Psychiatrists in 92182
![Photo of Lee Dockery, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccf66236-3df1-4419-8959-e37cafa1f471/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lee Dockery serves as a general pscyhiatry provider for Talkiatry since joining in August 2022. He is board-eligible with expected certification in fall 2022, with further addiction psychiatry board-certification expected in 2023. He has been training and practicing psychiatry since 2018. Dr. Dockery’s practice emphasizes medication management within a therapy-informed framework, utilizing skills from Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness based therapies, motivation interviewing, and supportive therapy. Typically, he offers 60-minute new visits and 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Lee Dockery serves as a general pscyhiatry provider for Talkiatry since joining in August 2022. He is board-eligible with expected certification in fall 2022, with further addiction psychiatry board-certification expected in 2023. He has been training and practicing psychiatry since 2018. Dr. Dockery’s practice emphasizes medication management within a therapy-informed framework, utilizing skills from Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness based therapies, motivation interviewing, and supportive therapy. Typically, he offers 60-minute new visits and 30-minute follow-up visits.
![Photo of Boski Patel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fc7a690-47df-4f01-b75e-844fa1f0d99f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Boski Patel holds the position of psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is double board-certified in geriatric and adult psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 3 years. Dr. Patel's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Patel may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Boski Patel holds the position of psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is double board-certified in geriatric and adult psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 3 years. Dr. Patel's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Patel may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Nnenna Ekejiuba, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b27d08db-8880-4d77-9bbe-b085785891d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nnenna Ekejiuba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
Nnenna Ekejiuba is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with prescribing privileges and experience managing children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mental health challenges. She received her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and her psychiatric nurse practitioner degree from Charles R Drew University of Medicine & Science.
Nnenna Ekejiuba is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with prescribing privileges and experience managing children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mental health challenges. She received her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and her psychiatric nurse practitioner degree from Charles R Drew University of Medicine & Science.
![Photo of Tulsie Patel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f651b817-022f-41b9-837c-b518bd6fdfe1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Dr. Tulsie Patel. I am a board certified psychiatrist. I graduated Cum Laude from Drexel University and attended the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. I completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Southwestern and served as Chief Resident. After graduation, I worked at clinics in California and Florida. I have experience in medication management, individual/group therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. I am dedicated to providing personalized, patient-centered, and continuously evolving treatment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Tulsie Patel. I am a board certified psychiatrist. I graduated Cum Laude from Drexel University and attended the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. I completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Southwestern and served as Chief Resident. After graduation, I worked at clinics in California and Florida. I have experience in medication management, individual/group therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. I am dedicated to providing personalized, patient-centered, and continuously evolving treatment.
![Photo of Noah Kojo Peter - Mentally Healthycare, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1ab93f0-b8d5-40d2-ae00-e58bb4346e1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mentally Healthycare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92182
Empowerment of the Mental Wellness: A Journey to Healing and Growth I extend a heartfelt welcome to you, inviting you to join me on the threshold of an enthralling new chapter in my professional story with the potential for profound transformation, healing, and personal growth. Allow me to introduce myself as Noah Peter a dedicated harbinger of hope and transformation in the realm of mental health, as you become acquainted with the contours of my story. My journey has been a symphony of rigorous education and immersive clinical experience, having nurtured an abiding passion for unravelling the intricate tapestry of the human psyche
Empowerment of the Mental Wellness: A Journey to Healing and Growth I extend a heartfelt welcome to you, inviting you to join me on the threshold of an enthralling new chapter in my professional story with the potential for profound transformation, healing, and personal growth. Allow me to introduce myself as Noah Peter a dedicated harbinger of hope and transformation in the realm of mental health, as you become acquainted with the contours of my story. My journey has been a symphony of rigorous education and immersive clinical experience, having nurtured an abiding passion for unravelling the intricate tapestry of the human psyche
![Photo of Faith Ogala - Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS), MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f59cffbc-1312-48a2-87d3-01b05e69299d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send an email directly to info@mbspsych.org.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send an email directly to info@mbspsych.org.
