Psychiatrists in Placerville, CA

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Placerville, CA 95667  (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.
(530) 288-4533 View (530) 288-4533
Photo of Catherine Mane Bulaong, PsychNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Mane Bulaong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsychNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Placerville, CA 95667
I treat clients with mental health issues and substance abuse disorders. I am a trained medication assisted treatment (MAT) provider. I worked in different behavioral health settings, namely, crisis stabilization unit, mental health urgent care, state prison inpatient psychiatric unit, as a psychiatric RN. I have empathy and utmost respect for individuals who are deeply affected by mental health issues and continue to struggle to get the right treatment. Those same values, I carry with me as psych NP. I have understanding about how the illness can feel very isolating.
I treat clients with mental health issues and substance abuse disorders. I am a trained medication assisted treatment (MAT) provider. I worked in different behavioral health settings, namely, crisis stabilization unit, mental health urgent care, state prison inpatient psychiatric unit, as a psychiatric RN. I have empathy and utmost respect for individuals who are deeply affected by mental health issues and continue to struggle to get the right treatment. Those same values, I carry with me as psych NP. I have understanding about how the illness can feel very isolating.
(916) 545-3429 View (916) 545-3429

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Abhishek Rai - Psychiatrist (Integrative/Holistic), MD, Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist (Integrative/Holistic)
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
El Dorado, CA 95623
Dr. Abhishek Rai is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals grappling with psychiatric conditions such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. What sets Dr. Rai apart is his distinctive approach, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern medicine philosophies in a highly personalized manner for each patient. Driven by the conviction that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and spirit, he initiates treatment with medication but views complete healing as an intricate journey. He empowers his patients with evidence-based modalities and a diverse toolkit for a holistic and transformative healing experience
Dr. Abhishek Rai is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals grappling with psychiatric conditions such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. What sets Dr. Rai apart is his distinctive approach, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern medicine philosophies in a highly personalized manner for each patient. Driven by the conviction that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and spirit, he initiates treatment with medication but views complete healing as an intricate journey. He empowers his patients with evidence-based modalities and a diverse toolkit for a holistic and transformative healing experience
(916) 892-0416 View (916) 892-0416

