Psychiatrists in Watsonville, CA
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/261eb909-ca64-4a40-95a7-562275d9ea7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Watsonville, CA 95076 (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 Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67af40fd-368a-482e-8dcd-43ae0b244f4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Watsonville, CA 95076 (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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Alma Caridad Ritsema, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d76ba2d-657b-4fd0-a95a-95be33f8df7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alma Caridad Ritsema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Aptos, CA 95003
Accepting New Patients - We are acutely aware that there is a shortage of mental health care practitioners in the area at a time when so many people are struggling to maintain their mental health. We are happy to be a new and growing practice that can address this shortage and help new patients. The goal of Manresa Wellness is to provide mental health support to adults in our community by providing competent and compassionate care.
Accepting New Patients - We are acutely aware that there is a shortage of mental health care practitioners in the area at a time when so many people are struggling to maintain their mental health. We are happy to be a new and growing practice that can address this shortage and help new patients. The goal of Manresa Wellness is to provide mental health support to adults in our community by providing competent and compassionate care.
![Photo of Dr. Cuneyt Tegin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ad95bc1-1a84-4635-8dcf-0a84cda569da/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients via TeleConference.
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients via TeleConference.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7fd0c1f-f7d8-4abc-8145-7b18dbfc9215/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
![Photo of Shivani Verma Chmura - Palo Alto Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd7f3de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE. Dr. Shivani Chmura is an expert in treating patients with an evidence based, compassionate approach. She also has extensive experience with medication management for eating disorders. Dr. Chmura is trained in both Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry from UCSF and Stanford Universities. She uses a warm, holistic approach to treating every individual, couple, and family. Dr. Chmura is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, (CBT, DBT, Supportive). She is an expert on pharmacologic management for depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, and post-partum depression and anxiety.
PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE. Dr. Shivani Chmura is an expert in treating patients with an evidence based, compassionate approach. She also has extensive experience with medication management for eating disorders. Dr. Chmura is trained in both Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry from UCSF and Stanford Universities. She uses a warm, holistic approach to treating every individual, couple, and family. Dr. Chmura is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, (CBT, DBT, Supportive). She is an expert on pharmacologic management for depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, and post-partum depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de72ad1-f795-4e29-b366-51c51ab75492/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newark, CA 94560
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Philip B Cawkwell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/007574c9-19be-4b1e-bbf3-9610488c4dc6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, while staying up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, while staying up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
![Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2c9e37c-6a3c-4d60-b9c6-1a2dbbd0add7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
![Photo of Elizabeth Rawson, MD, MHS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a607bb44-746a-4b1f-b81d-d6c77485032b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
![Photo of Dr. Meghaa Bhargava, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d61f0be-b5e7-46b1-ac31-37d66ed88966/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Meghaa Bhargava (pronounced May-ga Bar-guv) is dual board-certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Bhargava has a collaborative and evidence-based approach to treatment, empowering every individual to integrate their unique life experience into their care plan. She incorporates behavioral and psychodynamic techniques in caring for children, adolescents, and adults.
Dr. Meghaa Bhargava (pronounced May-ga Bar-guv) is dual board-certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Bhargava has a collaborative and evidence-based approach to treatment, empowering every individual to integrate their unique life experience into their care plan. She incorporates behavioral and psychodynamic techniques in caring for children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Kehinde Temilola Adedayo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feece0f4-43c4-46c6-a260-aaf6a6ac0ad7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kehinde Temilola Adedayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in treating people with various mental health disorders for over 8 years. I have extensive experience in both psychotherapy and medication. I have worked in various clinical settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and private practice. For appointments at SavantCare-San Francisco, CA contact (415) 480-7362, SavantCare-Los Altos, CA contact (650) 690-2362, SavantCare-Lewisville, Houston, Austin & San Antonio -Texas Clinics contact (469) 946-7897 and for Charlotte, NC contact (704) 317-1666.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in treating people with various mental health disorders for over 8 years. I have extensive experience in both psychotherapy and medication. I have worked in various clinical settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and private practice. For appointments at SavantCare-San Francisco, CA contact (415) 480-7362, SavantCare-Los Altos, CA contact (650) 690-2362, SavantCare-Lewisville, Houston, Austin & San Antonio -Texas Clinics contact (469) 946-7897 and for Charlotte, NC contact (704) 317-1666.
![Photo of Thomas A. Gonda, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0428b9cf-b353-4457-b7dd-83bd32d19bc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs.. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: San Diego and Oakland. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California..
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs.. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: San Diego and Oakland. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California..
![Photo of Veronica Arres, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce142eec-c7f8-426d-b3a1-b13df9e07c5f/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Ravi Hariprasad, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b1440c-1cd4-417e-ac4b-ce7a42c43289/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard (MGH) trained psychiatrist, an engineer and a serial entrepreneur. As an integrative physician, I am ambidextrous in performing as a psychopharmacologist, an Ayurvedic healer, a therapist, and a mindful life coach. Together we collaborate closely to identify and remove obstacles to wellness, to reduce suffering, and to gain a personal understanding of the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Your personal preferences and strengths guide our approach. Quite simply, I approach problem solving and treatment planning differently.
