I have seen countless psychiatrists and therapists since I was a kid. This was by far the most unprofessional psychiatrist I have been to. I was trying to get an appointment to see if I have ADHD. Dr. Michelson was immediately condescending and put me in a room for 20 minutes. He had me perform one test alone followed by an about 30 question, questionnaire. I then went back to speak with him after taking the test just for him to explain my results and say "you don't have ADHD but you don't not have ADHD". He said I was somewhere in the middle, which was not a definitive answer. He then tried to immediately push some new medication on me and blamed a lot of my symptoms I've been experiencing for my entire life on a recent break up and death in my family. I truly felt like he viewed me as some college girl who just wanted meds. I just wanted a validating diagnoses as I have been struggling with many ADHD symptoms for as long as I can remember. As soon as I got out of there I broke down in my car crying because I was not listened to at all and he made me feel like I was stupid. I of course got a second opinion because his test was not thorough whatsoever. The second Psychiatry office I went to had a three step appointment process. One hour long general consultation, 3 hour in person testing, and then about 40 minutes minute results appointment about a week later, after it was fully analyzed. The three hour testing consisted of a similar test done by dr. Michelson, but also consisted of more tests with an administer in the room who gave puzzle, definition, pattern, and number tests. This was followed by a 300 question questionnaire. After this thorough testing, I was in fact diagnosed with ADHD. I didn't realize how unprofessional Dr. Michelson's practice was (the crying after the appointment should have been an immediate sign) until after I completed this testing at another office. I also learned that ADHD is extremely unreported in women and Dr. Michaelson continues to contribute to the problem. As a woman, I've been not listened to by countless doctors, and Dr. Michelson is now one to add to the list. If you're wondering if you should go to Dr. Michelson, I'd advise you to find someone more professional. read more

Dr. Michelson has very good insights into my circumstances and how best to deal with them. He is always available, his office staff is friendly and responsive, and I recommend him to all looking for a caring mental health professional. read more

I've known Dr. Michelson for the better part of fifteen years. I received care from other mental health professionals for about ten years prior, with results ranging from ineffective to effective but ultimately transient. Eventually, I'd circle back to the same uncomfortable mindset. This changed when I met Dr. Michelson. Growing up, I was taught that people who truly excel at their jobs are people with careers in subjects for which they have a natural fascination. I later noted a corollary also applies. To find the best professionals, seek out those who demonstrate innate curiosity for the work you need accomplished. Some doctors seem trapped in their comfort zone. They stagnate, offering the same solutions year after year and decade after decade. In psychiatry, there's probably incentive not to rock the boat if the status quo remains tolerable. Dr. Michelson doesn't stagnate or settle for what's simply tolerable. He cares about his patients' lives. Often, he shares excitement about new developments, treatments and updates to underlying frameworks - remaining unceasingly engaged with the evolving topic of neuroscience. Few medical specialties remain in such a state of flux. He's continuously searching for new technologies and techniques with potential to improve his patient's lives. The doctor has an unusually varied background. He's been exposed to differing regimes of medical training with subtle variance in philosophical underpinning. Seemingly, this makes it easier for him to avoid becoming entrapped by the status quo and enhances capacity for outside the box thinking. This can be very important for people who haven't found success with other mental health professionals. It was, undoubtedly, a game changer for me. Every person's needs are unique and no one doctor can satisfy every kind of patient. For me though, Dr Michelson was the solution I had been unable to find after years in the wilderness searching blindly for light at the end of a seemingly endless tunnel... an exit from a place with windows but no doors. I can't guarantee he'll work for you or your loved ones, but I can guarantee you won't be wasting your time trying. He checks every box necessary for delivery of exceptional medical care. He saved my life and perhaps he can do the same for you. I recommend him without reserve. Chris Huntington Beach read more

Dr. Michelson has been a very kind and compassionate doctor to me for the last two and a half years. He takes the time to listen to me and I feel like he takes my opinion into consideration when prescribing medication. We have not always agreed and I feel like he values my input. I have not always been on the same medication. He considers progress and makes adjustments accordingly. I have been to other doctors that just write a prescription and don't consider my input. This is NOT that kind of doctor. Like the others who have left reviews I also had insurance issues that took some time to rectify. They are a small office and I find that Steven and Adriana are very thorough and diligent. Some things are just out of their control and when they don't know the answer, they let me know, look into it and get right back to me. Dr. Michelson also helped get involved with an insurance issue. I think the key was being proactive and not waiting until the last minute. Everything just seems to work out. I highly recommend Dr. Michelson and his staff. read more

