Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Psychiatrists in Laguna Niguel, CA

Photo of Shahrzad Shadmani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Shahrzad Shadmani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
At Integrative Psychiatry & Wellness, I offer personalized psychiatric care with a focus on helping patients feel seen, heard, and supported. I’m a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner providing virtual visits across California, Oregon, and Washington. I specialize in the treatment of: • Anxiety & panic disorders • Depression & mood instability • Bipolar II disorder • ADHD in adults and teens • PMDD and hormonal-related mood changes • Substance use disorders (alcohol, stimulants, etc.) • Trauma-related symptoms
At Integrative Psychiatry & Wellness, I offer personalized psychiatric care with a focus on helping patients feel seen, heard, and supported. I’m a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner providing virtual visits across California, Oregon, and Washington. I specialize in the treatment of: • Anxiety & panic disorders • Depression & mood instability • Bipolar II disorder • ADHD in adults and teens • PMDD and hormonal-related mood changes • Substance use disorders (alcohol, stimulants, etc.) • Trauma-related symptoms
(562) 375-4810 View (562) 375-4810
Photo of Elias Tsambis, Psychiatrist, MD
Elias Tsambis
Psychiatrist, MD
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Specializing in evaluation and medication management During these difficult time we are offering phone sessions to our current and new patients 15 min free consultation will be done by lcsw I am a board certified psychiatrist practing for over 35 Years I work with individuals couples and famlies providing therapy evaluations and medication management for the treatment of depression anxiety panic and bipolar disorder. Why suffer needlessly we can help we have a psychiatrist and lcsw
Specializing in evaluation and medication management During these difficult time we are offering phone sessions to our current and new patients 15 min free consultation will be done by lcsw I am a board certified psychiatrist practing for over 35 Years I work with individuals couples and famlies providing therapy evaluations and medication management for the treatment of depression anxiety panic and bipolar disorder. Why suffer needlessly we can help we have a psychiatrist and lcsw
(949) 234-6544 View (949) 234-6544
Photo of Dr. Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcoming new patients! I am Dr. Mottsin Thomas, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, or a complex mood disorder, feeling that past treatments haven't fully addressed your needs. My ideal client is seeking more than just a prescription; you want to feel truly heard, understood, and validated. Whether you are facing trauma, ADHD, or treatment resistant depression, my goal is to offer a safe, culturally sensitive space where we can find stability together.
Welcoming new patients! I am Dr. Mottsin Thomas, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, or a complex mood disorder, feeling that past treatments haven't fully addressed your needs. My ideal client is seeking more than just a prescription; you want to feel truly heard, understood, and validated. Whether you are facing trauma, ADHD, or treatment resistant depression, my goal is to offer a safe, culturally sensitive space where we can find stability together.
(844) 994-2624 View (844) 994-2624
Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed - Jacquelyn Hamed | Anxiety, Depression & ADHD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Jacquelyn Hamed | Anxiety, Depression & ADHD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
(209) 387-3095 View (209) 387-3095
Photo of Sarah Leiderman, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Sarah Leiderman
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Sarah is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is passionate about working with culturally diverse populations and strives to support her patients through well-balanced medication management. From diagnostic evaluation to treatment implementation and medication management, Sarah employs an empathetic approach that allows patients to feel understood, validated, and supported.
Welcoming New Patients! Sarah is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is passionate about working with culturally diverse populations and strives to support her patients through well-balanced medication management. From diagnostic evaluation to treatment implementation and medication management, Sarah employs an empathetic approach that allows patients to feel understood, validated, and supported.
(949) 593-6410 View (949) 593-6410
Photo of Jordan Blaine Udeshi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jordan Blaine Udeshi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Jordan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She believes in a collaborative, low-pressure approach that integrates psychoeducation, coaching, medication management, and supportive therapy. She appreciates the unique strengths of individuals and works with clients to leverage those strengths in new productive ways.
Welcoming New Patients! Jordan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She believes in a collaborative, low-pressure approach that integrates psychoeducation, coaching, medication management, and supportive therapy. She appreciates the unique strengths of individuals and works with clients to leverage those strengths in new productive ways.
(949) 996-0465 View (949) 996-0465
Photo of Carmela Zaragoza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carmela Zaragoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Carmela incorporates CBT along with other therapeutic modalities, selecting the approach that best matches client goals, pace, and individual needs.
Welcoming New Patients! Carmela is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has been working in mental health as a clinician, educator, and advocate for more than a decade and brings a robust understanding of the complex challenges involved in achieving sustainable mental wellness. Carmela values each patient’s unique experiences and works collaboratively to create supportive, personalized treatment plans.
Carmela incorporates CBT along with other therapeutic modalities, selecting the approach that best matches client goals, pace, and individual needs.
Welcoming New Patients! Carmela is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has been working in mental health as a clinician, educator, and advocate for more than a decade and brings a robust understanding of the complex challenges involved in achieving sustainable mental wellness. Carmela values each patient’s unique experiences and works collaboratively to create supportive, personalized treatment plans.
(949) 593-4795 View (949) 593-4795
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Rachel uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with client goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming New Patients! Rachel is a board certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is known for demonstrating genuine care for her clients and going above and beyond to support them in meeting mental health goals in whatever way suits them best. Rachel provides thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and evidence-based treatment plans that integrate supportive therapy. Her warmth and collaborative approach help clients feel heard and empowered.
Rachel uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with client goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming New Patients! Rachel is a board certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is known for demonstrating genuine care for her clients and going above and beyond to support them in meeting mental health goals in whatever way suits them best. Rachel provides thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and evidence-based treatment plans that integrate supportive therapy. Her warmth and collaborative approach help clients feel heard and empowered.
(949) 401-6440 View (949) 401-6440
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente , Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our providers offer testing and diagnosis, medication management, various modalities of therapy such as CBT, and telepsychiatry appointments.
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
Our providers offer testing and diagnosis, medication management, various modalities of therapy such as CBT, and telepsychiatry appointments.
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
(949) 749-6805 View (949) 749-6805
Photo of Samir Hamed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Our providers offer medication management, various modalities of therapy ( CBT), and telepsychiatry appointments.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Our providers offer medication management, various modalities of therapy ( CBT), and telepsychiatry appointments.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(949) 739-8935 View (949) 739-8935
Photo of Robert Cadena, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN-Ed, PMHNP
Robert Cadena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN-Ed, PMHNP
Serves Area
Robert is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, serving teens to adults of Southern California. In addition to his experience in the outpatient and private practice setting, he provides homeless mental health care for the Friendship Shelter to the most vulnerable members of our community. Furthermore, he has a strong background in crisis intervention and inpatient mental health through his work at Mission Hospital Laguna Beach. Lastly, he finds great passion in educating & mentoring future healthcare professionals in a teaching role to end the stigma within this ever-changing mental health community.
