Psychiatrists in Lomita, CA
![Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42aa0c10-8d9c-4bf4-9ecc-e92d4a2d9256/1/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
![Photo of Rachel Jumonville, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8d83725-d6f2-488a-96bf-74de842e964e/1/320x400.png)
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!
![Photo of Ana Jimenez, PA-C , Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7dea2e4-e99c-4f3e-a386-5c74db31fd4e/1/320x400.png)
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!
![Photo of Jaspreet Takhar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aea1a799-825a-4d0d-a9e4-465f74e59317/1/320x400.png)
Jaspreet Takhar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lomita, CA 90717 (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!
![Photo of Vides Apresto, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/107bcce9-afa1-4402-94c3-09e3203a2b81/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vides Apresto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lomita, CA 90717 (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!
![Photo of Mattison Pearlman, PAC, CAQ Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0561170f-aef6-4ca9-a96f-ffe01d56571d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mattison Pearlman
Physician Assistant, PAC, CAQ Psy
Verified Verified
Lomita, CA 90717 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING 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.
ACCEPTING 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.
![Photo of Carmela Zaragoza, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4fdbbe9-6b39-42cf-9233-9da4b03e3541/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carmela Zaragoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lomita, CA 90717 (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!
![Photo of Ana Jimenez | Bonmente, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8797693c-7121-4fdd-92d8-75cb855d0191/1/320x400.png)
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. Welcome!
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. Welcome!
![Photo of Dustin Stephens, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74434c94-4e5c-48a4-9089-0260efd97778/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
![Photo of Ian Mojica - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a44983e0-cad8-4b20-90a7-f0f141a1219a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ian Mojica - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lomita, CA 90717
Ian is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Cal State University Long Beach and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from UC Irvine. Growing up in Orange County, Ian quickly learned about the existence of healthcare disparities within his community. He strongly believes that it is imperative to make mental health treatment more accessible to the greater population while reducing the stigma that accompanies psychiatric diagnoses. Ian has extensive experience in street medicine, working with the underprivileged population in Skid Row and Orange County.
Ian is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Cal State University Long Beach and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from UC Irvine. Growing up in Orange County, Ian quickly learned about the existence of healthcare disparities within his community. He strongly believes that it is imperative to make mental health treatment more accessible to the greater population while reducing the stigma that accompanies psychiatric diagnoses. Ian has extensive experience in street medicine, working with the underprivileged population in Skid Row and Orange County.
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/314a29d8-24ca-4ea6-9772-e97a73a9c34c/1/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows 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.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows 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.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4ae55b4-9176-47c7-be4d-eb8ac5003c59/2/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274 (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.
![Photo of Brittany Cadiz, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d029c1cd-b124-463e-a47b-c649c632087f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Cadiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90501
Are you seeking a new mental health professional? If so, I am here to assist you on your journey. I provide a safe space and emphasize personalized treatment for anyone who is struggling to manage their anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, and more. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach is aim to focus on your specific needs. I am trained to provide individual supportive psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management for all psychiatric-mental health disorders.
Are you seeking a new mental health professional? If so, I am here to assist you on your journey. I provide a safe space and emphasize personalized treatment for anyone who is struggling to manage their anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, and more. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach is aim to focus on your specific needs. I am trained to provide individual supportive psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management for all psychiatric-mental health disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Simon Faynboym - Neuro Wellness Spa, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9001e01-bd06-4b41-acd5-8299df8a0ec2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Simon Faynboym was born in Ukraine and immigrated to California at a very young age. Growing up in California, he had a drive to serve the underprivileged and decided to become a physician. Dr. Faynboym currently practices Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Dr. Faynboym earned two Bachelor of Science Degrees, his first in Genetics and the second in Food Biochemistry. He graduated in the top of his class and continued thereafter to get his masters training in Biomedical Sciences at Midwestern University for a year, before heading off to Medical School.
Dr. Simon Faynboym was born in Ukraine and immigrated to California at a very young age. Growing up in California, he had a drive to serve the underprivileged and decided to become a physician. Dr. Faynboym currently practices Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Dr. Faynboym earned two Bachelor of Science Degrees, his first in Genetics and the second in Food Biochemistry. He graduated in the top of his class and continued thereafter to get his masters training in Biomedical Sciences at Midwestern University for a year, before heading off to Medical School.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1547727-fb8f-4415-bd25-aff094f74845/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90501
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 Susan Magorno, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3ba0f0-6af8-4690-a542-7a0837ee629a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Susan Magorno, PMHNP is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2018 and a registered nurse since 1996. She graduated from the University of San Diego with a doctorate in nursing practice and advanced practice in psychiatry. She also graduated from Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing for her bachelors of science in nursing. Susan does not offer neuropsychological testing and treatment requiring controlled substances such as stimulants or benzodiazepines are limited only to the Los Angeles metropolitan area due to Drug Enforcement Agency restrictions.
Dr. Susan Magorno, PMHNP is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2018 and a registered nurse since 1996. She graduated from the University of San Diego with a doctorate in nursing practice and advanced practice in psychiatry. She also graduated from Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing for her bachelors of science in nursing. Susan does not offer neuropsychological testing and treatment requiring controlled substances such as stimulants or benzodiazepines are limited only to the Los Angeles metropolitan area due to Drug Enforcement Agency restrictions.
![Photo of Mae Caragay, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85abde17-633f-4ce7-965e-44e27163a8b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
Accepting New Patients - I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
![Photo of Dr. Irina Addes, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79b97c68-98b4-4640-8f4c-134ef7d3072b/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Irina Addes focuses on children, adolescents, and adult psychiatry. Dr. Addes has a holistic approach to therapy and uses cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management. She completes diagnostic evaluations. Dr. Addes completed her psychiatry residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. She was born in the Soviet Union and enjoys spending time outdoors in California’s glorious climate.
Dr. Irina Addes focuses on children, adolescents, and adult psychiatry. Dr. Addes has a holistic approach to therapy and uses cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management. She completes diagnostic evaluations. Dr. Addes completed her psychiatry residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. She was born in the Soviet Union and enjoys spending time outdoors in California’s glorious climate.
![Photo of Dr. Joshua Lichtman - Neuro Wellness Spa, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba0dbc67-7862-4eed-af66-402b27db5ac6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Joshua Lichtman - Neuro Wellness Spa
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505 (Online Only)
Dr. Josh Lichtman has been practicing psychiatry for the last decade. He is dual board certified in both adult psychiatry and addiction medicine.
Dr. Josh Lichtman has been practicing psychiatry for the last decade. He is dual board certified in both adult psychiatry and addiction medicine.
![Photo of Rose Mae Chung, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7ad7e60-3d01-4793-88cc-369f2b150854/1/320x400.png)
Rose Mae is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and helps adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and substance use. Rose Mae’s holistic approach uses therapeutic medication management, patient education, and other evidence-based practices.
Rose Mae is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and helps adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and substance use. Rose Mae’s holistic approach uses therapeutic medication management, patient education, and other evidence-based practices.
See more therapy options for Lomita
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lomita, CA
10+
Psychiatrists in Lomita, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
91% | Emotional Disturbance |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Anthem | Elevance |
100% | Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Lomita, CA see their clients
72% | Online Only | |
28% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lomita?
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.