Alex D Michelson, MD - Psychiatrists Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

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i met Dr, Michaelson from a referral by my primary doctor. I told my doctor i had trouble sleeping because of my ADHD So he referred me to Dr. Michaelson. At first Dr. Michaelson seem very compassionate to my problem and prescribed some anti depressants to help me sleep The first medication did not work. I had to take more than prescribed to fall asleep but that did not work either. When I call Dr. Michaelson to discuss what else he would recommend he never returned my call. i called the next day and left messages and still no response from the doctor. I finally reached the receptionist on Friday and still no response from the doctor This doctor is highly unprofessional and uncaring. By the way he charged me $500. for the for visit and $ 200 for the follow up. out of pocket Please stay clear of this of this so called psychiatrist read more

Dr Michelson treated my son and now his quality of life has improved greatly. My son is a college student that was struggling with depression, anxiety and paranoia. Dr Michelson prescribed medication that would help his symptoms and by the end of the summer he stable enough to go back to school. Dr Michelson started with a low dose and increased the meds in small increments to find the dose that was just right for him. Before this treatment I was extremely worried about his safety and health. He is doing well again and able to work once again on getting his college degree. read more

I have been a patient at this practice for over five years. The year I came here I had been through five other psychiatrists who could not help stabilize me. When I first came here I was on disability and hardly functioning. After working with Dr. Michelson and Dr. Shepherd my life got back on track. I was able to resume working successfully. My personal and family relationships have improved. Sometimes my meds 'stop working.' Having been treated for bipolar disorder for 30 years, I know to expect this. Sometimes it can be a real pain to get a new combination dialed in, but this team has pulled through for me! Getting help for mental health issues should not be so hard, but it is. Everything is subjective and it's not like diabetes where you can run a blood test to determine the next step. Not only have they helped me, but the whole team is also really nice! read more

I was suffering from PTSD due to an accident that I had been in. At the advice of my neurologist, I looked into finding a psychiatrist. Dr. Michelson was the only one that accepted my insurance within 20 miles of where I live. During my first visit, he seemed to listen and be sympathetic. During every visit after that, he would tell me I didn't really have PTSD and I just needed to go on with my life and appreciate the fact that I was alive. He prescribed me gabapentin (why would he do that if I was fine?). I told him I was concerned that it would make me gain weight (gabapentin is notorious for causing weight gain).I had worked extremely hard to get down to a normal weight and was worried about that medication causing weight gain. He literally told me to just have willpower, eat less, and exercise more. He kept saying I didn't have PTSD, and I should feel bad for people who do actually have it. He said he has patients who TRULY have it because they had to jump out of burning vehicles in Afghanistan and Iraq. He has patients that have suffered severe physical abuse, or witnessed loved ones being murdered. Now THEY have PTSD, not me. What was I complaining about? I had only almost been killed in an accident that caused me to have a subarachnoid hemorrhage and several surgeries. I would jump out of my skin whenever I'd hear a loud noise or have any vehicles come near me. I asked if he could prescribe me something else that wouldn't cause weight gain. He would just say no, and that I should just have discipline. By the time I quit seeing him (after about 8 times) he was actually shaming me for even thinking I had any issues. WTF? He was telling me I should come back in a month for another appointment so he could bill my insurance.....but why? If I didn't have PTSD then why did he want to continue treating me? The whole experience left me broken and disillusioned. I have since been seeing a psychologist that is very caring, understanding, and sympathetic. He actually listens, and helps me deal with my actual diagnosed PTSD. Dr. Michelson is the worst doctor I've ever been to. read more

Dr. Michelson and his team have been a great provider for my child and his team is very professional. Not always an easy profession but he was able to quickly pinpoint the issues and move us toward a better place. Cannot thank him enough. read more

