Virtual Psychiatrist
Clinical & Forensic Psychiatric
Evaluations all over USA & Canada
Best Virtual Psychiatrist - Weekend Psychiatrist Appointments Available
Finding a good virtual psychiatrist can be a challenge, which is why Gaba Telepsychiatry was set up in 2018. Gaba Telepsychiatry is a unique practice where virtual psychiatrists are committed to providing the highest quality care and standards of care in an online platform.
Although it is possible to provide the equivalent standard of care in an online setting, not all psychiatrists can adapt to an online method of working, and connect with patients in front of the camera. Some psychiatrists just do not like working virtually and disconnect. Treating patients virtually is a skill set in itself that requires years of experience.
Longer visits, integrative care, and highly trained board-certified psychiatrists are some of the factors that make Gaba Telepsychiatry unique and distinct from online practices.
Virtual patient advocates follow patients through the onboarding process and throughout the treatment process. Virtual patient advocates assist with scripts, and lab work, as well as liaising with pharmacies and insurance companies. Patient advocates are available by phone and video not just live chat, like other practices. The practice goal is to mimic the in-house office experience, as closely as possible and provide a concierge-like service wherever possible.
Dr. Beena Saad was absolutely wonderful! She was professional, attentive, and made me feel comfortable throughout the entire visit. She took the time to listen to my concerns, explained everything clearly, and offered thoughtful recommendations. The appointment…Read More
was on time, the staff was friendly, and the whole experience was smooth from start to finish. I’d highly recommend her to anyone looking for a caring and knowledgeable provider!
My case was incredibly complicated. Dr Reddy was able to compile information from a variety of different sources and, with her experience, training, and field expertise, piece together what was truly happening with my family and I. Her staff were dedicated to making sure I was prepared for her…Read More
appointments. The appointments were easy to schedule around my full-time schedule. The staff was knowledgeable and compassionate regarding my case. I found her compelling but still graceful in court. Her office maintained the highest level of professionalism I could have asked for. I could not thank them enough for their support!
Dr. Raju is absolutely amazing. Finally a doctor that listens to what I’m saying. She truly cares about her patients. It’s difficult for me to connect with a doctor. Dr. Raju has…Read More
such a kind, warm and caring nature. It makes it so much easier to freely communicate with her. I’m so grateful I was referred to her.
Seeing an virtual psychiatrist is effective and easy
What is a Virtual Psychiatrist ?
A virtual psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed a psychiatry residency and is licensed to practice psychiatry and prescribe psychiatric medication as well as provide therapy services. As well as being competent to practice psychiatry, a virtual psychiatrist is comfortable seeing patients over a HIPAA-compliant video platform as well as in person and prescribing medication online.
Is it better to see a psychiatrist virtually or in the office?
The American Psychiatric Association now recognizes telepsychiatry to be as effective as seeing a patient in person, depending on the situation. When seeing a patient virtually the psychiatrist must follow APA guidelines, and the same standards of care as if seeing a patient in the office.
It is usually a personal preference whether to see a virtual psychiatrist or a psychiatrist in their physical office. Sometimes it is hard to find the right psychiatrist locally, and it may be easier for a virtual psychiatrist to accommodate your work schedule or childcare needs. Some patients just feel more comfortable seeing a psychiatrist in their own home.
What are the advantages of seeing a virtual psychiatrist ?
The practical benefits of seeing a virtual psychiatrist are obvious:
- Access to weekend and evening psychiatrist appointments
- Same-day psychiatrist appointments
- There is rarely a need to take time off work for appointments
- Travel time is saved
- Virtual psychiatrist appointments can be a lifesaver for self-employed, and small business owners
- Consultants and individuals who travel for work can see a psychiatrist in multiple states
- There is no need for child care, you can see a psychiatrist from home
More importantly, seeing a psychiatrist virtually can mean a higher standard of care because you can see the psychiatrist of your choice and are not limited by location.
How to choose the best virtual psychiatrist ?
The best virtual psychiatrist, as well as being highly qualified, is someone with whom you feel comfortable, whom you can talk to, and who understands your needs.
