Psychiatrists in San Marino, CA
![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 Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f49241-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.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 Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e804e30c-de2b-42dc-8c05-65d754f43b6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108 (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 Allen Chen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f7f525f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chen is a highly trained and experienced psychiatrist specializing in a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. With years of experience, he has worked in diverse clinical settings, from emergency rooms and medical floors to inpatient psychiatric hospitals and community outpatient clinics. His expertise extends to supporting recovery and return to work for patients dealing with workplace challenges, reflecting a deep commitment to comprehensive patient rehabilitation.
Dr. Chen is a highly trained and experienced psychiatrist specializing in a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. With years of experience, he has worked in diverse clinical settings, from emergency rooms and medical floors to inpatient psychiatric hospitals and community outpatient clinics. His expertise extends to supporting recovery and return to work for patients dealing with workplace challenges, reflecting a deep commitment to comprehensive patient rehabilitation.
![Photo of Dr. Nancy Cheng, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6c16657-ac64-4573-98f4-533db370378b/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! As a double board-certified psychiatrist in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, I specialize in the evaluation and management of various mental health conditions and symptoms across the lifespan. I promote a compassionate and nonjudgmental treatment environment where you could be vulnerable, share concerns, and ask questions. My goal is to help you acquire the tools necessary by way of psychoeducation, therapy, and/or medications to forge a path through your current challenges.
Welcome! As a double board-certified psychiatrist in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, I specialize in the evaluation and management of various mental health conditions and symptoms across the lifespan. I promote a compassionate and nonjudgmental treatment environment where you could be vulnerable, share concerns, and ask questions. My goal is to help you acquire the tools necessary by way of psychoeducation, therapy, and/or medications to forge a path through your current challenges.
![Photo of Dr. Jasbir Virk - Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eb700d9-4618-4f45-a105-4bef30fa117b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kimberley Durr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c346a762-0e78-4e23-81a7-f044be56a8fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberley Durr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29f415bc-a1e3-4a2b-9488-e78eac0e9cc8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91102 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53572750-8a69-4490-aa0f-883d0c0c687b/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91050
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 Samantha Lau, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73664b36-aefd-4ff1-b7eb-78e20072c3bc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Lau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
I specialize in ketamine/psychedelic assisted psychotherapy and psychiatric med management. Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself.
I specialize in ketamine/psychedelic assisted psychotherapy and psychiatric med management. Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself.
![Photo of Kenny Lin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72af1dbb-d211-4e07-9dd3-42a242228ec3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lin is a Harvard and UCSF trained psychiatrist for children, teens, and adults. He is double boarded by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. He has an additional board certification in Lifestyle Medicine from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. He has had diverse experiences working with people of different ages, backgrounds, and mental health histories.
Dr. Lin is a Harvard and UCSF trained psychiatrist for children, teens, and adults. He is double boarded by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. He has an additional board certification in Lifestyle Medicine from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. He has had diverse experiences working with people of different ages, backgrounds, and mental health histories.
![Photo of Jennifer Bembry - Kinkaid Private Care Home Detox, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/801222a1-276a-4017-bac2-8024aac622d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Highly confidential and care for those struggling with addiction, dependency, dual diagnosis, or primary mental health issues. Offering inpatient and outpatient detox options, residential and outpatient treatment programs, and highly confidential at home care options. Call to speak with a Kinkaid Private Care nurse for an initial assessment and overview of options.
Highly confidential and care for those struggling with addiction, dependency, dual diagnosis, or primary mental health issues. Offering inpatient and outpatient detox options, residential and outpatient treatment programs, and highly confidential at home care options. Call to speak with a Kinkaid Private Care nurse for an initial assessment and overview of options.
![Photo of Nancy Wu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1981d27-f222-4deb-95e4-8e77d049fbdb/2/320x400.jpeg)
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help. My goal is to witness and support you as you embark on this heroic journey of self-discovery and growth. I understand that life can be hard and filled with unpredictable ups and downs. I use a holistic approach to help patients ease their suffering and live life with more joy, spontaneity, and well-being.
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help. My goal is to witness and support you as you embark on this heroic journey of self-discovery and growth. I understand that life can be hard and filled with unpredictable ups and downs. I use a holistic approach to help patients ease their suffering and live life with more joy, spontaneity, and well-being.
![Photo of Diana Lopez, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0a679aa-3f4d-454c-8e82-3b3f18add6df/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience with all age groups,ADHD,anxiety,depression, trauma,women's mental health,bipolar,addiction,chronic diseases,end of life and parents and/or children with medical conditions.I thrive to provide you with the best compassionate & superior care.I am a provider that listens to you & your child’s needs.Treatment & plan of care are personalized to the client's needs & age group.You can expect someone that will advocate for you & provide you with the tools needed to become the best version of Yourself.A welcoming environment that is safe & confidential with a nonjudgmental provider is waiting for you.Hope to meet you soon!
