Psychiatrists in 94108
![Photo of Jennifer Guo - Mindful Health Solutions - Jennifer Guo, MD, PhD, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5014ed4e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Jennifer Guo, MD, PhD
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I am focused on treating patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. I am particularly interested in using interventional psychiatric approaches including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
I am focused on treating patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. I am particularly interested in using interventional psychiatric approaches including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
![Photo of Arjun Gokhale - Mindful Health Solutions - Arjun Gokhale, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93338ccb-8ceb-423c-b759-f3a42ee11267/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Arjun Gokhale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders. Along with psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, I am interested in evidence-based interventions such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders. Along with psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, I am interested in evidence-based interventions such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
![Photo of Omar Elhaj, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa98444f-11a2-4041-87cf-e7b907dbac20/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone struggling with treatment-resistant depression or complex mood disorders, feeling overwhelmed and in need of hope. They seek a compassionate, comprehensive approach that blends traditional therapies with innovative treatments like TMS and esketamine. Their goal is to find lasting relief and reclaim their quality of life. They want to be heard, understood, and actively involved in their healing journey, valuing a supportive partnership to discover effective solutions that truly make a difference.
My ideal client is someone struggling with treatment-resistant depression or complex mood disorders, feeling overwhelmed and in need of hope. They seek a compassionate, comprehensive approach that blends traditional therapies with innovative treatments like TMS and esketamine. Their goal is to find lasting relief and reclaim their quality of life. They want to be heard, understood, and actively involved in their healing journey, valuing a supportive partnership to discover effective solutions that truly make a difference.
![Photo of Paul Abramson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caf5c87-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul Abramson MD is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine (He is not a Psychiatrist). He specializes in the treatment of addiction, mental health and physical health utilizing his small and expert team - medical doctors and psychotherapists. Our methods are evidence based, outpatient and efficient. Dr. Abramson is a graduate of Stanford and UCSF and has specific expertise in the treatment of opioid addiction, alcohol use disorders, and benzodiazepine dependency (with Ashton-style slow tapers). My Doctor Medical Group is a top concierge medical practice in San Francisco.
Paul Abramson MD is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine (He is not a Psychiatrist). He specializes in the treatment of addiction, mental health and physical health utilizing his small and expert team - medical doctors and psychotherapists. Our methods are evidence based, outpatient and efficient. Dr. Abramson is a graduate of Stanford and UCSF and has specific expertise in the treatment of opioid addiction, alcohol use disorders, and benzodiazepine dependency (with Ashton-style slow tapers). My Doctor Medical Group is a top concierge medical practice in San Francisco.
![Photo of Neha Nayyar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a823700-9fe4-48e6-a759-02525cce0cc7/1/320x400.png)
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
![Photo of Nikhil Majumdar - Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e660a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
![Photo of Nefretiri Abat, JD, PMHNPBC, RN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f00bb65-8ddc-4468-b0aa-caa6bb26c303/2/320x400.png)
Nefretiri Abat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, JD, PMHNPBC, RN, BSN
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108 (Online Only)
My ideal client is a highly ambitious young adult or adult navigating the complexities of ADHD. They face hurdles with concentration, managing time, impulsivity, and social interactions. They need personalized telepsychiatry services, evidence-based therapies, and practical tools to manage their ADHD symptoms. Their ambition is to conquer ADHD-related obstacles, enhance focus, attain their academic and professional objectives, and foster healthier relationships. They are determined to unleash their innate potential and harmonize their aspirations with mental well-being.
My ideal client is a highly ambitious young adult or adult navigating the complexities of ADHD. They face hurdles with concentration, managing time, impulsivity, and social interactions. They need personalized telepsychiatry services, evidence-based therapies, and practical tools to manage their ADHD symptoms. Their ambition is to conquer ADHD-related obstacles, enhance focus, attain their academic and professional objectives, and foster healthier relationships. They are determined to unleash their innate potential and harmonize their aspirations with mental well-being.
![Photo of Aarti Chhatlani - Mindful Health Solutions - Aarti Chhatlani, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/541ffd3e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Aarti Chhatlani, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108 (Online Only)
I treat patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. My individualized patient plans provide evidence-based treatment options, including medication management. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who has a collaborative and empathetic approach based on mindfulness principles. For me, telepsychiatry is the modern equivalent to a home visit, where a patient can have their video appointment in a familiar environment such as their home or office. Our practice, founded in 2007, provides innovative, patient-centric care and accepts most major insurance plans.
