Psychiatry

Psychiatry vs Therapy

  • What is the difference between a Psychiatrist and a Therapist?

    Typically psychiatrists are medical providers who are licensed to diagnose illness and prescribe medications. Therapists are not able to diagnose illness or prescribe medication. Instead, therapists are qualified to provide psychotherapy (talk-therapy). Psychiatrists can be medical doctors or other medical providers such as physician assistants or nurse practitioners. While therapists are usually: Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT), Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC), or Psychologists.

  • Should I choose a Psychiatrist or a Therapist?

    Depending on your situation, you may decide to see only a psychiatrist or a therapist, but it’s common for people to see both. If you are dealing with debilitating mental health struggles that are interfering with your day to day life, you may want to start with a psychiatrist. They’ll be able to assess your situation and help you form a treatment plan. This may include medication, therapy, or a combination of treatment. If you are dealing with a specific life issue, such as a relationship problem or life transition, you may find the best results with therapy.

Meet our Psychiatry Team

Preparing for your First Appointment

Our visits are 100% virtual. During your first appointment, our team will ask about your medical and mental health background up to the present day. From this point, our team will help assess what is going on and determine the best course of treatment. Depending on your situation, additional screening may be requested.

If you are new to Perlman Clinic, please send your medical records to us before your appointment. This ensures our team is best equipped to give you an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Please ensure that your medical records are faxed to 858-795-1195 at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment.

If you are a current Perlman Clinic patient, we will already have everything we’ll need on file. So all you’ll need to bring is yourself!

Need Immediate Help?

If you are having suicidal thoughts or mental health-related distress, please call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988 immediately. This Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support.