762ab4a8/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kasie M. Cassell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP-C, PMH-C, MSN/Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117 (Online Only)
My passion is to help women achieve wellness during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Asking for help does not make you weak, it shows incredible strength & courage. I focus on treating women's mental health spanning the premenstrual, perinatal, & perimenopausal period.
My passion is to help women achieve wellness during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Asking for help does not make you weak, it shows incredible strength & courage. I focus on treating women's mental health spanning the premenstrual, perinatal, & perimenopausal period.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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
![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 Sana Kamal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c57ecfc4-9440-4fbc-a9b2-2ee8dfb2f847/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kamal is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. Dr. Kamal is passionate about the care she provides to her patients and sees her work with patients as a partnership. Dr Kamal was instrumental in establishing a psychiatric care unit in a reputed hospital which gained the distinction of achieving the highest patient's satisfaction in a short span of time. She has an extensive experience treating adults who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective D/O and others.
Dr. Kamal is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. Dr. Kamal is passionate about the care she provides to her patients and sees her work with patients as a partnership. Dr Kamal was instrumental in establishing a psychiatric care unit in a reputed hospital which gained the distinction of achieving the highest patient's satisfaction in a short span of time. She has an extensive experience treating adults who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective D/O and others.
![Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4e62578-8221-46bb-a744-5b25c2989bed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20169
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
![Photo of Brittany Peebles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3f17481-d838-4b50-929c-ab4de807fd41/1/320x400.png)
Brittany Peebles is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brittany has more than 10 years experience working in the health care field. Brittany specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. Brittany has a holistic approach when treating her patients. Brittany feels one of the most important things is viewing the individual as a whole person, not just looking at the diagnosis given to the person. She enjoys spending time with her family and walking her dog Tarzan.
Brittany Peebles is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brittany has more than 10 years experience working in the health care field. Brittany specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. Brittany has a holistic approach when treating her patients. Brittany feels one of the most important things is viewing the individual as a whole person, not just looking at the diagnosis given to the person. She enjoys spending time with her family and walking her dog Tarzan.
![Photo of Erica Bindrim - Mind and Body Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/895d9d22-6d74-417c-a714-f83559d7440c/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Patrick Crook, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8ac5359-e97c-4598-98c6-cba818ca6c97/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Crook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030 (Online Only)
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, based in South Carolina. I received my Masters in Nursing from Duquesne University (Forensic Nursing), Post-Masters in Nursing from University of Virginia (PMHNP). I served in both U.S. Navy and U.S. Public Health Service, retired in 2019. I have been practicing for 12 yrs. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, based in South Carolina. I received my Masters in Nursing from Duquesne University (Forensic Nursing), Post-Masters in Nursing from University of Virginia (PMHNP). I served in both U.S. Navy and U.S. Public Health Service, retired in 2019. I have been practicing for 12 yrs. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
![Photo of Kimberly Ann Bailey Dexter, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae05c2d4-eda7-45d1-be72-08a9a0f258ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Ann Bailey Dexter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
I offer patient-centered care and that means a collaborative effort of decision making is performed to provide the treatment services you want or need to ensure recovery or optimal functioning. I provide quality treatment that leads to recovery, personal development, and helps you to achieve your treatment goals for success and optimal functioning for daily living. I have over 10 years of psychiatric experience in both outpatient and inpatient treatment in crisis stabilization, substance use services.
I offer patient-centered care and that means a collaborative effort of decision making is performed to provide the treatment services you want or need to ensure recovery or optimal functioning. I provide quality treatment that leads to recovery, personal development, and helps you to achieve your treatment goals for success and optimal functioning for daily living. I have over 10 years of psychiatric experience in both outpatient and inpatient treatment in crisis stabilization, substance use services.
![Photo of Liza Lobrin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/428630a5-fadf-4fb9-b763-d83330f991f8/1/320x400.png)
Liza Lobrin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
Liza is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on the treatment of the adult population with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma- and stressor-related disorders. Liza completed her Master of Science in Nursing degree (PMHNP program) at Walden University. Before pursuing her MSN, she worked in different settings as a psychiatric nurse for almost 20 years and provided care to individuals with various mental health diagnoses, ranging from mood disorders to schizophrenia.
