Psychiatrists in Kenosha, WI
![Photo of Christine Foster, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b542561d-388a-4688-952f-1b27725efdf0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Foster is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2001. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University for PMHNP and UIC for FNP. Christine's experience is wide and varied, with expertise in child/adolescent psychiatry, ages 5 years and older, adult psychiatry, and substance use disorders. She offers compassionate care and integrity in her professional relationships with children/families and adults, which include pregnant women and those over age 65. Christine is also registered with the Clozapine REMS program.
Christine Foster is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2001. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University for PMHNP and UIC for FNP. Christine's experience is wide and varied, with expertise in child/adolescent psychiatry, ages 5 years and older, adult psychiatry, and substance use disorders. She offers compassionate care and integrity in her professional relationships with children/families and adults, which include pregnant women and those over age 65. Christine is also registered with the Clozapine REMS program.
![Photo of Dorothy Kozakowski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f48b5d-42bf-41f5-8800-84316d3e6ccb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dorothy Kozakowski is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner She holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Kozakowski is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience. Dr. Kozakowski's career has taken her on a journey through the healthcare system.
Dr. Dorothy Kozakowski is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner She holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Kozakowski is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience. Dr. Kozakowski's career has taken her on a journey through the healthcare system.
![Photo of Shalini Varma - Shalini Varma, M.D., Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408d5f5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shalini Varma, M.D.
Psychiatrist, Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy
Verified Verified
Kenosha, WI 53142
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
![Photo of Jennifer Ha, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b6b354e-1181-4602-8494-9193a66a7219/2/320x400.jpeg)
Able to see new patients soon! Less than a month! If you are struggling with depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, or other mood symptoms - those are areas of specialty of mine! Maybe there was a major event or loss in your life, transitions, stress. There is hope - you deserve to be happy. I like to work with individuals who like to use a comprehensive treatment plan involving lifestyle changes and medication if indicated. Let's identify goals and different approaches to get closer to feelings of fulfillment. You deserve to be surrounded by support and good people.
Able to see new patients soon! Less than a month! If you are struggling with depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, or other mood symptoms - those are areas of specialty of mine! Maybe there was a major event or loss in your life, transitions, stress. There is hope - you deserve to be happy. I like to work with individuals who like to use a comprehensive treatment plan involving lifestyle changes and medication if indicated. Let's identify goals and different approaches to get closer to feelings of fulfillment. You deserve to be surrounded by support and good people.
![Photo of Kenya Robertson - Wisconsin Healthcare Network, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a1fede4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wisconsin Healthcare Network
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenosha, WI 53143
We strive to improve the mental wellbeing of each person with whom we come in contact with by providing holistic care. “We aspire to bring Excellence for Extraordinary People”
We strive to improve the mental wellbeing of each person with whom we come in contact with by providing holistic care. “We aspire to bring Excellence for Extraordinary People”
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc093fb-a50f-424f-885f-6722d22dc385/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
![Photo of Allen Rindfleisch, MSN, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9768e0cd-d20a-499e-8ccf-22bdfa7dbd54/2/320x400.png)
Allen Rindfleisch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kenosha, WI 53142
Accepting New Patients. Allen is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with several years of clinical experience.
Accepting New Patients. Allen is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with several years of clinical experience.
![Photo of Mark Bender, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/845c1a52-1799-4668-9388-df80b62a8ad9/1/320x400.png)
I graduated from USC in 1988. With over 35 years of experience as a physician assistant in a variety of health care settings, I am committed to the whole person concept and improving the quality of life of patients with complex medical conditions and their family members in various settings. My goal is to help patients from all walks of life navigate their complex world by listening to them in order to live a healthier and well-balanced life.
