Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
Cecilia M Lipira
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, Cornell and Mount Sinai-trained adult and child psychiatrist in New York and California. My approach to treatment is holistic and firmly rooted in the science of the brain, combining psychotherapy (for individuals, families, and couples) with nutrition, lifestyle modification, as well as state-of-the-art medication treatment, when helpful. I view each person as a complex individual with a unique story to tell, so I take time getting to know my clients and work collaboratively to develop a targeted plan to achieve their treatment goals.
I am a board-certified, Cornell and Mount Sinai-trained adult and child psychiatrist in New York and California. My approach to treatment is holistic and firmly rooted in the science of the brain, combining psychotherapy (for individuals, families, and couples) with nutrition, lifestyle modification, as well as state-of-the-art medication treatment, when helpful. I view each person as a complex individual with a unique story to tell, so I take time getting to know my clients and work collaboratively to develop a targeted plan to achieve their treatment goals.
Saroj JOSHI
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
I"m a Board Certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist and have been in private practice since 1982 . My work in helping people through difficult times , has been my calling in life. I was born and raised in India and witnessed much suffering all around ,becoming a doctor gave me hope that I could perhaps help . I came to the USA to further my studies and since then have been in private practice. In the mean time I have also raised 3 children and dealt with major issues of Migration, Cultural assimilation, personal losses , and learnt through experiences of life, however the most valuable lessons have come from my work with patients.
I"m a Board Certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist and have been in private practice since 1982 . My work in helping people through difficult times , has been my calling in life. I was born and raised in India and witnessed much suffering all around ,becoming a doctor gave me hope that I could perhaps help . I came to the USA to further my studies and since then have been in private practice. In the mean time I have also raised 3 children and dealt with major issues of Migration, Cultural assimilation, personal losses , and learnt through experiences of life, however the most valuable lessons have come from my work with patients.
Amy Milroy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to embrace their healing journey. They may be experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, ADHD, substance use disorder, or other concerns, and they are ready to move toward wellness. I offer ketamine-assisted therapy via telehealth in Illinois and California, as well as in retreat settings in California. I also offer regular medication management and therapy via telehealth in California, Illinois, and New Mexico. Whether you want to work with more traditional methods or cutting-edge treatments like ketamine-assisted therapy, I'm here for you! I look forward to hearing your story.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to embrace their healing journey. They may be experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, ADHD, substance use disorder, or other concerns, and they are ready to move toward wellness. I offer ketamine-assisted therapy via telehealth in Illinois and California, as well as in retreat settings in California. I also offer regular medication management and therapy via telehealth in California, Illinois, and New Mexico. Whether you want to work with more traditional methods or cutting-edge treatments like ketamine-assisted therapy, I'm here for you! I look forward to hearing your story.
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (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
Heather Saltos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130 (Online Only)
I am a Child Psychiatrist residing in San Diego, CA. I love working with children, teens and their families. I understand the struggle of finding a good mental health provider and I am here to help. I have my board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Dartmouth University and am Adult certified as well. I am family oriented, have 3 children of my own, and value both therapy and medication management strategies. There is not a one step approach for treatment and I tailor my management on a patient by patient basis.If you or your family member are struggling, please do not hesitate to reach to reach out.
I am a Child Psychiatrist residing in San Diego, CA. I love working with children, teens and their families. I understand the struggle of finding a good mental health provider and I am here to help. I have my board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Dartmouth University and am Adult certified as well. I am family oriented, have 3 children of my own, and value both therapy and medication management strategies. There is not a one step approach for treatment and I tailor my management on a patient by patient basis.If you or your family member are struggling, please do not hesitate to reach to reach out.
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Zachary Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I strive to understand you as an individual first and seek to establish an alliance through authentic empathy, nonjudgmental demeaner, and unconditional positive regard. I utilize my broad range of life experiences to meet you where you are to find the best treatment strategy. If you're grappling with mental health, remember that your experience is valid and help is available. I prioritize understanding your unique challenges and how these shape your current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My background and interests include novel treatment approaches, military veterans, and other underserved populations, though I welcome all.
I strive to understand you as an individual first and seek to establish an alliance through authentic empathy, nonjudgmental demeaner, and unconditional positive regard. I utilize my broad range of life experiences to meet you where you are to find the best treatment strategy. If you're grappling with mental health, remember that your experience is valid and help is available. I prioritize understanding your unique challenges and how these shape your current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My background and interests include novel treatment approaches, military veterans, and other underserved populations, though I welcome all.
Raelin Bright Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Tired of ER visits due to panic attacks? Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you have racing thoughts, have nightmares or trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing? Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated as a number, not a person, when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered; I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
Tired of ER visits due to panic attacks? Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you have racing thoughts, have nightmares or trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing? Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated as a number, not a person, when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered; I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
Gisela Ayub
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Gisela Ayub is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with an advanced degree, as Doctor in Nursing Practice. She is also licensed in different states as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Gisela holds two Masters in Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees. Her first MSN degree with emphasis on Psychiatry as a Clinical Nurse Specialist from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, CA, and her second MSN degree emphasis in Psychiatry as a Nurse Practitioner from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA.
Gisela Ayub is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with an advanced degree, as Doctor in Nursing Practice. She is also licensed in different states as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Gisela holds two Masters in Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees. Her first MSN degree with emphasis on Psychiatry as a Clinical Nurse Specialist from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, CA, and her second MSN degree emphasis in Psychiatry as a Nurse Practitioner from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA.
