Psychiatrists in 94025
![Photo of Dr. Casey Lester, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b8e1d9e-7eb6-4d47-9deb-6b3c3da45d82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm a Stanford and University of California trained child & adolescent & adult psychiatrist in a small, concierge-style practice. I work with a therapy dog who helps my patients to feel safe and comfortable. I have special interests in trauma-related disorders, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental, warm, patient-centered, and therapy-oriented. When prescribing medication I practice based on the latest scientific evidence, so that my patients have the highest chance of meeting their mental health goals without unnecessary side effects. I connect especially well with teens and young adults.
Hello! I'm a Stanford and University of California trained child & adolescent & adult psychiatrist in a small, concierge-style practice. I work with a therapy dog who helps my patients to feel safe and comfortable. I have special interests in trauma-related disorders, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental, warm, patient-centered, and therapy-oriented. When prescribing medication I practice based on the latest scientific evidence, so that my patients have the highest chance of meeting their mental health goals without unnecessary side effects. I connect especially well with teens and young adults.
![Photo of Barbara Anne Ballinger, M, D, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8524a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The central concern of my work is mental suffering, it is universal, yet with unique roots for each of us. These are often confusing, even unknown. Harm may be inflicted upon our developing selves, and we may carry the pain outside of awareness. I seek to help with knowing, and with pain. Or we cannot figure out how to care for our particular bodies. They may have biological needs we cannot recognize, or again, carry hidden psychological wounds. I have trained also to help recognize and treat biological needs. I see mind and body as inextricably linked in the pursuit of health, peace, and meaning.
The central concern of my work is mental suffering, it is universal, yet with unique roots for each of us. These are often confusing, even unknown. Harm may be inflicted upon our developing selves, and we may carry the pain outside of awareness. I seek to help with knowing, and with pain. Or we cannot figure out how to care for our particular bodies. They may have biological needs we cannot recognize, or again, carry hidden psychological wounds. I have trained also to help recognize and treat biological needs. I see mind and body as inextricably linked in the pursuit of health, peace, and meaning.
![Photo of Kathryn Kinasz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a39d8dd-50ea-400e-b573-1f92781fbc1d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses that impact children and adolescents including but not limited to mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, and eating disorders. I also see children struggling with behavioral issues at home or at school and adolescents exploring their gender identity. I see adults with similar disorders and have a unique interest in women’s mental health including women facing infertility, psychiatric issues in pregnancy and postpartum, and challenges of new motherhood.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses that impact children and adolescents including but not limited to mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, and eating disorders. I also see children struggling with behavioral issues at home or at school and adolescents exploring their gender identity. I see adults with similar disorders and have a unique interest in women’s mental health including women facing infertility, psychiatric issues in pregnancy and postpartum, and challenges of new motherhood.
![Photo of Alex Dimitriu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d3a135-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Over 10 years of proven expertise in performance psychiatry and sleep medicine. We take a holistic approach that allows us to fine tune psychological, biological, and lifestyle interventions to achieve peace, peak performance and longevity.
Over 10 years of proven expertise in performance psychiatry and sleep medicine. We take a holistic approach that allows us to fine tune psychological, biological, and lifestyle interventions to achieve peace, peak performance and longevity.
![Photo of Armando León - Armando Leon MD | Courage Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1959b919-e48c-4e5c-b9e7-987afb48f286/2/320x400.jpeg)
Please visit my website at www.couragepsychiatry.org. Dr. Armando León is a licensed psychiatrist with experience in medication management and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. His clinical approach acknowledges the important roles that mindfulness and curiosity play in achieving and maintaining wellness. He sees early relationships as foundational to how we operate in the world and hopes to promote greater insight and capacity for change through this lens.
Please visit my website at www.couragepsychiatry.org. Dr. Armando León is a licensed psychiatrist with experience in medication management and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. His clinical approach acknowledges the important roles that mindfulness and curiosity play in achieving and maintaining wellness. He sees early relationships as foundational to how we operate in the world and hopes to promote greater insight and capacity for change through this lens.
![Photo of Dr. Marlynn Wei - Dr. Marlynn Wei, MD, JD, MD, JD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35792b6b-a050-4aa4-b7b1-7d96c6857f86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marlynn Wei, MD, JD
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025 (Online Only)
I am a Harvard- and Yale-trained board-certified integrative holistic psychiatrist, therapist, and certified yoga teacher specializing in psychotherapy. My boutique practice provides in-depth exploration of underlying issues that may be interfering with your full potential. I work with high-achieving individuals, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives in tech, startups, finance, VC firms, law, and creative/film/artistic industries. I help people navigate and improve career stress, family and relationship issues, and other sources of anxiety.
I am a Harvard- and Yale-trained board-certified integrative holistic psychiatrist, therapist, and certified yoga teacher specializing in psychotherapy. My boutique practice provides in-depth exploration of underlying issues that may be interfering with your full potential. I work with high-achieving individuals, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives in tech, startups, finance, VC firms, law, and creative/film/artistic industries. I help people navigate and improve career stress, family and relationship issues, and other sources of anxiety.