I graduated from USC in 1988. With over 35 years of experience as a physician assistant in a variety of health care settings, I am committed to the whole person concept and improving the quality of life of patients with complex medical conditions and their family members in various settings. My goal is to help patients from all walks of life navigate their complex world by listening to them in order to live a healthier and well-balanced life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Maryan D Torres- Se Habla Español - Bienestar Psychiatric Services LLC- Maryan Torres, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4e3a97f-fd5f-4e3a-a7b3-9ab27695c325/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bienestar Psychiatric Services LLC- Maryan Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Racine, WI 53406
Accepting new patients-no wait times and flexible scheduling. Maryan is Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating adults, children, and families. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and takes a holistic approach to treating the overall person. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
Accepting new patients-no wait times and flexible scheduling. Maryan is Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating adults, children, and families. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and takes a holistic approach to treating the overall person. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
![Photo of Dr. Orlando Malate, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f492dca0-d077-40d7-a96d-ea3202c18369/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Orlando Malate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Racine, WI 53406 (Online Only)
Dr. Orlando Malate is a compassionate mental health nurse practitioner offering therapy and medication management in TX, WA, IL, and WI. He earned his doctorate in nursing from Walden University and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Malate's therapy services include Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Emotionally Focused Therapy, Existential Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Mindfulness-Based( MBCT) Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT).
Dr. Orlando Malate is a compassionate mental health nurse practitioner offering therapy and medication management in TX, WA, IL, and WI. He earned his doctorate in nursing from Walden University and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Malate's therapy services include Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Emotionally Focused Therapy, Existential Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Mindfulness-Based( MBCT) Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT).
![Photo of Dr. Robert Loiben, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ab9ca17-285d-4d51-96b2-db720fb1931b/1/320x400.png)
Robert Loiben, MD, has been treating individuals for over 30 years. His most important aspects of psychiatric care is the initial appointment; taking time to listen to the patient and to get a detailed history in order to formulate a diagnosis, a plan of care, as well as establish a good working relationship.
Robert Loiben, MD, has been treating individuals for over 30 years. His most important aspects of psychiatric care is the initial appointment; taking time to listen to the patient and to get a detailed history in order to formulate a diagnosis, a plan of care, as well as establish a good working relationship.
![Photo of Dena Lynn Hinkle, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a077a0b-5c89-425f-b42e-08e60d3a05a9/1/320x400.png)
Dena Lynn Hinkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Racine, WI 53401
I hold national board certifications with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and my Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Master of Science degrees in Nursing at Lewis University. I worked as a Certified School Nurse for ten years while pursing my advanced degrees as a Nurse Practitioner.
I hold national board certifications with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and my Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Master of Science degrees in Nursing at Lewis University. I worked as a Certified School Nurse for ten years while pursing my advanced degrees as a Nurse Practitioner.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Christine Costanzo - Dr. Christine Costanzo M.D., LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0720a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist who has been practicing since 1997, specializing in psychoanalytic therapy and psychopharmacology. I am currently entering my 4th year at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute for psychoanalytic training as of June 2024. I utilize other modalities including cognitive-behavioral techniques, and have extensive experience with psychopharmacology. I work within a confidential setting in my own private practice and enjoy meeting my clients "where they are", respecting each individual's needs, concerns and comfort level. My approach centers around honoring collaboration as fundamental to healing and growth.
I am a psychiatrist who has been practicing since 1997, specializing in psychoanalytic therapy and psychopharmacology. I am currently entering my 4th year at the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute for psychoanalytic training as of June 2024. I utilize other modalities including cognitive-behavioral techniques, and have extensive experience with psychopharmacology. I work within a confidential setting in my own private practice and enjoy meeting my clients "where they are", respecting each individual's needs, concerns and comfort level. My approach centers around honoring collaboration as fundamental to healing and growth.
![Photo of Teri White, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e19d498a-430d-4ee0-b5b9-5c8f6e668a31/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whether it’s your first time seeking mental health help or you are looking to make a change, taking that first step can be challenging. It is an honor and a privilege to be a Nurse Practitioner and I aim to treat people accordingly. I diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health issues and am board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice. A priority for me is explaining and providing education so you can make an informed decision about your treatment plan, which may include medications, therapy referrals, pharmacogenetic testing, TMS/ECT/ketamine referrals, vitamins/supplements, and other holistic options.
Whether it’s your first time seeking mental health help or you are looking to make a change, taking that first step can be challenging. It is an honor and a privilege to be a Nurse Practitioner and I aim to treat people accordingly. I diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health issues and am board certified in both Psychiatry and Family Practice. A priority for me is explaining and providing education so you can make an informed decision about your treatment plan, which may include medications, therapy referrals, pharmacogenetic testing, TMS/ECT/ketamine referrals, vitamins/supplements, and other holistic options.
