Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA
![Photo of Christopher Hong, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c1b4b6b-fed8-452b-8352-0d2b3d12b529/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I treat patients with a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, and other common and complex conditions. I utilize an evidence-based and holistic approach to treatment and aim to individualize each patient's treatment to their specific needs. Please click "My Website" to the right to book a consultation with me. I am excited to meet you!
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I treat patients with a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, and other common and complex conditions. I utilize an evidence-based and holistic approach to treatment and aim to individualize each patient's treatment to their specific needs. Please click "My Website" to the right to book a consultation with me. I am excited to meet you!
![Photo of Heather Mak - Dr Heather Mak - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f0d8c04-ec95-4801-b13e-5cd5f58b6d9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Heather Mak is a psychiatrist with experience in helping patients with issues like hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Dr. Heather Mak is a psychiatrist with experience in helping patients with issues like hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
![Photo of Michael Kang - Nerdy Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/876f582d-42d2-4b0b-a7e4-7dd93c97f494/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nerdy Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016 (Online Only)
I am a Los Angeles based board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. I treat a variety of age ranges and diagnoses, and although primarily a telehealth provider, I am open to arranging home visits as well. Transitions are hard across age ranges, whether that is middle school into high school, change of jobs, change in romance, etc. Of importance to me are the changes in childhood and their long-term impact on social and academic development. I believe that early intervention can have major impacts later in life which led to me pursuing my child and adolescent fellowship.
I am a Los Angeles based board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. I treat a variety of age ranges and diagnoses, and although primarily a telehealth provider, I am open to arranging home visits as well. Transitions are hard across age ranges, whether that is middle school into high school, change of jobs, change in romance, etc. Of importance to me are the changes in childhood and their long-term impact on social and academic development. I believe that early intervention can have major impacts later in life which led to me pursuing my child and adolescent fellowship.
![Photo of Arjun Kumar, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ac10eda-2917-4494-8cf1-5a147e78349d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kumar is an adult and geriatric psychiatrist seeing patients at his Los Angeles office and virtually. Dr. Kumar believes in a humane and comprehensive approach to mental health care across the lifespan. He emphasizes the impact of past experiences on emotional well-being, practicing trauma-informed care that draws from his work with military veterans. He enjoys helping patients through major life transitions like graduation and career changes, aging and retirement, and relationship conflict. He is also experienced at helping older adults confront late-life challenges like chronic disease, memory loss, and grief.
Dr. Kumar is an adult and geriatric psychiatrist seeing patients at his Los Angeles office and virtually. Dr. Kumar believes in a humane and comprehensive approach to mental health care across the lifespan. He emphasizes the impact of past experiences on emotional well-being, practicing trauma-informed care that draws from his work with military veterans. He enjoys helping patients through major life transitions like graduation and career changes, aging and retirement, and relationship conflict. He is also experienced at helping older adults confront late-life challenges like chronic disease, memory loss, and grief.
![Photo of Shannon Jones, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91eac78f-8eb7-4a80-9288-9516725eaa6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
![Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c975e200-8a35-47a0-b306-dd7ffb6182b9/1/320x400.png)
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
![Photo of Julie M Pan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe263ba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist, practicing in Westwood, who specializes in the evaluation, consultation, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience using evidence-based medicine and psychotherapy to help my patients live more fulfilling lives. I address important lifestyle factors (i.e. sleep, diet, exercise, supplements, substance use), and their effects on one's mental and physical health, to promote healthful living. Throughout my career, I have treated a wide range of conditions. I listen to and work together with my patient to determine the best course of treatment to optimize his/her wellbeing.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, practicing in Westwood, who specializes in the evaluation, consultation, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience using evidence-based medicine and psychotherapy to help my patients live more fulfilling lives. I address important lifestyle factors (i.e. sleep, diet, exercise, supplements, substance use), and their effects on one's mental and physical health, to promote healthful living. Throughout my career, I have treated a wide range of conditions. I listen to and work together with my patient to determine the best course of treatment to optimize his/her wellbeing.
![Photo of Nnamdi F Ofoeze - ULT Psychiatry Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c8365c8-5fd2-419a-b824-16fb21858ec8/2/320x400.jpeg)
ULT Psychiatry Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90016 (Online Only)
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my purpose is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. With a focus on holistic wellness, I aim to empower my patients to achieve their optimal mental health through therapeutic interventions, medication management, and collaborative treatment planning. By fostering a supportive and nonjudgmental environment, I am committed to promoting recovery, resilience, and overall well-being for those under my care.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my purpose is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. With a focus on holistic wellness, I aim to empower my patients to achieve their optimal mental health through therapeutic interventions, medication management, and collaborative treatment planning. By fostering a supportive and nonjudgmental environment, I am committed to promoting recovery, resilience, and overall well-being for those under my care.
