Psychiatrists in 92590
![Photo of Dr. Timothy A Murphy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36cd3297-a13a-47a5-9d3b-2356088e5a8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Timothy Murphy is passionate about educating and advocating for improved mental health care for all citizens. Dr. Murphy specializes in children, adolescents, adults, and seniors suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. He provides diagnostic evaluations and received training in psychopharmacology. Dr. Murphy encourages exercise as a method of treatment because its positive effects on physical and mental health.
Timothy Murphy is passionate about educating and advocating for improved mental health care for all citizens. Dr. Murphy specializes in children, adolescents, adults, and seniors suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. He provides diagnostic evaluations and received training in psychopharmacology. Dr. Murphy encourages exercise as a method of treatment because its positive effects on physical and mental health.
![Photo of Angelika Rodriguez, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/517524f7-6333-40f2-9b5c-8c941e3d9612/2/320x400.png)
Angelika helps children, adolescents, adults, and pregnant women with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and women’s mental health. She also helps with mood and sleep-related disorders. Angelika’s treatment modalities can include a comprehensive evaluation of biological, environmental and psychosocial factors, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and coaching techniques, motivational interviewing, and lab work.
Angelika helps children, adolescents, adults, and pregnant women with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and women’s mental health. She also helps with mood and sleep-related disorders. Angelika’s treatment modalities can include a comprehensive evaluation of biological, environmental and psychosocial factors, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and coaching techniques, motivational interviewing, and lab work.
![Photo of Fellista Anugom, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f559d846-f381-420d-b868-704613c96229/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fellista Anugom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
Now Accepting New Patient! Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others, reach out to me, a certified mental health specialist with a clear understanding and knowledge of what you're going through and will actively listen to you. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call me to schedule an appointment today.
Now Accepting New Patient! Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others, reach out to me, a certified mental health specialist with a clear understanding and knowledge of what you're going through and will actively listen to you. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call me to schedule an appointment today.
![Photo of Bill Thornton, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e853fe0-93ce-48f0-82f9-92dc21a8a93e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bill is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who helps adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorder.
Bill is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who helps adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorder.
![Photo of Elaine Dresbach, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8e607f0-47a8-4927-87c9-84e61f1e5d26/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience treating a variety of mood/anxiety disorders including depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, Generalized anxiety disorder, and other disorders with success. Symptoms are reviewed in detail for the appropriate treatment options.
I have experience treating a variety of mood/anxiety disorders including depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, Generalized anxiety disorder, and other disorders with success. Symptoms are reviewed in detail for the appropriate treatment options.
![Photo of Kenneth Saldua, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1eb0e64-7311-408b-9385-a28d9caf46fc/1/320x400.png)
Kenneth Saldua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Kenneth and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have extensive experience treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and psychosis as well as personal experience with mental health challenges. I believe that building a strong foundation of trust between clinician and client is crucial and that combining a humanitarian approach with evidence-based practice leads to better outcomes. My goal is to provide safe, comprehensive, and goal-oriented clinical care.
Hello, my name is Kenneth and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have extensive experience treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and psychosis as well as personal experience with mental health challenges. I believe that building a strong foundation of trust between clinician and client is crucial and that combining a humanitarian approach with evidence-based practice leads to better outcomes. My goal is to provide safe, comprehensive, and goal-oriented clinical care.
![Photo of Gretel Mendoza, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3807d85a-07b0-4be9-8f37-c8c5b5a19a1d/1/320x400.png)
Gretel Mendoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
I'm a strong believer in the recovery model of mental health care, where the focus is on the person, rather than the symptoms; and strive to provide evidence-based, compassionate and holistic mental health care.
I'm a strong believer in the recovery model of mental health care, where the focus is on the person, rather than the symptoms; and strive to provide evidence-based, compassionate and holistic mental health care.
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d99da2be-b9a3-4e5d-8f15-9d035078c5a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11400942-5fcf-4a3d-b20a-a0aec363503c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23a101d9-15f1-4f8a-83c2-606576bb3d94/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68cbd4cf-5814-4cec-b27c-d8b14266dfe0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
15 Second Videos
Gretel Mendoza
Jonathan Allotey
Ryan Thebo
Jack Mkroyan
Leah Haddad
Jack Mkroyan
The Focus Doc
Ryan Thebo
![Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/764c2e52-3032-4c24-8683-c94459401a6e/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 Simone King - The Mindful Lemon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbd4440f-d0a7-463e-8b45-d164c3104641/1/320x400.png)
The Mindful Lemon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590 (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71898965-1cfe-42e7-9d13-6218abbe3d3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8de3b067-fe19-48c0-8b96-5292a4cc5214/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Joseph Stabley, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/771b8a92-8964-4aa2-9a97-5df935678caa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joe is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in 2011. Afterwards, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant Program through the Department of Defense and accredited by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and commissioned as an Officer in the US Army. As a PA, Joe has worked in variety of settings - including Urgent Care, Emergency Medicine, and has extensive knowledge in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine from years of service in the substance use rehab industry.
Joe is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in 2011. Afterwards, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant Program through the Department of Defense and accredited by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and commissioned as an Officer in the US Army. As a PA, Joe has worked in variety of settings - including Urgent Care, Emergency Medicine, and has extensive knowledge in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine from years of service in the substance use rehab industry.
Penny Greaves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Penny Greaves has over twenty years of Nursing experience and received her bachelor's in nursing in 2007 and a Master of Nursing with a primary care nurse practitioner certificate in 2010 from Ryerson University, in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree in 2021 from National University and is dual certified with the ANCC in psychiatry and the AANP in family practice. She is currently pursuing a psychology doctorate degree (PsyD) to improve health outcomes. She is experienced with adults, adults with addictions, complex mental health problems, geriatrics and dementia.
Penny Greaves has over twenty years of Nursing experience and received her bachelor's in nursing in 2007 and a Master of Nursing with a primary care nurse practitioner certificate in 2010 from Ryerson University, in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree in 2021 from National University and is dual certified with the ANCC in psychiatry and the AANP in family practice. She is currently pursuing a psychology doctorate degree (PsyD) to improve health outcomes. She is experienced with adults, adults with addictions, complex mental health problems, geriatrics and dementia.
![Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4a090bb-529e-4f2c-9d94-b832adb0d8c9/1/320x400.png)
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
![Photo of Catvy Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3b9d989-3e6c-4f0e-b44a-132b450f13d9/1/320x400.png)
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
![Photo of Sandra Cox, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f064173-1c15-4a32-b2e1-ec8c6d77b261/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sandra Cox is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1996. She has a BA in Biology from University of Missouri-Columbia, a Doctorate in Medicine from University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine and completed her Residency in Psychiatry at University of Colorado. Dr. Cox has extensive experience in treating patients with all types of psychiatric issues, from the mildest to the most severe. Dr. Cox is sensitive to her patients' needs to be heard and understood and always explains to them the reasoning behind whatever treatment she is recommending.
Dr. Sandra Cox is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1996. She has a BA in Biology from University of Missouri-Columbia, a Doctorate in Medicine from University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine and completed her Residency in Psychiatry at University of Colorado. Dr. Cox has extensive experience in treating patients with all types of psychiatric issues, from the mildest to the most severe. Dr. Cox is sensitive to her patients' needs to be heard and understood and always explains to them the reasoning behind whatever treatment she is recommending.
See more therapy options for 92590
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 92590
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 92590 who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
89% | Medication Management |
86% | ADHD |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Depression |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
96% | Aetna |
91% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 92590 see their clients
83% | In Person and Online | |
17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 92590?
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.