I treat patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. My individualized patient plans provide evidence-based treatment options, including medication management. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who has a collaborative and empathetic approach based on mindfulness principles. For me, telepsychiatry is the modern equivalent to a home visit, where a patient can have their video appointment in a familiar environment such as their home or office. Our practice, founded in 2007, provides innovative, patient-centric care and accepts most major insurance plans.
![Photo of Adrienne Marks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daa280a6-6521-4b54-9b17-b0e7bd6c0560/1/320x400.png)
I am a Board-Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on managing care for patients with anxiety, depression, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I have a passion for LGBTQ and SGM health and have a dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have always loved talking with people one-on-one and hearing their stories. Starting my nursing career in cardiology, I found myself taking the time to listen to patient’s fears and worries. In these moments, I saw how vital mental health was in conjunction with physical health, and went back to school to study psychiatric mental health.
I am a Board-Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on managing care for patients with anxiety, depression, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I have a passion for LGBTQ and SGM health and have a dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have always loved talking with people one-on-one and hearing their stories. Starting my nursing career in cardiology, I found myself taking the time to listen to patient’s fears and worries. In these moments, I saw how vital mental health was in conjunction with physical health, and went back to school to study psychiatric mental health.
![Photo of Oana Galicki - Mindful Health Solutions - Oana Galicki, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4486c517-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Oana Galicki, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. I'm dedicating to helping patients understand their mental health conditions and finding the appropriate treatments, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which I began to offer upon seeing its remarkable effect on those who had not responded to other therapies.
I specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. I'm dedicating to helping patients understand their mental health conditions and finding the appropriate treatments, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which I began to offer upon seeing its remarkable effect on those who had not responded to other therapies.
![Photo of Dr. Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bcdfe58-28f6-4f15-9140-db555f95ff5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
Introducing Dr. Sim: Your Partner in Mental Health and Well-being! Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Oladiran-Adighije, affectionately known as Dr. Sim! With over 14 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer.
Introducing Dr. Sim: Your Partner in Mental Health and Well-being! Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Oladiran-Adighije, affectionately known as Dr. Sim! With over 14 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer.
15 Second Videos
Mindful Health Solutions - Jennifer Guo, MD, PhD
Mindful Health Solutions - Arjun Gokhale
Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD
Mindful Health Solutions - Aarti Chhatlani, MD
Mindful Health Solutions - Oana Galicki, MD
Mindful Health Solutions - Benjamin Cheyette
Mindful Health Solutions - Sahab Yaqubi
Bay Area Psychiatric - Integrative Psychiatry
![Photo of Benjamin Cheyette - Mindful Health Solutions - Benjamin Cheyette, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7188d850-2cb2-40e8-a0cb-e063caa7a5fd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Benjamin Cheyette
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified in Psychiatry who treats a wide variety of patients including those with depression and adult ADHD. I am very interested in cutting-edge innovations such as esketamine nasal spray, and the rationally-based treatment Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), to help patients.
I am a Board-Certified in Psychiatry who treats a wide variety of patients including those with depression and adult ADHD. I am very interested in cutting-edge innovations such as esketamine nasal spray, and the rationally-based treatment Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), to help patients.
![Photo of Sahab Yaqubi - Mindful Health Solutions - Sahab Yaqubi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80bafc88-7c9e-43d7-a6f0-b4dcd6968398/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a strong specialty in helping patients struggling with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapeutic tool that can play a crucial role for those with treatment-resistant mood or anxiety disorders. I take a holistic approach to patient care and treatment plans, considering biological, psychological, and social factors. I have found that being in tune with his patient’s emotional pain is the key to developing a good rapport.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a strong specialty in helping patients struggling with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapeutic tool that can play a crucial role for those with treatment-resistant mood or anxiety disorders. I take a holistic approach to patient care and treatment plans, considering biological, psychological, and social factors. I have found that being in tune with his patient’s emotional pain is the key to developing a good rapport.
![Photo of Aneesh López-Nandam, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/445d9648-8d1e-432b-b5db-6ce85e5889b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aneesh López-Nandam
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
Not accepting new clients
Making the decision to seek help with your struggles can feel both uplifting and vulnerable. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for us to talk. I help adults with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, self-esteem, coping with uncertainty, relationship problems, working towards goals, and finding meaning.
Making the decision to seek help with your struggles can feel both uplifting and vulnerable. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for us to talk. I help adults with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, self-esteem, coping with uncertainty, relationship problems, working towards goals, and finding meaning.
![Photo of Kirk Murphy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8312240-f052-492f-a446-564b53f02217/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kirk James Murphy is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1991. Dr. Murphy had the privilege of learning from global experts in human sexuality as well as mood and anxiety disorders in her UCLA residency training and then to complete his fellowship in Consultation-Liaison and Trauma Psychiatry while practicing with experts in those fields. Dr.
