Psychiatrists in Ladera Ranch, CA
![Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/791bb442-74f9-44a9-9069-3cb49b817176/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Kevin M Kinback - Advanced TMS Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cbb601a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Advanced TMS Center we typically have adult & child psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, clinical psychologists, & Family Therapists, some wtth over 20 years experience. We see patients ages 5 and up. Our large, first class office in Ladera Ranch offers the best possible patient care. We are in-network with nearly every insurance company. We have many office staff to answer your phone cals in person to address all of your concerns. We do "traditional" medication management, ADD testing, and Spravato (ketamine). We also offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for depression, anxiety & OCD.
At Advanced TMS Center we typically have adult & child psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, clinical psychologists, & Family Therapists, some wtth over 20 years experience. We see patients ages 5 and up. Our large, first class office in Ladera Ranch offers the best possible patient care. We are in-network with nearly every insurance company. We have many office staff to answer your phone cals in person to address all of your concerns. We do "traditional" medication management, ADD testing, and Spravato (ketamine). We also offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for depression, anxiety & OCD.
![Photo of Robert Masoner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cf93e12-3638-4c65-8591-524d9fc4d5c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome and thank you for you interest in seeking out care. I have eight years of experience in primary care as well as the experience that I have in Psychiatry. I enjoy integrating my expertise in mental health along with my understanding of physical health in a comprehensive manner. I am open to multiple modalities of treatment but I also recognize that there is no "one size fits all" approach to medicine. I enjoy empowering patients in their care as much as is possible and safe. My ideal patient is therefore someone who is open and honest about their symptoms. I accept insurance and am in the process of signing with more plans.
Welcome and thank you for you interest in seeking out care. I have eight years of experience in primary care as well as the experience that I have in Psychiatry. I enjoy integrating my expertise in mental health along with my understanding of physical health in a comprehensive manner. I am open to multiple modalities of treatment but I also recognize that there is no "one size fits all" approach to medicine. I enjoy empowering patients in their care as much as is possible and safe. My ideal patient is therefore someone who is open and honest about their symptoms. I accept insurance and am in the process of signing with more plans.
![Photo of Stefani LaFrenierre, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3db1ae0-7084-456a-8ab6-9e0f9af8dc89/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer personalized mental health treatment and utilize an integrative and evidence-based approach for the treatment of mental health and addiction conditions. I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I focus on building long-lasting changes and resiliency so you can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. I bring a cautious and conservative approach to medication while considering all aspects of your health in treatment planning. I am therapeutically-oriented, and see Adults.
I offer personalized mental health treatment and utilize an integrative and evidence-based approach for the treatment of mental health and addiction conditions. I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I focus on building long-lasting changes and resiliency so you can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. I bring a cautious and conservative approach to medication while considering all aspects of your health in treatment planning. I am therapeutically-oriented, and see Adults.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f956af53-585d-49f8-b120-d2265f9a7360/1/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694 (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 Summer Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6be9e82-8688-4624-81eb-d085e4a244ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694
In my practice, I embrace the full spectrum of adult life, from my youngest client at 18 to my oldest at 103. This wide range reflects my commitment to providing dedicated mental health care to all adults, whether you're facing conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or seeking overall mental wellness. My approach is centered on understanding and addressing your unique needs with personalized medication management and supportive therapy. Committed to navigating life’s challenges with you, I offer same-day appointments, ensuring a treatment plan that respects and responds to the diverse experiences of all ages.
In my practice, I embrace the full spectrum of adult life, from my youngest client at 18 to my oldest at 103. This wide range reflects my commitment to providing dedicated mental health care to all adults, whether you're facing conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or seeking overall mental wellness. My approach is centered on understanding and addressing your unique needs with personalized medication management and supportive therapy. Committed to navigating life’s challenges with you, I offer same-day appointments, ensuring a treatment plan that respects and responds to the diverse experiences of all ages.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jill Gaskill, PHMNP-B, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bc7198a-b6a7-492b-ad88-d207aed72948/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Gaskill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP-B, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (Online Only)
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 Oyebola Oyelade, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c292031-2890-4612-9fdb-52839dc0aad0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
![Photo of Thomas Mottsin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ab9090-335e-4eee-be8c-a509bc9ae9c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Dr. Maryam Zarrabi, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcf66eb3-abdb-431c-9d02-6ed3d236444b/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Maryam Zarrabi is committed to fostering a safe space free of judgment. She understands the value of informed, collaborative, and individual treatment plans. Dr. Zarrabi’s holistic and evidence-based approach incorporates psychopharmacology, biopsychosocial factors, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. She completed her residency in psychiatry at Northwell Health, where she was awarded the Russell T. Joffe Memorial Award and the clinical excellence award.