![Photo of Christian Real, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/761d17fa-d182-42bf-9cbd-4d8beecfe48e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist as well as a psycho-oncologist who treats adults of all ages. My focus is on helping clients find and manifest meaning in their lives, transform potential into reality, and become the best version of their selves. My approach is to apply principles of neuroscience, psychology, meditation and mindfulness, stress management, nutrition, exercise, and pharmacology, to not only alleviate suffering but ultimately to promote thriving. I earned my medical degree at the Catholic University of Guayaquil.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist as well as a psycho-oncologist who treats adults of all ages. My focus is on helping clients find and manifest meaning in their lives, transform potential into reality, and become the best version of their selves. My approach is to apply principles of neuroscience, psychology, meditation and mindfulness, stress management, nutrition, exercise, and pharmacology, to not only alleviate suffering but ultimately to promote thriving. I earned my medical degree at the Catholic University of Guayaquil.
![Photo of Olga Tsoy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/733ca865-467e-416c-a6e9-82eecb1c7487/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stability Through Medication Management If you’re facing mental health challenges or supporting a loved one, I am here to support you. Let’s work together to pave the path toward wellness by uncovering the treatment plan tailored just for you, including personalized medication options.
Stability Through Medication Management If you’re facing mental health challenges or supporting a loved one, I am here to support you. Let’s work together to pave the path toward wellness by uncovering the treatment plan tailored just for you, including personalized medication options.
![Photo of Melanie Jimenez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17d52498-a2e8-49eb-bac6-f2510dc243d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90017
My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain. They may have tried multiple treatments without finding the relief they need. This person is looking for innovative and effective solutions to manage their mental health conditions and improve their quality of life. They are seeking hope and a new approach after feeling stuck or frustrated with traditional treatments. Their needs include a comprehensive assessment of their mental health condition, a clear understanding of their treatment options, and a supportive environment.
My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain. They may have tried multiple treatments without finding the relief they need. This person is looking for innovative and effective solutions to manage their mental health conditions and improve their quality of life. They are seeking hope and a new approach after feeling stuck or frustrated with traditional treatments. Their needs include a comprehensive assessment of their mental health condition, a clear understanding of their treatment options, and a supportive environment.
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![Photo of Kellie Norris - Journey Psyche , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05901180-cb3f-4596-a79c-8c83c7af5f4a/1/320x400.png)
Journey Psyche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Creating Waves of Happiness! Our adult psychiatry services in Arizona and California treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, PTSD, and more. WebMD Vitals has awarded our office and providers Top in Patient Satisfaction. We understand that dealing with mental health issues can be overwhelming and isolating. That's why we are dedicated to creating a safe and inviting space where you can feel heard, seen, understood, and supported. Our team of experienced professionals is here to assist you every step of the way. Call us at 800-955-0167 for a Free 15 Minute Consultation.
Creating Waves of Happiness! Our adult psychiatry services in Arizona and California treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, PTSD, and more. WebMD Vitals has awarded our office and providers Top in Patient Satisfaction. We understand that dealing with mental health issues can be overwhelming and isolating. That's why we are dedicated to creating a safe and inviting space where you can feel heard, seen, understood, and supported. Our team of experienced professionals is here to assist you every step of the way. Call us at 800-955-0167 for a Free 15 Minute Consultation.
![Photo of Roxanne Flaherty, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/893bcfc8-32d9-46e8-b3d4-6725720de3b9/1/320x400.png)
Roxanne Flaherty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Waitlist for new clients
As a doctorally prepared Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practiioner with over 20+ years of healthcare experience, I possess a strong foundation for understanding and treating the complexities of mental health. I take a comprehensive and holistic approach, encompassing various therapeutic modalities to address an individuals needs. My approach aligns with the evolving understanding of mental health as a complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. My treatments involve conventional methods such as prescribing medications, but also personalized and complementary support methods.
As a doctorally prepared Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practiioner with over 20+ years of healthcare experience, I possess a strong foundation for understanding and treating the complexities of mental health. I take a comprehensive and holistic approach, encompassing various therapeutic modalities to address an individuals needs. My approach aligns with the evolving understanding of mental health as a complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. My treatments involve conventional methods such as prescribing medications, but also personalized and complementary support methods.
![Photo of Thomas Suberman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f20990e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist who practices both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. What this means is that I am able to prescribe medication when needed. My approach to treatment relies heavily on a strong therapeutic relationship and I have been trained, and provided treatment, in numerous settings including inpatient psychiatry units, emergency settings and outpatient clinics. In addition to working in private practice, I treat children and adolescents in Northern California via tele-psychiatry.
