Psychiatrists in 92008
![Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/412f22fd-8f41-48c4-ac0f-1ace977b9474/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Charles Robert Davis, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e0dd3d6-42fc-4d31-95c6-d80e905af1ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a Family Practice M.D. for the last 45 years. Throughout that time, I have always been interested most in Mental Health. In the last 10 years working as a gerontologist and Family Physician,I realized that caring for Mental Health was really more than a field of strong interest; but had become the area where I really wanted to serve. My passion to serve for the last five years. has evolved into starting a private practice devoted only to Mental Heath issues. My goal is to provide care to anyone regardless of insurance or financial status.
I have been a Family Practice M.D. for the last 45 years. Throughout that time, I have always been interested most in Mental Health. In the last 10 years working as a gerontologist and Family Physician,I realized that caring for Mental Health was really more than a field of strong interest; but had become the area where I really wanted to serve. My passion to serve for the last five years. has evolved into starting a private practice devoted only to Mental Heath issues. My goal is to provide care to anyone regardless of insurance or financial status.
![Photo of Dr. Elijah Kim, DNP, PsychNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57c9d41f-2c7a-4498-b05b-5732940fb253/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elijah Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PsychNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
We are born to be successful, happy, and enjoy every moment while living on earth, but that is a dream or fantasy in most cases. However, we are here to overcome obstacles preventing us from achieving our dreams and to make fantasies a reality. Life is full of surprises and challenges. Many are experiencing Depression, anxiety, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, and a variety of other psychosocial stressors. It will be a privilege if I can assist those who need to alleviate their emotional pain and improve their daily functions.
We are born to be successful, happy, and enjoy every moment while living on earth, but that is a dream or fantasy in most cases. However, we are here to overcome obstacles preventing us from achieving our dreams and to make fantasies a reality. Life is full of surprises and challenges. Many are experiencing Depression, anxiety, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, and a variety of other psychosocial stressors. It will be a privilege if I can assist those who need to alleviate their emotional pain and improve their daily functions.
![Photo of Ashley Falcone, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79259047-31f8-4b12-b20b-49dfa4e2a5b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Falcone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
My experience is with adults who suffer from mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, ADD/ADHD and dementia. I have a special interest in geriatric psychiatry. I have provided services to patients in long term care, rehab, assisted living and memory care settings. I am also certified in cognitive screens if there is a concern for memory loss.
My experience is with adults who suffer from mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, ADD/ADHD and dementia. I have a special interest in geriatric psychiatry. I have provided services to patients in long term care, rehab, assisted living and memory care settings. I am also certified in cognitive screens if there is a concern for memory loss.
![Photo of Laurie Costa, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c1f273-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Costa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, an amazing experience for me is to participate and observe an individual improve the quality of their mental health and their life through personalized and collaborative treatment plans that may include medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle educational strategies. I value mental health as a core element in achieving recovery and a meaningful life through the instillation of hope, connection, and empowerment of the individual.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, an amazing experience for me is to participate and observe an individual improve the quality of their mental health and their life through personalized and collaborative treatment plans that may include medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle educational strategies. I value mental health as a core element in achieving recovery and a meaningful life through the instillation of hope, connection, and empowerment of the individual.
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53f4af86-a500-4cef-bfec-fb76f5e44da0/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Cynthia Manly, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b6338ba-4fa9-46b0-ace5-c417a85ec0ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Returning to civilian life after service can bring with it echoes of intense and challenging experiences. You may find yourself facing vivid flashbacks, heightened alertness, or a sense of detachment from those around you. These feelings are not just symptoms; they're reflections of a profound journey
Returning to civilian life after service can bring with it echoes of intense and challenging experiences. You may find yourself facing vivid flashbacks, heightened alertness, or a sense of detachment from those around you. These feelings are not just symptoms; they're reflections of a profound journey
![Photo of Chandra Rogers, MSN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb5f131a-7462-4601-b576-0528972ef730/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
![Photo of Jennifer Kalia-Overlie, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfee281-aef8-4583-83a0-c3bbe843b3bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Kalia-Overlie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in learning about each individual and what kind of treatment aligns with them. Through thoughtful use of medication, newer emerging treatments such as Spravato, and brief psychotherapy, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person's lifestyle and personal beliefs.
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in learning about each individual and what kind of treatment aligns with them. Through thoughtful use of medication, newer emerging treatments such as Spravato, and brief psychotherapy, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person's lifestyle and personal beliefs.
![Photo of Joy Melhado, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77826b16-1192-4c38-93d3-5a6c1620c6ff/3/320x400.jpeg)
During our first visit I want to get to know you, to assist you on a journey to achieve optimal wellness. I will be an attentive listener, provide an empathic therapeutic approach by partnering with you to achieve your ultimate lifetime goals. I am a strong advocate for mental health and will assist you to navigate the healthcare system that can be confusing at times.
