The resources and services listed below include psychiatric care for adults.

Psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders including those related to mood, behavior, cognition, and perceptions. Psychiatrists differ from psychologists in that they are physicians and have post-graduate training in psychiatry of 4-5 years. Psychiatric care is also provided by psychiatric nurse practitioners.

Psychiatrists typically spend less time (other than the initial appointment) with a patient than a therapist, and do not focus as much on talk therapy but more on the physical or chemical treatment of the brain. They provide services in mental health agencies, hospitals and clinics, and private practices. Due to a shortage of psychiatrists, appointments may not be available for weeks, or even months. However, access to psychiatric care may be available sooner if you are a patient of one of the larger regional mental health agencies. Agencies frequently require their patients to see a therapist or counselor two or three times before being seen by one of their psychiatrists.

Psychiatrists who do not take Medicaid or Medicare are not included in these resources unless they provide a unique service not otherwise offered in the area.

If you need to see a psychiatrist immediately for a medication refill, you may visit the Medication and Prescription (MAP) Clinic for individuals who cannot get a doctor’s appointment or do not have a psychiatrist. MAP Clinic services are accessed through the ECMC Help Center.