Robert is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, serving teens to adults of Southern California. In addition to his experience in the outpatient and private practice setting, he provides homeless mental health care for the Friendship Shelter to the most vulnerable members of our community. Furthermore, he has a strong background in crisis intervention and inpatient mental health through his work at Mission Hospital Laguna Beach. Lastly, he finds great passion in educating & mentoring future healthcare professionals in a teaching role to end the stigma within this ever-changing mental health community.
(949) 792-3984 View (949) 792-3984
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Our providers offer testing and diagnosis, medication management, various modalities of therapy such as CBT, and telepsychiatry appointments.
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
Our providers offer testing and diagnosis, medication management, various modalities of therapy such as CBT, and telepsychiatry appointments.
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
(714) 942-4536 View (714) 942-4536
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
Building a solid therapeutic alliance and involving patients as active participants is crucial to achieving positive outcomes. I offer thorough psychiatric and addiction evaluations and create personalized treatment plans for a diverse range of patients across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, older adults, and veterans.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
Building a solid therapeutic alliance and involving patients as active participants is crucial to achieving positive outcomes. I offer thorough psychiatric and addiction evaluations and create personalized treatment plans for a diverse range of patients across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, older adults, and veterans.
(469) 489-0836 View (469) 489-0836
Photo of Sarah Leiderman, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Sarah Leiderman
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Sarah is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is passionate about working with culturally diverse populations and strives to support her patients through well-balanced medication management. From diagnostic evaluation to treatment implementation and medication management, Sarah employs an empathetic approach that allows patients to feel understood, validated, and supported.
Welcoming New Patients! Sarah is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is passionate about working with culturally diverse populations and strives to support her patients through well-balanced medication management. From diagnostic evaluation to treatment implementation and medication management, Sarah employs an empathetic approach that allows patients to feel understood, validated, and supported.
(909) 413-0564 View (909) 413-0564
Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Bubba is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A military veteran, Bubba has a keen interest in caring for military members, veterans, and their families. With a commitment to optimizing medications while minimizing polypharmacy, he practices holistic care, acknowledging the intricate connection between mental health and physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Welcoming New Patients! Bubba is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A military veteran, Bubba has a keen interest in caring for military members, veterans, and their families. With a commitment to optimizing medications while minimizing polypharmacy, he practices holistic care, acknowledging the intricate connection between mental health and physical, emotional, and social well-being.
(949) 868-0326 View (949) 868-0326
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Rachel uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with client goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming New Patients! Rachel is a board certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is known for demonstrating genuine care for her clients and going above and beyond to support them in meeting mental health goals in whatever way suits them best. Rachel provides thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and evidence-based treatment plans that integrate supportive therapy. Her warmth and collaborative approach help clients feel heard and empowered.
Rachel uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with client goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming New Patients! Rachel is a board certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She is known for demonstrating genuine care for her clients and going above and beyond to support them in meeting mental health goals in whatever way suits them best. Rachel provides thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and evidence-based treatment plans that integrate supportive therapy. Her warmth and collaborative approach help clients feel heard and empowered.
(714) 880-8141 View (714) 880-8141
Casey Cortes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
She has extensive experience in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, and she also provides care for those managing trauma, sleep disorders, and postpartum mental health concerns. These areas are her deepest passion, and she approaches them with empathy and structured care, helping patients build stability and move forward with confidence. Her practice includes working with diverse populations, including individuals with autism spectrum disorders, those with developmental disabilities, first responders, military service members, veterans, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
She has extensive experience in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, and she also provides care for those managing trauma, sleep disorders, and postpartum mental health concerns. These areas are her deepest passion, and she approaches them with empathy and structured care, helping patients build stability and move forward with confidence. Her practice includes working with diverse populations, including individuals with autism spectrum disorders, those with developmental disabilities, first responders, military service members, veterans, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
(949) 792-3147 View (949) 792-3147
Photo of Dr. Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Thomas uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with your goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming new patients! I am Dr. Mottsin Thomas, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, or a complex mood disorder, feeling that past treatments haven't fully addressed your needs. My ideal client is seeking more than just a prescription; you want to feel truly heard, understood, and validated. Whether you are facing trauma, ADHD, or treatment resistant depression, my goal is to offer a safe, culturally sensitive space where we can find stability together.
Thomas uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with your goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming new patients! I am Dr. Mottsin Thomas, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, or a complex mood disorder, feeling that past treatments haven't fully addressed your needs. My ideal client is seeking more than just a prescription; you want to feel truly heard, understood, and validated. Whether you are facing trauma, ADHD, or treatment resistant depression, my goal is to offer a safe, culturally sensitive space where we can find stability together.
(657) 256-5949 View (657) 256-5949
Photo of Dr. Jean Griffith, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Dr. Jean Griffith
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
What would you like to achieve? Achieve improved mental health, balance, freedom from past trauma, or happiness? The wellness we all seek is both unique and achievable. Let me walk beside you on your journey. I take a holistic approach to treatment and explore both the biological and psychosocial factors contributing to your struggles. While many patients benefit greatly from medication or therapy alone, others do best with additional treatments such as lifestyle changes, exercise and sleep. As I get to know you, and your story, we will work collaboratively to create a treatment plan that will help you achieve your goals.
What would you like to achieve? Achieve improved mental health, balance, freedom from past trauma, or happiness? The wellness we all seek is both unique and achievable. Let me walk beside you on your journey. I take a holistic approach to treatment and explore both the biological and psychosocial factors contributing to your struggles. While many patients benefit greatly from medication or therapy alone, others do best with additional treatments such as lifestyle changes, exercise and sleep. As I get to know you, and your story, we will work collaboratively to create a treatment plan that will help you achieve your goals.
(949) 373-3744 View (949) 373-3744
Photo of Joy Maines, Physician Assistant
Joy Maines
Physician Assistant
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Joy is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. With more than 17 years of experience, Joy has devoted her career to walking alongside patients through some of the most challenging and meaningful moments of their lives. Her approach is rooted in compassion and mindfulness, emphasizing presence, connection, and the power of finding strength in life’s everyday moments.
Welcoming New Patients! Joy is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. With more than 17 years of experience, Joy has devoted her career to walking alongside patients through some of the most challenging and meaningful moments of their lives. Her approach is rooted in compassion and mindfulness, emphasizing presence, connection, and the power of finding strength in life’s everyday moments.
(424) 203-4505 View (424) 203-4505