Virtual psychiatrists may have a special area of interest such as obsessive-compulsive disorder or bipolar disorder, or may have further fellowship training. Common subspecialties of psychiatry include:
- Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
- Addiction Psychiatry
- Consultation liaison psychiatry
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Integrative Psychiatry
- Psychoanalysis
- Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
- Gestational psychiatry
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Transgender psychiatry
- Neuropsychiatry
"Telepsychiatry allows you to see the virtual psychiatrist of your choice irrespective of location"
Cross cultural psychiatry in a virtual setting
America is a multicultural society and a good psychiatrist should be able to relate to and connect with an individual of any ethnicity or religious background. However, if you are a first-generation immigrant, you may want to see a psychiatrist with the same mother tongue, or who understands certain cultural nuances at a deeper level.
Many psychiatrists, although born and raised in the US, were raised by immigrant parents, and are married or partnered with someone from a minority background. Many psychiatrists are bilingual or have first-hand experience with certain cultural norms through work, social life, or family background. Some patients feel more comfortable or feel a deeper level of understanding.
Dr ‘O,’ a Nigerian psychiatrist practicing in the US states she lives with her in-laws and still ‘kneels,’ when she greets her mother-in-law after work. Dr ‘O,’ believes these ancient traditions still have benefits in the modern world and wants certain values to be passed on to her children. In her family differences have to be resolved respectfully and moving out or distancing herself from her ‘in- laws’ is not an option.
Dr ‘O.’ understands prioritizing respect to elders and the extended family, while working towards forming a functional marital unit would be considered strange by most American marital therapists. Dr ‘O.’ practices marital therapy and many of her clients are of African descent.
It may be hard to find a psychiatrist who meets your needs, locally, which is why a virtual psychiatrist may be the best option for some patients.
Online Psychiatrist Services
Medication
Management
Medication is sent electronically
to your pharmacy and can be
picked up the same day.
Psychotherapy
Services
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,
Psychodynamic Therapy,
Family & Relationship Therapy.
Our Virtual Psychiatrists
Dr. Valeria Serban
Board Certified Psychiatrist
with Multiple State Licenses MBBS (MD)
Dr. Valeria Serban is a board-certified neuropsychiatrist with 20 years of professional experience and a keen passion for treating mental health illnesses using modalities such as therapy and medication management. She’s an expert in diagnosing and treating most mental health conditions with extensive experience with conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, dementia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), mood disorder, panic disorder, postpartum depression, and psychosis, among others.
Dr. Serban has worked extensively in general adult psychiatry and geriatric psychiatry. She treats psychiatric illnesses associated with neurological conditions such as migraine, epilepsy, concussion, stroke, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, and other neurological conditions.
Dr. Serban has a kind and compassionate approach to patient care. She utilizes a combination of medication management and psychotherapy to help treat various types of psychiatric illness and age-related cognitive decline.
Dr. Serban is well-known for her warm and friendly personality and provides patients with a safe and comfortable environment for easy recovery and symptom management. She constantly researches different treatment options and works with her patients and their families to find the one that best suits their requirements.
Dr. Serban is multilingual and speaks fluently in six languages: English, Romanian, Italian, French, Spanish, and German.
Medical School
University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, Romania
Neurology Residency Training
University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, Romania
Master of Philosophy (M.Ph.) – Neuroscience
NYS Institute for Basic Research, New York
Internal Medicine Residency
Temple University Hospital, Pennsylvania
Neurology Residency
Temple University Hospital, Pennsylvania
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Neuroscience
NYS Institute for Basic Research, City University of New York – Graduate Center
Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Massachusetts General Hospital – Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts
Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Electromyography – American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM)
Neuromuscular Medicine – American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Recertification – American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Dr. Tony Issac
Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York & New Jersey (MD)
Dr. Tony Isaac is an experienced double Board Certified Psychiatrist with a keen interest in evaluating and treating mental health illnesses such as insomnia, panic attacks, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Dr. Issac specializes in addiction recovery treatments and medication management and uses a combination of psychotherapy and sensitive medication titration to help his patients achieve a collaborative treatment plan. Using both medication and non-medication techniques, Dr. Issac focuses on recovery and healing, thereby improving the overall mental health of his patients and helping them live a fuller and happier life.
Dr. Issac is popular among his patients for being very kind, respectful, empathetic, articulate, patient, and always willing to listen. He conducts suicide assessments and acute stabilization, which includes working with the family and employer to provide the required care and support.
