Psychiatrists in Springfield, OR
Lucia Kilday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, OR 97477
Welcome! I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from The George Washington University. I have over a decade of experience in healthcare including nursing experience in the emergency department, as a sexual assault nurse examiner, and in substance use and inpatient eating disorder treatment. I have a trauma-informed approach and treat people of every educational, socioeconomic, and ethnic background, as well as every sexual orientation. I treat patients ages 16 and up in the states of OR, WA, and UT. In-person availability in Eugene, OR.
Welcome! I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from The George Washington University. I have over a decade of experience in healthcare including nursing experience in the emergency department, as a sexual assault nurse examiner, and in substance use and inpatient eating disorder treatment. I have a trauma-informed approach and treat people of every educational, socioeconomic, and ethnic background, as well as every sexual orientation. I treat patients ages 16 and up in the states of OR, WA, and UT. In-person availability in Eugene, OR.
Jeffrey Sperla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, OR 97478
I see people in the office, not just telehealth! In my opinion, psychiatry/therapy should be in person to foster good communication and connection. I treat all mental health disorders. I also aim to help those treated poorly in the past by other health care providers. I try to unlock resilience, independence, and problem solving, with or without medications. I help people find inner strength and unleash power they have within themselves. Women who have been oppressed need a voice. Everyone should have an enjoyable life with good balance. I will coach you through stressful times and encourage you to lean on healthy relationships.
I see people in the office, not just telehealth! In my opinion, psychiatry/therapy should be in person to foster good communication and connection. I treat all mental health disorders. I also aim to help those treated poorly in the past by other health care providers. I try to unlock resilience, independence, and problem solving, with or without medications. I help people find inner strength and unleash power they have within themselves. Women who have been oppressed need a voice. Everyone should have an enjoyable life with good balance. I will coach you through stressful times and encourage you to lean on healthy relationships.
Natalya Mortimer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, OR 97475
Our clients seek meaningful outcomes. They aspire to improve their well-being, enabling them to actively participate in life, achieve peak functionality, and pursue profound purpose. Natalya provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment planning tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. She has a particular interest in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders, with a focus on integrating evidence-based practices that promote resilience and positive mental health outcomes.
Our clients seek meaningful outcomes. They aspire to improve their well-being, enabling them to actively participate in life, achieve peak functionality, and pursue profound purpose. Natalya provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment planning tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. She has a particular interest in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders, with a focus on integrating evidence-based practices that promote resilience and positive mental health outcomes.
Suzanne Nieman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, OR 97478
I am interested in assisting any person who is reaching out for help in addressing their mental health issues. Ideally, they are highly motivated to improve their mental, physical and spiritual health and able to recognize that these are not separate. Open to learning new ways to truly heal their lives. They want to communicate their experience and assume responsibility for their own recovery. They want to build a trusting and collaborative partnership.
I am interested in assisting any person who is reaching out for help in addressing their mental health issues. Ideally, they are highly motivated to improve their mental, physical and spiritual health and able to recognize that these are not separate. Open to learning new ways to truly heal their lives. They want to communicate their experience and assume responsibility for their own recovery. They want to build a trusting and collaborative partnership.
Jonathan Wayne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, OR 97477 (Online Only)
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Hello! I’m Jonathan Wayne founder of LGBTQ+ Telepsychiatry and NTX. Have you ever felt judged by your family, friends or colleagues for your way of life, values, or world view? If yes, then you’re in the right place. I noticed that there weren’t many mental health options tailored to assist the specific needs for the LGBTQ+ community & as a black gay male, I knew this would be my niche.
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Hello! I’m Jonathan Wayne founder of LGBTQ+ Telepsychiatry and NTX. Have you ever felt judged by your family, friends or colleagues for your way of life, values, or world view? If yes, then you’re in the right place. I noticed that there weren’t many mental health options tailored to assist the specific needs for the LGBTQ+ community & as a black gay male, I knew this would be my niche.
