Psychiatrists in Whittier, CA

Photo of Barbara J Justice, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
Barbara J Justice
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90605
Dr. Justice is a double Board Certified General Psychiatrist with training in several subspecialties of psychiatry and medicine. Her philosophy of providing the art of medicine is that of being conservative but appropriate. The treatment is tailored to ones individual need. She provides Psychophamacological treatment to those who are in therapy and who need the additional healing of medicaion in order to maximize their attainment of health. Dr. Justice is a seasoned professional with a history that is rich and varied in the experience of caring for people. She obtained her Doctorate in 1977 at Howard University Medical School, Washington D.C.
Dr. Justice is a double Board Certified General Psychiatrist with training in several subspecialties of psychiatry and medicine. Her philosophy of providing the art of medicine is that of being conservative but appropriate. The treatment is tailored to ones individual need. She provides Psychophamacological treatment to those who are in therapy and who need the additional healing of medicaion in order to maximize their attainment of health. Dr. Justice is a seasoned professional with a history that is rich and varied in the experience of caring for people. She obtained her Doctorate in 1977 at Howard University Medical School, Washington D.C.
(562) 548-8166 View (562) 548-8166
Photo of Center For Behavior Medicine, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
Center For Behavior Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90605
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
(562) 758-7210 View (562) 758-7210
Photo of Center For Behavior Medicine, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
Center For Behavior Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90605
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
(562) 945-5454 View (562) 945-5454
Photo of Jonathan Chia-Ho Lee, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
Jonathan Chia-Ho Lee
Psychiatrist, MD, MSc
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90603
I believe in a comprehensive approach to psychiatry. In addition to med-management, I find it important to incorporate the use of psychotherapy to help my patients find their path to mental health wellness. There is no "one size fits all" treatment and I enjoy working with my clients to help plot their unique course to freedom from their psychological ailments.
I believe in a comprehensive approach to psychiatry. In addition to med-management, I find it important to incorporate the use of psychotherapy to help my patients find their path to mental health wellness. There is no "one size fits all" treatment and I enjoy working with my clients to help plot their unique course to freedom from their psychological ailments.
(323) 210-4316 View (323) 210-4316
Photo of Chioma Okoro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
Chioma Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90603  (Online Only)
Chioma Okoro is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BC-PMHNP) with over 13 years of experience in mental health. She specializes in working with adults and seniors who are experiencing major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and other psychiatric conditions.
Chioma Okoro is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BC-PMHNP) with over 13 years of experience in mental health. She specializes in working with adults and seniors who are experiencing major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and other psychiatric conditions.
(562) 379-4686 View (562) 379-4686
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90602
Dr. Phan-Huy treats adults of all walks of life. Backed by medical and specialty training from the University of Michigan coupled with broad clinical experience, she provides bespoke care for various psychiatric concerns, including anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder and trauma-related disorders. Her treatment philosophy is to combine medication where indicated with psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. This integrative approach sets the foundation for healing and life-long well-being.
Dr. Phan-Huy treats adults of all walks of life. Backed by medical and specialty training from the University of Michigan coupled with broad clinical experience, she provides bespoke care for various psychiatric concerns, including anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder and trauma-related disorders. Her treatment philosophy is to combine medication where indicated with psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. This integrative approach sets the foundation for healing and life-long well-being.
View
Photo of Clint Nacar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
Clint Nacar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whittier, CA 90607
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression or adhd? Have you sought help for your mental health in the past but often felt rushed or struggled to connect with your provider? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. As a masters prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I focus on treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health diagnoses. I believe that working together collaboratively with each client is the key to creating an effective treatment plan to address each client’s unique situation and needs.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression or adhd? Have you sought help for your mental health in the past but often felt rushed or struggled to connect with your provider? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. As a masters prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I focus on treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health diagnoses. I believe that working together collaboratively with each client is the key to creating an effective treatment plan to address each client’s unique situation and needs.
(714) 706-1815 View (714) 706-1815