Medical School
St. George’s University: School of Medicine
Psychiatry Residency Training
Richmond University Medical Center: affiliate of Mount Sinai Health Network
Bachelors of Science (B.S.) in Psychobiology
Binghamton University – State University of New York
Board Certification
American Board of Preventative Medicine – Addiction Medicine, Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology – Psychiatry, Board Certification
Dr. Beena Saad
Triple Board Certified Psychiatrist
with Multiple State Licenses (MD)
Dr. Beena Saad is a triple-board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist holding fellowships in child psychosomatic medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry, making her one of the best online psychiatrists for children and adolescents.
With extensive expertise in child and adolescent mental health, Dr. Saad is dedicated to providing comprehensive online psychiatric care for young patients. She specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders in children and teens, including:
- Anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety, OCD, Health Anxiety, Panic Disorders)
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Mood disorders, including Childhood Bipolar Disorder and Depression
- PANDAS and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Tic Disorders
- Childhood Schizophrenia
- Sleep Disorders
- Learning Disabilities
- Substance Use Disorders
- Psychiatric symptoms related to chronic pain and long-term illnesses
Dr. Saad understands the unique emotional and developmental needs of children and adolescents. She believes in empowering young patients and their families through a personalized and collaborative treatment approach. She carefully assesses environmental influences, family dynamics, and developmental history to create tailored treatment plans for each child.
Her expertise in psychopharmacology allows her to provide safe and effective medication management when necessary.
Additionally, she is skilled in various evidence-based therapies, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
- Supportive Psychotherapy
- Childhood Therapy
- Family and Parent Counseling
As one of the best online psychiatrists for children and adolescents, Dr. Saad offers convenient and accessible telepsychiatry services that allow families to receive expert mental health care from the comfort of their homes. Her compassionate and patient-centered approach ensures that children receive the support they need to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.
Languages Dr. Saad speaks: English, Urdu, Hindi and Sindhi
Medical Education
M.B.B.S. – Sind Medical College, Pakistan
Postgraduate Training
Child Psychiatry Fellowship – University of New Mexico
Child Psychosomatic Medicine Fellowship – Albert Einstein School of Medicine
Registered State Licenses –
- NY – 284008-01
- CA – A 145498
Dr. Lynn Alison Bornfriend
Board Certified Psychiatrist
with Multiple State Licenses (MD)
Dr Bornfriend is a triple board-certified psychiatrist with 30+ years of experience trained first with four years in adult psychiatry before completing child psychiatry and now she treats both children and adults across Illinois, South Carolina, California, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, New Jersey and Hawaii.
She is passionate about supporting patients dealing with a variety of disorders, including:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder, separation anxiety, social anxiety disorder, phobias, panic disorder
- Mood Disorders, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, major depressive disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, bipolar affective disorder and cyclothymia
- OCD, body dysmorphic disorder, trichotillomania, excoriation
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
Reactive Attachment Disorder, adoption-related issues - PTSD, acute stress disorder, adjustment disorder, prolonged grief disorder
- Oppositional Defiant
- Disorder, intermittent explosive disorder, conduct disorder
- Eating Disorders, Sleep Disorders
- Gender Dysphoria
- Substance Dependence and Abuse
- Psychiatric Disorders Secondary to Medical Illness
Dr Bornfriend considers all symptoms presented through the lens of the individual patient’s developmental stage, while also evaluating the impact of family dynamics, environment, academic experience, and developmental/genetic variants. She understands the shift in the importance of autonomy and self-determination as the child grows towards adulthood, assisting the patient and his/her family with active empathic listening and respectful communication.
She has worked with children and adolescents as well as their families, their schools, and the court systems in a variety of modalities from evaluation and diagnosis, medication management, and individual and family therapies, from a supportive, insight-oriented, and CBT/DBT and other modalities.
Dr Bornfriend’s patients have appreciated her varied experiences and training throughout her career. They appreciate her creativity, her warmth, her humor, her intellectual curiosity, and her ability to connect with a wide variety of patients, despite varied backgrounds and levels of psychological mindedness. She has formed long-term, long-lasting relationships with patients, which have hada dramatic impact on their current life experiences as well as their futures.
