Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
![Photo of Jerry Sayers, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/8d72e02d-17aa-4031-a244-adc9ea27bd78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jerry Sayers is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. Dr. Sayers completed an Internal Medicine internship in Youngstown, Ohio. He then completed his residency in General Psychiatry at The Johns Hopkins Hospital followed by fellowship training in Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology at Johns Hopkins Bayview. He most recently finished his fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at the University of Maryland.
Dr. Jerry Sayers is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. Dr. Sayers completed an Internal Medicine internship in Youngstown, Ohio. He then completed his residency in General Psychiatry at The Johns Hopkins Hospital followed by fellowship training in Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology at Johns Hopkins Bayview. He most recently finished his fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at the University of Maryland.
![Photo of Chris Pagnani - Chris Pagnani MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/470285b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/53dc2c5c-0276-47dc-af35-078b0817c150/2/320x400.png)
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
![Photo of Vincenzo R Sanguineti, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3bddfee9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise in Adult Psychiatry include: anxiety disorders (obsessive-compulsive, PTSD, dissociative disorders); depression (including atypical and treatment resistant subtypes); bipolar disorders; pain management and other medico-psychiatric conditions; addictions and substance abuse; problems of aging. By practicing for over 40 years I came to realize that every individual is able to change his or her way of thinking and feeling, provided the client is willing to do so. My role is to individualize which role medications and psychotherapy may play for each client, in which combination, and to act accordingly.
My areas of expertise in Adult Psychiatry include: anxiety disorders (obsessive-compulsive, PTSD, dissociative disorders); depression (including atypical and treatment resistant subtypes); bipolar disorders; pain management and other medico-psychiatric conditions; addictions and substance abuse; problems of aging. By practicing for over 40 years I came to realize that every individual is able to change his or her way of thinking and feeling, provided the client is willing to do so. My role is to individualize which role medications and psychotherapy may play for each client, in which combination, and to act accordingly.
![Photo of Danielle Couture, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/4fc59f76-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are currently searching for a therapist or psychiatrist, it may be because you would like some help dealing with current unhappiness or dissatisfaction in your life. I collaboratively work with patients to identify issues, make goals, and create personalized treatment plans. My practice is focused on treatment for adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (adult ADHD), and mood disorders. I can also help you deal with life transitions, low motivation, grief, stress, establishing relationships, and work-life balance.
If you are currently searching for a therapist or psychiatrist, it may be because you would like some help dealing with current unhappiness or dissatisfaction in your life. I collaboratively work with patients to identify issues, make goals, and create personalized treatment plans. My practice is focused on treatment for adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (adult ADHD), and mood disorders. I can also help you deal with life transitions, low motivation, grief, stress, establishing relationships, and work-life balance.
![Photo of Jenny Joseph, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/bc522303-ff96-4342-b457-ce50032808d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jenny Joseph is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who specializes in medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She completed medical school at St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency training at New York Medical College at Metropolitan Hospital Center. She has worked with an array of patient populations and treats conditions including mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
Dr. Jenny Joseph is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who specializes in medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She completed medical school at St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency training at New York Medical College at Metropolitan Hospital Center. She has worked with an array of patient populations and treats conditions including mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Linda Kim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/bf3ad118-381a-45b4-a02e-2d1eda3784c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. Patients state that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. Patients state that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them.
![Photo of Michael Ireland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/82c24363-1f92-4688-83ca-a0fa2c6b881a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael is an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He received his master's degree from Walden University, and his bachelor's degree at Drexel University with additional credits in digital art and design. Michael offers diagnostic evaluations, medication management as well as basic psychotherapy services. His services are built around a patient-centered care model combined with evidence-based and collaborative pharmacological treatment. He has special interests in the treatment of Personality Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, as well as Substance Use Disorders.
Michael is an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He received his master's degree from Walden University, and his bachelor's degree at Drexel University with additional credits in digital art and design. Michael offers diagnostic evaluations, medication management as well as basic psychotherapy services. His services are built around a patient-centered care model combined with evidence-based and collaborative pharmacological treatment. He has special interests in the treatment of Personality Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, as well as Substance Use Disorders.
![Photo of Molly Robinson, DO, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/0301b156-b00e-42e5-ad4a-fa31c375f239/1/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Robinson is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. Molly believes that communication is key when it comes to developing a treatment plan. She always strives to have an open communication style and enjoys teaching her patients about their mental illness so that they can better work together as a team to find the best treatment plan that works for them. Outside of work, Molly enjoys creative writing, movies, books, animals, trivia, and the ukulele.
Molly Robinson is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. Molly believes that communication is key when it comes to developing a treatment plan. She always strives to have an open communication style and enjoys teaching her patients about their mental illness so that they can better work together as a team to find the best treatment plan that works for them. Outside of work, Molly enjoys creative writing, movies, books, animals, trivia, and the ukulele.
