Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA
![Photo of Dina Lim, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1f2dcd3-2403-4b35-b36f-b9232a5e7a85/3/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is designed for individuals who have been struggling and frustrated by an inability to achieve their goals in life. Together, we will work on recovery, growth, and flourishing. I have advanced training in biological psychiatry and psychotherapy. My philosophy on psychopharmacology is a thoughtful and minimalistic approach. We will use medications to enhance your own mind and body’s own healing powers to reassert themselves.
My practice is designed for individuals who have been struggling and frustrated by an inability to achieve their goals in life. Together, we will work on recovery, growth, and flourishing. I have advanced training in biological psychiatry and psychotherapy. My philosophy on psychopharmacology is a thoughtful and minimalistic approach. We will use medications to enhance your own mind and body’s own healing powers to reassert themselves.
![Photo of Ronit Lyon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26446b36-2d36-48ac-92b1-3152ab2d6db6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ronit works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Ronit believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Ronit works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Ronit believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
![Photo of Bryan Amaro, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9336c514-4a75-4b92-9880-fc6f22c40cd1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bryan Amaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I want my patients to know that their concerns are my priority. I care deeply about mental health and take very seriously the trust my patients have in me. You can count on me to be present, focused, and solution oriented during our visits. It's important to me that my patients know I'm a regular person-just like them, and my goal is to use the skills I've learned through my experience in treating mental health conditions.
I want my patients to know that their concerns are my priority. I care deeply about mental health and take very seriously the trust my patients have in me. You can count on me to be present, focused, and solution oriented during our visits. It's important to me that my patients know I'm a regular person-just like them, and my goal is to use the skills I've learned through my experience in treating mental health conditions.
![Photo of Negean Shahnematollahi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be07286b-fe4b-4b78-9c6a-ab78552bec6b/1/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of nursing experience. My degree from CSU San Marcos as well as a rigorous externship at UCSD outpatient psychiatric services provided me with a well-rounded training and experience. I enjoy working with clients across the lifespan. I believe mental health and wellness is a journey guided by support, empowerment and growth. I provide a compassionate, collaborative and safe space to help guide my clients in this process of healing.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of nursing experience. My degree from CSU San Marcos as well as a rigorous externship at UCSD outpatient psychiatric services provided me with a well-rounded training and experience. I enjoy working with clients across the lifespan. I believe mental health and wellness is a journey guided by support, empowerment and growth. I provide a compassionate, collaborative and safe space to help guide my clients in this process of healing.
![Photo of Jessica Vermeulen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/772dce33-3b68-4c01-97a8-fd9e851f1521/1/320x400.jpeg)
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0cf8466-5a43-4d65-bf8c-bf710c4ffee7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Princess McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb43e543-bad1-4278-8be8-abee9c21da16/1/320x400.png)
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 a challenging 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!
Penny Greaves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Penny Greaves has over twenty years of Nursing experience and received her bachelor's in nursing in 2007 and a Master of Nursing with a primary care nurse practitioner certificate in 2010 from Ryerson University, in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree in 2021 from National University and is dual certified with the ANCC in psychiatry and the AANP in family practice. She is currently pursuing a psychology doctorate degree (PsyD) to improve health outcomes. She is experienced with adults, adults with addictions, complex mental health problems, geriatrics and dementia.
Penny Greaves has over twenty years of Nursing experience and received her bachelor's in nursing in 2007 and a Master of Nursing with a primary care nurse practitioner certificate in 2010 from Ryerson University, in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree in 2021 from National University and is dual certified with the ANCC in psychiatry and the AANP in family practice. She is currently pursuing a psychology doctorate degree (PsyD) to improve health outcomes. She is experienced with adults, adults with addictions, complex mental health problems, geriatrics and dementia.
![Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90a27160-65d7-4870-a59d-ac0d60697f41/1/320x400.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 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 Sydney Karahalios, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f97f9dee-60c9-4124-92ea-aa581c381d39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Karahalios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing a sense of being overwhelmed? Do you find yourself distanced from friends and family following a major life change? Coping with adjustment disorder and trauma can feel incredibly daunting, yet it's not insurmountable. I am here to support you in facing this challenge, guiding you through this struggle, and emerging stronger than ever before.
Are you experiencing a sense of being overwhelmed? Do you find yourself distanced from friends and family following a major life change? Coping with adjustment disorder and trauma can feel incredibly daunting, yet it's not insurmountable. I am here to support you in facing this challenge, guiding you through this struggle, and emerging stronger than ever before.
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![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0bbdcdc-03d5-46b3-95ad-395c246f1e0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Todd Benjamin Young, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423d10d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Young is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the communities of Northern San Diego County, with offices conveniently located in Encinitas. He has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, both in outpatient and acute care settings. Areas of focus include mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, ADHD, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions, behavioral disorders, and many others.Primary treatment modalities include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, using applied principles of psychodynamic psychiatry, functional medicine, nutrition, healthy relationships, personal development and lifestyle design
Dr. Young is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the communities of Northern San Diego County, with offices conveniently located in Encinitas. He has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, both in outpatient and acute care settings. Areas of focus include mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, ADHD, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions, behavioral disorders, and many others.Primary treatment modalities include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, using applied principles of psychodynamic psychiatry, functional medicine, nutrition, healthy relationships, personal development and lifestyle design
![Photo of Ci Ma, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22e81329-0a31-4843-8415-ddba276cb480/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ma is Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and Preventive Medicine. Bilingual, treating in both English and Mandarin Chinese 中文普通话, her track record is very successful in guiding people from diverse backgrounds through acute stress and life crises. With over 15 years of experience in major US cities, Dr. Ma has worked extensively with adult patients of 21-64, in many outpatient and hospital settings. She holds faculty position at UCSD and Chief of staff at SharpHealth, directs several outpatient programs at major San Diego hospitals and has privileges in several regional health systems, can accept pt anywhere in the state.