![Photo of Karen Rightler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03c4bbe6-97fe-450d-8f3d-14dae683207f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP-BC) with an additional master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). I treat patients in person and via telehealth with medication and therapy. Working with me, my clients experience less difficulty navigating life stressors, and more confidence in their abilities to meet their goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP-BC) with an additional master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). I treat patients in person and via telehealth with medication and therapy. Working with me, my clients experience less difficulty navigating life stressors, and more confidence in their abilities to meet their goals.
![Photo of Kristin Ratz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42731359-f914-4430-8667-6fe3d0413a39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kristin Ratz is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who is an expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. She specializes in medication management combined with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up sessions. A California local, Dr. Ratz obtained her undergraduate education at University of California, Davis, graduating magna cum laude.t. She then attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, obtaining her Medical Doctorate. Following this, she completed her adult psychiatry residency training at the University of California, Irvine.
Dr. Kristin Ratz is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who is an expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. She specializes in medication management combined with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up sessions. A California local, Dr. Ratz obtained her undergraduate education at University of California, Davis, graduating magna cum laude.t. She then attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, obtaining her Medical Doctorate. Following this, she completed her adult psychiatry residency training at the University of California, Irvine.
![Photo of Madalyn Cosensci, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c16fda1-770e-430a-bf0e-61096e466cb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madalyn Cosensci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
As a California Licensed Psychiatric Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) my role is to diagnose and treat a diverse array of psychiatric ailments. With over seven years of experience in acute inpatient psychiatric hospitals, my approach to treatment is founded upon the principles of a collaborative team dynamic. My priority lies in alleviating suffering, enhancing resilience, and fostering long-term mental well-being for each patient under my care.
As a California Licensed Psychiatric Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) my role is to diagnose and treat a diverse array of psychiatric ailments. With over seven years of experience in acute inpatient psychiatric hospitals, my approach to treatment is founded upon the principles of a collaborative team dynamic. My priority lies in alleviating suffering, enhancing resilience, and fostering long-term mental well-being for each patient under my care.
![Photo of Mayoma Olusunmade, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ea35f01-2703-46ce-9e8b-6dd15e8b8c18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Olusunmade is trained in child and adolescent psychiatry, as well as in adult psychiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Olusunmade has extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations and has particular clinical interests in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and trauma. His practice focuses on medication management along with supportive therapy and psycho-education of patients and families.
Dr. Olusunmade is trained in child and adolescent psychiatry, as well as in adult psychiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Olusunmade has extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations and has particular clinical interests in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and trauma. His practice focuses on medication management along with supportive therapy and psycho-education of patients and families.
![Photo of Li Kelly, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78708f82-051f-4f53-b11f-512a2967aaf8/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a healthcare provider, my goal is to work with you to meet your healthcare needs, including your emotional and psychosocial needs.
As a healthcare provider, my goal is to work with you to meet your healthcare needs, including your emotional and psychosocial needs.
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![Photo of Tyler Davis, NP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c7038a9-4c5f-4b5f-a92f-5a94369c9a61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, My name is Tyler! As a nurse practitioner, I believe that every individual is unique. Thus, I work with clients, assessing bio-psycho-social factors with a strong emphasis on stress and/or trauma that contributes to mental processes. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've earned both my Master of Science in Nursing, as well as my post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science.
Hi, My name is Tyler! As a nurse practitioner, I believe that every individual is unique. Thus, I work with clients, assessing bio-psycho-social factors with a strong emphasis on stress and/or trauma that contributes to mental processes. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've earned both my Master of Science in Nursing, as well as my post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science.
![Photo of Cheryl Person, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1562e30a-78f7-40b0-8046-6176b109124b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cheryl Person is the National Director of Clinical Quality at Talkiatry. She is board certified in general adult psychiatry and has been in practice for 20 years. Dr. Person focuses on medication management but believes that is only part of successful treatment. She will spend her time providing motivational interviewing or supportive therapy, and believes it is often critical to have a therapist as part of the treatment team. Dr. Person received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine. She completed her residency at Johns Hopkins as well as a psychiatric epidemiology fellowship.