![Photo of Andrew Peshek - Spark TMS Therapy Philadelphia, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/4c91a69c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is an FDA-Approved (2008) treatment for patients suffering from treatment resistant major depression, offering an alternative to treatment resistant medication. TMS is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare. The TMS protocol offered at Spark TMS is established for the patient under the direct supervision of Andrew Peshek, M.D. Dr. Peshek has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. He obtained his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, and then completed his residency and fellowship at The University of Pennsylvania.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is an FDA-Approved (2008) treatment for patients suffering from treatment resistant major depression, offering an alternative to treatment resistant medication. TMS is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare. The TMS protocol offered at Spark TMS is established for the patient under the direct supervision of Andrew Peshek, M.D. Dr. Peshek has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. He obtained his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, and then completed his residency and fellowship at The University of Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Christine Wolfe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/ab437a10-609b-44ee-868c-63726c33ece8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wolfe is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry. She completed both medical school and residency training at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. In addition to her clinical role, she serves as Regional Medical Director for Lifestance Health in Pennsylvania. Having experience in multiple psychiatric settings, Dr. Wolfe appreciates the wide range of how psychiatric illness can present and the importance of individualized treatment plans.
Dr. Wolfe is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry. She completed both medical school and residency training at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. In addition to her clinical role, she serves as Regional Medical Director for Lifestance Health in Pennsylvania. Having experience in multiple psychiatric settings, Dr. Wolfe appreciates the wide range of how psychiatric illness can present and the importance of individualized treatment plans.
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![Photo of Sonia Alam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/575a393c-cb93-43a2-8861-4b537aa71471/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with each client to come up with the best treatment plan for you. I like to be flexible in my approach. I focus on med management and I highly encourage therapy as a co treatment. I often recommend optimizing sleep whether that involves a sleep study, medication or therapeutic techniques. I encourage patients to help me communicate with their therapists. I value exercise and nutrition and like to help patients make goals towards optimal health.
I work with each client to come up with the best treatment plan for you. I like to be flexible in my approach. I focus on med management and I highly encourage therapy as a co treatment. I often recommend optimizing sleep whether that involves a sleep study, medication or therapeutic techniques. I encourage patients to help me communicate with their therapists. I value exercise and nutrition and like to help patients make goals towards optimal health.
![Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/c5d11f64-a6fb-4ba0-aec2-cedfdcf4860e/2/320x400.jpeg)
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP-B, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/70614548-733f-4dab-978a-12b906217006/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, B-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Erica Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/83e85e22-3491-414a-ad53-1d8ab4083740/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Erica Johnson is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Pennsylvania. She completed her Bachelors of Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, P.A. She recieved her Masters of Nursing in Psychiatry from Walden University. She has over 11 years in the field of Nursing.
Erica Johnson is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Pennsylvania. She completed her Bachelors of Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, P.A. She recieved her Masters of Nursing in Psychiatry from Walden University. She has over 11 years in the field of Nursing.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/97a8fb16-b2ac-4055-b63b-a1614e87693d/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Katelin Crane, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff4a38f-07aa-4a77-ae31-4834a0a21da8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katelin Crane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
![Photo of Yun Mi Kim, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/54cb5877-5e6c-4212-b7ba-cab1bda10a31/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yun Mi Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Online Only)
Yun Mi is board certified in psychiatry. She offers diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and genetic testing services to those 18+. She believes in providing patient-led care in an environment that is validating, compassionate, and free of judgment. Yun Mi is a firm believer that diagnoses do not define an individual. Her approach to psychopharmacological treatment is evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative. She takes her time to provide optimal care, and her overall goal is to help her patients achieve psychological well-being and the quality of life they deserve.
Yun Mi is board certified in psychiatry. She offers diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and genetic testing services to those 18+. She believes in providing patient-led care in an environment that is validating, compassionate, and free of judgment. Yun Mi is a firm believer that diagnoses do not define an individual. Her approach to psychopharmacological treatment is evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative. She takes her time to provide optimal care, and her overall goal is to help her patients achieve psychological well-being and the quality of life they deserve.
![Photo of Bianca Previdi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/8ea5a04e-fcb2-41bb-b6c2-077afb251c6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a psychiatrist and therapist, trained at Jefferson Medical and University of Pennsylvania, currently working at my private practice in center city. I offer comprehensive psychiatric treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, and seek to provide an individualized approach through therapy (with or without) medications. I have received additional post-graduate training in therapy at the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia and practice insight-oriented psychotherapy. My goal is to provide compassionate, professional care, and to truly understand the person seeking my help, and collaborate with them.
Hi! I am a psychiatrist and therapist, trained at Jefferson Medical and University of Pennsylvania, currently working at my private practice in center city. I offer comprehensive psychiatric treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, and seek to provide an individualized approach through therapy (with or without) medications. I have received additional post-graduate training in therapy at the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia and practice insight-oriented psychotherapy. My goal is to provide compassionate, professional care, and to truly understand the person seeking my help, and collaborate with them.
![Photo of Chris Pagnani - Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, Psychiatrist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/4de0593c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
- Bala Cynwyd
- Bryn Mawr
- Drexel Hill
- Gladwyne
- Haverford
- Havertown
- Jenkintown
- Narberth
- Springfield
- Upper Darby
- Wynnewood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
200+
Average cost per session
$222
Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Medication Management |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Philadelphia?
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.