Addiction psychiatry is a specialized field that focuses on substance use disorders (SUDs) and mental health. All psychiatric providers address substance use problems, but a more specialized provider may be recommended for severe cases.
Addiction psychiatrists treat SUDs with medication and other types of support. They can provide medication management services throughout a person’s recovery.
If you’re interested in addiction psychiatry, ask your doctor or therapist for a referral. You can also explore online options for remote addiction psychiatric care.
Addiction psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) focus on identifying and treating substance use disorders (SUDs) and co-occurring conditions. This form of care can take place in a wide range of settings. Addiction psychiatrists work in both inpatient and outpatient facilities and clinics. You can even meet with them via telehealth. Exploring addiction psychiatry can help you learn how it might support your recovery.
How addiction psychiatry works
There’s a difference between addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine. Addiction medicine providers focus on physical aspects of recovery, like medically managed withdrawal from substances. Addiction psychiatry providers have training in both psychiatry and addiction medicine, so they can assess and treat both severe substance use disorders and the mental health conditions that often accompany addiction.
SUDs are complex conditions that often need integrated care. For example, alcohol use can take a toll on the mind and body. Someone living with alcohol use disorder may have physical and mental health concerns. An addiction psychiatrist will assess all the ways a person’s substance use has impacted their health. Then, they’ll collaborate with other medical providers — like nutritionists, therapists, and general practitioners — as needed.
People with SUDs often live with other mental health conditions. So addiction psychiatrists create treatment plans that address the most pressing concern first. They then tailor their recommendations as a person’s needs evolve. For example, prolonged stimulant use may lead to anxiety or a psychotic disorder. In that case, an addiction psychiatrist would determine which condition to treat first based on which one is affecting the person’s life more.
If needed, an addiction psychiatrist may prescribe medication. These medications can help a person manage SUD symptoms during recovery. They can also treat any underlying mental health conditions that are contributing to continued substance use. It may take some time to find the right medication and dosage. But your provider will track a medication’s effectiveness and make changes if needed. This process is called medication management, and it’s a major part of addiction psychiatry. For some people, medication can be a temporary part of the recovery process. But for others, it can be a lifelong support.
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When to see an addiction psychiatrist
If substance use is taking a toll on your well-being or ability to function in daily life, it may be time to ask for help. You may wish to connect with an addiction psychiatrist if you:
Have attempted to quit using substances several times but haven’t been successful
Notice that substance use is impacting your performance at work or school
Have relationships that are suffering due to your substance use
Find yourself needing more of the substance to achieve the desired result (tolerance)
Experience uncomfortable symptoms if you can’t access the substance (withdrawal)
Spend a lot of time thinking about using or obtaining substances
Have worsening symptoms of other mental health conditions (like anxiety, depression, or PTSD)
Engage in harmful behaviors that are difficult to control (like shopping or gambling)*
*Addiction is a condition that can take many forms. There are currently no approved medications for treating behavioral addictions, but some providers may prescribe medications for off-label use.
Getting started with addiction psychiatric care
There are several ways to access addiction psychiatric care. But many people start with a referral from their doctor or therapist. Talk to a trusted provider about your concerns, and let them know you’re interested in psychiatric treatment for substance use.
If you're unable to get a referral, you can research addiction psychiatrists on your own. Look for substance use specialists, treatment centers, or clinics in your community. You can also explore online options for addiction telepsychiatry.
Board-certified addiction psychiatrists have the most training in the evidence-based treatment of SUDs. If you’re unable to find one, however, don’t let that delay your care. Look for psychiatry providers who mention experience with substance use treatment, and start there.
Health insurance coverage for addiction care can vary. Depending on your plan, you may be able to make an appointment without a referral. If you’re not sure whether your insurance policy covers addiction care, contact your insurance company. You can send a message in your patient portal or call the number on the back of your insurance card. You may also be able to verify your benefits by reviewing your plan documents online. Keep in mind that SUD treatment is sometimes referred to as behavioral healthcare.
If you think you need help with your substance use, it’s important to look for a psychiatric provider who has experience in this area. But, as with any type of mental healthcare, it’s equally important to find a provider you trust and are comfortable being open and honest with.
Stephanie J Reed, MSW, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Clinical reviewer
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Addiction psychiatry focuses on the mental health needs of people living with SUDs. Addiction psychiatrists can prescribe and monitor medication. They may also recommend therapy and other supports and collaborate with other providers. There are many ways an addiction psychiatrist can support you. With their support, you can keep your mind and body strong as you heal.
At Rula, we’re here to help you feel better. Rula makes it easy to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who takes your insurance. That way, you don’t have to choose between great care and a price you can afford.
Rula patients pay about $15 per session with insurance, and 93% say they feel better after getting care through Rula. We have 21,000+ providers, and appointments are available as soon as tomorrow. We’re here to help you take the next step — wherever you are in your mental health journey.
Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
Stephanie J Reed, MSW, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Stephanie started her career in mental health as a clinical social worker in 1997. She’s been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2020. She’s worked in many settings, including in labor and delivery as an RN, in child protection, in community mental health, and in an urban clinic affiliated with the Indian Health Service.
Her passion for mental health comes from a desire to provide the kind of care and education for people that she wishes had been available to her family. Good mental healthcare can be transformative for people and families, and it’s work that she’s very proud to be part of.
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