Telepsychiatry for San Luis Obispo County, CA
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (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.
I take pride in empowering patients to prioritize wellness and acting in the best interest of each patient’s whole self.
I take pride in empowering patients to prioritize wellness and acting in the best interest of each patient’s whole self.
My care derives a holistic approach to care informed by evidence-based guidelines to care in a highly collaborative approach. It always begins with making a warm and comfortable therapeutic relationship. Preventative care and an emphasis on living habits that promote health & wellness. It is common that medications may be part of most treatment plans in my practice, associated with teaching and some form of psychotherapy to facilitate long-term gains and improve chances for successful outcomes.
My care derives a holistic approach to care informed by evidence-based guidelines to care in a highly collaborative approach. It always begins with making a warm and comfortable therapeutic relationship. Preventative care and an emphasis on living habits that promote health & wellness. It is common that medications may be part of most treatment plans in my practice, associated with teaching and some form of psychotherapy to facilitate long-term gains and improve chances for successful outcomes.
Dr. Bauman is known for her open and warm approach. She is well-versed in the medical complexities of psychiatric illness, and addresses each patient as a unique individual. Dr. Margaret Bauman is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Child Psychiatry. She has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Bauman has been named one of America’s Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
Dr. Bauman is known for her open and warm approach. She is well-versed in the medical complexities of psychiatric illness, and addresses each patient as a unique individual. Dr. Margaret Bauman is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Child Psychiatry. She has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Bauman has been named one of America’s Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
Dr. Murat Akalin is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. He treats adults, children and adolescents. He is expertly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric illness, including use of medications. He uses exercise, nutrition, behavioral, social and environmental interventions to help his patients, as well as medication when needed. You may visit our website at www.DrAkalin.com for more information about our services.
Dr. Murat Akalin is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. He treats adults, children and adolescents. He is expertly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric illness, including use of medications. He uses exercise, nutrition, behavioral, social and environmental interventions to help his patients, as well as medication when needed. You may visit our website at www.DrAkalin.com for more information about our services.
My philosophy is straightforward: avoid medication unless necessary, use the lowest effective doses, and choose treatments with minimal side effects, always prioritizing your unique needs. Together, we’ll navigate your journey towards wellness, exploring innovative treatments and making informed decisions to enhance your happiness and productivity. For more information, visit my website at Well-BeingMentalHealth.com.
My philosophy is straightforward: avoid medication unless necessary, use the lowest effective doses, and choose treatments with minimal side effects, always prioritizing your unique needs. Together, we’ll navigate your journey towards wellness, exploring innovative treatments and making informed decisions to enhance your happiness and productivity. For more information, visit my website at Well-BeingMentalHealth.com.
I promote a holistic approach to care. In providing care, I attempt to raise awareness of the individual's medical condition related to mental health disorders. Patients are educated on their disorder and the biological changes that occur. Each treatment plan is individualized to the patient. Interventions are based on best-evidenced base practice. People can recover from mental health disorders, leading a fulfilling and productive life despite their disability. For certain people, it denotes a reduction in the severity of their symptoms. I believe that treatment adds to the spirit of a person, instead of diminishing their spirit.
I promote a holistic approach to care. In providing care, I attempt to raise awareness of the individual's medical condition related to mental health disorders. Patients are educated on their disorder and the biological changes that occur. Each treatment plan is individualized to the patient. Interventions are based on best-evidenced base practice. People can recover from mental health disorders, leading a fulfilling and productive life despite their disability. For certain people, it denotes a reduction in the severity of their symptoms. I believe that treatment adds to the spirit of a person, instead of diminishing their spirit.
Richard Altesman, M.D. is a nationally renowned Biological Psychiatrist, specializing in clinical psychopharmacology and neuropsychiatry, affective and mood disorders, anxiety, dual diagnosis and substance use disorders. He combines a caring, humanistic approach within this advanced knowledge of psychopharmacology. He was at the forefront of this field (Founding Director of the Psychopharmacology Service at Harvard, and on the faculty at Cornell,) and use the most advanced concepts to correctly diagnose and treat patient’s emotional difficulties.