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Surendra Chaganti, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
Surendra Chaganti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
My name is Suren Chaganti and I'm a member of the Grow Therapy prescribers team. I am currently based in MO. I am licensed in CA, FL, GA, and MO. I am currently practicing in CA and MO. I am relocating to Florida. I completed my Psychiatry residency at UMKC School of Medicine, and J.D. from Saint Louis University School of Law. I have been in practice since 1995.
My name is Suren Chaganti and I'm a member of the Grow Therapy prescribers team. I am currently based in MO. I am licensed in CA, FL, GA, and MO. I am currently practicing in CA and MO. I am relocating to Florida. I completed my Psychiatry residency at UMKC School of Medicine, and J.D. from Saint Louis University School of Law. I have been in practice since 1995.
(424) 732-2876 View (424) 732-2876
Photo of Levitate Mental Health - Telepsychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
Levitate Mental Health - Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Accepting New Patients- Levitate Mental Health is a psychiatric practice serving all residents of California. Enjoy the convenience of our Telepsychiatry services by attending your visits from the convenience of your home or office using your laptop or smart phone. Our providers have years of experience in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders & other mental health conditions. Busy schedule? We offer some evening and weekend appointments upon request. Call us or visit www.levitatementalhealth.com to schedule an appointment today. Guaranteed to secure an appointment with a provider fast.
Accepting New Patients- Levitate Mental Health is a psychiatric practice serving all residents of California. Enjoy the convenience of our Telepsychiatry services by attending your visits from the convenience of your home or office using your laptop or smart phone. Our providers have years of experience in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders & other mental health conditions. Busy schedule? We offer some evening and weekend appointments upon request. Call us or visit www.levitatementalhealth.com to schedule an appointment today. Guaranteed to secure an appointment with a provider fast.
(310) 627-1598 View (310) 627-1598
Photo of Laurice Haycraft, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
Laurice Haycraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
The complexities of life can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. In some instances, emotional pain can be just as debilitating as physical pain which can impact one’s ability to function mentally, socially, and professionally. One of the greatest rewards for me is witnessing the positive outcomes of providing holistic care for patients who have suffered from various mental disorders. My greatest strength as a provider is treating my patients with compassion, empathy, dignity, and respect.
The complexities of life can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. In some instances, emotional pain can be just as debilitating as physical pain which can impact one’s ability to function mentally, socially, and professionally. One of the greatest rewards for me is witnessing the positive outcomes of providing holistic care for patients who have suffered from various mental disorders. My greatest strength as a provider is treating my patients with compassion, empathy, dignity, and respect.
(909) 787-1399 View (909) 787-1399
Photo of Carmela Zaragoza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
Carmela Zaragoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
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 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 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 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!
(310) 596-4195 View (310) 596-4195
Photo of Lisa Chan, Physician Assistant in Whittier, CA
Lisa Chan
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (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!
(424) 401-0378 View (424) 401-0378
Photo of James Rounds, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
James Rounds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
As a PMHNP with a holistic approach, I focus on aiding the LGBTQ+ community in overcoming depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health challenges. My practice offers empathetic, tailored care, integrating various therapies to address both symptoms and root causes. I aim to provide a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals, promoting resilience, healing, and personal growth in their mental health journey.
As a PMHNP with a holistic approach, I focus on aiding the LGBTQ+ community in overcoming depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health challenges. My practice offers empathetic, tailored care, integrating various therapies to address both symptoms and root causes. I aim to provide a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals, promoting resilience, healing, and personal growth in their mental health journey.
(310) 955-4606 View (310) 955-4606
Photo of Martina Murialdo, Physician Assistant in Whittier, CA
Martina Murialdo
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
(562) 247-3315 View (562) 247-3315
Photo of TelepsychHealth, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
TelepsychHealth
Psychiatrist, MD, NP, LCPC
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We usually have availability within 1-2 weeks. Feel free to check out our reviews on our website, TelepsychHealth. Please call or message us to request an ASAP appointment: www.telepsychhealth.com/request
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We usually have availability within 1-2 weeks. Feel free to check out our reviews on our website, TelepsychHealth. Please call or message us to request an ASAP appointment: www.telepsychhealth.com/request
(408) 539-0754 View (408) 539-0754
Photo of Yasha Rastgar, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
Yasha Rastgar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Dr. Rastgar, an Adult Psychiatrist at Integrative Behavioral Health and Medicine, Inc., hails from South Jersey. He earned his MD from the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences and completed his General Psychiatry Residency at West Virginia University. During his residency, Dr. Rastgar excelled, being named Chief Resident and Resident of the Year for his exceptional care.
Dr. Rastgar, an Adult Psychiatrist at Integrative Behavioral Health and Medicine, Inc., hails from South Jersey. He earned his MD from the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences and completed his General Psychiatry Residency at West Virginia University. During his residency, Dr. Rastgar excelled, being named Chief Resident and Resident of the Year for his exceptional care.
(657) 837-2567 View (657) 837-2567
Photo of Tiffany Spearman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
Tiffany Spearman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Bellflower, CA 90706  (Online Only)
My name is Tiffany Spearman and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management and behavioral therapy. Dealing with mental health issues can be a scary and challenging task. It becomes an even bigger challenge trying to find a provider that takes a progressive, yet holistic approach to managing your mental health. My focus is improving mental health and quality of life. My goal is to provide authentic and non-judgmental care, while keeping your best interest at the forefront.
My name is Tiffany Spearman and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management and behavioral therapy. Dealing with mental health issues can be a scary and challenging task. It becomes an even bigger challenge trying to find a provider that takes a progressive, yet holistic approach to managing your mental health. My focus is improving mental health and quality of life. My goal is to provide authentic and non-judgmental care, while keeping your best interest at the forefront.
(562) 620-4681 View (562) 620-4681
Photo of Renewed ADHD Treatment Center (Renewed MH), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
Renewed ADHD Treatment Center (Renewed MH)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, LMFT, NP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Are you or someone you care about grappling with feelings of inattentiveness, lack of concentration? Are you in search of therapeutic support to navigate through these mental health challenges? If this rings true, our clinic is here to extend a helping hand to you or your loved ones. Renewed ADHD Treatment Center offers a secure and nurturing environment, delivering patient-centered care to individuals facing challenges with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, and beyond. With a heartfelt desire to support, our clinic is poised to journey alongside you towards improved mental health.
Are you or someone you care about grappling with feelings of inattentiveness, lack of concentration? Are you in search of therapeutic support to navigate through these mental health challenges? If this rings true, our clinic is here to extend a helping hand to you or your loved ones. Renewed ADHD Treatment Center offers a secure and nurturing environment, delivering patient-centered care to individuals facing challenges with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, and beyond. With a heartfelt desire to support, our clinic is poised to journey alongside you towards improved mental health.
(714) 410-2214 View (714) 410-2214
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Whittier, CA
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Downey, CA 90240  (Online Only)
Available appointments within 3-5 business days. After-hours and weekend appointments. Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide Telemedicine Services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Available appointments within 3-5 business days. After-hours and weekend appointments. Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide Telemedicine Services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
(559) 415-3319 View (559) 415-3319
Photo of Bonmente, Psychiatrist in Whittier, CA
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellflower, CA 90706  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows 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 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.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows 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 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.
(562) 457-6784 View (562) 457-6784

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Whittier, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Whittier, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Medication Management
71% ADHD
71% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Magellan

How Psychiatrists in Whittier, CA see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Male
20% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Whittier?

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.