Psychiatrists in Lebanon, CT

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Photo of Lawrencia Addo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Lawrencia Addo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in both Connecticut and Maryland. I have worked in the mental health field for over twelve years. I specialize in treating psychiatric conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, insomnia, and substance use disorders. My passion is to enhance the quality of life of my patients and provide compassionate individualized care with medication management.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in both Connecticut and Maryland. I have worked in the mental health field for over twelve years. I specialize in treating psychiatric conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, insomnia, and substance use disorders. My passion is to enhance the quality of life of my patients and provide compassionate individualized care with medication management.
(475) 405-2322 View (475) 405-2322
Photo of Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Baltic, CT 06330
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890
Photo of Aurele Kamm APRN, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Aurele Kamm APRN, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich, CT 06360
Not accepting new clients
I have 40 years experience in the mental health field as a psychiatric nurse, and 24 years as a prescriber. I work with clients using a collaborative, holistic, compassionate approach that makes best use of my skills as a nurse. I work with children age 10 to adults, including elderly. I have a wide range of experience that varies from ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, dementia... life transitions... basically almost everything. I'm a strong believer in psychoeducation about medications and creating a partnership in the treatment process that is inclusive and empowering.
I have 40 years experience in the mental health field as a psychiatric nurse, and 24 years as a prescriber. I work with clients using a collaborative, holistic, compassionate approach that makes best use of my skills as a nurse. I work with children age 10 to adults, including elderly. I have a wide range of experience that varies from ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, dementia... life transitions... basically almost everything. I'm a strong believer in psychoeducation about medications and creating a partnership in the treatment process that is inclusive and empowering.
(959) 210-0073 View (959) 210-0073
New Insights Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Colchester, CT 06415  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless? Maybe you recently got a medical diagnosis and feel lost. Maybe your relationship lacks the connection you desire. Maybe you are wanting to learn more about ADHD and gain clarity around your patterns. Whatever it is, you want to better manage these stressors but don’t know where to start. Instead of feeling out of control and overwhelmed, you want to feel confident and calm. You want to experience more connection and joy in these hard times. We believe you can get there and our team is committed to being your compass, guiding you towards that future.
Now Accepting New Patients! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless? Maybe you recently got a medical diagnosis and feel lost. Maybe your relationship lacks the connection you desire. Maybe you are wanting to learn more about ADHD and gain clarity around your patterns. Whatever it is, you want to better manage these stressors but don’t know where to start. Instead of feeling out of control and overwhelmed, you want to feel confident and calm. You want to experience more connection and joy in these hard times. We believe you can get there and our team is committed to being your compass, guiding you towards that future.
(475) 255-2512 View (475) 255-2512
Photo of Alma R Barreto, Psychiatric Nurse in Lebanon, CT
Alma R Barreto
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN-C, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360  (Online Only)
My great reward as a prescriber is when my clients do well. I can help you reach your goals but we have to work together and find best treatment options. I started this practice to help patients needing psychiatric med management . I do not prescribe Benzo's or stimulants (no control substances). My practice hours are M-W-TH 5-7:30 pm some Saturdays. If you are interested please email me at barretoaprn@ gmail.com with your name and date of birth and i will call you back and send you forms to complete. Please do not call me before 5 pm.
My great reward as a prescriber is when my clients do well. I can help you reach your goals but we have to work together and find best treatment options. I started this practice to help patients needing psychiatric med management . I do not prescribe Benzo's or stimulants (no control substances). My practice hours are M-W-TH 5-7:30 pm some Saturdays. If you are interested please email me at barretoaprn@ gmail.com with your name and date of birth and i will call you back and send you forms to complete. Please do not call me before 5 pm.
(959) 210-0046 View (959) 210-0046
Photo of Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC, Psychiatrist in Lebanon, CT
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Spravato treatment. Every member of our team strives towards the unified goal of making CBHA synonymous with excellent care, phenomenal customer service & an unmatched commitment to families, our communities and most of all, our clients.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Spravato treatment. Every member of our team strives towards the unified goal of making CBHA synonymous with excellent care, phenomenal customer service & an unmatched commitment to families, our communities and most of all, our clients.
(860) 485-7207 View (860) 485-7207
Photo of Family health care & walk in center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Family health care & walk in center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
