Psychiatrists in La Canada Flintridge, CA

Photo of Alysha Woods, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alysha Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Noticing it’s hard to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night. Cycles of sadness, nervousness, and tiredness that feel like they will continue forever. Feeling unsure of how to move past painful memories. Is this affecting self esteem, work, school performance, or achieving your goals? Wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Please know you are welcome in this space and life doesn't have to stay this way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Noticing it’s hard to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night. Cycles of sadness, nervousness, and tiredness that feel like they will continue forever. Feeling unsure of how to move past painful memories. Is this affecting self esteem, work, school performance, or achieving your goals? Wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Please know you are welcome in this space and life doesn't have to stay this way.
(818) 369-3384 View (818) 369-3384
Photo of Suzanne Galletly, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Suzanne Galletly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in providing high quality psychiatric assessment for children, teens, and adults. I am skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and autism. I strive to make sure my clients feel safe, heard, and validated in treatment. You are the expert in your lived experience; I join my expertise with yours to tailor a plan that helps you live to your full capacity.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in providing high quality psychiatric assessment for children, teens, and adults. I am skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and autism. I strive to make sure my clients feel safe, heard, and validated in treatment. You are the expert in your lived experience; I join my expertise with yours to tailor a plan that helps you live to your full capacity.
(323) 639-7331 View (323) 639-7331
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011  (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.
(424) 371-7875 View (424) 371-7875
Photo of Michael Feldmeier, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Feldmeier
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011  (Online Only)
Sessions integrate psychiatric medicine, digital lifestyle training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy in a seamless manner. I have a special interest in the effects of ubiquitous daily use of technology on human relationships which includes the effects of video games, social media, and mobile phone use. As technology becomes more seamlessly woven into our lives, a person’s digital psycho-social experiences become equally important as a person’s real life. Other psychiatric interests include a focus on ADHD, impulse control disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and Tourette’s syndrome.
Sessions integrate psychiatric medicine, digital lifestyle training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy in a seamless manner. I have a special interest in the effects of ubiquitous daily use of technology on human relationships which includes the effects of video games, social media, and mobile phone use. As technology becomes more seamlessly woven into our lives, a person’s digital psycho-social experiences become equally important as a person’s real life. Other psychiatric interests include a focus on ADHD, impulse control disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and Tourette’s syndrome.
(626) 469-7242 View (626) 469-7242
Photo of Dr. Jasbir Virk - Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
(818) 273-1838 View (818) 273-1838