See more therapy options for Laguna Niguel

FAQ - Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Psychiatrists
Do psychiatrists provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
Yes, many psychiatrists provide CBT as a therapeutic approach in sessions with clients. CBT is an evidence-based form of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to mental health challenges. Psychiatrists who provide CBT can be particularly valuable when your condition may benefit from both therapy *and* medication, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD or PTSD. However, some psychiatrists choose to focus primarily on medication management rather than ongoing therapy. When evaluating potential psychiatrists, it can be helpful to confirm that they actively incorporate CBT techniques into their practice (rather than focusing solely on prescribing medication)

What is the difference between CBT with a psychiatrist versus a therapist?
The primary difference between CBT with a psychiatrist versus a therapist is that a psychiatrist can integrate medication management with CBT treatment, while non-psychiatrist therapists (such as psychologists, counselors, or social workers) provide CBT without the ability to prescribe medications. In a CBT session with a psychiatrist, you will work on the same core techniques as you would with any CBT provider, such as identifying cognitive distortions or challenging negative thought patterns. However, a psychiatrist can also monitor how medication affects your symptoms. This integrated approach can be especially helpful for conditions like major depression or bipolar disorder, where medication often works together with therapy to produce better outcomes than either treatment alone.

Should I see a psychiatrist or therapist for CBT?
The choice to see a psychiatrist or therapist depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether medication might be part of your treatment plan. A psychiatrist who provides CBT is appropriate when you have more severe mental health symptoms that may require medication. A non-psychiatrist therapist may be appropriate when your symptoms are mild to moderate, you prefer to try therapy without medication first, or you are already stable on medication prescribed by another provider. It is worth noting that psychiatrists typically charge higher rates than other therapists due to their medical training, and psychiatry sessions are not always covered by insurance. Therefore, some people start with a therapist for CBT and later add a psychiatrist to their treatment team if medication becomes necessary.