Psychiatrists in Reston, VA

Photo of Imran Akram, MD, Psychiatrist
Imran Akram
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
My approach is to focus on the whole patient and follow evidence-based treatment guidelines and bring about a positive change. I treat patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Trauma, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) & complex PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep problems, Autism spectrum disorder, Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), dementias and women's mental health such as post partum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) . I also discuss treatment options like Ketamine for severe depression.
My approach is to focus on the whole patient and follow evidence-based treatment guidelines and bring about a positive change. I treat patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Trauma, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) & complex PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep problems, Autism spectrum disorder, Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), dementias and women's mental health such as post partum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) . I also discuss treatment options like Ketamine for severe depression.
(703) 962-1442 View (703) 962-1442
Photo of Sahar Zaidi, MD, Psychiatrist
Sahar Zaidi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with the compassion to provide personalized and integrated care. I understand the importance of treating the whole person and addressing their physical, emotional, and social well-being. By honoring everyone’s unique strengths and experiences, I strive to provide comprehensive care that encompasses all aspects of their health. Utilizing evidence-based methods, my commitment is to deliver the highest quality care to each patient I work with.
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with the compassion to provide personalized and integrated care. I understand the importance of treating the whole person and addressing their physical, emotional, and social well-being. By honoring everyone’s unique strengths and experiences, I strive to provide comprehensive care that encompasses all aspects of their health. Utilizing evidence-based methods, my commitment is to deliver the highest quality care to each patient I work with.
(703) 991-0564 View (703) 991-0564
Photo of Larry H Pastor, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Larry H Pastor
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
We all want the same qualities in our doctor, summed up as “the four A’s:” Able, Available, Approachable, and Affordable. For the past three decades I’ve tried to earn “all A’s” from my patients; please go to my website, www.mindbrainpsychiatry.com, and see for yourself, if you’re seeking help for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or addictions.
We all want the same qualities in our doctor, summed up as “the four A’s:” Able, Available, Approachable, and Affordable. For the past three decades I’ve tried to earn “all A’s” from my patients; please go to my website, www.mindbrainpsychiatry.com, and see for yourself, if you’re seeking help for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or addictions.
(571) 620-6584 View (571) 620-6584
Photo of Dr. Cordelia Nieketien-Tawari, DNP, APRN-BC, LNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Cordelia Nieketien-Tawari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, LNP
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
Dr. Cordelia Nieketien-Tawari is a licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from UMASS. She has 20+ years of experience in providing mental healthcare in medication management and therapy services. She has expertise in treating life span-children to the elderly patients. Her medication management regimen maximizes medication efficacy and minimizes side effects. her the treating disorders includes: anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, psychosis and schizophrenia. She practices with exceptional professionalism, respect and caring to all patients
Dr. Cordelia Nieketien-Tawari is a licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from UMASS. She has 20+ years of experience in providing mental healthcare in medication management and therapy services. She has expertise in treating life span-children to the elderly patients. Her medication management regimen maximizes medication efficacy and minimizes side effects. her the treating disorders includes: anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorder, bipolar disorder, psychosis and schizophrenia. She practices with exceptional professionalism, respect and caring to all patients
(571) 290-2445 View (571) 290-2445
Photo of Stephanie Waggel - Improve Life PLLC, Psychiatrist
Improve Life PLLC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Improve Life provides medication management, therapy, and wellness strategies to children 12 and older, pregnant mothers, young adults, and women anywhere in Virginia. We also diagnose and treat ADHD in men and women of all ages. Next day appointments are usually available (as long as you do the paperwork). Come improve your life with us with one of our two highly experienced psychiatrists and/or our in-house therapist!
Improve Life provides medication management, therapy, and wellness strategies to children 12 and older, pregnant mothers, young adults, and women anywhere in Virginia. We also diagnose and treat ADHD in men and women of all ages. Next day appointments are usually available (as long as you do the paperwork). Come improve your life with us with one of our two highly experienced psychiatrists and/or our in-house therapist!
(571) 496-8208 View (571) 496-8208
Photo of Stephanie Waggel, MD, MS, PMH-C, Psychiatrist
Stephanie Waggel
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Allow me to help improve your life. I am a psychiatrist in Reston, Virginia with degrees in psychology, biology, and medicine. I can see patients from anywhere in Virginia. I have 17+ years of experience in mental health. I am one of three physicians in Virginia trained in perinatal mental health. My special focus is on women, mood, anxiety, ADHD testing AND treatment, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, and more! I am a mother, author, motivational speaker, teacher, cancer survivor, marathon runner, medical student advisor, martial artist and founder of Improve Medical Culture. Learn more at www.ImproveLifePLLC.com
Allow me to help improve your life. I am a psychiatrist in Reston, Virginia with degrees in psychology, biology, and medicine. I can see patients from anywhere in Virginia. I have 17+ years of experience in mental health. I am one of three physicians in Virginia trained in perinatal mental health. My special focus is on women, mood, anxiety, ADHD testing AND treatment, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, and more! I am a mother, author, motivational speaker, teacher, cancer survivor, marathon runner, medical student advisor, martial artist and founder of Improve Medical Culture. Learn more at www.ImproveLifePLLC.com
(703) 763-0884 View (703) 763-0884