I was at the worst place in my life and all this man was interested in was billing. Although I confirmed with Blue Shield he was covered he insisted upon charging me $450 for a 15 min visit. They then filed a claim and were paid by my insurance. I called and called to get help with my prescription he gave and wound up in the ER without a call back. After two months of trying to get my money back I filed a dispute with my CC company. Two weeks later the Dr called me back for he first time and why, to see how I was ... No to try and double dip again to get me to cancel the dispute. Had I cancelled the dispute this man would have gotten paid $636.88 for a 15 min visit . He in absolutely no uncertain terms does not care about me only his payment. Update: Nice try the proper name is Anthem Blue Cross/ Blue Shield. They are one and the same company so YES you did take my insurance and no the doctor never cared/ called. Almighty dollar only. How you can diagnose in 15 min is beyond me. Must have a crystal ball. I firmly stand by my review and have documentation to prove it. read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Michelson's since 2015, when I moved to OC. At the time I was taking 275mg of venlafaxine and 150mg of bupropion. Back then, I thought I would never be able to get off antidepressants, but I wanted to explore the possibility of getting off them. Dr. Michaelson was always open to looking at that possibility and finding the reasons that were causing my depression. In 2018, he told me that my depression could be accentuated by low testosterone, and he was right. You, as a patient, have to do a lot on your own to heal yourself, like improve your diet, take therapy, exercise, and meditate. I understand that there must be cases different from mine, but I can say that Dr. Micahelson is open to you seeking to be free of depression and medication. By the end of August 2022, all I'm taking is daily vitamin D and injecting 0.03ml of testosterone per week. read more

Response to Stephen R., office manager: As I indicated in our message, your consideration of my posting as "fraudulent" is immaterial. You are not a yelp moderator, and I have no obligation to convince you of the veracity of my review. I am simply offering information so that potential patients may make more informed decisions. read more

Doctor Michelson is simply incredible. He's educated and is a fantastic communicator. I've never felt more comfortable or confident in a doctor. Not only that, but I actually felt like he could relate to me. I would absolutely recommend my family and friends to see doctor Michelson, you will have nothing but a 5 star experience here. You are not left sitting in the waiting room for an extra 30 minutes like most doctor offices, you will be seen immediately and you won't feel rushed through your appointment. If you're looking to build a great patient doctor relationship this is the place for you. read more

I've been seeing Dr. Michelson for several months and am very pleased with his services and recommendations. He takes his time with you to understand your concerns and the context of what has brought you to see him. He has more objective forms of diagnosis than a checklist of questions, and seems genuinely concerned about your wellbeing and outcomes. Also, his office staff is incredibly professional, thorough, and kind - the kind of folks who would excel anywhere given their attention to detail and level of customer service. I would highly recommend Dr. Michelson. I've read the other reviews and while the information they present is concerning, I've experienced none of it myself and will continue with this doc. read more

Who in the U.S isn't caught up in money? Many doctors mindlessly write patients scripts and get continual flow. I feel that Dr. Michelson is only concerned about your health and making you the best person you can be. read more

I had a great psych before Dr. Michelson. The dude listened to me and showed that he cared for my wellbeing. When my insurance stopped being in his network, I chose Dr. Michelson as a replacement. The first couple of sessions went fine, but he did doubt that my diagnosis for ADHD was legitimate. He asked to perform additional testing that was not covered by my insurance. I don't remember if the testing was covered the first time either, but I had 0 desire to pay for the same test twice. Especially since I had a hard copy of the results, and my old psych is still practicing and could easily confirm it's authenticity. This was simply a bump in the road compared to what he did next. I take Adderall in small doses to help with my ADHD and it works great. However the drug has side effects. The biggest being high blood pressure. Therefore I asked Dr. Michelson if there were alternatives to Adderall, and we settled on something called Vyvanse. Its a non-stimulant version of Adderall, that didn't work very well. Then we tried something called Focalin. Slightly different chemical composition, but a close relative of Adderall. This medicine was NOT covered under my insurance. The pharmacy wouldn't fill it without a out of pocket cost 5x higher than my normal co-pay. I made sure to let Dr. Michelson know and asked for my normal Adderall prescription back. Instead this goof decides to give me ANOTHER prescription for Focalin. He caused a lapse in ADHD meds while I was enrolled in College which is 100% unacceptable. I recommend looking elsewhere for Mental health services. It's too important to put in the hands of a goof who doesn't keep notes on his patients! read more

I never leave reviews but this was too much. One of the worst experiences I have had with a Doctor. At first everything was fine, then a year and a half into seeing Dr Michelson I lost two prescriptions that he wrote for me. When I informed the office that they were lost and I needed new ones the doctor spoke to me in a manner that displayed he doesn't believe that I lost the prescriptions and that they could be sold or something?? Mind you these are just the prescription pads not the actual medication. Another time he wrote the wrong date of birth and put me down as Female under gender on the prescriptions ( come on man how hard is it to get your patient of 2+ years sex and date of birth correct). Then recently we decide to up my dosage by 5 mg and then the pharmacy tells me that prescription the doctor wrote for me doesn't exist in that dosage. when I Informed the doctors office after a few weeks of calling the doctor finally gets on the phone and tells me that dosage does exist and if i'm not happy to take my treatment to another doctor. keep in mind this is after over three weeks of them not getting back to me or helping me in anyway. His excuse for them taking weeks was he was out on vacation. I'm sorry but that's no excuse your office should be able to function with or without you there. I was fine because I had extra medication and I can go a few days without it but I can't imagine other patients with worse conditions than me being treated this way. Beware of this doctor everything is fine until there is a problem then he is no longer helpful and a horrible listener. read more

