Psychiatrists in San Luis Obispo County, CA
![Photo of Julia Tidik, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd00d444-7bae-4601-8f19-e4e4dc82a895/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Tidik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am currently licensed in both California and Washington State. I specialize in treating substance abuse, including with the use of medication-assisted treatments such as buprenorphine (Suboxone). I additionally enjoy working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic attacks, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice is currently focused on working with adults up to age 65. I am not able to see patients who have Medicare in my private practice.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am currently licensed in both California and Washington State. I specialize in treating substance abuse, including with the use of medication-assisted treatments such as buprenorphine (Suboxone). I additionally enjoy working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic attacks, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice is currently focused on working with adults up to age 65. I am not able to see patients who have Medicare in my private practice.
![Photo of Deborah Holzman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74e8f747-3452-42b3-86c2-10cea5a94dd6/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication to mostly younger adults (18+) and college students with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD. I treat ADHD with a confirmed diagnoses; I don't offer ADHD testing. I do my best to help you understand potential side effects and how medication can help alleviate symptoms. Medication is one piece of a treatment plan. Most people I see also see a therapist. Taking the time to explore and understand your inner world in whatever way is valuable to you is an essential piece of treatment. I collaborate with a supervising psychiatrist, Margaret Bauman, MD.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication to mostly younger adults (18+) and college students with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD. I treat ADHD with a confirmed diagnoses; I don't offer ADHD testing. I do my best to help you understand potential side effects and how medication can help alleviate symptoms. Medication is one piece of a treatment plan. Most people I see also see a therapist. Taking the time to explore and understand your inner world in whatever way is valuable to you is an essential piece of treatment. I collaborate with a supervising psychiatrist, Margaret Bauman, MD.
![Photo of Dr. Peter Afsari, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48726a44-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Peter Afsari helps children, adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Afsari uses a psychotherapeutic approach to balance medication and helps his patients identify trauma. He has several years of experience working in various community mental health settings. Dr. Afsari completed his adult psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Arizona. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, playing piano, traveling, and is an avid basketball fan.
Dr. Peter Afsari helps children, adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Afsari uses a psychotherapeutic approach to balance medication and helps his patients identify trauma. He has several years of experience working in various community mental health settings. Dr. Afsari completed his adult psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Arizona. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, playing piano, traveling, and is an avid basketball fan.
![Photo of Kira Mesman-Hallman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7f79826-233c-4478-a7d8-400e4bf5befb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments and ongoing treatment, addressing conditions such as depression, bipolar spectrum, ADHD, anxiety conditions, and other mood disorders through medication management, psychotherapy, and other modalities.
I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments and ongoing treatment, addressing conditions such as depression, bipolar spectrum, ADHD, anxiety conditions, and other mood disorders through medication management, psychotherapy, and other modalities.
![Photo of Dr. Margaret K. Bauman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19549bec-bf49-4910-a098-8db5af6cfca5/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Margaret K. Bauman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Bauman is known for her open and warm approach. She is well-versed in the medical complexities of psychiatric illness, and addresses each patient as a unique individual. Dr. Margaret Bauman is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Child Psychiatry. She has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Bauman has been named one of America’s Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
Dr. Bauman is known for her open and warm approach. She is well-versed in the medical complexities of psychiatric illness, and addresses each patient as a unique individual. Dr. Margaret Bauman is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Child Psychiatry. She has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Bauman has been named one of America’s Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
![Photo of Talia Luc, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acb6f769-3486-43d3-90c2-6b7cccee0f05/1/320x400.png)
Talia Luc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Templeton, CA 93465
As a dual-board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, my mission is to provide holistic mental health care that is both compassionate and evidence-based to promote the best outcomes for you. I acknowledge that achieving your optimal well-being isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and I take pride in delivering personalized treatment plans for each person. I offer general mental health, brief psychotherapy, and a functional and integrative approach to enhance your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
As a dual-board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, my mission is to provide holistic mental health care that is both compassionate and evidence-based to promote the best outcomes for you. I acknowledge that achieving your optimal well-being isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and I take pride in delivering personalized treatment plans for each person. I offer general mental health, brief psychotherapy, and a functional and integrative approach to enhance your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
![Photo of Edward Valkov, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4def2f3-4fa3-4546-be06-2142132c14ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work very closely with my patients utilizing their life experiences and strengths in the creation of treatment plans that empower them to achieve their mental and physical wellness goals. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, embracing pharmacology and psychotherapy treatment modalities, and specialize in the assessment and care of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
I work very closely with my patients utilizing their life experiences and strengths in the creation of treatment plans that empower them to achieve their mental and physical wellness goals. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, embracing pharmacology and psychotherapy treatment modalities, and specialize in the assessment and care of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
![Photo of Anthony Thomas Whall, PA-C, CAQ PSY, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f91774b9-7109-48ee-b19b-87b049f3c099/2/320x400.jpeg)
My philosophy is straightforward: avoid medication unless necessary, use the lowest effective doses, and choose treatments with minimal side effects, always prioritizing your unique needs. Together, we’ll navigate your journey towards wellness, exploring innovative treatments and making informed decisions to enhance your happiness and productivity. For more information, visit my website at Well-BeingMentalHealth.com.