Ayisha Sanda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Springfield, OR 97478 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
April Dvorak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, OR 97475
Our clients desire meaningful outcomes. They want to feel better so they can engage in their lives, function optimally, and purse deeper purpose. We can help with issues related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, symptoms of burnout, functional impairment; interpersonal problems; stress management, lifestyle, wellness.
Our clients desire meaningful outcomes. They want to feel better so they can engage in their lives, function optimally, and purse deeper purpose. We can help with issues related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, symptoms of burnout, functional impairment; interpersonal problems; stress management, lifestyle, wellness.
Jessica Yeager
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, OR 97475
I can treat a wide range of mental health and health related issues including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, general fatigue and malaise, and irritability/anger issues. I unfortunately do not specialize in ADHD though. At this time my practice is solely focused on individuals over the age of 18.
I can treat a wide range of mental health and health related issues including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, general fatigue and malaise, and irritability/anger issues. I unfortunately do not specialize in ADHD though. At this time my practice is solely focused on individuals over the age of 18.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Brandi Yund
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients! Free ADHD, genetic & neuropsychological testing available! Please call for more details. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a mission to deliver quality mental health care to individuals by providing a safe, non-judgmental environment. I have over 20 years of experience in both medical and psychiatric care settings including inpatient, outpatient, critical care, and corrections.I have experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations and have particular clinical interests in PTSD, ADHD, depression and/or anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Currently accepting new patients! Free ADHD, genetic & neuropsychological testing available! Please call for more details. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a mission to deliver quality mental health care to individuals by providing a safe, non-judgmental environment. I have over 20 years of experience in both medical and psychiatric care settings including inpatient, outpatient, critical care, and corrections.I have experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations and have particular clinical interests in PTSD, ADHD, depression and/or anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97403 (Online Only)
Schedule TODAY! Ms. Felicia envisions her ideal client as someone navigating the complexities of mental health, seeking support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, & ADHD. Her clients are individuals striving for a better quality of life, hoping to overcome personal challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness. They value a compassionate and knowledgeable professional like Ms. Felicia, who not only understands their struggles but also empowers them with personalized strategies for growth and resilience. In essence, her ideal clients are motivated individuals aiming for transformative change in their mental health journeys.
Schedule TODAY! Ms. Felicia envisions her ideal client as someone navigating the complexities of mental health, seeking support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, & ADHD. Her clients are individuals striving for a better quality of life, hoping to overcome personal challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness. They value a compassionate and knowledgeable professional like Ms. Felicia, who not only understands their struggles but also empowers them with personalized strategies for growth and resilience. In essence, her ideal clients are motivated individuals aiming for transformative change in their mental health journeys.
Kathryn Zerbe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
Angela Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401 (Online Only)
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! I work with Adults who have various mental health conditions. I have experience and specialized training in the assessment and treatment of individuals struggling with Substance use, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, Relationship issues, Grief and Loss. My main goal is to help patients find ways to manage and cope with mental illnesses. I believe that every patient is unique and different, therefore I focus on utilizing an integrative approach to help my patients achieve greater mental health and well-being.
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! I work with Adults who have various mental health conditions. I have experience and specialized training in the assessment and treatment of individuals struggling with Substance use, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, Relationship issues, Grief and Loss. My main goal is to help patients find ways to manage and cope with mental illnesses. I believe that every patient is unique and different, therefore I focus on utilizing an integrative approach to help my patients achieve greater mental health and well-being.
Dr. Tundike Gore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97403 (Online Only)
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment for women and men is my core specialty. ADHD is a "Sticky Ball", rolling as we age, picking up all kinds of symptoms. It is often misdiagnosed medically by blaming the hormones or as another mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, stress, bipolar disorder, or believing that ADHD is a childhood condition. Anxiety, panic, depression, insomnia, mood swings, anger, self blame are all symptoms of ADHD. My goal is to brighten your daily life and lift you out of the current state of misdiagnosis and medication failures that are causing unmanageable difficulties in your life.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment for women and men is my core specialty. ADHD is a "Sticky Ball", rolling as we age, picking up all kinds of symptoms. It is often misdiagnosed medically by blaming the hormones or as another mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, stress, bipolar disorder, or believing that ADHD is a childhood condition. Anxiety, panic, depression, insomnia, mood swings, anger, self blame are all symptoms of ADHD. My goal is to brighten your daily life and lift you out of the current state of misdiagnosis and medication failures that are causing unmanageable difficulties in your life.