Dr. Kirk James Murphy is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1991. Dr. Murphy had the privilege of learning from global experts in human sexuality as well as mood and anxiety disorders in her UCLA residency training and then to complete his fellowship in Consultation-Liaison and Trauma Psychiatry while practicing with experts in those fields. Dr.
![Photo of Laura Tully, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39eca70c-09ab-4717-a01b-f7a0af635a93/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients to help them meet their goals and achieve optimal mental wellness. I provide psychiatric services including medication evaluation and management, and psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapy. My career interests include the mind-body connection between exercise and wellness, young adult life transitions, women's prenatal and post-partum mental health concerns, and the spiritual aspects of psychological health. I completed my residency at San Mateo County Psychiatry Training Program, where I served as Chief Resident.
I work with clients to help them meet their goals and achieve optimal mental wellness. I provide psychiatric services including medication evaluation and management, and psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapy. My career interests include the mind-body connection between exercise and wellness, young adult life transitions, women's prenatal and post-partum mental health concerns, and the spiritual aspects of psychological health. I completed my residency at San Mateo County Psychiatry Training Program, where I served as Chief Resident.
![Photo of Ashley Hoeck Anderson, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b3d368f-9828-41e7-a481-c65d0715ae96/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hoeck Anderson is no longer accepting new patients for psychotherapy treatment at this time. Ashley Hoeck Anderson is a general adult psychiatrist who has been practicing since 2019. She completed degrees in Biology, Psychology, and Criminal Justice at Minnesota State University Moorhead in Moorhead, MN prior to moving to Oregon to attend medical school at Western University of Health Sciences COMP-NW in Lebanon, OR. Her residency in General Psychiatry was completed at Samaritan Health Services in Corvallis, OR.
Dr. Hoeck Anderson is no longer accepting new patients for psychotherapy treatment at this time. Ashley Hoeck Anderson is a general adult psychiatrist who has been practicing since 2019. She completed degrees in Biology, Psychology, and Criminal Justice at Minnesota State University Moorhead in Moorhead, MN prior to moving to Oregon to attend medical school at Western University of Health Sciences COMP-NW in Lebanon, OR. Her residency in General Psychiatry was completed at Samaritan Health Services in Corvallis, OR.
![Photo of Suragbhai Gohel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0e76d46-d634-4298-b6fd-71c9eaf2f89f/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I am always fascinated by the courage of my patients who seek mental health treatment against the odds of personal and cultural challenges. It inspires me to help my patients achieve the best mental healthcare which we all deserve. As our mental health is impacted by a multitude of factors including biological, psychological, and social, I personalize the treatment plan for each of my patients, so they can have a better outcome to live a quality life. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
As a psychiatrist, I am always fascinated by the courage of my patients who seek mental health treatment against the odds of personal and cultural challenges. It inspires me to help my patients achieve the best mental healthcare which we all deserve. As our mental health is impacted by a multitude of factors including biological, psychological, and social, I personalize the treatment plan for each of my patients, so they can have a better outcome to live a quality life. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
![Photo of Juliano Innocenti, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/116e78ba-1ec4-4796-a82f-e2adc41bc51b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Juliano Innocenti is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. Juliano offers trauma-informed, patient-centered care that may include options for medication management for conditions like depression and anxiety, substance abuse, PTSD, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, OCD, hoarding, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Gender dysphoria. He also has experience with grief and bereavement, and can help you plan for, or come to terms with your own mortality and existential fears.
Juliano Innocenti is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. Juliano offers trauma-informed, patient-centered care that may include options for medication management for conditions like depression and anxiety, substance abuse, PTSD, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, OCD, hoarding, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Gender dysphoria. He also has experience with grief and bereavement, and can help you plan for, or come to terms with your own mortality and existential fears.
![Photo of Grace Marian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13456da7-3646-41ab-b571-11a83f52f211/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. I offer integrative and holistic psychiatric treatment for children, adolescents and young adults, in particular. I also treat older adults and my understanding of development and early challenges better informs my work with them as well.
I am a licensed child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. I offer integrative and holistic psychiatric treatment for children, adolescents and young adults, in particular. I also treat older adults and my understanding of development and early challenges better informs my work with them as well.
See more therapy options for 94108
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 94108
30+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in 94108 who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
94% | Medication Management |
91% | Depression |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
58% | Trauma and PTSD |
55% | ADHD |
52% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Optum |
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 94108 see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
52% | Female | |
48% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 94108?
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.