My philosophy is straightforward: avoid medication unless necessary, use the lowest effective doses, and choose treatments with minimal side effects, always prioritizing your unique needs. Together, we’ll navigate your journey towards wellness, exploring innovative treatments and making informed decisions to enhance your happiness and productivity. For more information, visit my website at Well-BeingMentalHealth.com.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6a1d983-de95-43a2-83df-7668d390aed8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Amanda Selman, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2713ee5f-fdbb-45ca-833f-39bf89c3a2c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Selman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
Amanda Selman, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Masters in Nursing Science from Wilkes University and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). Her career has included working in both hospital and community mental health settings. She has experience in and enjoys working with diverse ages, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, and mental health issues. She also has a special interest in women’s mental health including pregnancy and postpartum.
Amanda Selman, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Masters in Nursing Science from Wilkes University and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). Her career has included working in both hospital and community mental health settings. She has experience in and enjoys working with diverse ages, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, and mental health issues. She also has a special interest in women’s mental health including pregnancy and postpartum.
![Photo of Douglas Williamson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed25d04f-a329-4fd6-9d37-92c91cd06b92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Douglas Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
My philosophy is based on the Nursing Care Model: a holistic approach to patient care focused on the mind, body, and soul, while implementing a combination of brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and self-care activities. My experience includes serving clients suffering from mild to severe mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychotic, and other mood disorders.
My philosophy is based on the Nursing Care Model: a holistic approach to patient care focused on the mind, body, and soul, while implementing a combination of brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and self-care activities. My experience includes serving clients suffering from mild to severe mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychotic, and other mood disorders.
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![Photo of Richard Altesman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2a805da-9500-40a6-8e00-1b9fb70efecd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Altesman, M.D. is a nationally renowned Biological Psychiatrist, specializing in clinical psychopharmacology and neuropsychiatry, affective and mood disorders, anxiety, dual diagnosis and substance use disorders. He combines a caring, humanistic approach within this advanced knowledge of psychopharmacology. He was at the forefront of this field (Founding Director of the Psychopharmacology Service at Harvard, and on the faculty at Cornell,) and use the most advanced concepts to correctly diagnose and treat patient’s emotional difficulties.
Richard Altesman, M.D. is a nationally renowned Biological Psychiatrist, specializing in clinical psychopharmacology and neuropsychiatry, affective and mood disorders, anxiety, dual diagnosis and substance use disorders. He combines a caring, humanistic approach within this advanced knowledge of psychopharmacology. He was at the forefront of this field (Founding Director of the Psychopharmacology Service at Harvard, and on the faculty at Cornell,) and use the most advanced concepts to correctly diagnose and treat patient’s emotional difficulties.
