Find a Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health conditions. Unlike psychologists or therapists who typically have training in counseling and behavioral therapies, psychiatrists hold a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and have completed medical school and a psychiatric residency.

Because they are licensed physicians, psychiatrists can:

• Prescribe medication
• Order and interpret lab tests
• Diagnose complex mental and physical health interactions
• Provide therapy (though many focus on medication management)

They are trained to treat a wide range of mental health disorders, from common conditions like depression and anxiety to more severe illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Psychiatrists undergo extensive medical and mental health training. Here’s a breakdown of the typical path:

1. Undergraduate degree (4 years): Usually in a science or pre-med track.
2. Medical school (4 years): Earning an MD or DO degree.
3. Residency in psychiatry (4 years): Hands-on clinical training in psychiatric hospitals and outpatient settings.
4. Licensing: All psychiatrists must pass the USMLE (for MDs) or COMLEX (for DOs) and obtain a state medical license.
5. Board Certification (optional but common): From the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN).

Many psychiatrists pursue fellowships to further specialize, such as in child and adolescent psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, or addiction medicine.

Psychiatrists are trained to assess both the biological and psychological components of mental illness. They commonly treat:

• Depression
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Eating disorders
• Substance use disorders
• Sleep disorders
• Personality disorders

In many cases, psychiatrists work in tandem with other mental health professionals—like therapists, psychologists, and social workers—to create a comprehensive treatment plan.

Because of their medical training, there are a variety of psychiatric services that psychiatrists can offer.

1. Diagnose Mental Illness

Psychiatrists use clinical interviews, questionnaires, lab tests, and DSM-5 criteria (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) to diagnose conditions accurately. They’re trained to distinguish between psychiatric disorders and physical conditions that may mimic them (e.g., thyroid disorders causing mood symptoms).

2. Prescribe Medication

One of the main reasons people see psychiatrists is for medication management. Psychiatrists can prescribe a wide range of psychotropic medications, including:

• Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics)
• Anxiolytics (e.g., benzodiazepines, buspirone)
• Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium, lamotrigine)
• Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, olanzapine)
• Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin)

They also monitor side effects, adjust dosages, and help patients find the right medication or combination of medications over time.

3. Provide Psychotherapy

While not all psychiatrists offer therapy, some are trained in and provide forms such as:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Supportive psychotherapy
• Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
• Psychodynamic therapy

If a psychiatrist does not provide therapy themselves, they often coordinate care with a therapist or psychologist.

4. Evaluate Physical Contributions to Mental Illness

Psychiatrists can order labs to check for:

• Vitamin deficiencies (like B12)
• Thyroid problems
• Hormonal imbalances
• Substance use

They consider whether a medical condition or medication is contributing to psychiatric symptoms.

5. Manage Crisis Situations

Psychiatrists play a crucial role in acute care settings, including:

• Emergency rooms
• Inpatient psychiatric hospitals
• Crisis stabilization units

They assess for suicidal ideation, psychosis, and danger to self or others, and determine if hospitalization or intensive treatment is necessary.

While psychiatrists focus more on medical and medication-based treatment, many mental health concerns are best addressed by a team-based approach that includes talk therapy.

You might benefit from seeing a psychiatrist if:

• You’ve tried therapy and still experience severe symptoms.
• You’re considering medication or want to stop/restart medications safely.
• You have a family history of mental illness, especially mood or psychotic disorders.
• Your symptoms are severe, complex, or persistent.
• You’re experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or suicidal thoughts.
• You need a diagnosis for documentation (e.g., for school or work accommodations).

If you're unsure, you can always start with a therapist or primary care provider, who can refer you to a psychiatrist if needed.

The first visit with a psychiatrist is typically a 90-minute evaluation. You can expect:

• Medical and psychiatric history review
• Symptom discussion
• Medication and treatment history
• Diagnosis and treatment plan

Be prepared to talk openly about your current symptoms, past experiences, and goals. The psychiatrist may prescribe medication or suggest further testing or therapy.

Follow-up appointments are usually shorter—15 to 30 minutes—and focus on monitoring medication effects and making adjustments.

Myth: Psychiatrists only push pills.
Truth: While medication is a core part of their role, many psychiatrists also provide therapy and holistic treatment plans.

Myth: Seeing a psychiatrist means you’re “crazy.”
Truth: Mental illness is a medical condition. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Myth: Psychiatrists don’t listen—they just write prescriptions.
Truth: A good psychiatrist will take the time to understand your full history and explain treatment options clearly.

Can I see a psychiatrist online?
Yes, you can see a psychiatrist online—and it's becoming increasingly common. This form of care is called telepsychiatry, and it allows you to connect with a virtual psychiatrist via secure video or phone sessions from the comfort of your home. Telepsychiatry is a type of telehealth and is legally permitted in all 50 U.S. states, though the psychiatrist must be licensed in the state where you are located at the time of the session.

Are online psychiatrists just as good as in-person ones?
Yes. Numerous studies have shown that telepsychiatry is just as effective as in-person care for most mental health conditions. What matters most is the quality of the provider and the therapeutic relationship.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
It depends on your insurance. Some insurance plans—especially HMOs—require a referral from a primary care doctor. Others, like PPOs, let you book directly. If you're paying out of pocket, you can see a psychiatrist without any referral.

Can a psychiatrist help me if I don’t want medication?
Absolutely. Psychiatrists can offer insights, therapy referrals, and diagnostic clarity even if you’re not ready to take medication. Some psychiatrists also provide psychotherapy themselves, though others may refer you to a therapist for that part of care.

Will my psychiatrist talk to my therapist or primary care doctor?
Yes, if you give written permission. Coordinating care between providers helps ensure better treatment outcomes. You can ask your psychiatrist to collaborate with others on your care team.

Is psychiatric medication safe?
Most psychiatric medications are safe and well-tolerated when prescribed and monitored by a trained professional. Your psychiatrist will discuss potential side effects, interactions, and risks—and will adjust your treatment as needed.

How often do I need to see a psychiatrist?
It depends on your condition and treatment plan. During the first few months, visits may be more frequent (every 2–4 weeks). Once stabilized, follow-ups may be every 1–3 months.

Can I stop taking psychiatric medication if I feel better?
You should never stop medication suddenly without talking to your psychiatrist. Many medications require gradual tapering to avoid withdrawal symptoms or relapse. Your psychiatrist can guide you safely.