If you live in New York or Stamford. CT and are feeling depressed, dealing with a panic or eating disorder, or struggling with anxiety, you may want to see a psychiatrist. But how do you find the best psychiatrist in NYC or Stamford, CT for your needs, one who can help you manage whatever issue you are facing? Here are some ways:

Ask your primary care physician for a referral

It is known that psychological issues can negatively affect your health. So reaching out to your doctor about whatever mental health issues you might be facing can serve two purposes – giving your physician a fuller perspective of your health, and giving you the chance to get a referral to a psychiatrist who can help you. Your primary care physician may be able to recommend one of the top psychiatrists in New York City or Stamford, CT for your needs.

In addition, if you already see a psychotherapist, psychiatric social worker, life coach, or psychologist, you may be able to get a referral from one of these professionals for a top psychiatrist.

Talk with your health care provider

Your health care company should have a list of psychiatrists in your area, and what they specialize in. In addition, the psychiatrist may potentially be partially or even fully covered under your health insurance, depending on your coverage.

Rely on word of mouth

If you have a friend or relative who you know has visited a psychiatrist, that person may have a good recommendation. However, if they are skittish about having you visit the same person that they do, perhaps you can ask them to ask their psychiatrist for referral information.

Use the internet                 

There are several avenues to find a psychiatrist with this method. The first is a simple internet search of the specialty you are looking for with an NYC psychiatrist. For example, if you are seeking help for anorexia, you can look for a psychiatrist in New York treating eating disorders.

The second is to read up on things like Psychology Today’s pages on local psychiatrists, or New York magazine’s list of the top psychiatrists in the city. In addition, you can check places like HealthGrades.com, Vitals.com, Yelp, and even Angie’s List to get not just information on NYC psychiatrists but customer reviews.

Third, sites like zocdoc.com will not just give you information on psychiatrists who can potentially fit your needs, but such sites can even schedule an appointment with the doctor.

Finally, it is important to find a provider who you feel comfortable with and who understands what your specific needs are. The therapeutic relationship that will develop is an instrumental platform for the growth and healing that is to follow in your life.