Psychiatrists in Sausalito, CA

Photo of Sarah Udor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Sausalito, CA
Sarah Udor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
Greetings. I am Sarah, an experienced Nurse Practitioner with a focus on primary care and psychiatric mental health. My expertise is in delivering comprehensive healthcare that addresses both physical and psychological aspects of wellness. In my practice, I prioritize a holistic understanding of each patient, acknowledging the intricate interplay between body and mind.
Greetings. I am Sarah, an experienced Nurse Practitioner with a focus on primary care and psychiatric mental health. My expertise is in delivering comprehensive healthcare that addresses both physical and psychological aspects of wellness. In my practice, I prioritize a holistic understanding of each patient, acknowledging the intricate interplay between body and mind.
(415) 236-5604 View (415) 236-5604
Photo of Julia Mitrevski, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Julia Mitrevski
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
Finding the right person to listen to you is a very deep and personal decision. We all know how helpful it can feel to be understood. You may be struggling with relationship or work issues; you may feel alone and unsure of yourself; you may be coping with the loss of a loved one or with a life transition. You may be looking for help with a specific problem, or you may have a vague sense that things just don’t feel right to you. Feel free to contact me either by phone or e-mail for more information or to make an appointment.
Finding the right person to listen to you is a very deep and personal decision. We all know how helpful it can feel to be understood. You may be struggling with relationship or work issues; you may feel alone and unsure of yourself; you may be coping with the loss of a loved one or with a life transition. You may be looking for help with a specific problem, or you may have a vague sense that things just don’t feel right to you. Feel free to contact me either by phone or e-mail for more information or to make an appointment.
(628) 300-3804 View (628) 300-3804
Photo of Edward Davis, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Edward Davis
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABAM, ABPM
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
I look for ways to optimize individual treatment and seek opportunities to surpass previous functioning. My goal is to help patients achieve their full potential and self-actualize. I follow a positive strength based approach that is highly individualized. After graduating from the Juilliard School, I prepared for medical studies at the City University of New York. Then completed medical studies at U.C.S.F. and psychiatry residency at Stanford University. I have recently renewed Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology 2020, Addiction Medicine 2019 and Pain Medicine 2017.
I look for ways to optimize individual treatment and seek opportunities to surpass previous functioning. My goal is to help patients achieve their full potential and self-actualize. I follow a positive strength based approach that is highly individualized. After graduating from the Juilliard School, I prepared for medical studies at the City University of New York. Then completed medical studies at U.C.S.F. and psychiatry residency at Stanford University. I have recently renewed Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology 2020, Addiction Medicine 2019 and Pain Medicine 2017.
(415) 799-8592 View (415) 799-8592
Photo of Dr. Cuneyt Tegin, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Dr. Cuneyt Tegin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965  (Online Only)
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients via TeleConference.
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients via TeleConference.
(415) 592-6311 View (415) 592-6311
Photo of Lance Middleton, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Lance Middleton
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
A universe stranger than we can suppose gave us personhood. We are thrown into this life where we remain a mystery unto ourselves. For many, the mystery of self becomes foregrounded only when life proves more complex, tragic, or disappointing than expected. During these times, people stumble backwards into a crisis of premise causing them to wonder: How did I become so alone and can anything be done about it? How did I come to lead a life that has so little to do with me? Why is it so hard to know how I feel and what I want? These questions bring people to psychotherapy seeking a way forward.
A universe stranger than we can suppose gave us personhood. We are thrown into this life where we remain a mystery unto ourselves. For many, the mystery of self becomes foregrounded only when life proves more complex, tragic, or disappointing than expected. During these times, people stumble backwards into a crisis of premise causing them to wonder: How did I become so alone and can anything be done about it? How did I come to lead a life that has so little to do with me? Why is it so hard to know how I feel and what I want? These questions bring people to psychotherapy seeking a way forward.
(415) 226-4572 View (415) 226-4572
Photo of Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965  (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) 457-6378 View (650) 457-6378
Photo of Living Wills for Dementia / Stanley Terman, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Living Wills for Dementia / Stanley Terman
Psychiatrist, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
Stanley Terman's career focuses on empowering people to make informed decisions so they can successfully meet challenges in their lives with more pleasure, less suffering, and improved relationships. He helps couples and families in several ways. These include reducing the suffering of terminally ill patients and their loved ones, especially if they face huge challenges of Advanced Dementia and desire an "Ironclad Strategy" to compel others to honor their end-of-life wishes. In collaboration with clinicians, bioethicists, chaplains, and attorneys, he founded a non-profit organization, wrote three books, and created the patient decision aid, "My Way Cards."
Stanley Terman's career focuses on empowering people to make informed decisions so they can successfully meet challenges in their lives with more pleasure, less suffering, and improved relationships. He helps couples and families in several ways. These include reducing the suffering of terminally ill patients and their loved ones, especially if they face huge challenges of Advanced Dementia and desire an "Ironclad Strategy" to compel others to honor their end-of-life wishes. In collaboration with clinicians, bioethicists, chaplains, and attorneys, he founded a non-profit organization, wrote three books, and created the patient decision aid, "My Way Cards."
(800) 647-3223 View (800) 647-3223
Photo of Maryam Eskandari, M.D., Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Maryam Eskandari, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sausalito, CA 94965
I see my patients first and foremost in a humanistic way as people, not simply as patients or their diagnoses. As such, I offer patients comprehensive treatment, not just from a neurobiological perspective, but also a from a humanistic one. I approach my patients with compassion, respect and a commitment to confidentiality. Some of the biggest obstacles to attainting self-awareness and self-acceptance are deeply buried feelings of guilt and shame. Working with a psychotherapist you trust, who is curious, empathic and understanding can help you expand your capacity for self-curiosity, self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn can help you expand your capacity to: •examine, understand & change problematic patterns in your life; •make choices freely & actively, instead of reactively; •ultimately lead a more thoughtful, authentic & fulfilling life.