Dr. Kelly C. Aldinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97403
APRIL 2024 - OPEN. To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact . Aloha! I'm a doctor of nursing practice who is passionate about helping people access their own strengths. I am committed to walking beside you as you gain insight, learn new skills, and grow the self-belief to create the life you want to live. I firmly believe that one path does not fit all, and my life is evidence of that. I worked as a therapist prior to becoming a PMHNP, and bring a diverse set of professional, educational and life experience to each session. Using empathy and authenticity, my goal is to help you find and live your own truth.
APRIL 2024 - OPEN. To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact . Aloha! I'm a doctor of nursing practice who is passionate about helping people access their own strengths. I am committed to walking beside you as you gain insight, learn new skills, and grow the self-belief to create the life you want to live. I firmly believe that one path does not fit all, and my life is evidence of that. I worked as a therapist prior to becoming a PMHNP, and bring a diverse set of professional, educational and life experience to each session. Using empathy and authenticity, my goal is to help you find and live your own truth.
Christina Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401 (Online Only)
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97402 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Megan Sapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97403 (Online Only)
2024 - Current openings! To get started, complete a new patient form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a psychiatric NP, I specialize in supporting people through life transitions. With a background a Nurse Midwife, I have special interest in serving clients who are pregnant, postpartum, experiencing perinatal loss or fertility challenges, or affected by hormonal changes. I bring a comprehensive understanding of reproductive and physical health to assist clients in weighing options for care and building a treatment plan that is consistent with their goals and values.
2024 - Current openings! To get started, complete a new patient form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact. As a psychiatric NP, I specialize in supporting people through life transitions. With a background a Nurse Midwife, I have special interest in serving clients who are pregnant, postpartum, experiencing perinatal loss or fertility challenges, or affected by hormonal changes. I bring a comprehensive understanding of reproductive and physical health to assist clients in weighing options for care and building a treatment plan that is consistent with their goals and values.
Bradley Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
Michelle Baxter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Please call for more details. Michelle Baxter has been a nurse for 25 years and a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner for several years. She treats the whole patient, not a diagnosis. Michelle believes that each of us is an individual and care should be patient-specific. She is experienced in ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and issues affecting LGBTQI+ communities.
CURRENtLY ACCePTINg NEW PaTIEnTS! Free ADHD, GEneTiC, & NEurOPsYChoLoGiCaL TeSTiNg AvAiLaBLE! Please call for more details. Michelle Baxter has been a nurse for 25 years and a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner for several years. She treats the whole patient, not a diagnosis. Michelle believes that each of us is an individual and care should be patient-specific. She is experienced in ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and issues affecting LGBTQI+ communities.
Julia Jansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97403 (Online Only)
Julia is currently accepting new clients; adults and adolescents ages 10 and up. Specializing in ADHD and much more. Julia is partnered with Pivot Behavioral Health, a comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Julia provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Julia will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Julia addresses the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Julia is currently accepting new clients; adults and adolescents ages 10 and up. Specializing in ADHD and much more. Julia is partnered with Pivot Behavioral Health, a comprehensive telepsychiatry practice serving Oregon. Offering medication management and supportive psychotherapy services in Oregon. Julia provides compassionate, evidence based care, that is tailored to your specific needs. Julia will empower you with knowledge, share resources, and partner with you in your health journey. Julia addresses the needs of the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
See more therapy options for Springfield
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Springfield, OR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Springfield, OR who prioritize treating:
100% | Medication Management |
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
88% | Stress |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | PacificSource |
88% | Aetna |
88% | Providence |
How Psychiatrists in Springfield, OR see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Springfield?
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.