Photo of Gianna Kang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gianna Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Gianna is a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in mental health and psychiatric conditions. Upon completion of her Master’s in Nursing from Georgetown University, Gianna has worked with individuals and families in outpatient, inpatient, trauma, and critical care settings.
Gianna is a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in mental health and psychiatric conditions. Upon completion of her Master’s in Nursing from Georgetown University, Gianna has worked with individuals and families in outpatient, inpatient, trauma, and critical care settings.
(571) 536-6261 View (571) 536-6261
Photo of Kenatta Bethea, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kenatta Bethea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My ideal client is an individual that is open and motivated for treatment. Healing requires hardwork and dedication. It is important for them to understand that healing is a journey and is not accomplished overnight. I will be an active participant in the healing journey, but I will not be the only participant. Therefore, it is highly important that the individual is committed to the process. I am not a "pill pushing provider" so it is also important to understand and open to therapy being involved in your treatment.
My ideal client is an individual that is open and motivated for treatment. Healing requires hardwork and dedication. It is important for them to understand that healing is a journey and is not accomplished overnight. I will be an active participant in the healing journey, but I will not be the only participant. Therefore, it is highly important that the individual is committed to the process. I am not a "pill pushing provider" so it is also important to understand and open to therapy being involved in your treatment.
(571) 497-4207 View (571) 497-4207
Photo of Blandine (Didi) Yacinthus, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blandine (Didi) Yacinthus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) who is deeply committed and enjoys providing high quality and holistic care via in person appointments and telemedicine. I offer both medication management and psychotherapy to individuals across the lifespan suffering from Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) who is deeply committed and enjoys providing high quality and holistic care via in person appointments and telemedicine. I offer both medication management and psychotherapy to individuals across the lifespan suffering from Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
(571) 568-7089 View (571) 568-7089
Photo of Grace Lee, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Grace Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Grace is a certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia. She received her Master's degree in Nursing from the University of Virginia. Grace envisions to provide mental health services to adolescents and adults in managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. Her care goal especially focuses on the vulnerable population such as women and minority. She is culturally-sensitive and can provide bilingual care in English and Korean. Grace emphasizes the importance of holistic approach in working with her clients.
Grace is a certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia. She received her Master's degree in Nursing from the University of Virginia. Grace envisions to provide mental health services to adolescents and adults in managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. Her care goal especially focuses on the vulnerable population such as women and minority. She is culturally-sensitive and can provide bilingual care in English and Korean. Grace emphasizes the importance of holistic approach in working with her clients.
(571) 497-5318 View (571) 497-5318
Photo of Anjali Shankar, MD, Psychiatrist
Anjali Shankar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Dr. Anjali Shankar is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor’s Degree (Behavioral Biology and French) from Johns Hopkins University and a Doctorate of Medicine from Florida International University. Dr. Shankar uses a combination of medication management and therapeutic techniques to help patients. She strongly believes that therapy alongside medications is the most effective and durable form of treatment. Dr. Shankar has experience treating patients of a wide variety of ages and diagnoses.
Dr. Anjali Shankar is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor’s Degree (Behavioral Biology and French) from Johns Hopkins University and a Doctorate of Medicine from Florida International University. Dr. Shankar uses a combination of medication management and therapeutic techniques to help patients. She strongly believes that therapy alongside medications is the most effective and durable form of treatment. Dr. Shankar has experience treating patients of a wide variety of ages and diagnoses.
(571) 609-3628 View (571) 609-3628
Photo of Jessica Schafer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Schafer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
I would like to first welcome you, whether this is your first step to improving your mental health or a path you may have been on before. I’m here to support you in achieving your mental health goals and improving your quality of life. I am available to meet both via telehealth or in person and look forward to assisting in creating a tailored treatment approach to any needs you may have.
I would like to first welcome you, whether this is your first step to improving your mental health or a path you may have been on before. I’m here to support you in achieving your mental health goals and improving your quality of life. I am available to meet both via telehealth or in person and look forward to assisting in creating a tailored treatment approach to any needs you may have.
(571) 554-6829 View (571) 554-6829
Photo of Heidi Cook - My Psychiatrist PLC, MA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
My Psychiatrist PLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
Heidi offers a place for patients to feel welcomed, heard, and supported. She also provides patients with competent treatment plans. Frequent appointments are available for titrating medications quickly and effectively along with mental health check-ins.
Heidi offers a place for patients to feel welcomed, heard, and supported. She also provides patients with competent treatment plans. Frequent appointments are available for titrating medications quickly and effectively along with mental health check-ins.
(571) 556-9185 View (571) 556-9185
Photo of Jennifer Chow - My Psychiatrist PLC, MD, Psychiatrist
My Psychiatrist PLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
The clinical team at My Psychiatrist is skilled in treating a wide variety of mental health issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, family conflicts, and interpersonal issues. Our team consists of licensed psychologists, licensed professional therapist, a physician's assistant, nurse practitioner and board certified adult psychiatrists.