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cheryl Hendricks, MD, Psychiatrist
Cheryl Hendricks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a rich background of specialized training and experience. I completed my clinical training at the prestigious UCLA Semel Institute where I was chief resident of the adult psychiatry residency program. While at UCLA I received additional training in reproductive psychiatry, including the treatment of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period through the Women's Life Center. This expertise is complemented by my extensive experience working with creative professionals, understanding the unique challenges they may face in their mental health journey.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a rich background of specialized training and experience. I completed my clinical training at the prestigious UCLA Semel Institute where I was chief resident of the adult psychiatry residency program. While at UCLA I received additional training in reproductive psychiatry, including the treatment of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period through the Women's Life Center. This expertise is complemented by my extensive experience working with creative professionals, understanding the unique challenges they may face in their mental health journey.
(323) 210-4065 View (323) 210-4065
Photo of Stan Mesen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stan Mesen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I realize that most of us could use support, particularly during times of overwhelming challenges within our personal and professional lives. Our lives are complex and come with significant obligations and expectations from our families, friends, and ourselves. If the challenges become overwhelming, we may start to doubt our abilities to manage our affairs and interactions with others. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction remain unaddressed, thoughts and feelings may evolve into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment, understanding we need help.
I realize that most of us could use support, particularly during times of overwhelming challenges within our personal and professional lives. Our lives are complex and come with significant obligations and expectations from our families, friends, and ourselves. If the challenges become overwhelming, we may start to doubt our abilities to manage our affairs and interactions with others. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction remain unaddressed, thoughts and feelings may evolve into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment, understanding we need help.
(323) 616-2865 View (323) 616-2865
Photo of Cristian Penciu, MD, Psychiatrist
Cristian Penciu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
(747) 285-7942 View (747) 285-7942
Photo of Gene Vasconez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gene Vasconez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
(310) 861-3964 View (310) 861-3964
Photo of Michele Natarajan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michele Natarajan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
Not accepting new clients
It is an honor to be of support to you, as you embark upon your Journey. This process may be challenging at times. I encourage you to trust the process knowing your intuition lead you here. I’ve been in healthcare for over 20 years. My passion for the Mental Health community dates back to childhood with a father who suffered from PTSD and self medicated to cope with his symptoms stemming from being a war veteran. As mental health continues to unfold and expand I as a practitioner have also expanded my learning by educating myself on a variety of Western, Eastern and Psychedelic modalities to allow clients to heal long term.
It is an honor to be of support to you, as you embark upon your Journey. This process may be challenging at times. I encourage you to trust the process knowing your intuition lead you here. I’ve been in healthcare for over 20 years. My passion for the Mental Health community dates back to childhood with a father who suffered from PTSD and self medicated to cope with his symptoms stemming from being a war veteran. As mental health continues to unfold and expand I as a practitioner have also expanded my learning by educating myself on a variety of Western, Eastern and Psychedelic modalities to allow clients to heal long term.
(626) 605-1410 View (626) 605-1410
Photo of Ian Matthews, NP, Psychiatric Nurse
Ian Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse, NP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90094  (Online Only)
Ian Matthews is a ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating adults. He graduated from Vanderbilt University's MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. Ian aims to establish a collaborative relationship with his patients through understanding their unique story, which considers their biological, psychological, and social factors. This understanding allows for the application of an individualized treatment approach through evidenced-based medication management when appropriate, as well as brief, supportive psychotherapy.
Ian Matthews is a ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating adults. He graduated from Vanderbilt University's MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. Ian aims to establish a collaborative relationship with his patients through understanding their unique story, which considers their biological, psychological, and social factors. This understanding allows for the application of an individualized treatment approach through evidenced-based medication management when appropriate, as well as brief, supportive psychotherapy.
(424) 353-3986 View (424) 353-3986
Photo of Bianca Best, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bianca Best
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
(424) 788-4626 View (424) 788-4626
Photo of Menbi Tegegne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Menbi Tegegne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90032  (Online Only)
Hi. my name is Menbi. I am a psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I graduated with my master's from National University and I have been treating patients with both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for the last two years. I have worked in several settings from hospital, to outpatient, to remote and even in prison settings. I have treated patients with different mental health issues. I believe in holistic treatment. I am compassionate and dedicated to my client's well-being.
Hi. my name is Menbi. I am a psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I graduated with my master's from National University and I have been treating patients with both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for the last two years. I have worked in several settings from hospital, to outpatient, to remote and even in prison settings. I have treated patients with different mental health issues. I believe in holistic treatment. I am compassionate and dedicated to my client's well-being.
(626) 876-3029 View (626) 876-3029
