Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Psychiatrists in South Pasadena, CA

Photo of Benjamin Chang, Psychiatrist, MD
Benjamin Chang
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Hello and welcome! I’m Dr. Benjamin Chang, an adult psychiatrist, and I’m honored to be a part of your mental health journey. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically for you, based on the latest medical evidence and best practices.
Hello and welcome! I’m Dr. Benjamin Chang, an adult psychiatrist, and I’m honored to be a part of your mental health journey. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically for you, based on the latest medical evidence and best practices.
(657) 282-3919 View (657) 282-3919
Photo of Alexander Huang, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Huang
Psychiatrist, MD
South Pasadena, CA 91030
My training included cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, supportive therapy, as well as combined treatment utilizing both medication and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
My training included cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, supportive therapy, as well as combined treatment utilizing both medication and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
(626) 642-9825 View (626) 642-9825
Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD, Psychiatrist, MD
We can also explore different therapy options, like psychodynamic therapy, CBT, Inner Child Work, and stress management techniques, to find what works best for you.
You've poured your heart and soul into your career, but now you're running on empty. It's normal to sometimes feel drained and unmotivated, but it's not okay to stay that way. Burnout is common among high-achieving professionals, like attorneys, tech sector experts, investment bankers, and physicians. Let’s work together to rediscover who you really are and what brings you joy so that you can feel whole and happy again. You deserve to feel better - not just in your career, but in all aspects of your life. ‍
We can also explore different therapy options, like psychodynamic therapy, CBT, Inner Child Work, and stress management techniques, to find what works best for you.
You've poured your heart and soul into your career, but now you're running on empty. It's normal to sometimes feel drained and unmotivated, but it's not okay to stay that way. Burnout is common among high-achieving professionals, like attorneys, tech sector experts, investment bankers, and physicians. Let’s work together to rediscover who you really are and what brings you joy so that you can feel whole and happy again. You deserve to feel better - not just in your career, but in all aspects of your life. ‍
(323) 689-5148 View (323) 689-5148
Photo of Catherine Maier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catherine Maier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Cathy uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with your goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming New Patients! Catherine 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, Tricare and more), and has same-week appointments available. She provides mental health evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Cathy takes a holistic, evidence-based approach that supports both mental and physical wellness through collaborative care.
Cathy uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with your goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming New Patients! Catherine 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, Tricare and more), and has same-week appointments available. She provides mental health evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Cathy takes a holistic, evidence-based approach that supports both mental and physical wellness through collaborative care.
(323) 690-1399 View (323) 690-1399
Photo of Sara Blue - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(213) 297-7854 View (213) 297-7854
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(424) 334-5035 View (424) 334-5035
Photo of Princess McKenzie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Princess incorporates CBT along with other therapeutic modalities, selecting the approach that best matches your goals, pace, and individual needs.
Welcoming New Patients! Princess 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. Born in the Philippines, Princess entered mental health care to help break the stigma around mental illness. She views each person as unique, prioritizing deep listening and individualized treatment plans. Committed to compassionate, patient-centered care, she strives to support healing and improve each patient’s quality of life.
Princess incorporates CBT along with other therapeutic modalities, selecting the approach that best matches your goals, pace, and individual needs.
Welcoming New Patients! Princess 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. Born in the Philippines, Princess entered mental health care to help break the stigma around mental illness. She views each person as unique, prioritizing deep listening and individualized treatment plans. Committed to compassionate, patient-centered care, she strives to support healing and improve each patient’s quality of life.
(747) 347-3657 View (747) 347-3657
Photo of Joy Maines, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Joy Maines
Physician Assistant, PA-C
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.
(323) 843-5854 View (323) 843-5854
Photo of Dr. Waqar Zuberi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Zuberi employs a holistic approach to treatment, integrating medication management with psychotherapy techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy ( CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).
Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Zuberi is a board-certified psychiatrist 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. His clinical interests span a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and family-related challenges. With a unique ability to support patients across the lifespan, he integrates medication management with a deep understanding of family dynamics, social stressors, and emotional development.
Zuberi employs a holistic approach to treatment, integrating medication management with psychotherapy techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy ( CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).
Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Zuberi is a board-certified psychiatrist 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. His clinical interests span a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and family-related challenges. With a unique ability to support patients across the lifespan, he integrates medication management with a deep understanding of family dynamics, social stressors, and emotional development.
(747) 339-3564 View (747) 339-3564
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
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.
(310) 598-3938 View (310) 598-3938
Photo of Lizette Sayo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lizette Sayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcoming New Patients! Lizette 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 combines evidence-based practices with coping strategies and personal growth techniques and works collaboratively with her clients to build resilience, enhance mental well-being, and promote long-term wellness. Her approach is grounded in compassion and a commitment to fostering personal growth, helping individuals feel more confident.
Welcoming New Patients! Lizette 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 combines evidence-based practices with coping strategies and personal growth techniques and works collaboratively with her clients to build resilience, enhance mental well-being, and promote long-term wellness. Her approach is grounded in compassion and a commitment to fostering personal growth, helping individuals feel more confident.
(323) 784-9106 View (323) 784-9106
Photo of Dr. Sandra Hah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sandra Hah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(213) 699-9235 View (213) 699-9235