Medical School:
Pennsylvania State College of Medicine–Hershey, PA
Psychiatric Residency Program:
Timberlawn Psychiatric Hospital–Dallas, TX
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship:
Timberlawn Psychiatric Hospital–Dallas, TX
Board Certifications (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology):
Psychiatry; Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Forensic Psychiatry
Currently licensed in IL,NC, SC, CA, PA, TN, NJ and HI.
Dr. Cathleen Gomez
Integrative Psychiatrist
with Multiple State Licenses (MD)
Dr. Cathleen Jane Gomez is an integrative psychiatrist with extensive experience in diverse mental health settings. As a leader in holistic psychiatry, she specializes in medication management, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and integrative approaches to treating mental health conditions.
Dr. Gomez’s expertise in integrative psychiatry allows her to blend traditional psychiatric treatments with innovative, evidence-based therapies.
She takes a whole-person approach to mental health, addressing biological, psychological, and environmental factors that contribute to mental well-being. Her focus is on understanding the root causes of psychiatric conditions and designing personalized treatment plans that cater to each patient’s unique needs.
Her areas of expertise include:
- Anxiety and Panic Disorders
- Depression and Mood Disorders
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Bipolar Disorder
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Insomnia and Sleep Disorders
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Treatment-Resistant Psychiatric Conditions
Dr. Gomez incorporates a combination of psychotherapy, medication management, nutritional psychiatry, and lifestyle modifications into her treatment approach. She believes in empowering her patients by addressing hormonal imbalances, nutrition, gut health and mind-body connections to enhance overall well-being.
As one of the best online integrative psychiatrists, Dr. Gomez provides accessible and convenient telepsychiatry services, allowing patients to receive expert mental health care from the comfort of their homes. Whether treating treatment-resistant conditions or guiding patients through medication-free alternatives, she is committed to delivering compassionate, personalized, and effective psychiatric care tailored to each individual’s journey toward healing.
Medical School
Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica
Psychiatry Residency Training
Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York
Integrative Psychiatry Training
Integrative Psychiatry Institute, Boulder, Colorado
Board Certification
Psychiatry Board Eligible
Florida State Medical License
New York State Medical License
Registered State Licenses –
Florida State Medical License- ME143967
New York State Medical License – 300954-01
Dr. Suja Raju
Board certified Psychiatrist (MD)
Dr. Raju is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than nine years of clinical experience, certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She specializes in the comprehensive treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia
With a strong commitment to delivering personalized, patient-centered care, Dr. Raju provides expertise in medication management, evidence-based psychotherapy, and thoughtful, sensitive medication titration. She has particular clinical interest and passion in women’s mental health and trauma-related disorders, striving to support and empower her patients through every stage of their healing journey.
Medical School
Universal College of Medical Sciences, Nepal
Psychiatry Residency Program
Mount Sinai School of Medicine Elmhurst
Program, New York
Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
Adult Psychiatry
Language spoken
English and Malayalam
Dr. Gundu Reddy
Board Certified Psychiatrist
with Multiple State Licenses MBBS (MD)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 15 years of clinical psychiatry experience and a decade of expertise in forensic psychiatry. She is well-versed in medication management, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Dr. Reddy has a strong interest in integrative psychiatry and adopts a holistic approach when evaluating and treating her patients. She considers a wide range of factors, including genetics, developmental history, medical conditions, nutrition, hormonal imbalances, and environmental influences to provide comprehensive care.
Dr. Reddy emphasizes the importance of understanding underlying psychodynamic conflicts and the root causes of symptoms when developing treatment plans. This nuanced approach enhances the effectiveness of medication management and therapy, whether it involves individual, family, or relationship counseling. Additionally, she has significant experience in managing treatment-resistant cases and incorporates her expertise in integrative psychiatry to address complex patient needs.
Medical School
The United Medical Dental Schools of Guys Kings and St Thomas’ at King’s College London
Psychiatry Residency Training
Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Training
NYU Psychoanalytic Institute
Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry Neurology
Same Day Psychiatrist Appointment
Registered State Licenses –
- NY – 260173
- TN – 58783
- NC – 2026-01787
- SC – MMD.81938
- SC – “DHEC South Carolina Department of Health and EnvironmentaL 2081938”
- IL – 036151599
- CA – 168663
- NJ – 25MA11183400
- FL – ME148850
Schedule an Appointment with one of our Online Psychiatrists.
