Psychiatrists in Delano, CA

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(661) 766-1075 View (661) 766-1075
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215  (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(559) 462-3060 View (559) 462-3060
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(805) 723-2587 View (805) 723-2587
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(559) 242-1690 View (559) 242-1690
Photo of Setare Eslami, MD, Psychiatrist
Setare Eslami
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delano, CA 93215
Welcome to my practice! Serving my clients during tough moments on their journey is my honor. I am an adult psychiatrist who tailors treatments for adults of all ages and backgrounds.
Welcome to my practice! Serving my clients during tough moments on their journey is my honor. I am an adult psychiatrist who tailors treatments for adults of all ages and backgrounds.
(661) 735-3887 View (661) 735-3887

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Richard Altesman, MD, Psychiatrist
Richard Altesman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Richard Altesman, M.D. is a nationally renowned Biological Psychiatrist, specializing in clinical psychopharmacology and neuropsychiatry, affective and mood disorders, anxiety, dual diagnosis and substance use disorders. He combines a caring, humanistic approach within this advanced knowledge of psychopharmacology. He was at the forefront of this field (Founding Director of the Psychopharmacology Service at Harvard, and on the faculty at Cornell,) and use the most advanced concepts to correctly diagnose and treat patient’s emotional difficulties.
Richard Altesman, M.D. is a nationally renowned Biological Psychiatrist, specializing in clinical psychopharmacology and neuropsychiatry, affective and mood disorders, anxiety, dual diagnosis and substance use disorders. He combines a caring, humanistic approach within this advanced knowledge of psychopharmacology. He was at the forefront of this field (Founding Director of the Psychopharmacology Service at Harvard, and on the faculty at Cornell,) and use the most advanced concepts to correctly diagnose and treat patient’s emotional difficulties.
(805) 819-5790 View (805) 819-5790
Photo of Jacqueline Constantino, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Constantino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93710
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
(559) 315-3788 View (559) 315-3788
Photo of Dr. Andrew D Monasterio, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Andrew D Monasterio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Isla Vista, CA 93117
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management. Originally from Tennessee but culturally identifying as a Californian, I blend my Southern hospitality, West Coast inclusivity, and home-grown empathy to create a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free atmosphere. I use a flexible, modern biopsychosocial approach to authentically connect with people to fully understand their unique selves, journeys, struggles, and goals. We will collaboratively develop a holistic, whole-person wellness plan tailored to your individualized needs and goals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management. Originally from Tennessee but culturally identifying as a Californian, I blend my Southern hospitality, West Coast inclusivity, and home-grown empathy to create a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free atmosphere. I use a flexible, modern biopsychosocial approach to authentically connect with people to fully understand their unique selves, journeys, struggles, and goals. We will collaboratively develop a holistic, whole-person wellness plan tailored to your individualized needs and goals.
(805) 856-6211 View (805) 856-6211
Photo of Daniel Jon Kostalnick, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Daniel Jon Kostalnick
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
CNS Medical Group, APMC is an independent psychiatric medical practice that offers a comprehensive and individualized approach to whole person health and wellness in a confidential private practice setting. Our patients include adolescents, adults and families with an emphasis on both medical management and psychotherapy.
CNS Medical Group, APMC is an independent psychiatric medical practice that offers a comprehensive and individualized approach to whole person health and wellness in a confidential private practice setting. Our patients include adolescents, adults and families with an emphasis on both medical management and psychotherapy.
(925) 481-5408 View (925) 481-5408
Photo of Olivier Bertrand Djoumessi, MPH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Bertrand Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tulare, CA 93274
I am a board-certified Advanced Practice Nurse with a specialization in Psychiatry with experience treating and managing various mental health and addiction disorders. My clinical expertise is with children, adults, elders, and veterans presenting with psychiatric conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, psychotic disorders, schizophrenia) and addiction. I know that accurate wellness means treating our bodies and minds with care. We built a safe environment for clients. We provide telehealth and in-person appointments to fit all needs. Book your Appointment.
I am a board-certified Advanced Practice Nurse with a specialization in Psychiatry with experience treating and managing various mental health and addiction disorders. My clinical expertise is with children, adults, elders, and veterans presenting with psychiatric conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, psychotic disorders, schizophrenia) and addiction. I know that accurate wellness means treating our bodies and minds with care. We built a safe environment for clients. We provide telehealth and in-person appointments to fit all needs. Book your Appointment.
(682) 688-3726 View (682) 688-3726
Photo of Alexandra Odom - Eastern Sierra Counseling, MD, Psychiatrist
Eastern Sierra Counseling
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Eastern Sierra Counseling is the only group mental health practice working and living in Bishop and Mammoth Lakes, CA. We offer comprehensive mental healthcare with both talk therapy and medication management. We have 16 therapists 3 psychiatric providers (medication management) who work both in-person in Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, and Ridgecrest, California and via telehealth. Pictured here is Dr. Alexandra Odom. Dr. Odom works closely with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more.
Eastern Sierra Counseling is the only group mental health practice working and living in Bishop and Mammoth Lakes, CA. We offer comprehensive mental healthcare with both talk therapy and medication management. We have 16 therapists 3 psychiatric providers (medication management) who work both in-person in Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, and Ridgecrest, California and via telehealth. Pictured here is Dr. Alexandra Odom. Dr. Odom works closely with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more.
(760) 576-2765 View (760) 576-2765
Photo of Danielle Lopez, MD, Psychiatrist
Danielle Lopez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
Danielle Lopez, M.D. is an adult outpatient psychiatrist practicing since 2012. She graduated in 2007 from University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine and completed her residency training in 2012 at Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center. Dr. Lopez has worked in an array of settings, including inpatient addiction, subacute setting for severely and persistently mentally ill, homeless outreach, psychiatric urgent care and adult outpatient psychiatry.
Danielle Lopez, M.D. is an adult outpatient psychiatrist practicing since 2012. She graduated in 2007 from University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine and completed her residency training in 2012 at Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center. Dr. Lopez has worked in an array of settings, including inpatient addiction, subacute setting for severely and persistently mentally ill, homeless outreach, psychiatric urgent care and adult outpatient psychiatry.