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fdf81a8-e424-45cb-8c6a-2a6794b82a68/1/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Craig Fisher, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61c68983-648c-4f49-be40-bd5ac52f980a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new clients and can schedule you within a few days of you reaching out. I employ collaborative decision-making with you to reach your mental health goals. I work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My specialty is in the treatment, diagnosis, and medication management of mental health disorders. I am committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and will work collaboratively with your therapist and other providers for you to receive the best treatment and benefits of medication management.
I am accepting new clients and can schedule you within a few days of you reaching out. I employ collaborative decision-making with you to reach your mental health goals. I work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My specialty is in the treatment, diagnosis, and medication management of mental health disorders. I am committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and will work collaboratively with your therapist and other providers for you to receive the best treatment and benefits of medication management.
![Photo of Mary Garrett, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f92545e2-0cdc-44d7-a856-f8303cdd08c7/2/320x400.png)
I promote a holistic approach to care. In providing care, I attempt to raise awareness of the individual's medical condition related to mental health disorders. Patients are educated on their disorder and the biological changes that occur. Each treatment plan is individualized to the patient. Interventions are based on best-evidenced base practice. People can recover from mental health disorders, leading a fulfilling and productive life despite their disability. For certain people, it denotes a reduction in the severity of their symptoms. I believe that treatment adds to the spirit of a person, instead of diminishing their spirit.
I promote a holistic approach to care. In providing care, I attempt to raise awareness of the individual's medical condition related to mental health disorders. Patients are educated on their disorder and the biological changes that occur. Each treatment plan is individualized to the patient. Interventions are based on best-evidenced base practice. People can recover from mental health disorders, leading a fulfilling and productive life despite their disability. For certain people, it denotes a reduction in the severity of their symptoms. I believe that treatment adds to the spirit of a person, instead of diminishing their spirit.
![Photo of Eric Hixon, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f9a5c47-714e-473a-b89a-ab364febb23d/2/320x400.png)
My care philosophy is that patients should always be placed at the center of their medical care, knowing that each patient I care for is complex and unique. I appreciate it when patients take the time to share all pertinent medical and life experiences both past and present so that I can provide the best care possible.
My care philosophy is that patients should always be placed at the center of their medical care, knowing that each patient I care for is complex and unique. I appreciate it when patients take the time to share all pertinent medical and life experiences both past and present so that I can provide the best care possible.
![Photo of Matthew Kilthau, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488d89c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew Kilthau
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Not accepting new clients
I offer a private practice designed for patients who value receiving quality psychiatric care that is collaborative and current with the best scientific evidence. My practice approach believes in clear, open communication. That the best treatment happens when we both understand your hopes and goals. I focus on strategies backed by scientific research, but I also recognize that our lives are more nuanced than a randomized control trial, and not everything in life can be reduced to statistics or algorithms.
I offer a private practice designed for patients who value receiving quality psychiatric care that is collaborative and current with the best scientific evidence. My practice approach believes in clear, open communication. That the best treatment happens when we both understand your hopes and goals. I focus on strategies backed by scientific research, but I also recognize that our lives are more nuanced than a randomized control trial, and not everything in life can be reduced to statistics or algorithms.
![Photo of Pedro Guimaraes - Central Coast Behavioral Health, Inc , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90d2a3df-6fef-49f5-8ec5-c9f64d77e356/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our group provides medication management and psychotherapy services to a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as; Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Trauma, Substance/Addiction, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, and other various Mental Health Disorders.
Our group provides medication management and psychotherapy services to a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as; Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Trauma, Substance/Addiction, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, and other various Mental Health Disorders.
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46bc63db-1b10-4609-9577-b94ae82bf63f/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Dr. Welby Nielsen, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c643bebd-873d-4748-8954-fb450b2e7018/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Welby Nielsen focuses on wellness and improved quality of life for each patient. Dr. Nielsen treats children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Dr. Welby Nielsen focuses on wellness and improved quality of life for each patient. Dr. Nielsen treats children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Luis Obispo County, CA
30+
Average cost per session
$312
Psychiatrists in San Luis Obispo County, CA who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Aetna |
73% | Blue Cross |
68% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in San Luis Obispo County, CA see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Male | |
28% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Luis Obispo County?
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.