Clinical Services: California, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee
Forensic Psychiatry Services: All of the US and Canada
Book Your Appointment in 5 Easy Steps
| State | Dr. Beena Saad | Dr. Tony Issac | Dr. Valeria Serban | Dr. Lynn Alison Bornfriend | Dr. Cathleen Gomez | Dr. Gundu Reddy | Dr. Suja Raju |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Yes | – | Yes | Yes | – | Yes | – |
| Illinois | – | – | Yes | Yes | – | Yes | – |
| Florida | – | – | – | – | Yes | Yes | – |
| New Jersey | – | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | Yes | – |
| New York | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| South Carolina | – | – | Yes | Yes | – | Yes | Yes |
| North Carolina | Yes | – | – | Yes | – | Yes | Yes |
| Tennessee | – | – | – | Yes | – | Yes | Yes |
If you need help scheduling or have more questions,
Please call 18333124222 and ask for a patient advocate or forensic co-ordinator.
Why Gaba Telepsychiatry?
- All Virtual Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed psychiatry residency training and Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and follow APA guidelines and standards of care.
- Initial Consultation is one hour and psychopharmacology visits at Gaba Telepsychiatry are 30 minutes long.
- Virtual Psychiatrists have a minimum of eight years of experience practicing psychiatry.
- Virtual Psychiatrists are experienced in psychotherapy as psychopharmacology.
- Extra time is taken to ensure that patients are prescribed the right medication without experiencing side effects.
Prescribing psychiatric medication the right way means:- Spending time with the patient, evaluating symptoms
- Achieving a Correct Diagnosis
- Evaluating the underlying cause of symptoms
- Evaluating effectiveness and side effects of current medications
- Evaluating what has worked and has not worked in the past
- Evaluating reasons why past psychiatric treatment may have failed
- Discussing options with the patient and forming a collaborative treatment plan
- Careful titration to ensure the correct dosage
- The practice is open seven days a week in case of emergencies.
- Paperwork for workplace accommodations, disability, and school can be completed virtually when necessary and sent to your patient portal.
- Your dedicated virtual assistant will assist you with scheduling, prescriptions, lab work, and obtaining records.
- Courtesy billing for out-of-network insurance claims (we submit and follow up on claims for you).
- At Gaba Telepsychiatry, we understand that many factors can lead to psychiatric illnesses. These include genetics, developmental factors, trauma, nutritional factors, hormones, career difficulties, relationship difficulties, coping skills, concurrent medical illness, head injury, side effects of medication, and many others.
- Patient advocates will schedule same-day video calls when requested to address any complaints or unresolved issues.
Do Virtual Psychiatrists at Gaba Telepsychiatry Accept Insurance?
A virtual psychopharmacology follow-up visit through insurance is typically fifteen minutes long, and the average time spent face-to-face with your provider is eight minutes at most clinics. Psychiatrists at Gaba Telepsychiatry believe it is not possible to provide adequate psychiatric care in such settings. The probability of error is high and often the same medication is renewed even if ineffective or causes side effects.
In most cases, it is also not possible to evaluate psychodynamic, medical, and environmental factors affecting treatment response in a fifteen-minute follow-up visit. Likewise, it may be difficult to evaluate treatment response, titrate medication, or address medication side effects during such short visits, limiting the quality of care.
The decision to prescribe psychiatric medication requires careful consideration and responsible titration, and psychiatrists at Gaba Telepsychiatry believe time is needed to issue the appropriate care.
Another limitation to insurance visits is that care is often provided by physician assistants and nurse practitioners instead of psychiatrists. Although all mental health providers provide valuable services, some individuals may prefer to see a psychiatrist.
Currently, psychiatry visits at Gaba Telepsychiatry are self-pay at this time, as we are not able to provide the standard of care we believe is needed in an insurance company-driven setting.
True or false
‘The average psychiatric patient will spend more time preparing dinner than working with their psychiatrist to find the right medication, or formulate their treatment plan.’
If you have out-of-network insurance your visits will be reimbursed at 50-100 percent and our patient advocates can check your reimbursement rate and help you calculate the exact cost of treatment.
What if I cannot afford to see an out-of-network psychiatrist at Gaba Telepsychiatry?
Most patients at Gaba Telepsychiatry who receive both psychiatry and therapy services have out-of-network benefits. (This means we submit a claim to your insurance and you will be re-embursed for 50-100 percent of your visit, depending on your insurance plan).
