Key Takeaways
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in treating psychiatric conditions with medication, although they may also use other methods. You can meet with a psychiatrist in person or via telehealth.
- During your first few visits with your psychiatrist, they’ll review your history and symptoms. Once they determine a diagnosis, they may prescribe medication.
- Throughout this process, you can advocate for yourself by asking questions and speaking up if something doesn’t feel right. But know that it may take some time to determine the right prescription and dosage for your needs.
Various healthcare providers can prescribe psychiatric medications. But psychiatrists are the only medical doctors who specialize in treating mental health conditions with medication. Additionally, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are the only nurse practitioners with specialized training in treating mental health conditions with medications. These providers are skilled in using medication to address the symptoms of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Psychiatrists and PMHNPs can prescribe medication as part of a broader treatment plan. They often collaborate with other members of a patient’s care team (like therapists, neurologists, or primary care physicians). Learning more about this process can help you have a more informed conversation with your provider about which medications might be right for you.
What can a psychiatrist prescribe?
A psychiatrist or PMHNP can prescribe several classes of medications. But because these providers specialize in mental health, most of the prescriptions they write are for mental health conditions.
These medications include:
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Stimulants
- Antipsychotics
- Mood stabilizers
Your psychiatric provider will consider your diagnosis, history, the age of onset and severity of your symptoms, physical health concerns, and other factors when deciding how to approach your treatment plan. While you’re welcome to ask your psychiatric provider for a specific medication, try to approach this conversation with an open mind. Remember, even if a medication worked well for a friend or loved one, it might not be a fit for you.
It can be difficult to wade through all the information about psychiatric medications available to us (including the advertisements we see online or on TV). Your psychiatric provider can explain the pros and cons of various medications and help ensure that you receive the right prescription for your needs.
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When can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Laws regulating the prescription of psychiatric medications via telehealth changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. This made it possible for people to access critical mental health services remotely. In the future, there may be attempts to limit this flexibility and resume requirements for in-person care. But, currently, most psychiatrists and PMHNPs can legally prescribe medication via telehealth, as long as they’re following federal, state, and local guidelines.
During your first meeting with a psychiatric provider, you can ask them what treatment recommendations they have and if that includes medication or not. Some providers won’t issue a prescription after a single visit, as it may take some time to determine the best course of action. Your psychiatric provider may also want to speak with other members of your care team before writing a prescription.
It’s also important to note that meeting with a psychiatric provider doesn’t automatically mean you’re a candidate for medication. For example, there might be other supports (like therapy, lifestyle changes, or medical intervention) that might be more appropriate for your needs.
How to get a psychiatric prescription
To take the first step toward getting a prescription for psychiatric medication, talk to your primary care physician (PCP) or another healthcare provider you’re currently seeing. Describe your symptoms thoroughly, and let them know that you’re interested in exploring psychiatric medication. Depending on your situation, your current provider may be able to write you a prescription and monitor your progress moving forward. Alternatively, they may provide a referral for a psychiatric provider who can offer more targeted support.
Regardless of whether it’s a PCP, psychiatrist, PMHNP or another provider who writes your prescription, know that you can play an active role in this process. Try to prepare for your appointments with a list of questions so you feel informed about what to expect. For example, you may wish to ask about side effects, how long until medication starts to work, or what research says about which medications are most effective for your diagnosis.
Once you start taking a medication, don’t hesitate to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. This is especially important if your symptoms worsen or you experience unwanted side effects. Often, it takes some trial and error to find the right psychiatric medication. Your provider can recommend alternatives if you wish to make a change.
In addition to providing medication, your psychiatrist or PMHNP may also recommend engaging with complementary supports. For example, there are many well-documented benefits of pairing therapy with psychiatry. Your provider may also recommend things like psychoeducation, stress-management techniques, group support, or other interventions that can help strengthen your mental health.
I know starting medication can be scary, but it’s important to note that these medications don’t change who you are. And, much of the time, they don’t need to be taken long term. Be open and honest with your psychiatric provider about side effects, improvements, etc.
Find care with Rula
If you’re curious about mental health medication, the best person to speak with is a psychiatrist or other psychiatric provider, like a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). These providers are medical doctors and nurses who undergo extensive training in treating mental health conditions with medication.
During your first few visits, your psychiatrist will listen to your concerns, review your history, confirm your diagnosis, and make a recommendation about which medications might be right for you. From there, they’ll monitor your progress, adjust your prescription and dosage as necessary, and collaborate with other members of your care team to help ensure that you receive the best care for your needs.
At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.
Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.
About the author
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.
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Rula's editorial team is on a mission to make science-backed mental health insights accessible and practical for every person seeking to better understand or improve mental wellness.
Members of Rula’s clinical leadership team and other expert providers contribute to all published content, offering guidance on themes and insights based on their firsthand experience in the field. Every piece of content is thoroughly reviewed by a clinician before publishing.