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of April Clark - Cornerstone Child and Adult Integrative Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cornerstone Child and Adult Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
Here for children and adults. Specializing in anxiety, depression. Also treating ADHD and trauma responses. I am passionate about listening to YOUR story and providing specific personalized psychiatric treatments with both natural and evidence based pharmacologic options. I integrate the most up to date psychiatry treatments with natural supplementation along with feasible life style changes that help patients live more peacefully with less symptoms. Through added therapy I am here to help make a way to some normalcy and more peaceful functionings of daily living. Contact directly to verify insurances.
Here for children and adults. Specializing in anxiety, depression. Also treating ADHD and trauma responses. I am passionate about listening to YOUR story and providing specific personalized psychiatric treatments with both natural and evidence based pharmacologic options. I integrate the most up to date psychiatry treatments with natural supplementation along with feasible life style changes that help patients live more peacefully with less symptoms. Through added therapy I am here to help make a way to some normalcy and more peaceful functionings of daily living. Contact directly to verify insurances.
(530) 802-8007 View (530) 802-8007
Photo of Said A Ibrahimi - Vortex Psychiatry - TMS Clinic & Ketamine Infusion, MD, Psychiatrist
Vortex Psychiatry - TMS Clinic & Ketamine Infusion
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Danville, CA 94506
Dr. Ibrahimi channels his energy into providing individualized care for each of his patients, as each patient exhibits a variety of symptoms and disorders. He is dedicated to reaching the root cause of the symptoms that patients exhibit so that treatment is maximized to its optimal effects. Dr. Ibrahimi enjoys using the most advanced modalities of treatment which includes TMS (Trans Magnetic Cranial Treatment), which shown to be a more effective, safe, direct alternative treatment to various psychopathologies including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Insomnia, and PTSD.
Dr. Ibrahimi channels his energy into providing individualized care for each of his patients, as each patient exhibits a variety of symptoms and disorders. He is dedicated to reaching the root cause of the symptoms that patients exhibit so that treatment is maximized to its optimal effects. Dr. Ibrahimi enjoys using the most advanced modalities of treatment which includes TMS (Trans Magnetic Cranial Treatment), which shown to be a more effective, safe, direct alternative treatment to various psychopathologies including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Insomnia, and PTSD.
(925) 222-2554 View (925) 222-2554
Photo of Jerry H. Gelbart, MD, QME, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Jerry H. Gelbart
Psychiatrist, MD, QME, FAPA
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563  (Online Only)
My name is Jerry Gelbart. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, went to college in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I attended medical school at Ohio State University, and trained in Psychiatry at UCLA. I’ve been in private practice for 30+ years. I have helped many people suffering from psychological symptoms with medication and firmly advocate biologic methods of treatment. I’ve had an even greater passion, however, for teaching people how to understand their emotions, and how to put that information to use to reduce problematic symptoms and find greater fulfillment in life.
My name is Jerry Gelbart. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, went to college in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I attended medical school at Ohio State University, and trained in Psychiatry at UCLA. I’ve been in private practice for 30+ years. I have helped many people suffering from psychological symptoms with medication and firmly advocate biologic methods of treatment. I’ve had an even greater passion, however, for teaching people how to understand their emotions, and how to put that information to use to reduce problematic symptoms and find greater fulfillment in life.
(925) 254-3652 View (925) 254-3652
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
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.
(341) 348-8699 View (341) 348-8699
Photo of Guylene Joseph, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dublin, CA 94568  (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
(925) 690-3237 View (925) 690-3237
Photo of Holli Hoffman, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holli Hoffman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Holli is dual board-certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She helps young adults and adolescents with addiction, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Holli is dual board-certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She helps young adults and adolescents with addiction, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Maryam Eskandari - Maryam Eskandari, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Maryam Eskandari, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
I see my patients first and foremost in a humanistic way as people, not simply as patients or their diagnoses. As such, I offer patients comprehensive treatment, not just from a neurobiological perspective, but also a from a humanistic one. I approach my patients with compassion, respect and a commitment to confidentiality. Some of the biggest obstacles to attainting self-awareness and self-acceptance are deeply buried feelings of guilt and shame. Working with a psychotherapist you trust, who is curious, empathic and understanding can help you expand your capacity for self-curiosity, self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn can help you expand your capacity to: •examine, understand & change problematic patterns in your life; •make choices freely & actively, instead of reactively; •ultimately lead a more thoughtful, authentic & fulfilling life.
I see my patients first and foremost in a humanistic way as people, not simply as patients or their diagnoses. As such, I offer patients comprehensive treatment, not just from a neurobiological perspective, but also a from a humanistic one. I approach my patients with compassion, respect and a commitment to confidentiality. Some of the biggest obstacles to attainting self-awareness and self-acceptance are deeply buried feelings of guilt and shame. Working with a psychotherapist you trust, who is curious, empathic and understanding can help you expand your capacity for self-curiosity, self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn can help you expand your capacity to: •examine, understand & change problematic patterns in your life; •make choices freely & actively, instead of reactively; •ultimately lead a more thoughtful, authentic & fulfilling life.
(415) 789-3595 View (415) 789-3595
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
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
(341) 888-6708 View (341) 888-6708
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Sonora, CA 95370  (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.
(209) 781-8019 View (209) 781-8019
Photo of Natalie Artinian, DO, Psychiatrist
Natalie Artinian
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
(844) 560-5616 View (844) 560-5616
Photo of Sara Ali, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Sara Ali
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I was born and raised in Egypt and completed my medical school from Cairo University School of Medicine. After I travelled to California with my husband, I joined Stanford public mental health and population sciences division as a researcher. I completed my adult psychiatry residency from University of New Mexico School of Medicine and my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Stanford University. In addition to my clinical work , I am passionate about improving community health through psychoeducational initiatives for underserved & minority populations.
I was born and raised in Egypt and completed my medical school from Cairo University School of Medicine. After I travelled to California with my husband, I joined Stanford public mental health and population sciences division as a researcher. I completed my adult psychiatry residency from University of New Mexico School of Medicine and my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Stanford University. In addition to my clinical work , I am passionate about improving community health through psychoeducational initiatives for underserved & minority populations.
(844) 560-5616 View (844) 560-5616
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583  (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.
(925) 428-6735 View (925) 428-6735
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95823  (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.
(916) 302-2857 View (916) 302-2857
Photo of Victor Huynh, DO, Psychiatrist
Victor Huynh
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My ideal patient is anyone who is looking to better their mental health and put the effort in that they deserve.
My ideal patient is anyone who is looking to better their mental health and put the effort in that they deserve.
(510) 890-0945 View (510) 890-0945
Photo of Patricia Brown, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94559
Patty is a compassionate and dedicated advocate for mental well-being, who integrates her professional experience with her personal passions. Her heart is for family, her spirit craves exploration through travel, and she has a playful soul that finds joy in the camaraderie of games. Patty helps patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and grief using medication management. Her commitment to the well-being of patients extends beyond the clinical realm, embracing the richness of life’s experience and the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and soul.
Patty is a compassionate and dedicated advocate for mental well-being, who integrates her professional experience with her personal passions. Her heart is for family, her spirit craves exploration through travel, and she has a playful soul that finds joy in the camaraderie of games. Patty helps patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and grief using medication management. Her commitment to the well-being of patients extends beyond the clinical realm, embracing the richness of life’s experience and the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and soul.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Teresa Lee, MD, FAPA, CGP, Psychiatrist
Teresa Lee
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, CGP
Verified Verified
Albany, CA 94706
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling "stuck" or even "paralyzed" in your career, daily life, or relationships (in areas even beyond romantic) are often why people seek me. My culturally open approach means we will understand how your past and present relationships, ideas, and feelings shape who you are today. I primarily offer psychodynamic and relational therapy and add in CBT, DBT, and mindfulness as needed. Talk therapy can lead to deep and lasting changes, and medications, when thoughtfully prescribed, can lessen the intensity of pain and suffering. With my medical and therapy resources, we will create an approach that lends itself to personal growth.
Feeling "stuck" or even "paralyzed" in your career, daily life, or relationships (in areas even beyond romantic) are often why people seek me. My culturally open approach means we will understand how your past and present relationships, ideas, and feelings shape who you are today. I primarily offer psychodynamic and relational therapy and add in CBT, DBT, and mindfulness as needed. Talk therapy can lead to deep and lasting changes, and medications, when thoughtfully prescribed, can lessen the intensity of pain and suffering. With my medical and therapy resources, we will create an approach that lends itself to personal growth.
(925) 690-1891 View (925) 690-1891
Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ceres, CA 95307  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(619) 771-0128 View (619) 771-0128

See more therapy options for Placerville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Placerville, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Placerville, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management
50% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in Placerville, CA see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Placerville?

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.