I have experience with all age groups,ADHD,anxiety,depression, trauma,women's mental health,bipolar,addiction,chronic diseases,end of life and parents and/or children with medical conditions.I thrive to provide you with the best compassionate & superior care.I am a provider that listens to you & your child’s needs.Treatment & plan of care are personalized to the client's needs & age group.You can expect someone that will advocate for you & provide you with the tools needed to become the best version of Yourself.A welcoming environment that is safe & confidential with a nonjudgmental provider is waiting for you.Hope to meet you soon!
![Photo of Philippe Silva Tapon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4715ee97-d1ae-4fa1-9f10-841f4e59b61c/2/320x400.png)
Narrative medicine is a practice, described by Dr. Rita Charon in 2001, in which your story, the one I listen to and for which I create a narrative, not only establishes a healing bond of humanity, held in the utmost confidence, but gives rise also to a diagnosis and to a treatment. You tell your story, I write it down and offer it back so you can in turn reflect and refine it, and once that shared story is told, I have found, healing begins.
Narrative medicine is a practice, described by Dr. Rita Charon in 2001, in which your story, the one I listen to and for which I create a narrative, not only establishes a healing bond of humanity, held in the utmost confidence, but gives rise also to a diagnosis and to a treatment. You tell your story, I write it down and offer it back so you can in turn reflect and refine it, and once that shared story is told, I have found, healing begins.
![Photo of Michael Feldmeier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/442bf3bb-42b5-4b77-a27a-5584dbb4febb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sessions integrate psychiatric medicine, digital lifestyle training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy in a seamless manner. I have a special interest in the effects of ubiquitous daily use of technology on human relationships which includes the effects of video games, social media, and mobile phone use. As technology becomes more seamlessly woven into our lives, a person’s digital psycho-social experiences become equally important as a person’s real life. Other psychiatric interests include a focus on ADHD, impulse control disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and Tourette’s syndrome.
Sessions integrate psychiatric medicine, digital lifestyle training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy in a seamless manner. I have a special interest in the effects of ubiquitous daily use of technology on human relationships which includes the effects of video games, social media, and mobile phone use. As technology becomes more seamlessly woven into our lives, a person’s digital psycho-social experiences become equally important as a person’s real life. Other psychiatric interests include a focus on ADHD, impulse control disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and Tourette’s syndrome.
![Photo of Felix Aron Geller, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f1006be-8440-470d-9df6-9f603dde0bd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a firm believer in individualized medicine. Therefore, I usually take time to get to know the person and their life first and then evaluate the medical information in the context of that individual's experiences. I believe that this approach makes for an effective diagnosis and treatment process.
I am a firm believer in individualized medicine. Therefore, I usually take time to get to know the person and their life first and then evaluate the medical information in the context of that individual's experiences. I believe that this approach makes for an effective diagnosis and treatment process.
![Photo of Joana Ruby C. Bueno, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccf5a7b1-5ffc-4e50-aaa4-558b51ace1a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joana Ruby C. Bueno is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2019. She has a BA in Psychology and Biology from Boston College and a BSN and an MSN from the University of Pennsylvania. Joana has experience in community-based outpatient settings and crisis care. She collaborates with each patient and uses evidence-based guidelines to develop individualized treatment plans. Joana incorporates cognitive-behavioral techniques with medication management to help patients cope, from daily struggles to major life events.
Joana Ruby C. Bueno is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2019. She has a BA in Psychology and Biology from Boston College and a BSN and an MSN from the University of Pennsylvania. Joana has experience in community-based outpatient settings and crisis care. She collaborates with each patient and uses evidence-based guidelines to develop individualized treatment plans. Joana incorporates cognitive-behavioral techniques with medication management to help patients cope, from daily struggles to major life events.
![Photo of Je Deuk Ko, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/679432a0-4709-452a-bc81-a7e0ed97d14f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I take on the tradition of detailed discovery of your issues and turn it around to supporting you in how best to reach your emotional, relational, and cognitive potentials. I am versatile in, and offer, various treatment approaches such as DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and psychodynamic therapy, as well as prescribing medications. I discuss the details of my Psycho-Bio-Social model integrated formulations before answering the scientific and functional rationales behind my recommendations. I believe the process of discovering your functional goal is the most important part of the process.
I take on the tradition of detailed discovery of your issues and turn it around to supporting you in how best to reach your emotional, relational, and cognitive potentials. I am versatile in, and offer, various treatment approaches such as DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and psychodynamic therapy, as well as prescribing medications. I discuss the details of my Psycho-Bio-Social model integrated formulations before answering the scientific and functional rationales behind my recommendations. I believe the process of discovering your functional goal is the most important part of the process.
![Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73d470ad-7ace-45a4-a131-f97c266d132f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
See more therapy options for San Marino
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Marino, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in San Marino, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Medication Management |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in San Marino, CA see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Male | |
20% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Marino?
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.