Psychiatrists in Glendale, CA
![Photo of Michele Natarajan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab4a8997-e949-4ecc-95fa-b59cc2e84cd4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Natarajan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
Not accepting new clients
It is an honor to be of support to you, as you embark upon your Journey. This process may be challenging at times. I encourage you to trust the process knowing your intuition lead you here. I’ve been in healthcare for over 20 years. My passion for the Mental Health community dates back to childhood with a father who suffered from PTSD and self medicated to cope with his symptoms stemming from being a war veteran. As mental health continues to unfold and expand I as a practitioner have also expanded my learning by educating myself on a variety of Western, Eastern and Psychedelic modalities to allow clients to heal long term.
It is an honor to be of support to you, as you embark upon your Journey. This process may be challenging at times. I encourage you to trust the process knowing your intuition lead you here. I’ve been in healthcare for over 20 years. My passion for the Mental Health community dates back to childhood with a father who suffered from PTSD and self medicated to cope with his symptoms stemming from being a war veteran. As mental health continues to unfold and expand I as a practitioner have also expanded my learning by educating myself on a variety of Western, Eastern and Psychedelic modalities to allow clients to heal long term.
![Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8e6c276-baee-42e3-a55e-507df477b200/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
![Photo of Steffan Weiner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e7bb638-53fa-4241-82fd-18167372b326/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steffan Weiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
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
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed4e71e8-83d7-4f27-8992-45eeab892e32/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91205
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) 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 (Telepsychiatry) 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
![Photo of Traci Chamberlain, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3080aa16-0b8c-4798-aa8b-acd7762fc879/1/320x400.png)
Traci is a passionate advocate who works to reduce the stigma of mental illness and help patients feel empowered. She helps with anxiety, schizophrenia, and mood disorders using medication management and therapy. Traci's approach encourages empathy and communication, which helps build trust with her patients.
Traci is a passionate advocate who works to reduce the stigma of mental illness and help patients feel empowered. She helps with anxiety, schizophrenia, and mood disorders using medication management and therapy. Traci's approach encourages empathy and communication, which helps build trust with her patients.
![Photo of Joesph Aguirre, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5463d28-156b-4083-9b6c-2fdca79da46d/1/320x400.png)
Joesph Aguirre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Joseph and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Joseph is skilled at creating a supportive and understanding environment, encouraging his clients to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a safe space. His treatment plans are tailored to each individual, ensuring that they receive care that is not only effective but also respectful of their specific life experiences. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Joseph and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Joseph is skilled at creating a supportive and understanding environment, encouraging his clients to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a safe space. His treatment plans are tailored to each individual, ensuring that they receive care that is not only effective but also respectful of their specific life experiences. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Shanshan Lin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56449950-6307-423f-bd32-d205a71d79b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Shanshan. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience as a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, working with outpatient mental health patients.
Hello, my name is Shanshan. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience as a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, working with outpatient mental health patients.
![Photo of Cristian Penciu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d00077d-0398-4242-ae8e-b5f54642ec6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
![Photo of Leah Haddad, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e68889a7-8612-48aa-9c71-2b415e2d3e1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
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/AZ
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/AZ
![Photo of Lorraine Nxumalo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1c4022a-7faf-4c23-94e5-58d91d2980a3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine Nxumalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
I am Lorraine Nxumalo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in diverse mental health settings. I prioritize compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals facing mental health challenges. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I aim to work closely with patients, respecting their beliefs and unique needs, and ensuring their voices are heard. My goal is to provide tailored, patient-centered care.
I am Lorraine Nxumalo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in diverse mental health settings. I prioritize compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals facing mental health challenges. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I aim to work closely with patients, respecting their beliefs and unique needs, and ensuring their voices are heard. My goal is to provide tailored, patient-centered care.
![Photo of Matthew White, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f830aa17-f152-46e8-8d27-9e823cc2600f/1/320x400.png)
Matthew White is a Psychiatric, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. Matt graduated from Cal State, Long Beach with a master's degree in clinical Psychiatry. Matt believes in an honest and straight forward approach to care, taking the time required to appropriately help those in need. Matt's areas of focus include Bipolar disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Schizophrenia. In his spare time, Matt enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and hiking in the Hollywood Hills.
