Psychiatrists in Redwood City, CA

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(650) 881-4012 View (650) 881-4012
Photo of Alex Clarke, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Alex Clarke
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063
Dr. Alex Clarke, MD is a Board-certified, Stanford-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist with expertise in biological and psychological approaches to treatment (CBT, Psychoanalytic, EFT, DBT, IPT, Clinical Hypnosis, Mindfulness, etc). He is a skilled and compassionate clinician who emphasizes a highly individualized and collaborative approach to care.
Dr. Alex Clarke, MD is a Board-certified, Stanford-trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist with expertise in biological and psychological approaches to treatment (CBT, Psychoanalytic, EFT, DBT, IPT, Clinical Hypnosis, Mindfulness, etc). He is a skilled and compassionate clinician who emphasizes a highly individualized and collaborative approach to care.
(650) 770-1928 View (650) 770-1928
Photo of Janet Baek, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Janet Baek
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063
For appointment requests, please complete an online form on my website www.janetbaekmd.com. I am a Stanford-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and therapist. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and treatments, including medication management and pyschotherapy.
For appointment requests, please complete an online form on my website www.janetbaekmd.com. I am a Stanford-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and therapist. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and treatments, including medication management and pyschotherapy.
(650) 407-2078 View (650) 407-2078
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Redwood City, CA
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94063
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 618-2811 View (650) 618-2811
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Redwood City, CA
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94065
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 275-5756 View (650) 275-5756
Photo of Leah Malhotra, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Leah Malhotra
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
Waitlist for new clients
My mission is to provide state-of-the-art psychiatric care that combines a collaborative, warm approach with the most effective practices in psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. My focus is on helping relieve anxiety, mood disturbances, obsessions, insomnia and other distressing symptoms. Common therapy goals are to help with a difficult life transition, improve relationships, break maladaptive patterns or deepen personal understanding. Many of my clients are young adults adapting to life in/after college, raising a family, or juggling challenging careers. Compassionate, empowering care truly can help.
My mission is to provide state-of-the-art psychiatric care that combines a collaborative, warm approach with the most effective practices in psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. My focus is on helping relieve anxiety, mood disturbances, obsessions, insomnia and other distressing symptoms. Common therapy goals are to help with a difficult life transition, improve relationships, break maladaptive patterns or deepen personal understanding. Many of my clients are young adults adapting to life in/after college, raising a family, or juggling challenging careers. Compassionate, empowering care truly can help.
(650) 618-2803 View (650) 618-2803
Photo of Jessica Vermeulen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Redwood City, CA
Jessica Vermeulen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94065
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 733-2345 View (650) 733-2345
Photo of Ryan Thebo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Redwood City, CA
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94065
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(888) 909-8676 View (888) 909-8676
Photo of Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(650) 640-3011 View (650) 640-3011
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Redwood City, CA
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94065  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) 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! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 629-2007 View (650) 629-2007
Heidemarie Ernst
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063
Welcome to my profile in Psychology Today. I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who has provided mental health care to a variety of populations over the last 18 years. In my private practice, I see adults over 18 years old, and I have expertise with diagnoses, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When I first meet new patients, they are frequently unsure what kind of treatment they might benefit from. By providing a warm and collaborative environment, I help the patients understand their needs and identify treatment options, such a medications, therapy, or a combination of both. I strongly believe that ‘no patient is a diagnosis’ – instead, we are all a complex combination of genetic predisposition, upbringing, and other influences that make us the people we are.
Welcome to my profile in Psychology Today. I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who has provided mental health care to a variety of populations over the last 18 years. In my private practice, I see adults over 18 years old, and I have expertise with diagnoses, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When I first meet new patients, they are frequently unsure what kind of treatment they might benefit from. By providing a warm and collaborative environment, I help the patients understand their needs and identify treatment options, such a medications, therapy, or a combination of both. I strongly believe that ‘no patient is a diagnosis’ – instead, we are all a complex combination of genetic predisposition, upbringing, and other influences that make us the people we are.
(650) 282-3962 View (650) 282-3962
Photo of Cynthia Florin, MD, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Cynthia Florin, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, problems with attention, are in a life transition, experiencing trauma and its consequences, or have wishes for a greater sense of authenticity, my 30 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist and psychotherapist has convinced me that a good relationship with a mental health provider can help you understand, accept and value your unique story. I believe it is my passion for this work that has led me to be selected as one of the "Best Doctors in America" for 20 straight years.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, problems with attention, are in a life transition, experiencing trauma and its consequences, or have wishes for a greater sense of authenticity, my 30 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist and psychotherapist has convinced me that a good relationship with a mental health provider can help you understand, accept and value your unique story. I believe it is my passion for this work that has led me to be selected as one of the "Best Doctors in America" for 20 straight years.