![Photo of Heather Sanders, LPC, CSAC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce7955f6-35d3-403c-a235-85223350e02e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather D. Talley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. She received her Master’s Degree from Springfield College in Community Counseling. She has been providing therapeutic services since 2013.
Heather D. Talley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. She received her Master’s Degree from Springfield College in Community Counseling. She has been providing therapeutic services since 2013.
![Photo of Raymond Kloss, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc9c7045-773b-48ec-8d5c-7a5dbb29485a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Raymond Kloss is a Psychiatrist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 1992. Raymond treats affective, psychotic, and anxiety disorders in adults. As a specialist in anxiety disorders, he will be working with therapists to help people manage their anxiety to function better in life. Raymond enjoys working with patients to help figure out the best approach and treatment and believes in the combination of medications and therapy. In his free time, Raymond enjoys photography and travel.
Raymond Kloss is a Psychiatrist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 1992. Raymond treats affective, psychotic, and anxiety disorders in adults. As a specialist in anxiety disorders, he will be working with therapists to help people manage their anxiety to function better in life. Raymond enjoys working with patients to help figure out the best approach and treatment and believes in the combination of medications and therapy. In his free time, Raymond enjoys photography and travel.
![Photo of LaTeisha Prescott, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae3bafb8-a105-4e7a-b64a-7b95cce7a672/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in the mental/behavioral health field. Specialty areas include pediatrics within the ages of 11-17.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in the mental/behavioral health field. Specialty areas include pediatrics within the ages of 11-17.
![Photo of Therese Alm, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ba98c2b-e514-4b99-8fd2-d68cb49cd3d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, with over 25 years of experience in nursing focused on public health and psychiatry/mental health. I believe that mental health should be first health and that there is a critical connection between physical health and mental health. My approach is holistic, understanding medication can be beneficial but is not the only tool to be utilized. We'll also explore how therapy, nutrition, sleep, and physical activity may be affecting how you feel.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, with over 25 years of experience in nursing focused on public health and psychiatry/mental health. I believe that mental health should be first health and that there is a critical connection between physical health and mental health. My approach is holistic, understanding medication can be beneficial but is not the only tool to be utilized. We'll also explore how therapy, nutrition, sleep, and physical activity may be affecting how you feel.
![Photo of Lisa Calabrese, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5afee93b-bdc5-4ed7-91be-f6dc2388300a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Calabrese is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Bachelor of arts in human geography from UW Madison, a Bachelor of science in nursing from UW Oshkosh, and a Master's of science in nursing from Alverno College. Lisa practices a compassionate, holistic, and trauma-informed approach to mental health care. She wants to help her clients identify their strengths and improve their mental health from multiple angles, with a focus on healthy lifestyle.
Lisa Calabrese is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Bachelor of arts in human geography from UW Madison, a Bachelor of science in nursing from UW Oshkosh, and a Master's of science in nursing from Alverno College. Lisa practices a compassionate, holistic, and trauma-informed approach to mental health care. She wants to help her clients identify their strengths and improve their mental health from multiple angles, with a focus on healthy lifestyle.
![Photo of Eduard Tsyrulnykov, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e07a2b0e-1b51-423b-b946-2d2a2cef80d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eduard Tsyrulnykov is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2019. Eduard helps clients by exploring possible underlying medical conditions that might be responsible for mental health problems and adjusting psychiatric medications/minimizing side effects and meds toxicity. Outside of work, Eduard enjoys learning about Chinese philosophy and Zhou dynasty.
Eduard Tsyrulnykov is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2019. Eduard helps clients by exploring possible underlying medical conditions that might be responsible for mental health problems and adjusting psychiatric medications/minimizing side effects and meds toxicity. Outside of work, Eduard enjoys learning about Chinese philosophy and Zhou dynasty.
See more therapy options for Kenosha
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kenosha, WI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kenosha, WI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Grief |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
83% | Anthem | Elevance |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Kenosha, WI see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kenosha?
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.