If I could leave less than 1 star here, I would. The response to my review, instead of an attempt to actually address my complaints, was to make excuses and flat out lie. I might have possibly felt that the attempt was somewhat more sincere had the doctor bothered to look at his notes and realised we had met twice, not once like he insisted. I suppose though, when you only take 5 minutes per appointment, sometimes they blur together. While I'm sure the doctor's awkward silences and inane comments while pushing medications at people, including medications that he had been told did not work, may work for some patients, I am only able to write my own feelings and reccomendations in a review. What I find truly "unacceptable", to quote the receptionist that responded to my review here, is the doctor's inability to learn from his own mistakes. read more

Dr. Michelson is an extremely intelligent, competent, caring doctor. The appointment never felt rushed and the environment is quiet and private. The office staff is very courteous and friendly. Phone calls are always promptly returned. I highly recommend Dr. Michelson and his associates. read more

I would not recommend this physician for a young adult...3 appointments with this md and each time he.accepted personal calls during appointment time, yawned and repeatedly checked text messages on his phone. Very unprofessional and difficult to relate to. Seems to be disinterested and not truly listening. read more

I have been a long standing patient of Dr. Michelson and find him to be intelligent, informed, compassionate and one that continues to seek out new treatment for mental illness. I have referred a few friends to him and he has always given the very best care to them with excellent results. It is critically important to find a psychiatrist who is compassionate but also continues to educate themselves on what works and what to stay away from. I feel so grateful to have found Dr. Michelson as I saw three prior psychiatrists who lacked empathy and care for the patient. His administrative staff are great to work with and always find an appointment if I am having a hard time. As I said, I am a long standing patient who would recommend Dr. Michelson to any person that is struggling with mental illness and needs to find real help that is lasting!! If I could give 10 stars, I would and thank him for everything he has done for me and my family in dealing with depression and anxiety! read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Michelson's for over 6 years. He is a compassionate and sensitive Dr. He has extensive knowledge about adult onset ADHD. I'm far more productive with the help of Dr. Michelson. read more

Dr. Michelson is very professional, knowledgeable, and took time to listen and understand my situation. Would highly recommend.

Been going here for a little over a year now and am completely satisfied. Dr. Michelson is very professional and truly cares, which is so hard to find these days. Could not have found someone better. Would definitely recommend ! read more

Dr. Michelson is a compassionate and knowledgable psychiatrist. He listens, makes insightful and useful observations, and is scientific in the best sense of the word -- he knows meds. read more

Dr. Michelson was a blessing to me in a time of real crisis. He got me through it, gently, and a year later everything has turned around. I highly recommend his services and would send friends and family there with the utmost confidence. read more

Dr Michelson is very knowledgeable, patient, and experienced. I have been going to him for a year and hes been very helpful. He is also very good at getting back to you asap if you call with any questions regarding meds. There is rarely a wait time at the office and the receptionists are very friendly and on top of things as far as insurance paperwork and scheduling. Great doctors office! read more

Dr. Michelson has been great! He takes the time to listen to my needs, not just "here's five minutes and you get the same prescription and out the door" which I have experienced in the past from other Drs. I also see Nicole as my Psychologist and she is also awesome! The staff is professional, polite and helpful. read more

Some of the reviews of Dr. Michelson & his office staff confuse me, because we have always had exceptional service from this office. They are always quick to answer the phone, appointments are given at the earliest available & my daughter is ALWAYS seen the minute her appointment was scheduled. My daughter's situation may be different than others but I find this doctor to be compassionate & understanding in a very difficult situation. My daughter has special needs & everyone is very accommodating. As far as insurance goes, the co-pay that they collect from me has always been sufficient, as I have never received an additional bill or any issues. I even receive phone calls after hours & quick communication via email. If you are looking for a nice, quiet atmosphere with compassionate staff and doctor, I would give Dr. Michelson and his staff a chance. We are very pleased, especially when we are experiencing psychiatric services for the first time in our lives with a condition that is extremely rare. read more

I am sure Dr. Michelson has good intentions. However, I don't think he is the best choice for treating children. He spent all of 10 minutes with my child before getting out his prescription pad. I wanted a much more comprehensive review and treatment for my child. read more

Dr Michelson has been a caring and insightful doctor. His professional manner and wise recommendations have blessed my life. I would recommend his service to anyone who needs a psychiatrist. Have no fear, help is here. Very nice office staff too. 5 stars Dhyana W. read more

I have known Dr. Michelson for nearly 6 years. He is a competent caring professional and a pleasure to work with.

