Psychiatrists are an integral part of mental wellness treatment, utilizing their exceptional expertise to offer diagnoses and treatment management.
At GIA Miami, our world-leading team of professionals includes psychiatrists from the top of their fields. With years of experience in mental wellness treatment, our team works together to offer you the very best individualized treatment solution so you can reach your mental wellness goals.
What Is a Psychiatrist?
Psychiatry is a branch of medicine that covers mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Psychiatrists are qualified doctors (M.D. or D.O.) that specialize in mental health conditions.
Psychiatrists may further specialize in one of several different mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. They are qualified to diagnose both mental and physical symptoms of these disorders.
In addition to the above, psychiatrists are highly specialized and have exceptional knowledge of mental health disorders. A psychiatric evaluation can provide accurate and astute diagnoses for the most complex mental health conditions. Psychiatrists often work with other mental health professionals like psychologists and psychotherapists to provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment programs.
What Are Some Different Branches of Psychiatry?
Some psychiatrists choose to specialize in diagnosing and treating specific age groups. For example, they may work in:
- Pediatric psychiatry - psychiatry of children.
- Adolescent psychiatry - psychiatry of young people developing from a child into an adult.
- Geriatric psychiatry - psychiatry of the elderly.
How To Find/Choose the Right Psychiatrist?
When choosing a psychiatrist, you should look for someone with experience and knowledge of the mental health issues you are facing. Because psychiatrists are so highly trained, most qualified professionals should be able to offer the expertise you need. However, you may want to check a few things first, such as:
- The psychiatrist's credentials
- The psychiatrist's experience
- Referrals
GIA Miami Specialists - Our Team
At GIA Miami, FL, our clinical team includes highly qualified doctors led by Dr. Quesada - a dual Board-Certified Psychiatrist from The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and The American Board of Addiction Medicine. He has worked as a psychiatrist and medical detox physician since 2003.
Our psychiatrists play a leading role in our admissions procedure, providing an in-depth assessment of each client's condition. They work with psychologists and other professionals to design an individualized treatment plan that matches the client's unique needs. They are also responsible for medication management throughout the treatment experience.
Our treatment plans combine a range of evidence-backed treatment options based on the forefront of medical science. Many of our team members are leaders in the mental health field, pioneering innovative new treatments such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. We offer a holistic approach that considers dual diagnoses and other underlying causes of mental health concerns.
At GIA Miami, we understand that some people need urgent care. We make sure our admissions process is as smooth and easy as possible so that you can see the medical experts you need without having to wait for a prolonged period.
When Should You See a Psychiatrist Instead of a Psychologist?
If you are struggling with your mental health or generally want to improve your mental wellness, you may be wondering if you should see a psychiatrist or a psychologist.
Both types of professionals are highly trained and know what is best for you. They frequently work together and make referrals from one to another, so if you choose the 'wrong' one, they'll connect you with a professional more suited to your needs.
However, there are a number of circumstances when it is usually better to see a psychiatrist. This includes:
- If you experience debilitating mental health symptoms that interfere with your daily life
- If you are interested in pharmacotherapy (medication)
- If you experience symptoms like panic attacks or panic disorder and want to rule out physical causes
- When a physical disorder may be influencing mental symptoms
What Can a Psychiatrist Do for Me?
A psychiatrist can conduct a psychiatric evaluation to assess and diagnose your condition. They can also offer medication management and liaise with a team of psychologists and other professionals to provide effective evidence-based treatments.
A psychiatric evaluation may take up to two hours. In this time, the psychiatrist will aim to:
- Confirm the diagnosis of a mental disorder according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-7)
- Rule out other physical conditions that may underlie symptoms
- Consider long-term problems that could develop in the future
- Make necessary changes to a treatment plan that is based on a previous evaluation
Can a Psychologist Diagnose Mental Illness?
Yes - psychologists are trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses, and they have extensive experience and knowledge in the field.
However, when there is a possibility of a physical disorder influencing mental symptoms, it may be better to see a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist usually has an additional level of training and has a university DR or MO in medicine that qualifies them to assess physical factors too.
Can I See a Psychiatrist Instead of a Therapist?
If you are looking for comprehensive and regular psychotherapeutic treatment, it's usually better to see a psychologist or psychotherapist.
While some psychiatrists may be able to offer some therapy sessions, their expertise usually lies in diagnosis, treatment management, and medication management. Psychologists and psychotherapists usually focus on therapeutic treatment and may have more experience and training in this field.
Do You Need a Referral To See a Psychiatrist in the USA?
Whether you need a referral to see a psychiatrist or not usually depends on your medical insurance.
Most insurance plans do require a referral, which you can get from your primary doctor or general practitioner. However, some do not, in which case you can call up a psychiatrist to make an appointment. Some psychiatrists prefer all new clients to come with a referral, regardless of their insurance.
Can You See a Psychiatrist Online?
Yes - you can see a psychiatrist online. At GIA Miami, our telehealth program ensures that anyone can access our mental wellness treatment, regardless of their location.
Our telehealth program offers the same services to clients as we provide from our center in South Miami. You will work with our world-leading team of professionals on a one-to-one basis - but from your local area.
Mental Wellness Treatment at GIA Miami
GIA Miami is a pioneering mental wellness and addiction treatment center in Southern Florida. We offer the most up-to-date, evidence-based treatment methods from the forefront of medical science. We deliver our services with compassion and care, offering personal one-to-one treatment to every client.
Our outpatient facilities are situated in the heart of Miami, within easy reach of Miami beach. The center is modern and open, with a relaxed atmosphere where clients can feel at home. We're determined to help you find peace, tranquility, and happiness within yourself. Our luxury center bridges the gap between a homely, welcoming atmosphere and clinically excellent service.
If you are struggling with your mental health or think you could be doing better, contact us today. Likewise, if you have any questions about finding the right psychiatrist or our treatment options, we are on hand to support you and help you become the best version of yourself.
