Psychiatrists in Brentwood, TN

Photo of Teresa Arnold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 6 years of nursing experience and 2 years of experience in psychiatry. My nursing background is in critical care, and I have experience treating high-acuity and high-risk patient populations across neurological, surgical, medical, trauma, and cardiac intensive-care settings. I transitioned into psychiatry due to my experience with vulnerable mentally ill and substance -addicted populations experiencing acute illness as a result of many years without adequate psychiatric care.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 6 years of nursing experience and 2 years of experience in psychiatry. My nursing background is in critical care, and I have experience treating high-acuity and high-risk patient populations across neurological, surgical, medical, trauma, and cardiac intensive-care settings. I transitioned into psychiatry due to my experience with vulnerable mentally ill and substance -addicted populations experiencing acute illness as a result of many years without adequate psychiatric care.
(615) 437-9767 View (615) 437-9767
Photo of Caleb Gulley, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caleb Gulley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Caleb is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the medical management of mental illness across the lifespan. He uses an evidence-based, patient-centered approach to treatment. Through assessment of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a condition, he is better able to understand concerns and recommend effective treatment for recovery. The goal is to connect you with the therapies you need to live life more fully.
Caleb is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the medical management of mental illness across the lifespan. He uses an evidence-based, patient-centered approach to treatment. Through assessment of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a condition, he is better able to understand concerns and recommend effective treatment for recovery. The goal is to connect you with the therapies you need to live life more fully.
(931) 283-2484 View (931) 283-2484
Photo of Angela Wood, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Angela Wood, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides diagnostic services and medication management for patients with mental health disorders. She graduated from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing with a specialty in mental health in 1999. She has been practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2000.
Angela Wood, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides diagnostic services and medication management for patients with mental health disorders. She graduated from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing with a specialty in mental health in 1999. She has been practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2000.
(615) 903-0127 View (615) 903-0127
Photo of Elise Scott - Elise Scott, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Elise Scott, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I believe connection is the foundation of healing, and strong therapeutic relationships begin from a place of compassion and mutual respect. You are the expert of your mind and body, and I am an experienced partner when stress and mental illness get in the way of a healthy and joyful life. I take a holistic, neuroscience-informed, and integrated approach to mental health treatment, combining a thorough medical assessment with open-minded listening, psychotherapy, lifestyle interventions, and brain-based medication management to help individuals heal, grow, and work toward authentic, value-driven lives.
I believe connection is the foundation of healing, and strong therapeutic relationships begin from a place of compassion and mutual respect. You are the expert of your mind and body, and I am an experienced partner when stress and mental illness get in the way of a healthy and joyful life. I take a holistic, neuroscience-informed, and integrated approach to mental health treatment, combining a thorough medical assessment with open-minded listening, psychotherapy, lifestyle interventions, and brain-based medication management to help individuals heal, grow, and work toward authentic, value-driven lives.
(629) 263-7573 View (629) 263-7573
Photo of Rachel Ortiz - Ruby Mental Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruby Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Are you feeling stuck in a mental health rut? Tired of the same old strategies that just aren't working? Maybe you're navigating life transitions or struggling with persistent symptoms. At Ruby Mental Wellness, we understand the frustration of feeling like you're on your own. We offer a collaborative approach to mental health, combining medication management with lifestyle support and practical coping skills. If you're ready to invest in your well-being and create lasting change, we're here to partner with you on your journey. Our convenient virtual appointments and in-network insurance make accessing care easy and affordable.
Are you feeling stuck in a mental health rut? Tired of the same old strategies that just aren't working? Maybe you're navigating life transitions or struggling with persistent symptoms. At Ruby Mental Wellness, we understand the frustration of feeling like you're on your own. We offer a collaborative approach to mental health, combining medication management with lifestyle support and practical coping skills. If you're ready to invest in your well-being and create lasting change, we're here to partner with you on your journey. Our convenient virtual appointments and in-network insurance make accessing care easy and affordable.
(629) 263-5808 View (629) 263-5808
Photo of Heather Brown, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Heather Brown