I see my patients first and foremost in a humanistic way as people, not simply as patients or their diagnoses. As such, I offer patients comprehensive treatment, not just from a neurobiological perspective, but also a from a humanistic one. I approach my patients with compassion, respect and a commitment to confidentiality. Some of the biggest obstacles to attainting self-awareness and self-acceptance are deeply buried feelings of guilt and shame. Working with a psychotherapist you trust, who is curious, empathic and understanding can help you expand your capacity for self-curiosity, self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn can help you expand your capacity to: •examine, understand & change problematic patterns in your life; •make choices freely & actively, instead of reactively; •ultimately lead a more thoughtful, authentic & fulfilling life.
(415) 789-3595 View (415) 789-3595
Photo of Adam Nelson, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Adam Nelson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
I currently see patients in my private office, where I specialize in working with a broad spectrum of complex diagnoses and conditions, such as atypical mood disorders, psychoses, and personality disorders. I use an integrative treatment approach to address several possible areas of concern, including genetics, epigenetics, biochemistry, interpersonal skills, current stress, and historical life experiences.
I currently see patients in my private office, where I specialize in working with a broad spectrum of complex diagnoses and conditions, such as atypical mood disorders, psychoses, and personality disorders. I use an integrative treatment approach to address several possible areas of concern, including genetics, epigenetics, biochemistry, interpersonal skills, current stress, and historical life experiences.
(415) 578-9413 View (415) 578-9413
Photo of Ravi Chandra, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Ravi Chandra
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sausalito, CA 94965
Experience, insight, integrity, depth, support. I specialize in understanding you and what's happening: your culture, current dilemmas, patterns, strengths, interests, relationships, life history, and visions of yourself and the world. Our work will be tailored to fit your individual needs, through therapy, medications, or both. I have advanced training and interest in depth work, including psychodynamic and mindfulness approaches. The goal is to help you cope with life, grow, enjoy fulfilling relationships, achieve your potential and develop resilience. Board Certified Distinguished Fellow of the APA, active writer, and member of Asian American committee of the Northern California Psychiatric Society.
Experience, insight, integrity, depth, support. I specialize in understanding you and what's happening: your culture, current dilemmas, patterns, strengths, interests, relationships, life history, and visions of yourself and the world. Our work will be tailored to fit your individual needs, through therapy, medications, or both. I have advanced training and interest in depth work, including psychodynamic and mindfulness approaches. The goal is to help you cope with life, grow, enjoy fulfilling relationships, achieve your potential and develop resilience. Board Certified Distinguished Fellow of the APA, active writer, and member of Asian American committee of the Northern California Psychiatric Society.
(415) 763-5921 View (415) 763-5921
Photo of The Clinic, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
The Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
We are a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to providing innovative treatments and personalized care. We offer psychotherapy and medication management for optimizing well-being. Our team specializes in cutting edge, evidence based treatments. We have providers who have expertise treating sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and other common and complex conditions. We are a dedicated team of providers who work closely and collaboratively to provide the best care possible to our patients and their families.
We are a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to providing innovative treatments and personalized care. We offer psychotherapy and medication management for optimizing well-being. Our team specializes in cutting edge, evidence based treatments. We have providers who have expertise treating sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and other common and complex conditions. We are a dedicated team of providers who work closely and collaboratively to provide the best care possible to our patients and their families.
(415) 697-3878 View (415) 697-3878
Photo of Olga Segal, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Olga Segal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sausalito, CA 94965
We offer a full range of psychiatric and psychological services: TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology - Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Spravato (Also known as Esketamine). TMS Therapy is a therapy designed for the treatment of certain Neurological conditions, specifically Major Depressive Disorder. Remission from Depression. Knowledgeable approach to medication management. For patients who want to be seen at the convenience of their homes, we provide telepsychiatry options. Most Insurances are Welcome, including Medicare & Partnership (Beacon)
We offer a full range of psychiatric and psychological services: TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology - Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Spravato (Also known as Esketamine). TMS Therapy is a therapy designed for the treatment of certain Neurological conditions, specifically Major Depressive Disorder. Remission from Depression. Knowledgeable approach to medication management. For patients who want to be seen at the convenience of their homes, we provide telepsychiatry options. Most Insurances are Welcome, including Medicare & Partnership (Beacon)
(415) 592-7451 View (415) 592-7451
Photo of Richard A Oliva, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Richard A Oliva
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
New practice opening summer 2023! Richard A Oliva, MD is a board-certified Psychiatrist, graduate of UCSF Psychiatry and USC School of Medicine. Now offering private practice with in-person visits located in San Francisco's beautiful Presidio. Perfect for adults looking for outpatient psychiatry for medication evaluations, ongoing prescribing, psychotherapy and more.
New practice opening summer 2023! Richard A Oliva, MD is a board-certified Psychiatrist, graduate of UCSF Psychiatry and USC School of Medicine. Now offering private practice with in-person visits located in San Francisco's beautiful Presidio. Perfect for adults looking for outpatient psychiatry for medication evaluations, ongoing prescribing, psychotherapy and more.
(415) 918-5521 View (415) 918-5521
Photo of Dr. Hadia Shafi, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Dr. Hadia Shafi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sausalito, CA 94965
I'm a Duke-trained holistic Adult and Geriatric psychiatrist who specializes in working with adults, mothers, and older adults who struggle with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety while navigating through major life transitions such as parenthood and the aging process. I help my patients break the cycle of failure and self-doubt, reconnect to their life’s purpose, optimize their health and longevity, and overall feel more fulfilled in their personal and professional lives. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, where individuals are seen as more than their symptoms, and treatment encompasses both mind and body.
I'm a Duke-trained holistic Adult and Geriatric psychiatrist who specializes in working with adults, mothers, and older adults who struggle with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety while navigating through major life transitions such as parenthood and the aging process. I help my patients break the cycle of failure and self-doubt, reconnect to their life’s purpose, optimize their health and longevity, and overall feel more fulfilled in their personal and professional lives. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, where individuals are seen as more than their symptoms, and treatment encompasses both mind and body.
(415) 849-4921 View (415) 849-4921