Matthew White is a Psychiatric, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. Matt graduated from Cal State, Long Beach with a master's degree in clinical Psychiatry. Matt believes in an honest and straight forward approach to care, taking the time required to appropriately help those in need. Matt's areas of focus include Bipolar disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Schizophrenia. In his spare time, Matt enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and hiking in the Hollywood Hills.
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![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed59aaa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Inessa Essaian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6af2396-dac1-4029-b8ae-71a172adf890/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inessa Essaian, MD is a Board Certified psychiatrist. Dr. Essaian graduated from the Tbilisi State University Medical School with a Medical Doctor degree. She completed the four year residency program in Psychiatry at LAC-USC Medical Center. Dr. Essaian has over 24 years of experience treating adults with various psychiatric disorders. Her areas of expertise include anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD. She is fluent in English and Russian.
Inessa Essaian, MD is a Board Certified psychiatrist. Dr. Essaian graduated from the Tbilisi State University Medical School with a Medical Doctor degree. She completed the four year residency program in Psychiatry at LAC-USC Medical Center. Dr. Essaian has over 24 years of experience treating adults with various psychiatric disorders. Her areas of expertise include anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD. She is fluent in English and Russian.
![Photo of Geraldine Dugan, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8dc71b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Geraldine is board-certified and treats adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Geraldine is board-certified and treats adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Christopher Fan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4c55dbb-031b-4884-bb7c-a579c760be20/1/320x400.png)
Christopher Fan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christopher and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christopher has had a passion for treating mental health since his time working as a registered nurse at UCSD in San Diego. His mission is to assist patients in living their best life. He believes having strong mental health is a key to this. Christopher is ready to partner with you on your mental health journey! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christopher and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christopher has had a passion for treating mental health since his time working as a registered nurse at UCSD in San Diego. His mission is to assist patients in living their best life. He believes having strong mental health is a key to this. Christopher is ready to partner with you on your mental health journey! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Pablo Ghersi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfbb342d-2d83-4a00-bece-fb482e00caab/1/320x400.png)
Pablo Ghersi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Pablo and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Pablo Ghersi is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 14 years’ experience in healthcare. Pablo's passion for mental health sprung from his experience as a firefighter and paramedic in the city of Atlanta, working with the underserved population of the city. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Pablo and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Pablo Ghersi is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 14 years’ experience in healthcare. Pablo's passion for mental health sprung from his experience as a firefighter and paramedic in the city of Atlanta, working with the underserved population of the city. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff1810cf-4b23-41e4-b1ae-b2c421a70796/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
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
![Photo of Leila Jimenez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62a1926b-3495-401b-bf85-81c05594601f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leila Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91204 (Online Only)
Leila is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Her knowledge and training as a mental health clinician started with the adult and geriatric population in behavioral health units at several acute care hospitals in the community, holding positions of leadership as a clinical educator, supervisor, and emergency room liaison. For the past four years, Leila’s skills in medication management have been dedicated to serving adults, children, and adolescents with mental disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and mood disorders.
Leila is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Her knowledge and training as a mental health clinician started with the adult and geriatric population in behavioral health units at several acute care hospitals in the community, holding positions of leadership as a clinical educator, supervisor, and emergency room liaison. For the past four years, Leila’s skills in medication management have been dedicated to serving adults, children, and adolescents with mental disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc873a03-2f42-403a-b29e-929abf0e4d00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Julio A. Quijada, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80fdde11-c371-4352-a6cc-6ce8f06e887a/5/320x400.png)
Julio A. Quijada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Accepting new patients. Fear of the unknown is a trait we all share; not knowing what to do or how, when, and where to seek professional help can cause stress, and for people suffering from a mental disorder, that fear and frustration only aggravate their condition more. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult it is to ask for help or find a trustworthy provider. I assist my patients in navigating the confusing and complex road to recovery. My main focus is advocating for my patients, educating them about their condition, and making them feel safe, heard, and at peace.
Accepting new patients. Fear of the unknown is a trait we all share; not knowing what to do or how, when, and where to seek professional help can cause stress, and for people suffering from a mental disorder, that fear and frustration only aggravate their condition more. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult it is to ask for help or find a trustworthy provider. I assist my patients in navigating the confusing and complex road to recovery. My main focus is advocating for my patients, educating them about their condition, and making them feel safe, heard, and at peace.
See more therapy options for Glendale
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Glendale, CA
40+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Glendale, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
94% | Medication Management |
83% | Depression |
81% | ADHD |
81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Aetna |
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
97% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Glendale, CA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Glendale?
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.