Dr. Ma is Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and Preventive Medicine. Bilingual, treating in both English and Mandarin Chinese 中文普通话, her track record is very successful in guiding people from diverse backgrounds through acute stress and life crises. With over 15 years of experience in major US cities, Dr. Ma has worked extensively with adult patients of 21-64, in many outpatient and hospital settings. She holds faculty position at UCSD and Chief of staff at SharpHealth, directs several outpatient programs at major San Diego hospitals and has privileges in several regional health systems, can accept pt anywhere in the state.
![Photo of Mark Melden, DO, FABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4c5eca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our numerous specialties include the following: MOOD, ANXIETY, Bipolar, Panic disorder, GERIATRIC DISORDERS, CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DISORDERS, ADD/ADHD, PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS, Schizophrenia and Schizophrenic, POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER and TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY, AUTISM and ASPERGER disorders, FORENSIC EVALUATIONS, Testamentary Changes, Disability Evaluations, Capacity Evaluations for Lanterman-Petris Short (LPS) and Probate Conservatorship, NEURO-PSYCHIATRIC TESTING, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Memory Loss and Cognitive Dysfunctions, SUBSTANCE AND ALCOHOL Treatment for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Suboxone Prescribers for Opiate Dependence, WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
Our numerous specialties include the following: MOOD, ANXIETY, Bipolar, Panic disorder, GERIATRIC DISORDERS, CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DISORDERS, ADD/ADHD, PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS, Schizophrenia and Schizophrenic, POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER and TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY, AUTISM and ASPERGER disorders, FORENSIC EVALUATIONS, Testamentary Changes, Disability Evaluations, Capacity Evaluations for Lanterman-Petris Short (LPS) and Probate Conservatorship, NEURO-PSYCHIATRIC TESTING, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Memory Loss and Cognitive Dysfunctions, SUBSTANCE AND ALCOHOL Treatment for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Suboxone Prescribers for Opiate Dependence, WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
![Photo of Joshua Flatow, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83f8cfb4-9884-4900-b4f5-c4346c3cbc85/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
![Photo of Ross Palmer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1124c18-1d69-48ba-aa2a-7610d7e84168/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for considering to work with me as your physician. I opened my private practice clinic because I wanted to create a safe, comfortable space where my patients are always valued and respected, where your most private concerns can be expressed without judgment or stigma. In addition to a calming, friendly environment, I also offer excellent medical knowledge and clinical judgment. In psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Diego, I ranked first of 58 residents by exam scores.
Thank you for considering to work with me as your physician. I opened my private practice clinic because I wanted to create a safe, comfortable space where my patients are always valued and respected, where your most private concerns can be expressed without judgment or stigma. In addition to a calming, friendly environment, I also offer excellent medical knowledge and clinical judgment. In psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Diego, I ranked first of 58 residents by exam scores.
![Photo of Jay Timacdog, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8d393ef-f525-4498-adc7-89bd1236947d/1/320x400.png)
Jay Timacdog
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
Are you one of those individuals needing mental health support but worried about the stigma that comes from talking to a therapist or psychiatrist? It's completely normal to feel concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health. But here's the thing: seeking help is a brave and important step towards feeling better. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there's no shame in taking care of your mental well-being. Finding a trustworthy provider can be challenging. Rest assured, here at HAWON Services, our patient’s privacy is our outmost priority.
Are you one of those individuals needing mental health support but worried about the stigma that comes from talking to a therapist or psychiatrist? It's completely normal to feel concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health. But here's the thing: seeking help is a brave and important step towards feeling better. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there's no shame in taking care of your mental well-being. Finding a trustworthy provider can be challenging. Rest assured, here at HAWON Services, our patient’s privacy is our outmost priority.
![Photo of Dr. Troy Kurz, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34989bec-0fd8-4157-992c-d808bdab1210/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Troy Kurz MD, MS is a board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in psychopharmacology, ketamine treatment, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy. He sees patients of all ages, but has a keen interest in children and adolescence. He cares for a patients with a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and personality disorders. Pertaining to pediatrics and adolescents—he concentrates on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ health, trauma, and mood disorders.
Dr. Troy Kurz MD, MS is a board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in psychopharmacology, ketamine treatment, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy. He sees patients of all ages, but has a keen interest in children and adolescence. He cares for a patients with a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and personality disorders. Pertaining to pediatrics and adolescents—he concentrates on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ health, trauma, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Donna Kashani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec4cdc63-a9cb-4caa-9c5e-4800495731c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kashani's concierge practice specializes in high achievers and their families, offering direct access via her cell. Board-certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry, she's been ranked the number one Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist nationally since 2016 according to Healthgrades. Her practice provides personalized care, including therapy and medication management, without a retainer fee. As a premier concierge psychiatrist serving La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe and San Diego, she ensures a seamless path to mental excellence with one point of contact.
Dr. Kashani's concierge practice specializes in high achievers and their families, offering direct access via her cell. Board-certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry, she's been ranked the number one Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist nationally since 2016 according to Healthgrades. Her practice provides personalized care, including therapy and medication management, without a retainer fee. As a premier concierge psychiatrist serving La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe and San Diego, she ensures a seamless path to mental excellence with one point of contact.
See more therapy options for San Diego County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA
600+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
37% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Diego 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.