We provide individualize substance and alcohol treatment. We evaluate and manage depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorders.
We provide individualize substance and alcohol treatment. We evaluate and manage depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorders.
(860) 718-4617 View (860) 718-4617
Photo of Irene Ann Flynn-Lombardi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Irene Ann Flynn-Lombardi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbia, CT 06237
The goal is healing & living as best as you can. I provide both therapeutic and medication management for the treatment of mental health disorders. If it is determined that medication may be helpful in relieving your distress, various options may be discussed. My goals are to remain conservative and cautious in my use of medications. I am committed to educating you about your treatment options and addressing all your concerns regarding your mental health. I want to assure that all my patients understand the purpose and expected benefits of their medication, as well as potential risks. My webpage offers all information and costs.
The goal is healing & living as best as you can. I provide both therapeutic and medication management for the treatment of mental health disorders. If it is determined that medication may be helpful in relieving your distress, various options may be discussed. My goals are to remain conservative and cautious in my use of medications. I am committed to educating you about your treatment options and addressing all your concerns regarding your mental health. I want to assure that all my patients understand the purpose and expected benefits of their medication, as well as potential risks. My webpage offers all information and costs.
(860) 901-1790 View (860) 901-1790
Photo of Northeast Wellness Clinic, Psychiatrist in Lebanon, CT
Northeast Wellness Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
We are accepting new patients. Dr. Wen is a top-rated, board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. He founded Northeast Wellness Clinic. He offers personalized mental healthcare, collaborating with you and other providers as needed. Dr. Wen believes in a holistic approach, considering physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors to create a tailored treatment plan. His goal is to maximize symptom reduction with minimal medication side effects, leading to your full functional recovery. Patients and colleagues alike praise his compassionate and thorough care.
We are accepting new patients. Dr. Wen is a top-rated, board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. He founded Northeast Wellness Clinic. He offers personalized mental healthcare, collaborating with you and other providers as needed. Dr. Wen believes in a holistic approach, considering physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors to create a tailored treatment plan. His goal is to maximize symptom reduction with minimal medication side effects, leading to your full functional recovery. Patients and colleagues alike praise his compassionate and thorough care.
(860) 200-2931 View (860) 200-2931
Photo of Heather Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Heather Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
33 Endorsed
Mansfield Center, CT 06250
Developing a trusted, professional relationship with patients is an important aspect of mental healthcare. I invite patients to express themselves openly in this non-judgmental, therapeutic office space. We work in collaboration and partnership to move toward improved mood and better mental health.
Developing a trusted, professional relationship with patients is an important aspect of mental healthcare. I invite patients to express themselves openly in this non-judgmental, therapeutic office space. We work in collaboration and partnership to move toward improved mood and better mental health.
(860) 813-6078 View (860) 813-6078
Photo of Grief Shared, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse in Lebanon, CT
Grief Shared, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, CT, RN
Verified Verified
Coventry, CT 06238
My vision for many years has been to create a safe environment for the bereaved where they can share and be supported in their grief. The gift of human connection is integral in moving through grief, yet so many people feel disconnected and adrift, unable to find anyone with whom they can freely express themselves without fear of judgment; someone who understands that simply getting up in the morning is sometimes enough of a victory for the day. Together we can share these conversations above a whisper.
My vision for many years has been to create a safe environment for the bereaved where they can share and be supported in their grief. The gift of human connection is integral in moving through grief, yet so many people feel disconnected and adrift, unable to find anyone with whom they can freely express themselves without fear of judgment; someone who understands that simply getting up in the morning is sometimes enough of a victory for the day. Together we can share these conversations above a whisper.
(860) 397-2131 View (860) 397-2131
Photo of Todd A Perkins, Psychiatric Nurse in Lebanon, CT
Todd A Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Andover, CT 06232  (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Nurse Practitioner, I offer you the mental health and medical background to answer the important questions about your psychiatric symptoms and relief. This is step-one in a process of wellness that may include prescribing medication to you, psychotherapy, or both.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Nurse Practitioner, I offer you the mental health and medical background to answer the important questions about your psychiatric symptoms and relief. This is step-one in a process of wellness that may include prescribing medication to you, psychotherapy, or both.
(203) 689-7365 View (203) 689-7365