Richard Altesman, M.D. is a nationally renowned Biological Psychiatrist, specializing in clinical psychopharmacology and neuropsychiatry, affective and mood disorders, anxiety, dual diagnosis and substance use disorders. He combines a caring, humanistic approach within this advanced knowledge of psychopharmacology. He was at the forefront of this field (Founding Director of the Psychopharmacology Service at Harvard, and on the faculty at Cornell,) and use the most advanced concepts to correctly diagnose and treat patient’s emotional difficulties.
I am accepting new clients and can schedule you within a few days of you reaching out. I use collaborative decision-making with you to reach your mental health goals. I work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My specialty is in the treatment, diagnosis, and medication management of mental health disorders. I am committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and will work collaboratively with your therapist and other providers for you to receive the best treatment and benefits of medication management.
I am accepting new clients and can schedule you within a few days of you reaching out. I use collaborative decision-making with you to reach your mental health goals. I work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My specialty is in the treatment, diagnosis, and medication management of mental health disorders. I am committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and will work collaboratively with your therapist and other providers for you to receive the best treatment and benefits of medication management.
Our group provides medication management and psychotherapy services to a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as; Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Trauma, Substance/Addiction, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, and other various Mental Health Disorders.
Our group provides medication management and psychotherapy services to a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as; Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Trauma, Substance/Addiction, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, and other various Mental Health Disorders.
Julia Tidik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am currently licensed in both California and Washington State. I specialize in treating substance abuse, including with the use of medication-assisted treatments such as buprenorphine (Suboxone). I additionally enjoy working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic attacks, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice is currently focused on working with adults up to age 65. I am not able to see patients who have Medicare in my private practice.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am currently licensed in both California and Washington State. I specialize in treating substance abuse, including with the use of medication-assisted treatments such as buprenorphine (Suboxone). I additionally enjoy working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic attacks, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice is currently focused on working with adults up to age 65. I am not able to see patients who have Medicare in my private practice.
Douglas Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
My philosophy is based on the Nursing Care Model: a holistic approach to patient care focused on the mind, body, and soul, while implementing a combination of brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and self-care activities. My experience includes serving clients suffering from mild to severe mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychotic, and other mood disorders.
My philosophy is based on the Nursing Care Model: a holistic approach to patient care focused on the mind, body, and soul, while implementing a combination of brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and self-care activities. My experience includes serving clients suffering from mild to severe mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychotic, and other mood disorders.
Katie Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Katie provides expert assessment and treatment to Pacific Psychiatry’s patients, treating a variety of mental health conditions with compassionate and individualized care. Her approach to treatment is holistic, with the use of psychotherapy and traditional medications. Katie collaborates with her patients and clinical team to develop and implement individualized treatment plans, using evidence-based research and practices.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Katie provides expert assessment and treatment to Pacific Psychiatry’s patients, treating a variety of mental health conditions with compassionate and individualized care. Her approach to treatment is holistic, with the use of psychotherapy and traditional medications. Katie collaborates with her patients and clinical team to develop and implement individualized treatment plans, using evidence-based research and practices.
Dr. Welby Nielsen focuses on wellness and improved quality of life for each patient. Dr. Nielsen treats children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Dr. Welby Nielsen focuses on wellness and improved quality of life for each patient. Dr. Nielsen treats children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Dr. Peter Afsari helps children, adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Afsari uses a psychotherapeutic approach to balance medication and helps his patients identify trauma. He has several years of experience working in various community mental health settings. Dr. Afsari completed his adult psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Arizona. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, playing piano, traveling, and is an avid basketball fan.
Dr. Peter Afsari helps children, adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Afsari uses a psychotherapeutic approach to balance medication and helps his patients identify trauma. He has several years of experience working in various community mental health settings. Dr. Afsari completed his adult psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Arizona. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, playing piano, traveling, and is an avid basketball fan.
Amanda Selman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
Amanda Selman, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Masters in Nursing Science from Wilkes University and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). Her career has included working in both hospital and community mental health settings. She has experience in and enjoys working with diverse ages, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, and mental health issues. She also has a special interest in women’s mental health including pregnancy and postpartum.