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Welcome! I am a board-certified Physician Assistant. Making your mental health a priority can be intimidating and a difficult first step. My goal is to make you feel comfortable during this process by being kind, compassionate, and humble so my patients can achieve total mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. I work with children and adults and find it delightful to see my patients happy, motivated, and living their best lives.
Welcome! I am a board-certified Physician Assistant. Making your mental health a priority can be intimidating and a difficult first step. My goal is to make you feel comfortable during this process by being kind, compassionate, and humble so my patients can achieve total mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. I work with children and adults and find it delightful to see my patients happy, motivated, and living their best lives.
(629) 276-9345 View (629) 276-9345
Photo of Eboni D. Burns, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eboni D. Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Mrs. Eboni Burns is a board-certified PMHNP whose goal is to continue to be an oasis of hope within the community by serving as a compassionate clinician to individuals throughout lifespan. Eboni has served eleven years within the mental health field and is passionate about helping individuals reach their personal goals by using a holistic approach with medication and non-medication-based interventions. Eboni obtained a Bachelors of Nursing from Belmont University and completed her Masters of Science from the University of Tennessee. She also holds a Master's in Business Administration from Bethel University.
Mrs. Eboni Burns is a board-certified PMHNP whose goal is to continue to be an oasis of hope within the community by serving as a compassionate clinician to individuals throughout lifespan. Eboni has served eleven years within the mental health field and is passionate about helping individuals reach their personal goals by using a holistic approach with medication and non-medication-based interventions. Eboni obtained a Bachelors of Nursing from Belmont University and completed her Masters of Science from the University of Tennessee. She also holds a Master's in Business Administration from Bethel University.
(629) 249-6925 View (629) 249-6925
Photo of Brandon D Teeftaller, APN, RN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Brandon D Teeftaller
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, RN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in treating a wide variety of mental illness in adolescents and adults. In the last 20 years, I have developed a special interest in helping individuals achieve personal goals. I support and assist clients to develop a healthy self. It is my goal each day to help individuals improve their daily functioning. I believe the combination of medication management and brief psychotherapy offers clients the best tools for success. I work hard with each client offering my expertise in both areas to maximize his/her potential for holistic growth.
I specialize in treating a wide variety of mental illness in adolescents and adults. In the last 20 years, I have developed a special interest in helping individuals achieve personal goals. I support and assist clients to develop a healthy self. It is my goal each day to help individuals improve their daily functioning. I believe the combination of medication management and brief psychotherapy offers clients the best tools for success. I work hard with each client offering my expertise in both areas to maximize his/her potential for holistic growth.
(615) 745-1107 View (615) 745-1107
Photo of Markeshe Wood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Markeshe Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Tennessee. I am a dually certified provider and received my Masters in psychiatric mental health from the University of Maryville. I help clients struggling with mental health disorders and medication management become the best versions of themselves. Disorders include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Tennessee. I am a dually certified provider and received my Masters in psychiatric mental health from the University of Maryville. I help clients struggling with mental health disorders and medication management become the best versions of themselves. Disorders include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and bipolar disorder.
(629) 302-1424 View (629) 302-1424
Photo of Sricharan Moturi, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Sricharan Moturi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
My predominant clinical focuses include areas of Childhood and adult Sleep Disorders, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ ADHD), Mood& Anxiety Disorders, Early-onset Psychotic Disorders and Psychopharmacology (medication use). I believe in conservative medication management, holistic approaches, and building healthy lifestyles through sleep-wake training. I hope to bring a new perspective to how to tackle mental health and sleep issues that affect you personally, within your family or your workplace. Please click on my website for more info on how to set up an appointment. (Adult Psychiatry, Child& Adolescent Psychiatry, Adult and Pediatric Sleep Medicine)
My predominant clinical focuses include areas of Childhood and adult Sleep Disorders, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ ADHD), Mood& Anxiety Disorders, Early-onset Psychotic Disorders and Psychopharmacology (medication use). I believe in conservative medication management, holistic approaches, and building healthy lifestyles through sleep-wake training. I hope to bring a new perspective to how to tackle mental health and sleep issues that affect you personally, within your family or your workplace. Please click on my website for more info on how to set up an appointment. (Adult Psychiatry, Child& Adolescent Psychiatry, Adult and Pediatric Sleep Medicine)
(615) 229-6187 View (615) 229-6187
Photo of Kindril Climer, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kindril Climer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Kindril is a certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Prior to transitioning to mental health, she worked as a family nurse practitioner. Her background in primary care laid the foundation for her encouraging, holistic approach to mental health. In addition to utilizing evidence-based medication, individuals are empowered to set achievable goals related to nutrition, movement, and sleep hygiene to optimize overall health and wellness.