For individuals who do not have out-of-network benefits, virtual psychiatrists at Gaba Telepsychiatry are happy to match you with a therapist within your insurance network or collaborate with your existing in-network therapist.
Although medication visits are comparatively expensive, once you are on the right medication and your symptoms have resolved or subsided, visits are relatively infrequent. Some very stable patients see their psychiatrist every four months for a refill. Therapy visits are weekly and therefore a much larger financial commitment and seeing an out-of-network therapist may be too expensive for many patients.
By seeing patients for medication management, and collaborating with your in-network therapist, psychiatrists can provide high-quality care at a rate that is affordable for most patients.
Our patient advocates will work with you to ensure that pricing is transparent and we can provide the best possible option for your care.
Authenticity & Integrity
Board Certified Psychiatrists follows APA Guidelines and best standards of patient care.
Online Psychiatric Services
Gaba Telepsychiatry offers an integrative approach to psychiatric evaluation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Virtual Psychiatrist and a Virtual Psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who are trained in psychopharmacology, neurology, psychopathology, and therapy. Psychologists are trained in various modalities of psychotherapy. Therefore, the biggest difference is that virtual psychiatrists can prescribe you medication, and supplements and evaluate medical causes of psychiatric illness, but virtual psychologists cannot.
Your virtual psychologist can provide services of psychotherapy (talk therapy), including Supportive psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy depending on their level of training.
What conditions can a virtual psychiatrist treat?
A virtual psychiatrist can treat all the same conditions as a psychiatrist in the office. A virtual psychiatrist may have to collaborate with your primary care doctor for certain conditions like schizophrenia if you are receiving medications via long-acting injection. Otherwise, prescriptions for medication are sent online to your local pharmacy.
For certain conditions like ADHD or panic attacks which may require prescribing controlled substances, psychiatrists may have to arrange an in-office visit, or collaborate with your primary care doctor, depending on local state guidelines.
What qualifications are required to be a virtual psychiatrist ?
When choosing the best virtual psychiatrist, make sure you look for someone who :
- Holds Certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
- Be able to conduct psychotherapy sessions online effectively.
- Has a valid Medical License in the state that they are practicing.
- Has Completed a Psychiatry Residency Program in the United States.
- Has Graduated from medical school.
The education and training that virtual psychiatrists receive will provide an understanding of the complex relationship between emotional and physical health. Family history, genetics, evaluation of medical data, substance abuse, and environmental developmental factors are all important considerations when formulating a diagnosis, and curating treatment plans.
Virtual Psychiatrists should ensure that empathy, understanding, communication, and collaboration between a psychiatrist and patient facilitate good treatment outcomes. Ultimately, the best virtual psychiatrist will ensure the same standards of care, or superior standards of care, as if they were seeing the patient in the office.
Is a virtual psychiatrist insured?
All virtual psychiatrists must be insured and licensed in the state that which they are practicing.
Can a virtual psychiatrist prescribe medication?
A VIRTUAL PSYCHIATRIST CAN PRESCRIBE MEDICATION
Your virtual psychiatrist will take the time to make sure that you are taking the right medication. This means ensuring that your medication is effective and that side effects are absent or minimized.
The decision to take psychiatric medications is one of the most important decisions that you will make. Ideally, the response to medication should be life-changing, as you will experience both alleviation of symptoms and enhanced quality of life.
Can a virtual psychiatrist prescribe controlled substances?
During the COVID-19 crisis, an emergency order was issued stating that psychiatrists could prescribe controlled substances online. However, as the Covid 19 crisis is now over DEA and state guidelines are continuously being modified. The rules are different from state to state and a psychiatrist must comply with state and federal guidelines.
Typically to prescribe controlled substances:
- The psychiatrist must perform thorough psychiatric evaluations.
- The psychiatrist must document why it is medically necessary to prescribe a controlled substance and why the benefits outweigh the risks.
- The urgent psychiatrist must follow the same standards of care as if seeing the patient in the office.
If your state does not allow the prescription of controlled substances by an online psychiatrist a consult can be sent to your PCP who will usually fill the script as long as adequate documentation is provided. Most PCPs are comfortable prescribing controlled substances providing there is a consultation from a psychiatrist, documenting the risks versus the benefits, and clinical appropriateness.