Amanda Selman, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Masters in Nursing Science from Wilkes University and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). Her career has included working in both hospital and community mental health settings. She has experience in and enjoys working with diverse ages, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, and mental health issues. She also has a special interest in women’s mental health including pregnancy and postpartum.
I work very closely with my patients utilizing their life experiences and strengths in the creation of treatment plans that empower them to achieve their mental and physical wellness goals. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, embracing pharmacology and psychotherapy treatment modalities, and specialize in the assessment and care of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
I work very closely with my patients utilizing their life experiences and strengths in the creation of treatment plans that empower them to achieve their mental and physical wellness goals. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, embracing pharmacology and psychotherapy treatment modalities, and specialize in the assessment and care of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Talia Luc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Templeton, CA 93465
As a dual-board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, my mission is to provide holistic mental health care that is both compassionate and evidence-based to promote the best outcomes for you. I acknowledge that achieving your optimal well-being isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and I take pride in delivering personalized treatment plans for each person. I offer general mental health, brief psychotherapy, and a functional and integrative approach to enhance your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
As a dual-board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, my mission is to provide holistic mental health care that is both compassionate and evidence-based to promote the best outcomes for you. I acknowledge that achieving your optimal well-being isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and I take pride in delivering personalized treatment plans for each person. I offer general mental health, brief psychotherapy, and a functional and integrative approach to enhance your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
Michael Quiceno, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner, brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to the world of healthcare. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he hails from diverse South Florida and proudly served in the U.S. Army Medical Department. Michael's passion lies in psychiatric care, and he has left a lasting impact on communities in California and Florida. With a versatile medical background spanning Primary Care, Psychiatric Care, Pain Management, and more, he is a well-rounded practitioner.
Michael Quiceno, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner, brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to the world of healthcare. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he hails from diverse South Florida and proudly served in the U.S. Army Medical Department. Michael's passion lies in psychiatric care, and he has left a lasting impact on communities in California and Florida. With a versatile medical background spanning Primary Care, Psychiatric Care, Pain Management, and more, he is a well-rounded practitioner.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Online Psychiatrists
Is online therapy as effective as in-person?
Numerous studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to determine if online therapy provides the same benefits across all client populations. Individuals with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or those who may benefit from in-person check-ins, like those with eating disorders, may not experience the same level of benefit from online therapy. Nonetheless, the success of online therapy, much like in-person therapy, often hinges on the quality of the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client rather than the specific modality of therapy used.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of therapy conducted online?
One of the main advantages of online therapy is its convenience for both clients and therapists. It also allows clients who require specialized therapy to access a wider range of professionals than they could with only in-person sessions. Additionally, online therapy may be a more affordable option in some cases and often offers the same insurance benefits as in-person therapy. However, online therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who value face-to-face interaction with a therapist. Therapists may find it more challenging to assess clients accurately in an online setting due to reduced nonverbal cues on camera. There is also the increased risk that disruptions caused by external factors, such as technology malfunctions, can hinder the therapy session. For these reasons, many therapists offer a "hybrid" therapeutic approach, alternating between seeing clients in-person and online.
Is online therapy suitable for children and adolescents?
Just like with adults, the accessibility and convenience of online therapy can greatly benefit children and adolescents. In fact, children and adolescents may be more accustomed to navigating online platforms than older adults, making online sessions feel more natural for them. Teens might also be interested in using additional online tools, such as therapist-recommended apps, as an adjunct to online therapy sessions. Apps for developing CBT skills, practicing mindfulness exercises, or tracking thoughts and moods can be helpful for teens receiving therapy. However, it's important to note that not all therapeutic modalities are well-suited to online therapy, especially those used with younger children. For example, play therapy, which helps younger children express their emotions, often requires in-person sessions to be fully effective.
Can I receive prescriptions and medication management with online therapy?
The ability for psychiatrists to prescribe medications through online therapy varies based on the medication and the states where the medical professional and client are located. While many prescribing regulations were relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic, some states still enforce rules, especially concerning controlled substances, which may mandate an in-person visit before prescribing. Generally, however, medical professionals can prescribe non-controlled substances through online therapy sessions just as they do during in-person sessions.