Photo of Jenna Reeder — Brooklyn Integrative Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenna Reeder — Brooklyn Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I offer holistic and therapeutic psychiatry to help adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, and treatment-resistant depression identify and address the root causes of their mental health struggles. I also specialize in working in perinatal psychiatry and women. I specialize in supporting women's emotional well-being throughout the perinatal period, which includes the time before, during, and after childbirth. My treatment philosophy centers on a holistic, patient-centric approach, integrating medication management with psychotherapy, mindfulness, nutraceutical supplementation, sleep optimization, and lifestyle interventions.
I offer holistic and therapeutic psychiatry to help adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, and treatment-resistant depression identify and address the root causes of their mental health struggles. I also specialize in working in perinatal psychiatry and women. I specialize in supporting women's emotional well-being throughout the perinatal period, which includes the time before, during, and after childbirth. My treatment philosophy centers on a holistic, patient-centric approach, integrating medication management with psychotherapy, mindfulness, nutraceutical supplementation, sleep optimization, and lifestyle interventions.
(718) 524-3494 View (718) 524-3494
Photo of Amarachi Igwe, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amarachi Igwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. I am here to listen and help you. Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings ? Do you feel you get anxious easily for nothing in particular ? Do you have fears that lead you to do repetitive behaviors ? I’m here to help you. My practice which is calm corner mental health was founded for the sole purpose of providing a calm and safe place to seek help for mental health needs and treatment.
I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. I am here to listen and help you. Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings ? Do you feel you get anxious easily for nothing in particular ? Do you have fears that lead you to do repetitive behaviors ? I’m here to help you. My practice which is calm corner mental health was founded for the sole purpose of providing a calm and safe place to seek help for mental health needs and treatment.
(858) 648-5861 View (858) 648-5861
Photo of Julio Quijada, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julio Quijada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Julio Quijada is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has extensive experience working with people suffering from mental health disorders. Julio started his nursing career in the mid-1990s. He completed his nursing education in 1997 and earned his ASN from Los Angeles Trade-Technical College. Then he completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Phoenix and earned his BSN in 2010. Lastly, he completed his MSN and post-master education as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University in 2022.
Julio Quijada is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has extensive experience working with people suffering from mental health disorders. Julio started his nursing career in the mid-1990s. He completed his nursing education in 1997 and earned his ASN from Los Angeles Trade-Technical College. Then he completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Phoenix and earned his BSN in 2010. Lastly, he completed his MSN and post-master education as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University in 2022.
(323) 879-8373 View (323) 879-8373
Photo of Diana Lopez, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diana Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
I have experience with all age groups,ADHD,anxiety,depression, trauma,women's mental health,bipolar,addiction,chronic diseases,end of life and parents and/or children with medical conditions.I thrive to provide you with the best compassionate & superior care.I am a provider that listens to you & your child’s needs.Treatment & plan of care are personalized to the client's needs & age group.You can expect someone that will advocate for you & provide you with the tools needed to become the best version of Yourself.A welcoming environment that is safe & confidential with a nonjudgmental provider is waiting for you.Hope to meet you soon!
I have experience with all age groups,ADHD,anxiety,depression, trauma,women's mental health,bipolar,addiction,chronic diseases,end of life and parents and/or children with medical conditions.I thrive to provide you with the best compassionate & superior care.I am a provider that listens to you & your child’s needs.Treatment & plan of care are personalized to the client's needs & age group.You can expect someone that will advocate for you & provide you with the tools needed to become the best version of Yourself.A welcoming environment that is safe & confidential with a nonjudgmental provider is waiting for you.Hope to meet you soon!
(626) 606-1667 View (626) 606-1667
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
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.
View
Photo of Catherine Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist
Catherine Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
I am a Stanford University trained, board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic, compassionate approach to treating individuals with a variety of conditions. Reasons for seeking treatment can be complex, and I recommend and prescribe medications using evidence-based practices only after a thorough assessment and when my client and I are in agreement with the plan. I am happy to collaborate with outside therapists and other medical professionals as needed to provide comprehensive treatment for clients.
I am a Stanford University trained, board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic, compassionate approach to treating individuals with a variety of conditions. Reasons for seeking treatment can be complex, and I recommend and prescribe medications using evidence-based practices only after a thorough assessment and when my client and I are in agreement with the plan. I am happy to collaborate with outside therapists and other medical professionals as needed to provide comprehensive treatment for clients.
(626) 322-2693 View (626) 322-2693
Photo of Traci Chamberlain, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Traci Chamberlain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91204
Traci is a passionate advocate who works to reduce the stigma of mental illness and help patients feel empowered. She helps with anxiety, schizophrenia, and mood disorders using medication management and therapy. Traci's approach encourages empathy and communication, which helps build trust with her patients.
Traci is a passionate advocate who works to reduce the stigma of mental illness and help patients feel empowered. She helps with anxiety, schizophrenia, and mood disorders using medication management and therapy. Traci's approach encourages empathy and communication, which helps build trust with her patients.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006

See more therapy options for La Canada Flintridge

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in La Canada Flintridge, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in La Canada Flintridge, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
80% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Sleep or Insomnia
60% Child
60% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male

How Psychiatrists in La Canada Flintridge, CA see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in La Canada Flintridge?

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.