Psychiatrists in Emerald Hills, CA

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Emerald Hills, CA 94062  (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.
(650) 789-7277 View (650) 789-7277

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Harry David Verby, MD, Psychiatrist
Harry David Verby
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
I Am a Nationally Recognised Speciaist in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Add/Adhd in Adults, Adolescents and Children as well as its frequently associated Comorbid Conditions such as Anxiety, Depression And Bipolar Disorder My Diagnostic initial Workup includes a thorough Battery of Diagnostic Inventories, A Face To Face Interview, and Administration of The QBT computer test, an FDA Approved Platform For Objective Adhd Diagnossi [see adhdmd.net for details
I Am a Nationally Recognised Speciaist in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Add/Adhd in Adults, Adolescents and Children as well as its frequently associated Comorbid Conditions such as Anxiety, Depression And Bipolar Disorder My Diagnostic initial Workup includes a thorough Battery of Diagnostic Inventories, A Face To Face Interview, and Administration of The QBT computer test, an FDA Approved Platform For Objective Adhd Diagnossi [see adhdmd.net for details
(650) 437-9558 View (650) 437-9558
Photo of Integrative Psychiatrist - Patricia Pop, MD, Psychiatrist
Integrative Psychiatrist - Patricia Pop
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94062  (Online Only)
Suspect or diagnosed with ADHD? Spinning your wheels but somehow getting nowhere?! Self-compassion and a thoughtful approach can help you shift from overwhelm to peace. I’m a Stanford-trained psychiatrist specializing in working women with ADHD and anxiety, offering medications & more (supplements, exercise, nutrition, mind-body skills, ADHD coaching) in a way that is warm, detailed, and thorough. Medications are just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Together, we’ll take a whole-person, whole-body approach. We'll consider your life, and all that makes you unique when making discerning decisions together.
Suspect or diagnosed with ADHD? Spinning your wheels but somehow getting nowhere?! Self-compassion and a thoughtful approach can help you shift from overwhelm to peace. I’m a Stanford-trained psychiatrist specializing in working women with ADHD and anxiety, offering medications & more (supplements, exercise, nutrition, mind-body skills, ADHD coaching) in a way that is warm, detailed, and thorough. Medications are just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Together, we’ll take a whole-person, whole-body approach. We'll consider your life, and all that makes you unique when making discerning decisions together.
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Photo of Susan Edelman, MD, Psychiatrist
Susan Edelman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Welcome to my practice of Psychotherapy and Psychiatry. It can be hard to reach out for help when you need it, so congratulate yourself. it’s a sign of strength to recognize that you need help and to ask for it. You deserve to get what you need to get your life back on track. Together, we will discuss your goals and find a treatment plan based on your specific issues, concerns, and preferences. I'll work with you to establish rapport based on understanding and good communication. I can help you to find more satisfaction in your relationships, cope with losses, and sort out who you are and who you want to become.
Welcome to my practice of Psychotherapy and Psychiatry. It can be hard to reach out for help when you need it, so congratulate yourself. it’s a sign of strength to recognize that you need help and to ask for it. You deserve to get what you need to get your life back on track. Together, we will discuss your goals and find a treatment plan based on your specific issues, concerns, and preferences. I'll work with you to establish rapport based on understanding and good communication. I can help you to find more satisfaction in your relationships, cope with losses, and sort out who you are and who you want to become.
(833) 850-6004 View (833) 850-6004
Photo of Kimberly Erlich - Kimberly Erlich-Pediatric Mental Health Specialist, MSN, MPH, PNP-PC, PMHS-BC, CIMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Erlich-Pediatric Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PNP-PC, PMHS-BC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Yale-trained Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; double board certified in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Mental Health & certified integrative mental health professional; in practice for 22 years. Collaborative style; committed to the use of evidence-based practices to promote mental health and wellness and treat behavioral disorders, while utilizing integrative/holistic interventions as appropriate. Skilled at treating anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, attention disorders, and disorders of behavioral regulation. I partner with Fullscript online supplement pharmacy: us.fullscript.com/welcome/kerlich.
Yale-trained Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; double board certified in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Mental Health & certified integrative mental health professional; in practice for 22 years. Collaborative style; committed to the use of evidence-based practices to promote mental health and wellness and treat behavioral disorders, while utilizing integrative/holistic interventions as appropriate. Skilled at treating anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, attention disorders, and disorders of behavioral regulation. I partner with Fullscript online supplement pharmacy: us.fullscript.com/welcome/kerlich.
(925) 319-5739 View (925) 319-5739
Photo of Lisa Chan, PA-C , Physician Assistant
Lisa Chan
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94404  (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(650) 910-6028 View (650) 910-6028
Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(831) 539-0572 View (831) 539-0572
Photo of Greer Murphy, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Greer Murphy
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
I can help you with: Treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, compulsions, and trauma. Also, insomnia, chronic fatigue, inattention and lack of focus. Memory and other cognitive concerns, even when complicated by agitation. Overuse and dependence on habit-forming prescription and non-prescription substances. Workplace and family issues. Chronic pain and Long COVID mood, energy, and cognitive changes. Nonresponse to medication and psychotherapies given by other providers. I also have decades of experience treating severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and psychosis in hospital, outpatient, and residential settings.
I can help you with: Treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, compulsions, and trauma. Also, insomnia, chronic fatigue, inattention and lack of focus. Memory and other cognitive concerns, even when complicated by agitation. Overuse and dependence on habit-forming prescription and non-prescription substances. Workplace and family issues. Chronic pain and Long COVID mood, energy, and cognitive changes. Nonresponse to medication and psychotherapies given by other providers. I also have decades of experience treating severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and psychosis in hospital, outpatient, and residential settings.
(650) 629-0909 View (650) 629-0909
Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - Sheenie Ambardar, MD, Concierge Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Sheenie Ambardar, MD, Concierge Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive psychiatrist and therapist who understands and respects your unique cultural heritage and will genuinely honor your lived experiences, history, and personal journey? Have you been told that psychiatry and therapy are only for those lacking in inner strength and resolve? Are you in need of a supportive environment where you can freely express yourself and get the treatment you need for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Insomnia?
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive psychiatrist and therapist who understands and respects your unique cultural heritage and will genuinely honor your lived experiences, history, and personal journey? Have you been told that psychiatry and therapy are only for those lacking in inner strength and resolve? Are you in need of a supportive environment where you can freely express yourself and get the treatment you need for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Insomnia?
(310) 878-4117 View (310) 878-4117
Photo of Sarah Raike, PA-C , Physician Assistant
Sarah Raike
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (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 Bonmente, 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. Now welcoming new patients!
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 Bonmente, 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(650) 649-6285 View (650) 649-6285
Photo of Ashley Miller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94065
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 900-9474 View (650) 900-9474
Heidemarie Ernst
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Welcome to my profile in Psychology Today. I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who has provided mental health care to a variety of populations over the last 18 years. In my private practice, I see adults over 18 years old, and I have expertise with diagnoses, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When I first meet new patients, they are frequently unsure what kind of treatment they might benefit from. By providing a warm and collaborative environment, I help the patients understand their needs and identify treatment options, such a medications, therapy, or a combination of both. I strongly believe that ‘no patient is a diagnosis’ – instead, we are all a complex combination of genetic predisposition, upbringing, and other influences that make us the people we are.
Welcome to my profile in Psychology Today. I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who has provided mental health care to a variety of populations over the last 18 years. In my private practice, I see adults over 18 years old, and I have expertise with diagnoses, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When I first meet new patients, they are frequently unsure what kind of treatment they might benefit from. By providing a warm and collaborative environment, I help the patients understand their needs and identify treatment options, such a medications, therapy, or a combination of both. I strongly believe that ‘no patient is a diagnosis’ – instead, we are all a complex combination of genetic predisposition, upbringing, and other influences that make us the people we are.
(650) 282-3962 View (650) 282-3962
Photo of Benjamin Anjo, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benjamin Anjo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94404
Ben is a biomedically-trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who emphasizes a patient-centered approach, prioritizing collaboration and education. He integrates trauma-informed practices, existential therapy, and mindfulness into his treatment and psychopharmacology decisions.
Ben is a biomedically-trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who emphasizes a patient-centered approach, prioritizing collaboration and education. He integrates trauma-informed practices, existential therapy, and mindfulness into his treatment and psychopharmacology decisions.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Beatrice Rabkin, MD, Psychiatrist
Beatrice Rabkin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I have office locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto. While I specialize in medication management, I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I have office locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto. While I specialize in medication management, I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
(650) 955-0435 View (650) 955-0435
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente , MD , Psychiatrist
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (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 Bonmente, 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. Now welcoming new patients!
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 Bonmente, 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(650) 629-0903 View (650) 629-0903
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94065  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 629-2007 View (650) 629-2007
Photo of Janet Baek, MD, Psychiatrist
Janet Baek
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063
For appointment requests, please complete an online form on my website www.janetbaekmd.com. I am a Stanford-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and therapist. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and treatments, including medication management and pyschotherapy.
For appointment requests, please complete an online form on my website www.janetbaekmd.com. I am a Stanford-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and therapist. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and treatments, including medication management and pyschotherapy.
(650) 407-2078 View (650) 407-2078
Photo of Dr. Casey Lester, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Casey Lester
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Hello! I'm a Stanford and University of California trained child & adolescent & adult psychiatrist in a small, concierge-style practice. I work with a therapy dog who helps my patients to feel safe and comfortable. I have special interests in trauma-related disorders, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental, warm, patient-centered, and therapy-oriented. When prescribing medication I practice based on the latest scientific evidence, so that my patients have the highest chance of meeting their mental health goals without unnecessary side effects. I connect especially well with teens and young adults.
Hello! I'm a Stanford and University of California trained child & adolescent & adult psychiatrist in a small, concierge-style practice. I work with a therapy dog who helps my patients to feel safe and comfortable. I have special interests in trauma-related disorders, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental, warm, patient-centered, and therapy-oriented. When prescribing medication I practice based on the latest scientific evidence, so that my patients have the highest chance of meeting their mental health goals without unnecessary side effects. I connect especially well with teens and young adults.
(650) 899-7156 View (650) 899-7156
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94402
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(415) 301-4583 View (415) 301-4583
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94065
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 275-5756 View (650) 275-5756

See more therapy options for Emerald Hills

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Emerald Hills, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Emerald Hills, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Life Coaching
100% Grief
100% Parenting

Average years in practice

22 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Male

How Psychiatrists in Emerald Hills, CA see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Emerald Hills?

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.