During our first visit I want to get to know you, to assist you on a journey to achieve optimal wellness. I will be an attentive listener, provide an empathic therapeutic approach by partnering with you to achieve your ultimate lifetime goals. I am a strong advocate for mental health and will assist you to navigate the healthcare system that can be confusing at times.
![Photo of Rachael Mehl, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afe9a366-42b2-4f93-a9f8-f9f18f28405c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helping individuals achieve optimal health and happiness is my greatest calling. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a strong nursing foundation and specialized psychiatric training, I offer a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care. My goal is to empower those struggling with mental health challenges through a holistic, patient-centered approach, fostering trust and mutual respect.
Helping individuals achieve optimal health and happiness is my greatest calling. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a strong nursing foundation and specialized psychiatric training, I offer a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care. My goal is to empower those struggling with mental health challenges through a holistic, patient-centered approach, fostering trust and mutual respect.
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![Photo of Ashley Falcone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1d24346-aade-48a4-8ca0-0db542b5ee77/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Falcone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
My experience is with adults who suffer from mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, and dementia. I have a special interest in geriatric psychiatry. I have enjoyed providing services in patients in long term care, rehab, assisted living and memory care settings. I have been certified in cognitive screens if there is a concern about memory loss.
My experience is with adults who suffer from mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, and dementia. I have a special interest in geriatric psychiatry. I have enjoyed providing services in patients in long term care, rehab, assisted living and memory care settings. I have been certified in cognitive screens if there is a concern about memory loss.
![Photo of Martina Klein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd670d6d-b489-4177-8408-c22c9291d7ba/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Martina Klein is a general adult psychiatrist treating patients with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Dr. Klein also evaluates substance use disorders and treats schizophrenia and eating disorders.
Dr. Martina Klein is a general adult psychiatrist treating patients with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Dr. Klein also evaluates substance use disorders and treats schizophrenia and eating disorders.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed6f4c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Chandra Rogers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b068061-4b99-4969-9301-97bb858269d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chandra Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
![Photo of David Gersten, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c773898-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I practice Integrative Psychiatry and Nutritional Medicine. I utilize amino acid therapy and trauma-based modalities. I gather information about every aspect of your life with the intention that you will feel safe sharing "anything." My goal is to provide an accepting, nonjudgmental environment in which you feel you are "not simply a diagnosis." I want you to feel heard and understood. I strive to establish Connection. With connection comes hope. With hope people are motivated to engage in the healing process. I don't work with medications. Here's my intro video on Amino Acid Therapy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqrFS6OtAmE
I practice Integrative Psychiatry and Nutritional Medicine. I utilize amino acid therapy and trauma-based modalities. I gather information about every aspect of your life with the intention that you will feel safe sharing "anything." My goal is to provide an accepting, nonjudgmental environment in which you feel you are "not simply a diagnosis." I want you to feel heard and understood. I strive to establish Connection. With connection comes hope. With hope people are motivated to engage in the healing process. I don't work with medications. Here's my intro video on Amino Acid Therapy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqrFS6OtAmE
![Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00f8f3a7-7cdd-467a-bb78-a55f4c0676fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
![Photo of Headlight Carlsbad - Headlight / Carlsbad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49f869c0-618d-4503-9236-268acf7f5e73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Headlight / Carlsbad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008 (Online Only)
Headlight is proud to offer Carlsbad, CA a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer Carlsbad, CA a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
![Photo of Laurie Costa, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbf457a3-198e-4e4b-9233-4fc819938e05/1/320x400.png)
Laurie Costa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
As a Master’s prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have been dedicated to behavioral health care since 2012. My experience includes working with individuals in crisis or facing significant life challenges. I pride myself on an empathic and genuine approach to treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This includes addressing substance use, depression, anxiety, thought and memory issues, as well as child and adolescent mental health. I strive to provide care in a calm, relaxing, and friendly environment, welcoming individuals during their most vulnerable times.
As a Master’s prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have been dedicated to behavioral health care since 2012. My experience includes working with individuals in crisis or facing significant life challenges. I pride myself on an empathic and genuine approach to treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This includes addressing substance use, depression, anxiety, thought and memory issues, as well as child and adolescent mental health. I strive to provide care in a calm, relaxing, and friendly environment, welcoming individuals during their most vulnerable times.
![Photo of Jennifer Evans, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8ac9884-b03b-45c4-b1dd-ea7e33750dbd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I'm Jennifer, and I'm here to make your mental health my top priority. I understand that seeking help is a courageous step, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. As a dedicated and compassionate professional, I am committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health concern, I'm here to help you achieve a happier, healthier life. Take the first step towards a brighter future with me.
I'm Jennifer, and I'm here to make your mental health my top priority. I understand that seeking help is a courageous step, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. As a dedicated and compassionate professional, I am committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health concern, I'm here to help you achieve a happier, healthier life. Take the first step towards a brighter future with me.
See more therapy options for 92008
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 92008
40+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in 92008 who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Medication Management |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Aetna |
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 92008 see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 92008?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.