Kindril is a certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Prior to transitioning to mental health, she worked as a family nurse practitioner. Her background in primary care laid the foundation for her encouraging, holistic approach to mental health. In addition to utilizing evidence-based medication, individuals are empowered to set achievable goals related to nutrition, movement, and sleep hygiene to optimize overall health and wellness.
(865) 505-7885 View (865) 505-7885
Photo of Sonya Curtis, BSN, RN, SEP, Psychiatric Nurse
Sonya Curtis
Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, RN, SEP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and a Health Coach trained through the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Vanderbilt. Using SE as a foundation, I work to help clients enhance nervous system regulation, develop safety in connecting with their own body, and create an innate sense of stability and trust from within.
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and a Health Coach trained through the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Vanderbilt. Using SE as a foundation, I work to help clients enhance nervous system regulation, develop safety in connecting with their own body, and create an innate sense of stability and trust from within.
(629) 284-2607 View (629) 284-2607
Photo of Madelaine Long, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Madelaine Long
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Hi there! I would love the opportunity to assist you in managing your psychiatric medication and providing a tailored approach to your individual needs. I diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders with a holistic view in mind. I have a "less is more" mindset in regard to medication and want to help you achieve your goals with not just medication, but other avenues as well. I believe in looking at the big picture and ensuring that lab values, lifestyle habits, supplements and therapies are also taken into account. Please feel free to email me for an appointment.
Hi there! I would love the opportunity to assist you in managing your psychiatric medication and providing a tailored approach to your individual needs. I diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders with a holistic view in mind. I have a "less is more" mindset in regard to medication and want to help you achieve your goals with not just medication, but other avenues as well. I believe in looking at the big picture and ensuring that lab values, lifestyle habits, supplements and therapies are also taken into account. Please feel free to email me for an appointment.
(629) 263-4202 View (629) 263-4202
Photo of Alexandria Adams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexandria Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Let's face it, your mental health impacts every aspect of your health and wellness. I recognize that completely and look forward to connecting you with various treatment options to meet your individual needs. I am committed to working with you to create a realistic and sustainable path to mental wellness.
Let's face it, your mental health impacts every aspect of your health and wellness. I recognize that completely and look forward to connecting you with various treatment options to meet your individual needs. I am committed to working with you to create a realistic and sustainable path to mental wellness.
(629) 201-4044 View (629) 201-4044
Photo of Eric Rueth - True Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
True Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
True Psychiatry is a gold-standard outpatient private practice combining eclectic therapy and expert medication management with one experienced, down to earth, intuitive, and ABPN board certified psychiatrist for all your therapy and medication needs. If you have a therapist you already like, care will actively be coordinated to provide the best care possible. Dr. Eric Rueth has served in medical directorship positions at both NYU in New York City and Vanderbilt University here in Nashville. Now his experience will be brought directly to the care of a small number of outpatients through True Psychiatry.
True Psychiatry is a gold-standard outpatient private practice combining eclectic therapy and expert medication management with one experienced, down to earth, intuitive, and ABPN board certified psychiatrist for all your therapy and medication needs. If you have a therapist you already like, care will actively be coordinated to provide the best care possible. Dr. Eric Rueth has served in medical directorship positions at both NYU in New York City and Vanderbilt University here in Nashville. Now his experience will be brought directly to the care of a small number of outpatients through True Psychiatry.
(615) 471-7326 View (615) 471-7326
Photo of Judy Allen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judy Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Judy Allen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. She is also Board Certified. Judy has more than 29 years of experience providing care to those suffering from mental illness. She treats clients with compassion, respect, and dignity, while meeting them where they are. She takes the time to get to know the client so she can treat the person and not just the disorder. In her spare time, Judy enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and cooking.
Judy Allen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. She is also Board Certified. Judy has more than 29 years of experience providing care to those suffering from mental illness. She treats clients with compassion, respect, and dignity, while meeting them where they are. She takes the time to get to know the client so she can treat the person and not just the disorder. In her spare time, Judy enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and cooking.