Dr. Cheryl Person is the National Director of Clinical Quality at Talkiatry. She is board certified in general adult psychiatry and has been in practice for 20 years. Dr. Person focuses on medication management but believes that is only part of successful treatment. She will spend her time providing motivational interviewing or supportive therapy, and believes it is often critical to have a therapist as part of the treatment team. Dr. Person received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine. She completed her residency at Johns Hopkins as well as a psychiatric epidemiology fellowship.
![Photo of Ani Balabegian, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e351cbf7-616b-4c80-a9f9-f4ff08dc0f1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ani Balabegian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a nurse practitioner based in California.
Hi! I am a nurse practitioner based in California.
![Photo of Marla Richard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16ac9a07-b312-4bed-bcf9-e1959789c9fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marla Richard is Stanford trained board-certified psychiatrist and board eligible in geriatric psychiatry from UCSD. She has been practicing in a variety of settings for the last 30 years. Dr. Richard uses an an integrated health paradigm with general and geriatric patients using traditional psychopharmacology, interpersonal neurobiology practices, and personality assessments to look at root motivations for behaviors to address core issues and with medication management as needed. Dr. Marla believes that you need to take a whole-person approach to both mental and physical health.
Dr. Marla Richard is Stanford trained board-certified psychiatrist and board eligible in geriatric psychiatry from UCSD. She has been practicing in a variety of settings for the last 30 years. Dr. Richard uses an an integrated health paradigm with general and geriatric patients using traditional psychopharmacology, interpersonal neurobiology practices, and personality assessments to look at root motivations for behaviors to address core issues and with medication management as needed. Dr. Marla believes that you need to take a whole-person approach to both mental and physical health.
![Photo of Maria Perez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efa95cea-3b34-43dd-8a2e-928034b46403/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Perez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Doctorate in Nurse Practitioner/PMHNP in 2022 from the University of San Francisco and have been practicing for over 2 years.
I'm a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Doctorate in Nurse Practitioner/PMHNP in 2022 from the University of San Francisco and have been practicing for over 2 years.
![Photo of Uju Osagie, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9dbae4c-ec40-45ef-b9bd-11bfdb521d6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Uju Osagie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
I am a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with dual board certification: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate. I have over 23 years of extensive nursing experience in critical care, behavioral health, and addiction.
I am a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with dual board certification: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate. I have over 23 years of extensive nursing experience in critical care, behavioral health, and addiction.
![Photo of Michael Lukowski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a26cd059-0691-4b94-8c2a-5afa531edee8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
![Photo of Erin Jenkins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27dfe68b-de33-4625-b15a-8a0fde4d6867/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
I am a licensed Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also dual certified in Family Medicine. Throughout my nearly 24 year career in medicine my focus has been in helping people through their most difficult challenges.
I am a licensed Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also dual certified in Family Medicine. Throughout my nearly 24 year career in medicine my focus has been in helping people through their most difficult challenges.
![Photo of Tameka Joy-Hawkins, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f17ea19-2782-4a35-98d8-e2ab412e9e43/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tameka Joy-Hawkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Looking to end the stigma & disparity seen in the behavioral population Tameka Hawkins is a compassionate board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tameka has a longstanding interest in precision (personalized) medicine for the treatment of psychiatric conditions. She is committed to delivering high-quality patient-centered care for the patients she serves. Mrs. Hawkins pays close attention to her clients and encourages them to speak up about their worries. She is invested in their well-being and wants the best for them.
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Looking to end the stigma & disparity seen in the behavioral population Tameka Hawkins is a compassionate board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tameka has a longstanding interest in precision (personalized) medicine for the treatment of psychiatric conditions. She is committed to delivering high-quality patient-centered care for the patients she serves. Mrs. Hawkins pays close attention to her clients and encourages them to speak up about their worries. She is invested in their well-being and wants the best for them.
See more therapy options for 92182
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 92182
60+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 92182 who prioritize treating:
99% | Depression |
99% | Anxiety |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | ADHD |
43% | Grief |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
99% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 92182 see their clients
82% | Online Only | |
18% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 92182?
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.