The clinical team at My Psychiatrist is skilled in treating a wide variety of mental health issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, family conflicts, and interpersonal issues. Our team consists of licensed psychologists, licensed professional therapist, a physician's assistant, nurse practitioner and board certified adult psychiatrists.
(571) 487-7368 View (571) 487-7368
Photo of Alicia Ciliezar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Ciliezar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
(571) 570-9259 View (571) 570-9259
Photo of Ksenia Pillai, MD, Psychiatrist
Ksenia Pillai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190  (Online Only)
I want you to know that your well-being is my priority. Feel free to share what you need – I'm here to support you every step of the way. Whether it's medication management or therapy tailored to your unique experiences, I'm dedicated to crafting a plan that suits you best. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am deeply committed to understanding and addressing the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys. Let's work together towards your mental wellness, empowering you to thrive in every aspect of your life. I accept most insurances.
I want you to know that your well-being is my priority. Feel free to share what you need – I'm here to support you every step of the way. Whether it's medication management or therapy tailored to your unique experiences, I'm dedicated to crafting a plan that suits you best. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am deeply committed to understanding and addressing the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys. Let's work together towards your mental wellness, empowering you to thrive in every aspect of your life. I accept most insurances.
(703) 873-7409 View (703) 873-7409
Photo of Dr. Madeleine Wilson Hao - NOVA Family Health: Holistic Psychiatric Care, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
NOVA Family Health: Holistic Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Our ideal clients are individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, seeking compassionate support. They may struggle with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, or other issues, and desire sustainable, long-term solutions for their well-being. These clients want a provider who listens, understands their unique circumstances, and offers tailored, evidence-based care. They are motivated to engage more fully in life, striving for a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle, and recognize the importance of a holistic approach to mental health.
Our ideal clients are individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, seeking compassionate support. They may struggle with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, or other issues, and desire sustainable, long-term solutions for their well-being. These clients want a provider who listens, understands their unique circumstances, and offers tailored, evidence-based care. They are motivated to engage more fully in life, striving for a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle, and recognize the importance of a holistic approach to mental health.
(540) 452-9193 View (540) 452-9193
Photo of Thaddeus Garland - Thaddeus M Garland MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Thaddeus M Garland MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Through Telemedicine, I enjoy getting to know my clients and helping them discover how to lead better lives from the comfort of home. I treat clients of all ages and issues and have special interests in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder and Schizoprenia.
Through Telemedicine, I enjoy getting to know my clients and helping them discover how to lead better lives from the comfort of home. I treat clients of all ages and issues and have special interests in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder and Schizoprenia.
(833) 211-4745 View (833) 211-4745
Photo of Milt Anderson, MD, Psychiatrist
Milt Anderson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Dr. Milt Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 1992. He earned his M.D. at Washington University School of Medicine, completed his Internship and General Psychiatry Residency and his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Walter Reed Medical Center. Dr. Anderson is usually quickly able to forge a working alliance with clients and move fairly quickly from "intake mode" to "problem solving mode," even as the extended evaluation of a complex problem progresses.
Dr. Milt Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 1992. He earned his M.D. at Washington University School of Medicine, completed his Internship and General Psychiatry Residency and his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Walter Reed Medical Center. Dr. Anderson is usually quickly able to forge a working alliance with clients and move fairly quickly from "intake mode" to "problem solving mode," even as the extended evaluation of a complex problem progresses.
(571) 701-1654 View (571) 701-1654
Photo of Madeleine Wilson Hao, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeleine Wilson Hao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Dr. Madeleine Wilson Hao is a doctorally prepared, double board-certified nurse practitioner with 10+ years of clinical experience, specializing in both psychiatry and family medicine. At NOVA Family Health, we will take the time needed to understand each client and family's unique circumstances and tailoring our approaches accordingly. Our clients are motivated to engage more fully in life, and seek supportive, evidence-based, personalized interventions. Seeking more than symptom relief and quick fixes; our clients seek partnership in working towards longterm fulfillment and a productive, balanced lifestyle.
Dr. Madeleine Wilson Hao is a doctorally prepared, double board-certified nurse practitioner with 10+ years of clinical experience, specializing in both psychiatry and family medicine. At NOVA Family Health, we will take the time needed to understand each client and family's unique circumstances and tailoring our approaches accordingly. Our clients are motivated to engage more fully in life, and seek supportive, evidence-based, personalized interventions. Seeking more than symptom relief and quick fixes; our clients seek partnership in working towards longterm fulfillment and a productive, balanced lifestyle.
(571) 946-4476 View (571) 946-4476
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Reston, VA

30+

Average cost per session

$195

Psychiatrists in Reston, VA who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
92% Anxiety
86% ADHD
81% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
81% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management
72% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Cigna and Evernorth
81% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Reston, VA see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Reston?

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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