Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA
![Photo of Ruth Ann Powe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67737566-1cf6-4664-aeb7-43d3aee05dc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Ann Powe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
![Photo of Brett Larson, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f0aa090-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In-network with most insurances. Brett Larson is a Board Certified Advanced Practitioner and Physician Assistant who specializes in providing care to those affected by a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Brett tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This includes genetic testing, psychological testing and a careful overview of one’s physical health.
In-network with most insurances. Brett Larson is a Board Certified Advanced Practitioner and Physician Assistant who specializes in providing care to those affected by a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Brett tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This includes genetic testing, psychological testing and a careful overview of one’s physical health.
![Photo of Fay M Azad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c1f9b26-098a-42e6-886d-20bc55d3a4dc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I take new patients from anywhere within California and offer telehealth which makes my availability flexible. I have a special interest in treating insomnia, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. My recommended therapy may include over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle modifications, and antidepressant/ antianxiety/ other psychiatric medications. I use the lowest effective dosing and utilize genetic testing when indicated.
I take new patients from anywhere within California and offer telehealth which makes my availability flexible. I have a special interest in treating insomnia, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. My recommended therapy may include over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle modifications, and antidepressant/ antianxiety/ other psychiatric medications. I use the lowest effective dosing and utilize genetic testing when indicated.
![Photo of Laura Wakil, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9b152c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified in psychiatry and neurology, and trained in functional medicine. I specialize in adult/geriatric, reproductive, and adolescent psychiatry. I focus on the whole individual -- not just a constellation of symptoms -- and the treatment I provide is comprehensive, and integrative. My focus is on the relationship with my patients, maintaining trust, and providing excellent care. I approach my patients with the same dedication I would want my own loved ones and family to receive. I do not accept insurance but provide a superbill that you can submit for out of network benefits.
I am board certified in psychiatry and neurology, and trained in functional medicine. I specialize in adult/geriatric, reproductive, and adolescent psychiatry. I focus on the whole individual -- not just a constellation of symptoms -- and the treatment I provide is comprehensive, and integrative. My focus is on the relationship with my patients, maintaining trust, and providing excellent care. I approach my patients with the same dedication I would want my own loved ones and family to receive. I do not accept insurance but provide a superbill that you can submit for out of network benefits.
![Photo of Ryan Ley, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/514606a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Two of the most important aspects of a relationship with my patients is that they know how much I care about them and the issues they come to me for. Secondly, I want my patients to know how much I value their trust in me. My patients can count on me to give them my presence, focus and attention as we work through their mental health issues.
Two of the most important aspects of a relationship with my patients is that they know how much I care about them and the issues they come to me for. Secondly, I want my patients to know how much I value their trust in me. My patients can count on me to give them my presence, focus and attention as we work through their mental health issues.
![Photo of Joy Kennedy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/febbb361-88de-4b11-b743-31834511468c/1/320x400.png)
Joy Kennedy, MD is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2006. She received her Bachelor of Science from The University of Texas at Austin. She then completed her medical degree, general psychiatry residency, and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training at The University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Kennedy offers a comprehensive treatment approach to both individual and family problems. She integrates psychotherapy and medications when necessary, and strongly believes in tailoring the treatment plan to fit the unique needs of each client.
Joy Kennedy, MD is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2006. She received her Bachelor of Science from The University of Texas at Austin. She then completed her medical degree, general psychiatry residency, and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training at The University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Kennedy offers a comprehensive treatment approach to both individual and family problems. She integrates psychotherapy and medications when necessary, and strongly believes in tailoring the treatment plan to fit the unique needs of each client.
![Photo of Penny Greaves, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbecb8f8-5f7f-4f87-acd8-26fb0caa63fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Dr. Sofia Elkind, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/798cb6ee-b4e1-487b-9359-550bc0e3ff42/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing thorough, personalized, and compassionate care. I treat people with various mental health concerns, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and ADHD. I am passionate about working with survivors of trauma, individuals with various co-occurring physical conditions which impact their mental health, as well as women throughout the perinatal period.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing thorough, personalized, and compassionate care. I treat people with various mental health concerns, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and ADHD. I am passionate about working with survivors of trauma, individuals with various co-occurring physical conditions which impact their mental health, as well as women throughout the perinatal period.
![Photo of Ryan Bolt, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae4eefac-dd7f-4a56-8b71-53ee14c10f59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Bolt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
I believe in an integrative approach with a focus on wholeness and client-centered care. Using these foundations, I strive to provide comprehensive care that incorporates complementary treatments, genetic testing, lifestyle modification, therapy, and medication management. My goal is to foster an environment of trust and understanding so that we can work together to achieve your goals. I am easily accessible even outside of clinic hours via text, email, or phone.