Photo of Holly Ann Olalia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Holly Ann Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Holly 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. She brings a diverse clinical background, having experience working in inpatient, outpatient, and correctional nursing settings. As a PMHNP, her mission is to be a guiding light for individuals struggling with their mental health by fostering a safe and compassionate space.
Welcoming New Patients! Holly 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. She brings a diverse clinical background, having experience working in inpatient, outpatient, and correctional nursing settings. As a PMHNP, her mission is to be a guiding light for individuals struggling with their mental health by fostering a safe and compassionate space.
(310) 360-7200 View (310) 360-7200
Photo of Cinthia Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Cinthia 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 offers psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and therapeutic interventions to enhance overall well-being. Using the latest evidence-based practices and research, Cinthia treats her clients holistically, compassionately, culturally sensitively, and nonjudgmentally to empower them on their journey to mental wellbeing.
Welcoming New Patients! Cinthia 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 offers psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and therapeutic interventions to enhance overall well-being. Using the latest evidence-based practices and research, Cinthia treats her clients holistically, compassionately, culturally sensitively, and nonjudgmentally to empower them on their journey to mental wellbeing.
(747) 349-8561 View (747) 349-8561
Photo of Erinn Tempelis, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Erinn Tempelis
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Erinn integrates medication management with CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy to treat a range of psychiatric conditions and promote resilience, self-awareness, growth, and long-term mental well-being.
As a provider at Bonmente, Erinn is a mental health expert treating anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and personality disorders. She offers evaluation and diagnosis, medication management, and talk therapy through convenient telepsychiatry appointments.
Erinn integrates medication management with CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy to treat a range of psychiatric conditions and promote resilience, self-awareness, growth, and long-term mental well-being.
As a provider at Bonmente, Erinn is a mental health expert treating anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and personality disorders. She offers evaluation and diagnosis, medication management, and talk therapy through convenient telepsychiatry appointments.
(323) 391-2383 View (323) 391-2383
Photo of Lauren Toneck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lauren Toneck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcoming New Patients! Lauren is a board-certified 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. Dual licensed in pediatrics and psychiatric mental health, Lauren has a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner. She delivers integrative, whole-person care that addresses physical, emotional, and psychological needs. Her diverse background enhances her ability to support children, adolescents, and families navigating complex behavioral health challenges.
Welcoming New Patients! Lauren is a board-certified 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. Dual licensed in pediatrics and psychiatric mental health, Lauren has a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner. She delivers integrative, whole-person care that addresses physical, emotional, and psychological needs. Her diverse background enhances her ability to support children, adolescents, and families navigating complex behavioral health challenges.
(323) 616-1922 View (323) 616-1922
Photo of Taylor Scheller, Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Taylor Scheller
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Online Only
Taylor uses evidence-based approaches like CBT, supportive therapy, and trauma-informed care to treat mental health concerns.
Welcoming New Patients! Taylor 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 a passion for continuous learning, Taylor considers it tantamount to optimizing care to stay informed of the latest treatment innovations. She conducts thorough evaluations, develops individualized treatment plans, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams. Her patient-centered approach ensures that each client receives the attention and care they deserve.
Taylor uses evidence-based approaches like CBT, supportive therapy, and trauma-informed care to treat mental health concerns.
Welcoming New Patients! Taylor 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 a passion for continuous learning, Taylor considers it tantamount to optimizing care to stay informed of the latest treatment innovations. She conducts thorough evaluations, develops individualized treatment plans, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams. Her patient-centered approach ensures that each client receives the attention and care they deserve.
(323) 985-7648 View (323) 985-7648
Photo of Twanna Davis Arnold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Twanna Davis Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Twanna 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. She holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of San Diego. After 13 years as a family nurse practitioner, she discovered her passion for mental health and now provides holistic, culturally sensitive care. Twanna is known for her warm, collaborative style, creating a safe space where clients feel heard and supported.
Welcoming New Patients! Twanna 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. She holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of San Diego. After 13 years as a family nurse practitioner, she discovered her passion for mental health and now provides holistic, culturally sensitive care. Twanna is known for her warm, collaborative style, creating a safe space where clients feel heard and supported.
(323) 312-5532 View (323) 312-5532
Photo of Dr. Prudhvi Bandi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Prudhvi Bandi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
He combines medication management with evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT to provide compassionate, patient-centered treatment that promotes healing, resilience, and long-term emotional well-being.
As a provider at Bonmente, Dr. Bandi treats a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and personality disorders. Through convenient telepsychiatry appointments, he offers evaluation and diagnosis, medication management, and talk therapy.
He combines medication management with evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT to provide compassionate, patient-centered treatment that promotes healing, resilience, and long-term emotional well-being.
As a provider at Bonmente, Dr. Bandi treats a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and personality disorders. Through convenient telepsychiatry appointments, he offers evaluation and diagnosis, medication management, and talk therapy.
(323) 701-1662 View (323) 701-1662
Photo of Dr. Steve Khachi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Steve Khachi
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Khachi works with children, adolescents, adults, and families seeking expert psychiatric care for complex concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, mood disorders, and treatment-resistant symptoms. At Mind Study Center, he provides private, out-of-network care with advanced assessment, careful medication management, and integrated treatment planning across psychiatry, therapy, TMS, and psychological testing.
Dr. Khachi works with children, adolescents, adults, and families seeking expert psychiatric care for complex concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, mood disorders, and treatment-resistant symptoms. At Mind Study Center, he provides private, out-of-network care with advanced assessment, careful medication management, and integrated treatment planning across psychiatry, therapy, TMS, and psychological testing.
(626) 427-6591 View (626) 427-6591

See more therapy options for South Pasadena

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.