Liza is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on the treatment of the adult population with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma- and stressor-related disorders. Liza completed her Master of Science in Nursing degree (PMHNP program) at Walden University. Before pursuing her MSN, she worked in different settings as a psychiatric nurse for almost 20 years and provided care to individuals with various mental health diagnoses, ranging from mood disorders to schizophrenia.
![Photo of Sonia Palmieri, ANP- BC, MSN , RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f520172-283f-42c7-8d9d-45a052677e22/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sonia Palmieri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP- BC, MSN , RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301
As an integrative mental health nurse practitioner, I offer ketamine & ketamine assisted psychotherapy in IV, Intramuscluar (IM) or lozenge form for treatment approach for depression, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and OCD work. I also offer Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT), Integration & harm reduction. Tranquil Healthcare is an Integrative Mental Health & Wellness practice focusing on anxiety & depression disorders as well as improving over all health, lifestyle & wellness. Practicing conventional medicine as well as integrative and functional medicine approaches to your mental health & overall health.
As an integrative mental health nurse practitioner, I offer ketamine & ketamine assisted psychotherapy in IV, Intramuscluar (IM) or lozenge form for treatment approach for depression, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and OCD work. I also offer Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT), Integration & harm reduction. Tranquil Healthcare is an Integrative Mental Health & Wellness practice focusing on anxiety & depression disorders as well as improving over all health, lifestyle & wellness. Practicing conventional medicine as well as integrative and functional medicine approaches to your mental health & overall health.
![Photo of Rose Ehichioya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba16700b-f155-43c6-90eb-87b6e5dc06f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rose Ehichioya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191 (Online Only)
I'm Rose. Do you feel overwhelmed with life and feel like you don't know what to do? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself and others? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself and others.
I'm Rose. Do you feel overwhelmed with life and feel like you don't know what to do? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself and others? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself and others.
![Photo of Madhav R Muppa - Apex Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50eda0f9-87dc-4a53-add0-7e2c4b27223d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Muppa is an Adult, Child and Adolescent Board certified Psychiatrist with more than 15 years experience. Dr. Muppa practices with compassion, empathy and focuses on holistic approach to treat patients. Apex Psychiatry offers expert care to help you overcome challenges and achieve wellness. Comprehensive and personalized treatment plans, expert providers and the convenience of virtual appointments - all designed to meet your unique needs. Apex psychiatry focuses on evidence based medicine. Visit www.apexpsychiatryva.com for additional information.
Dr. Muppa is an Adult, Child and Adolescent Board certified Psychiatrist with more than 15 years experience. Dr. Muppa practices with compassion, empathy and focuses on holistic approach to treat patients. Apex Psychiatry offers expert care to help you overcome challenges and achieve wellness. Comprehensive and personalized treatment plans, expert providers and the convenience of virtual appointments - all designed to meet your unique needs. Apex psychiatry focuses on evidence based medicine. Visit www.apexpsychiatryva.com for additional information.
![Photo of Ayanna Swinton Jamison, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c87ea4d-6cdb-4620-b3a1-2c6728d05153/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ayanna Swinton Jamison is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 18 years of experience in general psychiatry. She has extensive experience in counseling, medication management, Ketamine infusions, Spravato, and ElectricMagnetic Therapy. Dr. Jamison is committed to educating her patients about their illnesses and providing personalized care for each patient.
Dr. Ayanna Swinton Jamison is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 18 years of experience in general psychiatry. She has extensive experience in counseling, medication management, Ketamine infusions, Spravato, and ElectricMagnetic Therapy. Dr. Jamison is committed to educating her patients about their illnesses and providing personalized care for each patient.
![Photo of Brittany Piccicacco, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e0b6b4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Piccicacco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030 (Online Only)
I am accepting new patients and utilizing telehealth via Zoom and Doxy. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. My professional focus is to understand each patient’s unique story in order to make appropriate diagnoses and incorporate psychopharmacology into an integrative treatment plan. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and their families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, thought disorders, autism spectrum disorder, academic and social difficulties. I work to transform their challenges into opportunities for growth.
I am accepting new patients and utilizing telehealth via Zoom and Doxy. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. My professional focus is to understand each patient’s unique story in order to make appropriate diagnoses and incorporate psychopharmacology into an integrative treatment plan. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and their families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, thought disorders, autism spectrum disorder, academic and social difficulties. I work to transform their challenges into opportunities for growth.
See more therapy options for Middleburg
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Middleburg, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Middleburg, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
20 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Middleburg, VA see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Middleburg?
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.