I believe in an integrative approach with a focus on wholeness and client-centered care. Using these foundations, I strive to provide comprehensive care that incorporates complementary treatments, genetic testing, lifestyle modification, therapy, and medication management. My goal is to foster an environment of trust and understanding so that we can work together to achieve your goals. I am easily accessible even outside of clinic hours via text, email, or phone.
![Photo of Ripal Patel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e98b0a4-b8e2-4e78-8d1c-a72a39abbb9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ripal Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109 (Online Only)
Hello! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner provider, I am committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based, and individualized care to each of my patients. I believe that mental health care should be tailored to each person's specific needs and experiences.
Hello! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner provider, I am committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based, and individualized care to each of my patients. I believe that mental health care should be tailored to each person's specific needs and experiences.
![Photo of Prof. David Feifel, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b3daea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My expertise is providing cutting-edge treatment alternatives to conventional approaches. If conventional treatments such a psychotherapy or medications have failed to fully address your depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, etc, our team at Kadima Neuropsychiatry Institute can provide highly advanced alternatives to help you break free from these debilitating conditions. I was the first provider to introduce FDA-approved Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in San Diego (2009) and the first to provide ketamine therapy (2008). I have more cumulative experience in utilizing these two innovative techniques than any other provider.
My expertise is providing cutting-edge treatment alternatives to conventional approaches. If conventional treatments such a psychotherapy or medications have failed to fully address your depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, etc, our team at Kadima Neuropsychiatry Institute can provide highly advanced alternatives to help you break free from these debilitating conditions. I was the first provider to introduce FDA-approved Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in San Diego (2009) and the first to provide ketamine therapy (2008). I have more cumulative experience in utilizing these two innovative techniques than any other provider.
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![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 Tara Pundiak Toohey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88c50068-6965-4d34-8e25-67d85c062bab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Toohey is board certified in adult psychiatry with extensive experience in emergency psychiatry and reproductive mental health with a boutique psychiatry practice in California. She completed residency at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in New York City and has over 20 years' experience. She served as faculty at UCSD and University of Hawaii. In addition to the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis and ADHD, her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry and management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She is a consultant in hospitals and emergency rooms throughout California.
Dr. Toohey is board certified in adult psychiatry with extensive experience in emergency psychiatry and reproductive mental health with a boutique psychiatry practice in California. She completed residency at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in New York City and has over 20 years' experience. She served as faculty at UCSD and University of Hawaii. In addition to the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis and ADHD, her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry and management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She is a consultant in hospitals and emergency rooms throughout California.
![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.
![Photo of Dr. Preeti Mathur, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87bc137d-6f20-4e75-876e-b560b7e85c5c/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Preeti Mathur is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience diagnosing and treating psychiatric and co-occurring disorders. Dr. Mathur’s approach provides a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and uses medication management.
Dr. Preeti Mathur is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience diagnosing and treating psychiatric and co-occurring disorders. Dr. Mathur’s approach provides a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and uses medication management.
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Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility – and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
![Photo of Jennifer Kalia-Overlie, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f02b774-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Kalia-Overlie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength and motivation that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in holistic treatment, addressing the health of the mind, body and spirit. Through thoughtful use of medication, psychotherapy, and education, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person’s lifestyle and personal beliefs.
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength and motivation that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in holistic treatment, addressing the health of the mind, body and spirit. Through thoughtful use of medication, psychotherapy, and education, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person’s lifestyle and personal beliefs.
![Photo of Usha Ramineni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d844c896-94af-4880-81c6-a75d3deb30a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Usha Ramineni sees patients ages 5 to 64. Dr. Ramineni was recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists in 2010 by SLD Industries; and, from 2009 to 2014, Dr. Ramineni was given awards for her excellence as one of America's Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers' Research Council of America.
Dr. Usha Ramineni sees patients ages 5 to 64. Dr. Ramineni was recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists in 2010 by SLD Industries; and, from 2009 to 2014, Dr. Ramineni was given awards for her excellence as one of America's Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers' Research Council of America.
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Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (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 Kelsey Stevens, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a72c3e1c-6080-4058-ad56-1381b0df19d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am both an adult and child trained psychiatrist, with specialized training in children and adolescents due to my passion for this age group. Our generation of youth has been faced with unimaginable stressors over the last decade and as a result has had some struggles in dealing with some of these challenges. My approach is to utilize my strong foundation in child development and then take the time to understand the unique nature of your child, appreciating their strengths and identifying the areas that have lead to their distress, in order to help them overcome this challenging time.
I am both an adult and child trained psychiatrist, with specialized training in children and adolescents due to my passion for this age group. Our generation of youth has been faced with unimaginable stressors over the last decade and as a result has had some struggles in dealing with some of these challenges. My approach is to utilize my strong foundation in child development and then take the time to understand the unique nature of your child, appreciating their strengths and identifying the areas that have lead to their distress, in order to help them overcome this challenging time.
See more therapy options for San Diego County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA
500+
Average cost per session
$224
Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
61% | Female | |
38% | 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.