Rainbow Psychiatry
Psychiatric care that centers the LGBTQ+ experience
Rainbow Psychiatry
Welcome to Rainbow Psychiatry! I'm Rafik Sidaros, MD. Throughout my years in healthcare, I've observed the challenges the LGBTQ+ community faces, particularly in seeking patient-centered, wellness-driven care. Many don't feel at ease discussing their sexuality or gender issues with their doctors. While there are therapists tailored to LGBTQ+ needs, psychiatric medication management hasn't caught up. I've established this space not just for acceptance, but for genuine understanding and comfort. Here, you'll be seen and heard by a physician from your community.
A.M.P.
I can't say enough positive things about Dr. Sidaros. If you're reading this - don't hesitate - just make an appointment. You don't be disappointed. As a doctor, he has a warm, welcoming demeanor and creates a safe space for you. He never belittles, always listens. Dr. Sidaros has set me on a path to healing. He treats me like a partner in this path and he's my biggest advocate in doing everything he can to do what is best for me. I'm a very difficult case (going by other doctors' reactions to me) but his determination sets him apart from other doctors. You will not be disappointed with Dr. Sidaros - I wish all doctors had his determination, intelligence, and humanity.
About Me
I am a traditionally trained Psychiatrist, with double Board Certification status. After completing medical school and a first residency in psychiatry in Egypt, my journey brought me to the State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, in Brooklyn, where I completed my four-year psychiatry residency training program. I subsequently joined the Yale University School of Medicine Law and Psychiatry program where I completed my fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry.
My eclectic professional experience included working as a volunteer psychiatrist in Egypt with African and Middle Eastern refugees, survivors of torture and sexual traumas, working with 9/11 survivors and first responders during my years in New York, as well as LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers in both the Middle East and the United States. After graduating from Yale, I was appointed as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine, and I spent several years doing forensic work, which included medication management of the most severe psychiatric presentations. My work also frequently involved testifying under oath.
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I later moved to the West Coast and transitioned into general outpatient psychiatry work. Finally, I decided to listen to my heart and started doing the work that brings me the most joy. This is how Rainbow Psychiatry was born.
About my Practice and Services
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I do a 10-minute free phone consultation for all new appointments to assess if I would be a good fit for your treatment needs. After our phone call, I will be able to confirm your appointment and send you the intake forms.
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My sessions are mostly offered online (telehealth). In-person appointments are available in some cases.
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Encrypted, HIPAA compliant video platform
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I accept patients anywhere in California
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My expertise is in treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, psychosis, adult ADHD, OCD, and PTSD
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I can also manage symptoms that easily respond to treatment and help you avoid medication resistance
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Initial appointment is 60 minutes long, focused on assessment and listening carefully to your concerns
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Follow-ups are 30 minutes long, focused on maximizing quality of life, tracking improvement of symptoms, managing our medication plan, along with helpful therapy interventions
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Longer follow-ups are also available, 45 minutes long, they include medication management and more in-depth psychotherapy
My Approach to Medication Management
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I routinely review your medications, aiming to reduce the number of medications or doses where safe
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Medications aren't always the solution
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We decide on medications collaboratively
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I make sure you are clear on:
- The diagnosis and its basis
- The necessity of medication
- Available medication options
- How the medication functions
- Expected side effects
- The timeline for improvement
Our commitment to you:
Since its foundation in 2022, Rainbow Psychiatry has established and implemented a strict no-contact policy with drug companies, or drug company representatives, and we do not accept any compensation from drug companies in the form of money, meals, retreats or any other type of compensation. Our treatment approach prioritizes data from high quality peer-reviewed drug trials that were not funded by drug manufacturers.
FAQs
Accepted Insurances?
Currently accepting:
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AETNA
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ANTHEM BLUE CROSS OF CA
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BLUE SHIELD OF CA
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CIGNA
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MAGELLAN
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MHN
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OPTUM
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UNITED​
What are my out of pocket fees?
Initial 60 minute appointment: $200
Follow up 30 minute appointment: $150
Follow up 45 minute appointment (med management plus in-depth therapy): $175
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If you are paying out of pocket, I will provide you with the documentation necessary for you to get reimbursed by your insurance. Many plans offer reimbursement options for out-of-network providers. I will help with any necessary paperwork I can provide for you to get reimbursement.
Prescription medication is almost always covered by your insurance even if it was prescribed by an out-of-network physician, as long as it’s on your insurance formulary. I’m happy to work with your insurance requirements if they cover an acceptable alternative medication.
Do I treat substance use disorders?
Yes, in certain situations, mainly long-term medication management for maintaining abstinence from alcohol (e.g. Rivia, Antabuse). I also manage depression and anxiety in the months after cessation of certain drugs. I do not perform detox services or prescribe suboxone.
Do I only treat LGBTQ+ patients?
I am of course happy to see care-seekers who are not themselves members of the LGBTQ+ community, whether they be allies, family and friends, or simply individuals dealing with mental health symptoms looking to be evaluated for medication treatment.