(805) 774-1326 View (805) 774-1326
Photo of Michael Brian Mantz, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Brian Mantz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. I practice an integrative style that uses a wide range of treatment options with a focus on addressing root cause issues. I have received training in psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, nutrition, supplements, and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Before going to medical school, I obtained a masters degree in herbal medicine. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make significant changes in their life and is open to addressing their issues with the help of empathic and knowledgeable guide to help them achieve optimal health.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. I practice an integrative style that uses a wide range of treatment options with a focus on addressing root cause issues. I have received training in psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, nutrition, supplements, and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Before going to medical school, I obtained a masters degree in herbal medicine. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make significant changes in their life and is open to addressing their issues with the help of empathic and knowledgeable guide to help them achieve optimal health.
(805) 332-4770 View (805) 332-4770
Photo of Howard K Gershenfeld, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Howard K Gershenfeld
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117  (Online Only)
Don't let stress, anxiety, depression, or insomnia issues hold you back. Is distress, demoralization, feeling stuck or overwhelmed, flailing, or limiting beliefs wearing you down? If these issues are interferring with your life, then please consider investing in yourself & getting help. Indeed, therapy may be your best choice. If it works for you, it will be among the best investments you ever make. And yet, too many people unnecessarily suffer due to wishful thinking, delays, insecurity, shame, & partial improvements, while not getting completely well. Start getting help and a check up now.
Don't let stress, anxiety, depression, or insomnia issues hold you back. Is distress, demoralization, feeling stuck or overwhelmed, flailing, or limiting beliefs wearing you down? If these issues are interferring with your life, then please consider investing in yourself & getting help. Indeed, therapy may be your best choice. If it works for you, it will be among the best investments you ever make. And yet, too many people unnecessarily suffer due to wishful thinking, delays, insecurity, shame, & partial improvements, while not getting completely well. Start getting help and a check up now.
(805) 243-1449 View (805) 243-1449
Photo of Armine Hakopyan, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Armine Hakopyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93720
Armine provides care that revolves around you and your well-being. She understands that everyone is different and faces unique challenges. Armine helps with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and sleep disorders. Her approach involves a thorough assessment to understand your needs, allowing her to create a personalized and effective treatment plan. Armine is committed to offering caring and evidence-based support, fostering an environment that promotes well-being.
Armine provides care that revolves around you and your well-being. She understands that everyone is different and faces unique challenges. Armine helps with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and sleep disorders. Her approach involves a thorough assessment to understand your needs, allowing her to create a personalized and effective treatment plan. Armine is committed to offering caring and evidence-based support, fostering an environment that promotes well-being.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Peter Afsari, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Peter Afsari
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Dr. Peter Afsari helps children, adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Afsari uses a psychotherapeutic approach to balance medication and helps his patients identify trauma. He has several years of experience working in various community mental health settings. Dr. Afsari completed his adult psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Arizona. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, playing piano, traveling, and is an avid basketball fan.
Dr. Peter Afsari helps children, adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Afsari uses a psychotherapeutic approach to balance medication and helps his patients identify trauma. He has several years of experience working in various community mental health settings. Dr. Afsari completed his adult psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Arizona. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, playing piano, traveling, and is an avid basketball fan.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Alexis Meshi, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexis Meshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
(949) 518-3160 View (949) 518-3160
Photo of Douglas Peter Murphy, MD, Psychiatrist
Douglas Peter Murphy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My care derives a holistic approach to care informed by evidence-based guidelines to care in a highly collaborative approach. It always begins with making a warm and comfortable therapeutic relationship. Preventative care and an emphasis on living habits that promote health & wellness. It is common that medications may be part of most treatment plans in my practice, associated with teaching and some form of psychotherapy to facilitate long-term gains and improve chances for successful outcomes.
My care derives a holistic approach to care informed by evidence-based guidelines to care in a highly collaborative approach. It always begins with making a warm and comfortable therapeutic relationship. Preventative care and an emphasis on living habits that promote health & wellness. It is common that medications may be part of most treatment plans in my practice, associated with teaching and some form of psychotherapy to facilitate long-term gains and improve chances for successful outcomes.
(805) 600-5117 View (805) 600-5117
Photo of Douglas Williamson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Douglas Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
My philosophy is based on the Nursing Care Model: a holistic approach to patient care focused on the mind, body, and soul, while implementing a combination of brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and self-care activities. My experience includes serving clients suffering from mild to severe mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychotic, and other mood disorders.
My philosophy is based on the Nursing Care Model: a holistic approach to patient care focused on the mind, body, and soul, while implementing a combination of brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and self-care activities. My experience includes serving clients suffering from mild to severe mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychotic, and other mood disorders.
(805) 321-1449 View (805) 321-1449
Photo of Martina Nankivell, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant
Martina Nankivell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93704  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
(916) 883-0842 View (916) 883-0842

See more therapy options for Delano

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Delano, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Delano, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
80% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management

Average years in practice

22 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Medicare
100% Anthem | Elevance

How Psychiatrists in Delano, CA see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Delano?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.