(650) 409-2688 View (650) 409-2688
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94062  (Online Only)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Robert Voloshin, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Robert Voloshin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94059
Times are extremely challenging. With all the changes occurring in the world, many of our underlying issues are arising. I am here to help you address your relational, psychological, and emotional blockages. First and foremost, I am a therapist focused on the healing of psychoemotional wounds. My orientation is informed by the study of trauma, attachment, and systems theory. I utilize Ketamine as well as other Integrative Psychiatric approaches as a catalyst for psychotherapy.
Times are extremely challenging. With all the changes occurring in the world, many of our underlying issues are arising. I am here to help you address your relational, psychological, and emotional blockages. First and foremost, I am a therapist focused on the healing of psychoemotional wounds. My orientation is informed by the study of trauma, attachment, and systems theory. I utilize Ketamine as well as other Integrative Psychiatric approaches as a catalyst for psychotherapy.
(415) 324-4428 View (415) 324-4428
Photo of Dr. Clarissa Doi, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Dr. Clarissa Doi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061  (Online Only)
I am a double board-certified, Stanford-trained physician with over 14 years of experience specializing in anxiety and depression care for adults.
I am a double board-certified, Stanford-trained physician with over 14 years of experience specializing in anxiety and depression care for adults.
(949) 881-5764 View (949) 881-5764
Photo of Dr. Patricia Pop, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Dr. Patricia Pop
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94062
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm excited to get to know you. You may have been in therapy long enough to know a thing or two about yourself. And you're ready for the next step or a new direction. Let's help you dig deep - gently, compassionately, and with genuine warmth. You'll be able to embody those insights and enact that knowledge in to your daily life. Whether you're taking stock of the way life has gone or are trying to make sense of your past or recent psychedelic experiences - I'm happy to help.
Welcome! I'm excited to get to know you. You may have been in therapy long enough to know a thing or two about yourself. And you're ready for the next step or a new direction. Let's help you dig deep - gently, compassionately, and with genuine warmth. You'll be able to embody those insights and enact that knowledge in to your daily life. Whether you're taking stock of the way life has gone or are trying to make sense of your past or recent psychedelic experiences - I'm happy to help.
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Photo of Dr. Casey Lester, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Dr. Casey Lester
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94061
Hello! I'm a Stanford and University of California trained child & adolescent & adult psychiatrist in a small, concierge-style practice. I work with a therapy dog who helps my patients to feel safe and comfortable. I have special interests in trauma-related disorders, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental, warm, patient-centered, and therapy-oriented. When prescribing medication I practice based on the latest scientific evidence, so that my patients have the highest chance of meeting their mental health goals without unnecessary side effects. I connect especially well with teens and young adults.
Hello! I'm a Stanford and University of California trained child & adolescent & adult psychiatrist in a small, concierge-style practice. I work with a therapy dog who helps my patients to feel safe and comfortable. I have special interests in trauma-related disorders, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental, warm, patient-centered, and therapy-oriented. When prescribing medication I practice based on the latest scientific evidence, so that my patients have the highest chance of meeting their mental health goals without unnecessary side effects. I connect especially well with teens and young adults.
(650) 899-7156 View (650) 899-7156
Photo of Grace Lee, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
Grace Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I am a Stanford-trained psychiatrist offering both therapy and medication services. Together, we will identify and work through the pain points in your life, as well as explore and lean into your vision for a meaningful and balanced life. If you are interested in exploring your personal and/or professional identities, cultural background, relationships, life values and aspirations, patterns of thought and behavior, and/or impactful life experiences, I may be a good fit for you.
Welcome! I am a Stanford-trained psychiatrist offering both therapy and medication services. Together, we will identify and work through the pain points in your life, as well as explore and lean into your vision for a meaningful and balanced life. If you are interested in exploring your personal and/or professional identities, cultural background, relationships, life values and aspirations, patterns of thought and behavior, and/or impactful life experiences, I may be a good fit for you.
(650) 405-0990 View (650) 405-0990
Photo of The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94059
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(415) 301-4583 View (415) 301-4583

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD, Psychiatrist in Redwood City, CA
The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Atherton, CA 94027  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
(310) 598-7580 View (310) 598-7580

See more therapy options for Redwood City

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Redwood City, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Redwood City, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
95% Medication Management
95% Stress
84% Trauma and PTSD
79% Depression
74% ADHD
74% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
83% Humana

How Psychiatrists in Redwood City, CA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male

FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Redwood City?

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.