There are occasions where your psychiatrist may not find it appropriate to prescribe a controlled substance online and may recommend that you see a psychiatrist in person, or would benefit from alternative treatments.
Common uses of controlled substances, including stimulants and benzodiazepines, include medications for:
- Suicidal ideation
- Acute insomnia
- Mania
- Panic attacks
- ADHD
- Debilitating Anxiety
- Opiate Addiction
Whether seeing a patient online or in person, the psychiatrist must follow APA guidelines and standards of care.
Can a virtual psychiatrist provide psychotherapy services?
Addressing psychodynamic conflicts is not always easy, and it is important to find a provider with whom you are comfortable. If the virtual psychiatrist follows APA guidelines and standards of care, online psychotherapy can be as effective as in-person psychotherapy.
Research studies evaluating the effectiveness of virtual psychotherapy have been favorable. The best online psychiatrists will provide both medication management and psychotherapy services or work with your therapist to achieve the best treatment outcomes.
At Gaba Telepsychiatry, virtual psychiatrists see patients via videoconference, not via text message. Therapy via phone call is usually reserved for travel or emergencies. The goal is to recreate the closest possible approximation to the in-person visit.
Our psychiatrists practice following APA guidelines and standards of care. A variety of therapy modalities, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, family therapy, and CBT are utilized to help you work towards healing and recovery.
What types of psychotherapy can I schedule virtually?
Both the American Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association have endorsed virtual psychotherapy. Studies have shown that online therapy can be as effective as in-person when performed by a qualified person, and there is a strong therapeutic alliance.
Examples of virtual psychotherapy include :
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy:
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a type of talk therapy that requires years of training, and supervision. This is based on ‘The structural theory of the mind’ and helps patients identify the functions of the Id, ego, and superego. A psychodynamic psychotherapist will help a patient identify developmental behavioral and thought patterns, as well as ego defenses. One of the goals of psychodynamic psychotherapy is to help patients understand their unconscious drives, assist them in identifying immature ego defenses, and utilize more mature and functional defenses. Most psychodynamic psychotherapists have completed a Ph.D. in clinical psychology or a psychiatry residency program.
Supportive Psychotherapy:
Supportive psychotherapy is a type of talk therapy that involves supporting patients through difficult periods, and helping patients work through day-to-day problems. This can include financial, occupational, relationship, and health difficulties. For example, a goal of supportive psychotherapy may be to be more productive at work, lose weight, navigate a divorce, or manage finances better.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:
Cognitive Behavioral therapy was first popularized by Aaron Beck as a distinct form of therapy although CBT techniques have been used by therapists for hundreds of years.
The process of cognitive behavioral therapy involves
- Identifying triggers associated with certain thoughts, feelings, and behaviors eg (exams)
- Identifies automatic negative thoughts and feelings associated with triggers eg (I am going to fail, and increased anxiety)
- Identities behaviors associated with automatic negative thoughts (eg avoidance behaviors, calling in sick, drinking more)
- CBT involves training the patient to replace automatic negative and catastrophic thoughts with more reasonable thoughts such as (you have passed exams before, what is the evidence you are going to fail, and providing you study the evidence shows you are more likely to pass than ail)
- By challenging catastrophic thoughts and therefore reducing anxiety, the CBT therapist can help the patient replace avoidance and sabotaging behaviors with less anxiety-provoking and more productive behaviors such as studying
What is the most effective type of virtual therapy?
The type of therapy often depends on the patient and the current situation.
– Psychodynamic psychotherapy is thought to be the most effective long-term treatment for trauma, relationship instability, dysphoria, and self-sabotaging behaviors. However typically lasts one to three years, and requires a highly qualified therapist. Therefore psychodynamic psychotherapy may not be accessible to everyone. Addressing unconscious conflict and past trauma can be anxiety-provoking, so it is not recommended as a first line for someone going through an acute crisis. Psychodynamic psychotherapy requires a strong therapeutic alliance and fairly strong ego defenses on the part of the patient and the therapist. Psychodynamic psychotherapy is not recommended for patients who are currently experiencing psychotic symptoms, manic symptoms, or patients with untreated major depressive disorder.
– Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Supportive Psychotherapy are considered more suitable for acutely unwell patients, or those experiencing mania, psychosis, panic attacks, and suicidal thoughts. CBT and Supportive therapy can rapidly improve symptoms of anxiety and panic, as well as help with depressive symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Supportive Psychotherapy can be a shorter therapy, require shorter training and less extensive therapist training, and are more accessible to post-patients.
Psychiatrists at Gaba Telepsychiatry are board-certified and Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, and Relationship/family therapy.
Should I see the same person for therapy and medication management?
Although many patients prefer to see the same psychiatrist for both therapy and medication management, this can be expensive for patients participating in longer-term therapy if they are self-pay. Psychiatrists at Gaba Telepsychiatry will collaborate with your existing therapist or a therapist within your insurance network, depending on your preference.
What are the advantages of seeing a self-pay virtual psychiatrist ?
One advantage of seeing a self-pay psychiatrist is increased privacy or discretion, as insurance companies and family members are less likely to access your private and sensitive data that is not relevant to them, including past psychiatric diagnosis, trauma history, therapy notes, and sexual history.
Another advantage is longer visits, more flexible scheduling, weekend and evening appointments, shorter waiting times, and concierge-style levels of support in-between visits. Avoiding insurance and seeing an out-of-pocket psychiatrist also allows you to see a board-certified psychiatrist, which is often not possible through insurance plans.
Many insurance plans use other practitioners, such as nurses and physicians’ assistants, rather than board-certified psychiatrists, to prescribe psychiatric medication. On the other hand, self-pay psychiatrists at Gaba Telepsychiatry have completed at least 10 years of training and have at least 8 years of experience in practicing psychiatry.
Insurance visits typically last 15 minutes, and much of the time is spent on claim forms and paperwork, which can compromise the quality of patient care. Our out-of-network Psychiatrists are not limited by insurance company constraints, so they spend more time with patients to ensure that the right medication is prescribed, maximizing efficacy and minimizing side effects.
If you cannot afford to pay out of pocket to see a Virtual Psychiatrist? Here's how we can help you
By combining self-pay for medication management and collaborating with an in-network therapist, we have been able to make high-quality care affordable for the majority of our patients. Our patient advocates will spend the time to explain pricing and treatment options.
Types of Online Psychotherapy
Unconscious Self
Supportive Psychotherapy
CBT
Unconscious Self
Supportive Psychotherapy
CBT
Conditions Treated By Our Online Psychiatrists
Clinical & Forensic services all over USA and Canada by our online psychiatrists
We understand it is not always an easy decision to take psychiatric medication and carefully balance the benefits of symptom resolution and minimize potential side-effects.
Longer visits, as well as careful follow-up and titration mean better symptom management.
Psychiatrists at Gaba Telepsychiatry offer a collaborative approach to psychiatric care
The best treatment outcomes occur when a patient feels that they have been listened to, their concerns have been addressed and when both the patient and online psychiatrist work together to achieve a treatment plan that both are comfortable with. Whether seeing an urgent psychiatrist online or in person respect, communication, understanding and trust are vital components of a doctor/patient relationship.
Longer visits, as well as careful follow-up and titration mean better symptom management.
“Most patients have been suffering for years before their first appointment.
The vast majority are on the wrong combination of medications, are still symptomatic, or experiencing side effects on the first visit.
This is why psychiatric medication should always be prescribed with the utmost care”
Dr. Gundu Reddy, Dr. Tony Issac, Dr. Valeria Serban
Our Forensic Services
Family Law
Parental Alienation
Child Protective Services
Child Custody Evaluation
Civil Practice Law
PTSD
Civil Law Defense
Psychological Damage
Criminal Defense
Malingering
Insanity Defense
Fitness For Trial
Estate Law
Guardianship
Undue Influence
Testamentary Capacity
Medical Malpractice
Records Review
Standards of Care
Malpractice Defense
Risk Assessment
SORA RAI
Violence Risk
Fitness For Discharge
Incredible experience at Gaba Telepsychiatry. Dr.’s ability to understand and connect with me was…Read More
impressive. Convenient telepsychiatry with Gaba was a game-changer for my busy life.
The outstanding professionalism, expertise and quick response was very much appreciated. I would…Read More
definitely recommend using them!
How does an online psychiatrist visit work?
Cloud-based software means no downloads
All you need is a computer or mobile device and internet