Weei LoAllen | Sunward Psychiatry |
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130 (Online Only)
Do you feel something is holding you or your loved one back? Many of us can feel stuck or overwhelmed when adjusting to change. When struggling with old and new challenges in our lives, it takes courage to reach out for help. You do not have to venture forth alone. Together, we can work through the issues at hand and rediscover your full potential. I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I am here to help you optimize different aspects of your life and reconnect with the sense of purpose deep within you. It is time to prioritize your wellness and mental health.
Do you feel something is holding you or your loved one back? Many of us can feel stuck or overwhelmed when adjusting to change. When struggling with old and new challenges in our lives, it takes courage to reach out for help. You do not have to venture forth alone. Together, we can work through the issues at hand and rediscover your full potential. I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I am here to help you optimize different aspects of your life and reconnect with the sense of purpose deep within you. It is time to prioritize your wellness and mental health.
Janet Revels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
The state of mental health among youth in the United States demands attention. The most basic definition of childhood mental health is " healthy social development, the achievement of development and emotional milestones, and effective coping skills, so all children have a positive quality of life and can function well in school, at home, and in their communities”. Effective treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral health disorders is required for children to avoid the negative impact on the individual, their families, and society which can be devastating and long-lasting.
The state of mental health among youth in the United States demands attention. The most basic definition of childhood mental health is " healthy social development, the achievement of development and emotional milestones, and effective coping skills, so all children have a positive quality of life and can function well in school, at home, and in their communities”. Effective treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral health disorders is required for children to avoid the negative impact on the individual, their families, and society which can be devastating and long-lasting.
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Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
*Please Note, I currently only see adults enrolled in True Life Center for Wellbeing Intensive Outpatient (IOP) program.* At True Life Center, patients receive compassionate, individualized, holistic care from a full team of diverse and talented practitioners. In addition to an approach to psychotherapy that is suited to you, we offer couples & family therapy, mindfulness self-compassion & meditation, individualized yoga, acupuncture, massage, nutrition, and fitness. Our approach to care is rooted in the belief that achieving optimal mental health requires attention to the needs of the whole individual - mind, body, and spirit.
*Please Note, I currently only see adults enrolled in True Life Center for Wellbeing Intensive Outpatient (IOP) program.* At True Life Center, patients receive compassionate, individualized, holistic care from a full team of diverse and talented practitioners. In addition to an approach to psychotherapy that is suited to you, we offer couples & family therapy, mindfulness self-compassion & meditation, individualized yoga, acupuncture, massage, nutrition, and fitness. Our approach to care is rooted in the belief that achieving optimal mental health requires attention to the needs of the whole individual - mind, body, and spirit.
Tyisha Fletcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I have practiced for over six years in a variety of settings, including internal medicine, family medicine, and mental health. I enjoy working with diverse people from different cultures. I specialize in working with people of color by providing a safe space to focus on complete mental health. I have several years of experience working with clients experiencing mood disorders like bipolar, major depression and anxiety.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I have practiced for over six years in a variety of settings, including internal medicine, family medicine, and mental health. I enjoy working with diverse people from different cultures. I specialize in working with people of color by providing a safe space to focus on complete mental health. I have several years of experience working with clients experiencing mood disorders like bipolar, major depression and anxiety.
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
Milka Galvez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master’s Degree from Walden University. I have experience working as a nurse in an acute and outpatient setting. I am passionate in working with adolescents, adults and the geriatric patients by not only caring for them but assisting them to wellness. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, traveling and spending time with my family.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master’s Degree from Walden University. I have experience working as a nurse in an acute and outpatient setting. I am passionate in working with adolescents, adults and the geriatric patients by not only caring for them but assisting them to wellness. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, traveling and spending time with my family.
Cara Niemeier
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122 (Online Only)
Dr. Niemeier is a Board Certified Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.
Dr. Niemeier is a Board Certified Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.
Steve Park
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
Simon Ordonez
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Accepting New Patients - Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Deomel Soriano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Deomel is a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego, CA. He has worked as a Mental Health Associate, Licensed Vocational Nurse, Registered Nurse and now as a Nurse Practitioner. Having witnessed and experienced healthcare at different levels, Deomel is further motivated to treat individuals. He truly believes that each patient is unique and has different needs; therefore, the services they receive should be tailored to each individual. With proper treatment, people suffering from mental illness can live a normal life.
Deomel is a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego, CA. He has worked as a Mental Health Associate, Licensed Vocational Nurse, Registered Nurse and now as a Nurse Practitioner. Having witnessed and experienced healthcare at different levels, Deomel is further motivated to treat individuals. He truly believes that each patient is unique and has different needs; therefore, the services they receive should be tailored to each individual. With proper treatment, people suffering from mental illness can live a normal life.
Robert McLay
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Robert McLay is a psychiatrist and pain medicine physician who received board certifications in three areas: General Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Psychosomatic Medicine (the overlap between medical and mental health). He has a special focus on military, their families, and high-performance issues, but treats all mental health conditions. Dr. McLay received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Johns Hopkins University, and his Ph.D. in neuroscience and M.D. from Tulane University. He received specialty training from Naval Medical Center, the University of California San Diego, and the American Psychoanalytic Association.
Robert McLay is a psychiatrist and pain medicine physician who received board certifications in three areas: General Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Psychosomatic Medicine (the overlap between medical and mental health). He has a special focus on military, their families, and high-performance issues, but treats all mental health conditions. Dr. McLay received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Johns Hopkins University, and his Ph.D. in neuroscience and M.D. from Tulane University. He received specialty training from Naval Medical Center, the University of California San Diego, and the American Psychoanalytic Association.
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
300+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
76% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
59% | Female | |
40% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Diego?
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.