Dr. Maryam Zarrabi is committed to fostering a safe space free of judgment. She understands the value of informed, collaborative, and individual treatment plans. Dr. Zarrabi’s holistic and evidence-based approach incorporates psychopharmacology, biopsychosocial factors, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. She completed her residency in psychiatry at Northwell Health, where she was awarded the Russell T. Joffe Memorial Award and the clinical excellence award.
![Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f26b8562-df58-45b7-ab9d-cef660dc2e2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
![Photo of Philip Creps, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05b1fe1b-bff1-4594-bf55-3ed496177170/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with a broad focus. My working style with patients is a therapeutic alliance. I thoroughly enjoy listening to my patients, hearing their stories, how their problems developed, and things that have made it better or worse in the past. I treat all patients as individuals and coach them to work from the basis of their strengths.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with a broad focus. My working style with patients is a therapeutic alliance. I thoroughly enjoy listening to my patients, hearing their stories, how their problems developed, and things that have made it better or worse in the past. I treat all patients as individuals and coach them to work from the basis of their strengths.
![Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0340a647-c692-419a-851d-72a1f1bb9a70/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, CA 92609 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Christine E
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (Online Only)
Hello! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide validation and support in your journey towards better mental well-being. My approach is warm, holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. My experience has not only honed my knowledge and understanding of mental health conditions, but also reinforces my drive and deep commitment to provide quality mental health care.
Hello! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide validation and support in your journey towards better mental well-being. My approach is warm, holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. My experience has not only honed my knowledge and understanding of mental health conditions, but also reinforces my drive and deep commitment to provide quality mental health care.
![Photo of Samir Hamed, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4bf3f6f-ed42-4233-bcbc-e382cd8d508b/2/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc59bf5c-af30-4f9d-aea4-a3382aec006e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Andrew Morrow, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be80d94-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, thought disorders and a multitude of other mental health issues. Having undergone extensive training in medical school, and a psychiatric residency, I am well trained in both psychotherapy and medication managment of mental problems. Whether you are suffering from severe depression or anxiety or if you simply wish to work on a certain aspect of your social, occupational or familial functioning, I can help. Born and raised in Orange County, I am familiar with the stresses of living in this community, and would love to help you reach your potential.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, thought disorders and a multitude of other mental health issues. Having undergone extensive training in medical school, and a psychiatric residency, I am well trained in both psychotherapy and medication managment of mental problems. Whether you are suffering from severe depression or anxiety or if you simply wish to work on a certain aspect of your social, occupational or familial functioning, I can help. Born and raised in Orange County, I am familiar with the stresses of living in this community, and would love to help you reach your potential.
![Photo of Scott Ispirescu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53912936-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children, adolescents, and adults to enable them to live their lives to their fullest. The mind and body are two parts of a whole, and what affects one will affect the other. Good nutrition, exercise, getting rest and recreation, and avoiding harmful habits form a foundation on which to build good health. While I believe that medication is an important component of treatment, it is only one building block in whole person care. I have been involved with clinical research, have lectured at medical conferences, and have extensive experience in the area of sleep medicine.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults to enable them to live their lives to their fullest. The mind and body are two parts of a whole, and what affects one will affect the other. Good nutrition, exercise, getting rest and recreation, and avoiding harmful habits form a foundation on which to build good health. While I believe that medication is an important component of treatment, it is only one building block in whole person care. I have been involved with clinical research, have lectured at medical conferences, and have extensive experience in the area of sleep medicine.
![Photo of Michelle Zamorano, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a16552db-8baf-483c-b469-af2208d8eeac/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with clients and collaborating to set goals for their mental health. Then help them work towards achieving those goals. I came to Mindful Health Solutions because they offer interventional treatments such as Esketamine and TMS. I love being able to help patients navigate alternative treatment options that can provide some relief when other treatments have failed.
I enjoy working with clients and collaborating to set goals for their mental health. Then help them work towards achieving those goals. I came to Mindful Health Solutions because they offer interventional treatments such as Esketamine and TMS. I love being able to help patients navigate alternative treatment options that can provide some relief when other treatments have failed.
![Photo of Georgiana Anugom - Georgiana Anugom, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4311dc98-354d-462c-a7ce-566bf8bc19ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Georgiana Anugom, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone dealing with mood disorders such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and/or ADHD. They are looking for more than just a quick fix and want to work on finding lasting relief. They want to regain control over their emotions, thoughts, and actions to function better in their daily life—whether that's in their career, social relationships, or personal achievements.
My ideal client is someone dealing with mood disorders such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and/or ADHD. They are looking for more than just a quick fix and want to work on finding lasting relief. They want to regain control over their emotions, thoughts, and actions to function better in their daily life—whether that's in their career, social relationships, or personal achievements.
See more therapy options for Ladera Ranch
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ladera Ranch, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ladera Ranch, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Sleep or Insomnia |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Ladera Ranch, CA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Male | |
40% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ladera Ranch?
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.