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Zachary D. Torry, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Zachary D. Torry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and provide medication management as well as psychotherapy to late teens and adults. My treatment philosophy incorporates a humanistic mind-body approach that appreciates the unique strengths and cultural background of each individual. My emphasis is on helping and not medicating. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship and make every effort to ensure that each patient's experience in treatment is comfortable and safe. And, importantly, I firmly believe in walking down the treatment path together.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and provide medication management as well as psychotherapy to late teens and adults. My treatment philosophy incorporates a humanistic mind-body approach that appreciates the unique strengths and cultural background of each individual. My emphasis is on helping and not medicating. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship and make every effort to ensure that each patient's experience in treatment is comfortable and safe. And, importantly, I firmly believe in walking down the treatment path together.
(650) 204-3992 View (650) 204-3992
Photo of Shannon Wozniak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Sausalito, CA
Shannon Wozniak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920  (Online Only)
Shannon is a provider with 20 years of experience in psychopharmacology and medication management. Her clinical roles have included partnerships with various healthcare startups, hospital and community mental health affiliations, academics and the director of psychiatric services at a Bay Area nonprofit. In her private practice she values a collaborative treatment approach with her clients.
Shannon is a provider with 20 years of experience in psychopharmacology and medication management. Her clinical roles have included partnerships with various healthcare startups, hospital and community mental health affiliations, academics and the director of psychiatric services at a Bay Area nonprofit. In her private practice she values a collaborative treatment approach with her clients.
View
Photo of Melinda Cuthbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Sausalito, CA
Melinda Cuthbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
(415) 891-1908 View (415) 891-1908
Photo of Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920  (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.
(415) 969-5083 View (415) 969-5083
Photo of Chelsea Anne Young, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
Chelsea Anne Young
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Waitlist for new clients
I work with kids and families including peripartum women for issues related to anxiety, depression, mood swings, and focus. I have special training in working with young children and kids with developmental disabilities.
I work with kids and families including peripartum women for issues related to anxiety, depression, mood swings, and focus. I have special training in working with young children and kids with developmental disabilities.
(415) 843-8394 View (415) 843-8394
Photo of The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist in Sausalito, CA
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
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) 324-6930 View (415) 324-6930

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Sausalito, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$325

Psychiatrists in Sausalito, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
93% Anxiety
86% Relationship Issues
86% Medication Management
71% ADHD
71% Grief
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% Aetna
50% Medicare
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Sausalito, CA see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

61% Male
39% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Sausalito?

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.