I am a board certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist who practices both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. What this means is that I am able to prescribe medication when needed. My approach to treatment relies heavily on a strong therapeutic relationship and I have been trained, and provided treatment, in numerous settings including inpatient psychiatry units, emergency settings and outpatient clinics. In addition to working in private practice, I treat children and adolescents in Northern California via tele-psychiatry.
![Photo of Beverly Reader, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b020a6f-4cac-45b0-ac88-2817da1dcf4e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with a wide array of interests and skills, including psychedelic medicines such as Ketamine for the use of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I have completed level one training in Internal Family Systems, or IFS. IFS can be done effectively virtually or in person, with or without psychedelic medicine, and eventually, on one's own without the help of a therapist. It is a transformational, deep healing of the wounded/burdened parts of our inner children that affect how we live and relate to the world as adults, often resulting in self-sabotage.
I am a psychiatrist with a wide array of interests and skills, including psychedelic medicines such as Ketamine for the use of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I have completed level one training in Internal Family Systems, or IFS. IFS can be done effectively virtually or in person, with or without psychedelic medicine, and eventually, on one's own without the help of a therapist. It is a transformational, deep healing of the wounded/burdened parts of our inner children that affect how we live and relate to the world as adults, often resulting in self-sabotage.
![Photo of Volker Nabavi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9f3ac4b-65d3-4365-b9e3-5a285dbf0976/1/320x400.jpeg)
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019 (Online Only)
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
![Photo of Elyse Galles, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aad20366-59ea-41d4-a194-f3e2a15dfee4/2/320x400.jpeg)
My practice includes medication management of adults ages 18 and over. I have specialty training and research in college and student athlete mental health. I have a particular interest in working with young adults to build a healthy foundation to achieve their goals. In addition to medication management, my approach to mental health care involves addressing overall health and well-being, including eating habits, exercise, sleep-hygiene, cultivating healthy relationships, and finding meaning in our day to day life.
My practice includes medication management of adults ages 18 and over. I have specialty training and research in college and student athlete mental health. I have a particular interest in working with young adults to build a healthy foundation to achieve their goals. In addition to medication management, my approach to mental health care involves addressing overall health and well-being, including eating habits, exercise, sleep-hygiene, cultivating healthy relationships, and finding meaning in our day to day life.
![Photo of Benedicta Osuji, DNP, APRN, PHN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9eec3634-b37d-4bf6-b876-096273469a94/1/320x400.jpeg)
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PHN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90047 (Online Only)
Dr. Benedicta Osuji DNP, APRN, PHN, PMHNP-BC is a passionate and caring provider to her patients, She has been a PMHNP for about Five years with vast experience in psychiatric mental health. I employ evidence-based practices and a holistic approach to provide personalized care for optimal mental health outcomes that enable her patients to return to their baseline functioning. She believes that it is important to consider biological, psychological, and social factors when addressing behavioral health concerns. She is warm and approachable. She has a special interest in patient education, psychiatry, and medication management.
Dr. Benedicta Osuji DNP, APRN, PHN, PMHNP-BC is a passionate and caring provider to her patients, She has been a PMHNP for about Five years with vast experience in psychiatric mental health. I employ evidence-based practices and a holistic approach to provide personalized care for optimal mental health outcomes that enable her patients to return to their baseline functioning. She believes that it is important to consider biological, psychological, and social factors when addressing behavioral health concerns. She is warm and approachable. She has a special interest in patient education, psychiatry, and medication management.
![Photo of Uju Osagie, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9dbae4c-ec40-45ef-b9bd-11bfdb521d6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Uju Osagie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
I am a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with dual board certification: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate. I have over 23 years of extensive nursing experience in critical care, behavioral health, and addiction.
I am a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with dual board certification: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate. I have over 23 years of extensive nursing experience in critical care, behavioral health, and addiction.
![Photo of Paul Pawlowski - Paul Pawlowski MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c4f51bc-5b47-4e7d-881b-0045475a197a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Paul Pawlowski MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management services for adults. As a psychiatrist, I am uniquely poised to combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in a manner that resonates with a client’s goals and personal experiences. For some people this involves psychotherapy alone, focused on creating a comfortable space to examine and ameliorate the patterns and behaviors which may be inadvertently furthering one’s dissatisfaction. For other individuals, the complementary use of medications or alternative treatments may be indicated.
I am a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management services for adults. As a psychiatrist, I am uniquely poised to combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in a manner that resonates with a client’s goals and personal experiences. For some people this involves psychotherapy alone, focused on creating a comfortable space to examine and ameliorate the patterns and behaviors which may be inadvertently furthering one’s dissatisfaction. For other individuals, the complementary use of medications or alternative treatments may be indicated.
See more therapy options for Los Angeles
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA
600+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Medication Management |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
61% | Female | |
38% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Los Angeles?
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.