(615) 437-8135 View (615) 437-8135
Photo of Theresa Wilson - Stepping Stones Psychiatric Services, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stepping Stones Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Theresa Wilson is a Tennessee licensed board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority, specializing in a wide range of psychiatric services to patients across the life span. Her areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, behavioral issues, thought disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum, addictions, abuse, and trauma. No person should be defined by their diagnosis. Theresa embraces everyone's uniqueness. She delivers a personalized treatment plan tailored to fit each individual needs.
Theresa Wilson is a Tennessee licensed board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority, specializing in a wide range of psychiatric services to patients across the life span. Her areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, behavioral issues, thought disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum, addictions, abuse, and trauma. No person should be defined by their diagnosis. Theresa embraces everyone's uniqueness. She delivers a personalized treatment plan tailored to fit each individual needs.
(615) 374-7735 View (615) 374-7735
Photo of Betty Jane Kohal, DNP, PMHCNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Betty Jane Kohal
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I have been in private practice for over 30 years and my best source of referrals are satisfied clients. I work with individuals experiencing all aspects of trauma, grief, bereavement concerns and assist them into recovery. I use a variety of approaches in my therapy with the core being cognitive psychotherapy. I am experienced in marital therapy and assisting individuals to meet their goals. I also have much experience assisting individuals with both depression and anxiety finding healthy coping mechanisms so they can be at their optimum level of functioning. I strive to see clients on a regular basis.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years and my best source of referrals are satisfied clients. I work with individuals experiencing all aspects of trauma, grief, bereavement concerns and assist them into recovery. I use a variety of approaches in my therapy with the core being cognitive psychotherapy. I am experienced in marital therapy and assisting individuals to meet their goals. I also have much experience assisting individuals with both depression and anxiety finding healthy coping mechanisms so they can be at their optimum level of functioning. I strive to see clients on a regular basis.
(615) 987-0993 View (615) 987-0993
Photo of Leslie Binford, DNP, RN, PHMNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leslie Binford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PHMNPBC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Many patients are hesitant when first introduced to the idea of taking medication. At Tennessee Reproductive Therapy, we understand that this is a deeply personal decision. We understand that every woman is unique and we will create a medication management plan tailored to your unique needs. Our thorough and compassionate approach to medication management involves carefully evaluating your needs and creating a treatment plan that is specific to you and your situation. Different from other medication providers, Leslie will spend a full 60 minutes with each client, getting to know you, your needs and your desires for treatment.
Many patients are hesitant when first introduced to the idea of taking medication. At Tennessee Reproductive Therapy, we understand that this is a deeply personal decision. We understand that every woman is unique and we will create a medication management plan tailored to your unique needs. Our thorough and compassionate approach to medication management involves carefully evaluating your needs and creating a treatment plan that is specific to you and your situation. Different from other medication providers, Leslie will spend a full 60 minutes with each client, getting to know you, your needs and your desires for treatment.
(615) 857-3886 View (615) 857-3886
Photo of Victoria Maclellan, PMHMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Maclellan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe in holistic care, which emphasizes treating the mind, body, and spirit. It can be very scary to reach out for help, and often difficult to open up about our needs. My goal is to create a space for everyone to feel safe and welcome, so that they can receive the care they deserve. As a provider at Family Care Center, I offer medication management. Medication is a powerful tool that can aid you in your mental health journey. Medication reduces/ treats our symptoms, allowing us to feel healthier in order to dive into simultaneous treatments, such as meditation and therapy.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe in holistic care, which emphasizes treating the mind, body, and spirit. It can be very scary to reach out for help, and often difficult to open up about our needs. My goal is to create a space for everyone to feel safe and welcome, so that they can receive the care they deserve. As a provider at Family Care Center, I offer medication management. Medication is a powerful tool that can aid you in your mental health journey. Medication reduces/ treats our symptoms, allowing us to feel healthier in order to dive into simultaneous treatments, such as meditation and therapy.
(629) 400-8037 View (629) 400-8037
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Brentwood, TN

70+

Average cost per session

$237

Psychiatrists in Brentwood, TN who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
74% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
86% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Brentwood, TN see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Brentwood?

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.

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