I am a Harvard (MGH) trained psychiatrist, an engineer and a serial entrepreneur. As an integrative physician, I am ambidextrous in performing as a psychopharmacologist, an Ayurvedic healer, a therapist, and a mindful life coach. Together we collaborate closely to identify and remove obstacles to wellness, to reduce suffering, and to gain a personal understanding of the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Your personal preferences and strengths guide our approach. Quite simply, I approach problem solving and treatment planning differently.
![Photo of Sarah Zheng, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fea19783-9432-44b8-8872-1b81fe73f8c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently Accepting New Patients! As a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, I work with people of all ages and background. I believe that good care starts with listening to and understanding the patient's concerns and goals for treatment. I strive to work collaboratively with patients to develop a treatment plan that is evidence-based and individually tailored to help them reach their goals. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy services.
Currently Accepting New Patients! As a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, I work with people of all ages and background. I believe that good care starts with listening to and understanding the patient's concerns and goals for treatment. I strive to work collaboratively with patients to develop a treatment plan that is evidence-based and individually tailored to help them reach their goals. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy services.
![Photo of Mukund Gnanadesikan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f78d79d2-d97c-4391-b4e8-b4a36e15fe00/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a child and adolescent psychiatrist with nearly two decades worth of experience, I have come to cherish the collaborative aspects of patient care above all else. Treatment and recovery become more meaningful and durable when defined by patients, families, and doctors together. (Or, as some. might say, multiple heads are better than one.) In working with diverse populations, it has also become evident to me that "medication-only" treatment models have their place, but are limited in what they can do and what they should be asked to do. This is especially true in the child and adolescent population.
As a child and adolescent psychiatrist with nearly two decades worth of experience, I have come to cherish the collaborative aspects of patient care above all else. Treatment and recovery become more meaningful and durable when defined by patients, families, and doctors together. (Or, as some. might say, multiple heads are better than one.) In working with diverse populations, it has also become evident to me that "medication-only" treatment models have their place, but are limited in what they can do and what they should be asked to do. This is especially true in the child and adolescent population.
![Photo of Ken Wong, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e2e42e0-737d-4a55-a157-14ecc324dc92/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Wong graduated with highest honors from UC Berkeley, where he was named valedictorian of the Cell and Developmental Biology emphasis. After earning his medical degree from the UC San Diego School of Medicine on a merit scholarship, he pursued subspecialty training in psychiatry at Loma Linda University, where he ranked in the 99th percentile nationwide on the annual in-training exam.
Dr. Wong graduated with highest honors from UC Berkeley, where he was named valedictorian of the Cell and Developmental Biology emphasis. After earning his medical degree from the UC San Diego School of Medicine on a merit scholarship, he pursued subspecialty training in psychiatry at Loma Linda University, where he ranked in the 99th percentile nationwide on the annual in-training exam.
![Photo of Joshua Burgett, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc81fa60-8b70-4581-aa32-ff98a8275883/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua Burgett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
Do you experience challenges with anxiety, sleep, attention/distractibility (ADHD)? Do you want to go beyond feeling better, to getting better? I work with motivated individuals to achieve lasting, sustainable change utilizing a fusion of psychotherapy, lifestyle change, technology, and neuropharmacology. As each patient is unique with their own personal experience, background and goals, I develop individualized treatment plans using curated, evidence-based interventions to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Do you experience challenges with anxiety, sleep, attention/distractibility (ADHD)? Do you want to go beyond feeling better, to getting better? I work with motivated individuals to achieve lasting, sustainable change utilizing a fusion of psychotherapy, lifestyle change, technology, and neuropharmacology. As each patient is unique with their own personal experience, background and goals, I develop individualized treatment plans using curated, evidence-based interventions to achieve the best possible outcomes.
![Photo of Ifeyinwa Utoh-Ofodile, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/760a89bb-b78e-4c85-815b-b28ad6ab0264/1/320x400.png)
Ifeyinwa Utoh-Ofodile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608 (Online Only)
Ideal clients are adults facing mood swings, anxiety, life adjustments, or attention challenges. They seek understanding, support, and evidence-based interventions to navigate their mental health journey toward improved well-being and fulfillment.
Ideal clients are adults facing mood swings, anxiety, life adjustments, or attention challenges. They seek understanding, support, and evidence-based interventions to navigate their mental health journey toward improved well-being and fulfillment.
See more therapy options for Watsonville
Nearby Searches for Watsonville
- Campbell
- Cupertino
- Gilroy
- Hollister
- Los Gatos
- Monterey
- Salinas
- San Jose
- Santa Clara
- Santa Cruz
- Saratoga
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Watsonville, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Watsonville, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Parenting |
100% | Sex Therapy |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Watsonville, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Watsonville?
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.