Dr. Michelson has done wonderful things to help my daughter and she is really exceling. He is very patient and understanding. I look forward to great things happening with my family in the future thanks to his guidance. Also, the staff there is very kind and considerate. read more

This review is actually for Dr. James Shepherd who works for this organization. Dr. Shepherd is a CBT who I have been seeing for over a year now. Initially I started seeing him for flight and travel anxiety and only saw him periodically before I traveled. But recently I had an unknown neurological medical condition that resulted in acute anxiety and panic disorder. It literally left me physically and psychologically disabled for weeks. Dr. Shepherd literally saved my life, he educated me on my condition and walked me through step by step to help alleviate my symptoms while giving me the tools I needed to help regain control of my body and mind. He is a truly gifted and caring individual who has changed my life and is helping me through the hardest and traumatic event I have ever gone through.I am so grateful to Dr. Shepherd and will continue to recommend his services to anyone who is struggling for a healthy alternative. read more

really recommend this staff and doctor. They went out of their way to be helpful and it is easy to make appointments and reach the staff.

We had several visits with Dr. Michelson without any progress. The last time we were in my teenager was having a bit of a crisis and the Dr. was unable to help at all. Also, the receptionist had mistakenly charged us for a missed appointment. She quickly realized her mistake and fixed it , but had not informed the Dr. yet. Understand we had always paid our bills and owed nothing. Weill, in the middle of this crisis in which he is of no help , he asks us to pay for a bill we don't owe. He seems to care more about money than people, read more

Well here we go again!! I gave this office the benefit of the doubt and saw Dr. Michelson again twice. I had an appt. last Thursday and called only to get the answering machine but I left a message saying that I was extremely ill and in horrific pain. I then ended up in the ER the same day only a few hours after. I spent 7 hours there and it was not the best experience as anyone knows. I also had an appt. with my regular doctor the same day. My husband called them to say we were on our way to the ER and actually spoke to someone!! Yesterday in the mail was a bill for a "NO SHOW" appt. for $120.00!!! I called this morning only to get the answering machine again !!!! This is such a disgrace and I of course will demand that this charge be deleted. This doctor was in fact dealing with my anxiety and depression, well he and his office sent me over the top with this! I will definitely not be going back to see Dr. Michelson again and on his web site he says that they specialize in individual treatment and the spelling of individual is WRONG !!! If you need care from a psych doctor please find someone else. read more

Dr. Michelson is an exemplary Psychiatrist. He has helped me work through my problems and helped me to understand the underlying causes. I have always felt that he was attentive, caring and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend Dr. Michelson and will continue with him. read more

I am often in a position to hear about professionals (educators, doctors, social services' staff members, etc) who are experts in their field. Such is the case for Dr. Alex Michelson, a member of the Diplomate American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, who saved my friend's life with his diligent, insightful help and correct prescription of medicine. I will be forever grateful to him. read more

I have seen Dr. Michelson on and off for a couple years and recommend him highly. He was on my insurance plan when I first found him searching the "network". I had a very good experience at that time getting help managing depression/anxiety symptoms and the related medication management. I made the personal decision to stop taking the medication some time later and the symptoms returned, and far worse than previous. When I recently decided to revisit my treatment Dr. Michelson was not on my new insurance plan network. I used another psychiatrist that was on my plan and it was a terrible decision. I was very unhappy with the treatment all around and was put on a medication that made everything worse, much worse. I decided to go back to Dr. Michelson given my original experience and just pay cash out of pocket since he was not covered on my insurance. That was the best decision I've made in relation to my treatment. My experience with his treatment and medication management the 2nd time was even better than the 1st time. I will now be following his advice of staying on the meds I need given my history. I highly recommend Dr. Michelson to anyone seeking assistance. The office staff is also very friendly and helpful which makes the experience that much better. Thanks for making my life more enjoyable! read more