Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
in San Diego

A psychiatrist (https://www.pointlomaclinic.com/psychiatry)is a medical doctor (MD) who can prescribe medications and is trained in the biological and pharmacological dimensions of psychiatric illness. A psychologist holds a doctoral degree (PsyD or PhD) and specializes in psychotherapy and psychological assessment.(/psychotherapy) The two disciplines address different, and often complementary, aspects of mental health. At Point Loma Clinic, both are represented and coordinate directly, so patients who benefit from both therapy and medication management receive genuinely unified care rather than two parallel tracks that never communicate. For more, see our Collaborative Care page.(/collaborative-care)

No. You can contact us directly by phone, text, or email. If you are unsure which provider or service is the right fit for your situation, we are glad to help you sort that out before you commit to an appointment.

We do not bill insurance directly. Patients often find that working outside insurance constraints allows for more flexibility in session length, appointment availability, and treatment options. Depending on your plan, out-of-network reimbursement may be available, and we can provide documentation to support that process.

Unsuccessful treatment is common and usually reflects a mismatch, including the wrong approach for the condition, insufficient attention to complexity, or limited coordination between providers. We begin with a thorough evaluation and work from there, drawing on what the research supports for your specific situation. We also have access to treatment options, including ketamine, that are not available in most outpatient practices.

Yes, and for many patients this is the most effective arrangement. Research consistently shows that combined medication management and psychotherapy outperforms either treatment alone. When you see Dr. Alexander Papp (/alexander-papp)and Dr. Julie Myers (https://www.pointlomaclinic.com/julie-myers)or Dr. Ariane Myers (/ariane-myers)they will communicate directly, which is not standard practice at most clinics. This collaborative care can be beneficial for treatment progress.

Yes. Secure telehealth appointments are available throughout California for most services. In-person appointments are available at our Del Mar and Point Loma offices.