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Charles P Alexander, Psychiatrist in Lebanon, CT
Charles P Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06890
As I have grown and developed during the more than 40 years I have practiced psychiatry I feel the need to define myself and my interests more specifically. External forces are working to limit the Psychiatrists' role to medication prescriber. I certainly do some of this as the goal of symptom alleviation is an important one. What appeals most to me, however, is to work with individuals to achieve a more fundamental shift. Growth at a deeper level. Consequently, I have consolidated medication and talk therapy "under one roof." This provides efficiency and power difficult to achieve with split therapy.
As I have grown and developed during the more than 40 years I have practiced psychiatry I feel the need to define myself and my interests more specifically. External forces are working to limit the Psychiatrists' role to medication prescriber. I certainly do some of this as the goal of symptom alleviation is an important one. What appeals most to me, however, is to work with individuals to achieve a more fundamental shift. Growth at a deeper level. Consequently, I have consolidated medication and talk therapy "under one roof." This provides efficiency and power difficult to achieve with split therapy.
(203) 552-2371 View (203) 552-2371
Photo of Renew Your Mind LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Renew Your Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06702  (Online Only)
Welcome! We are a practice that provides mental health needs to all ages. Mental Health is an area of service that needs more compassion, so we are here to help you with that. We offer medication management with our APRN and we also provide tele-health visits. Our clinicians are caring and compassionate and they try to go above and beyond for all their clients. We will try to help you find the right treatment plan for your mental health needs. Our practice focuses on you as a whole person. We discuss and provide realistic goals together with compassion in mind. Contact Us today and we are here to help!
Welcome! We are a practice that provides mental health needs to all ages. Mental Health is an area of service that needs more compassion, so we are here to help you with that. We offer medication management with our APRN and we also provide tele-health visits. Our clinicians are caring and compassionate and they try to go above and beyond for all their clients. We will try to help you find the right treatment plan for your mental health needs. Our practice focuses on you as a whole person. We discuss and provide realistic goals together with compassion in mind. Contact Us today and we are here to help!
(475) 253-3461 View (475) 253-3461
Photo of ABetterU LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
ABetterU LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Life is an amazing and unpredictable journey we all share. It can bring joy, success, love and optimism, and also present extreme challenges, loss, sadness, grief and despair. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed or "stuck" for many reasons involving relationships, life transitions, illness, trauma, and personal circumstances. This can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings and uncertainty about how to feel better and move forward. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, no situation is hopeless and there is always a way forward to a better you and and a better life.
Life is an amazing and unpredictable journey we all share. It can bring joy, success, love and optimism, and also present extreme challenges, loss, sadness, grief and despair. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed or "stuck" for many reasons involving relationships, life transitions, illness, trauma, and personal circumstances. This can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings and uncertainty about how to feel better and move forward. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, no situation is hopeless and there is always a way forward to a better you and and a better life.
(203) 590-8859 View (203) 590-8859
Photo of CT Center for Psychiatric Wellness- CCPW, Psychiatric Nurse in Lebanon, CT
CT Center for Psychiatric Wellness- CCPW
Psychiatric Nurse
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
(475) 338-3501 View (475) 338-3501
Photo of Tara Thompson-Felix, Psychiatrist in Lebanon, CT
Tara Thompson-Felix
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Dr. Tara Thompson-Felix is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Thompson-Felix has specialized training in perinatal mental health and believes that improving outcomes during pregnancy and the postpartum period has a long-lasting impact on outcomes for a mother and child. She also specializes in treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions affecting children, adolescents and young adults. She earned her medical degree at Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and trained in adult psychiatry at Temple University Medical School.
Dr. Tara Thompson-Felix is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Thompson-Felix has specialized training in perinatal mental health and believes that improving outcomes during pregnancy and the postpartum period has a long-lasting impact on outcomes for a mother and child. She also specializes in treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions affecting children, adolescents and young adults. She earned her medical degree at Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and trained in adult psychiatry at Temple University Medical School.
(475) 325-5962 View (475) 325-5962
Photo of Tri-Star Behavioral Health Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Tri-Star Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, MSN, APRN, ANCC-BC, BSN
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. I have expertise in providing Psychiatric Assessments, Medication Management, Individual and Family Psychotherapy. I specialize in Child/Adolescent, Young Adults, Adults and the Geriatric Population. Majority of my training and clinical experience has been at Bellevue Hospital, VA Hospitals and the Prison System.
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. I have expertise in providing Psychiatric Assessments, Medication Management, Individual and Family Psychotherapy. I specialize in Child/Adolescent, Young Adults, Adults and the Geriatric Population. Majority of my training and clinical experience has been at Bellevue Hospital, VA Hospitals and the Prison System.
(646) 863-4287 View (646) 863-4287
Photo of Brandi Morgan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lebanon, CT
Brandi Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, CT 06460
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!***Our goal is to meet all of your therapy and medication needs. Through a web-based platform (telepsychiatry), we hope to maintain a relaxing environment for you as we allow for care to be given to you in your home, from the comfort of your couch to a quiet space in your providers' office. We provide exceptional, personalized, and timely access to psychiatric care with little to no wait time.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!***Our goal is to meet all of your therapy and medication needs. Through a web-based platform (telepsychiatry), we hope to maintain a relaxing environment for you as we allow for care to be given to you in your home, from the comfort of your couch to a quiet space in your providers' office. We provide exceptional, personalized, and timely access to psychiatric care with little to no wait time.
(475) 231-4410 View (475) 231-4410
Photo of Hassan Naqvi, Psychiatrist in Lebanon, CT
Hassan Naqvi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06511
- - - - - - - - - - Call now for a free consultation! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Appointments available this week! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or not yourself? You're not alone. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or more, your well-being is my top priority. As a board-certified psychiatrist, my focus is to support you on your journey towards improved mental health. Our work together won't be just about treating conditions, it will be about recognizing and understanding your unique life circumstances and the social issues that impact your mental health.
- - - - - - - - - - Call now for a free consultation! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Appointments available this week! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or not yourself? You're not alone. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or more, your well-being is my top priority. As a board-certified psychiatrist, my focus is to support you on your journey towards improved mental health. Our work together won't be just about treating conditions, it will be about recognizing and understanding your unique life circumstances and the social issues that impact your mental health.
(646) 437-8876 View (646) 437-8876

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Number of Psychiatrists in Lebanon, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Lebanon, CT who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in Lebanon, CT see their clients

2% Online Only
1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lebanon?

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.