![Photo of Meredith Kelly, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f396ee75-cef2-4509-835c-d2a8a509a989/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double-board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years in clinical practice. I trained at Columbia Medical Center in New York City. My approach is to understand every person's individual biology, background and present circumstances. This means treatment should be personalized to meet you where you are, reduce symptoms that stand in your way, and build skills to create changes you want to see. I work with adults across a variety of mental health conditions. I offer treatment with medications, therapy, or both, and may recommend lifestyle modifications or supplements. I will also collaborate with your care team.
I am a double-board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years in clinical practice. I trained at Columbia Medical Center in New York City. My approach is to understand every person's individual biology, background and present circumstances. This means treatment should be personalized to meet you where you are, reduce symptoms that stand in your way, and build skills to create changes you want to see. I work with adults across a variety of mental health conditions. I offer treatment with medications, therapy, or both, and may recommend lifestyle modifications or supplements. I will also collaborate with your care team.
![Photo of Hari Nair, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b12668-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to create a judgement free, welcoming environment and treat my patients in a holistic and culturally competent manner through the use of evidence-based therapies and medications. I use a comprehensive approach to understand the emotional, psychosocial and interpersonal spheres of my patients' lives. This allows me to identify the strengths, vulnerabilities and needs of my patients. I prioritize making my patients feel as comfortable as possible, often by engaging them in their own interests.
I strive to create a judgement free, welcoming environment and treat my patients in a holistic and culturally competent manner through the use of evidence-based therapies and medications. I use a comprehensive approach to understand the emotional, psychosocial and interpersonal spheres of my patients' lives. This allows me to identify the strengths, vulnerabilities and needs of my patients. I prioritize making my patients feel as comfortable as possible, often by engaging them in their own interests.
![Photo of Dr. Kevin Luo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dd2c566-d570-4f12-88aa-9be14a333b39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a pediatric and adult psychiatrist who provides talk therapy and medication management. As a Bay Area native, I understand the unique charms and challenges of growing up here- and I am happy to help.
Welcome! I am a pediatric and adult psychiatrist who provides talk therapy and medication management. As a Bay Area native, I understand the unique charms and challenges of growing up here- and I am happy to help.
![Photo of Shivani Verma Chmura - Palo Alto Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd7f3de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE. Dr. Shivani Chmura is an expert in treating patients with an evidence based, compassionate approach. She also has extensive experience with medication management for eating disorders. Dr. Chmura is trained in both Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry from UCSF and Stanford Universities. She uses a warm, holistic approach to treating every individual, couple, and family. Dr. Chmura is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, (CBT, DBT, Supportive). She is an expert on pharmacologic management for depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, and post-partum depression and anxiety.
PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE. Dr. Shivani Chmura is an expert in treating patients with an evidence based, compassionate approach. She also has extensive experience with medication management for eating disorders. Dr. Chmura is trained in both Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry from UCSF and Stanford Universities. She uses a warm, holistic approach to treating every individual, couple, and family. Dr. Chmura is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, (CBT, DBT, Supportive). She is an expert on pharmacologic management for depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, and post-partum depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Lauren Varma, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a47bc38-85d7-4e56-a95e-d686c8648c7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Varma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
I specialize in treating a wide range of complex psychiatric conditions, with an emphasis on optimizing sleep, in order to achieve the best possible outcomes.
I specialize in treating a wide range of complex psychiatric conditions, with an emphasis on optimizing sleep, in order to achieve the best possible outcomes.
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![Photo of Dr. Earth Hasassri, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a0e140a-beae-4ca0-a778-7faad204a6b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with training from Stanford, UCSF, and the Mayo Clinic. My goal is to help you or your loved one start feeling better. I take the time to listen closely to understand what you're experiencing and can provide support through both therapy and medication. I work with individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and specialize in treating ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other unique neuropsychiatric conditions. Together, we'll work towards your goals and enhance your quality of life.
I'm a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with training from Stanford, UCSF, and the Mayo Clinic. My goal is to help you or your loved one start feeling better. I take the time to listen closely to understand what you're experiencing and can provide support through both therapy and medication. I work with individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and specialize in treating ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other unique neuropsychiatric conditions. Together, we'll work towards your goals and enhance your quality of life.
Welcome to my profile in Psychology Today. I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who has provided mental health care to a variety of populations over the last 18 years. In my private practice, I see adults over 18 years old, and I have expertise with diagnoses, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When I first meet new patients, they are frequently unsure what kind of treatment they might benefit from. By providing a warm and collaborative environment, I help the patients understand their needs and identify treatment options, such a medications, therapy, or a combination of both. I strongly believe that ‘no patient is a diagnosis’ – instead, we are all a complex combination of genetic predisposition, upbringing, and other influences that make us the people we are.
Welcome to my profile in Psychology Today. I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who has provided mental health care to a variety of populations over the last 18 years. In my private practice, I see adults over 18 years old, and I have expertise with diagnoses, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When I first meet new patients, they are frequently unsure what kind of treatment they might benefit from. By providing a warm and collaborative environment, I help the patients understand their needs and identify treatment options, such a medications, therapy, or a combination of both. I strongly believe that ‘no patient is a diagnosis’ – instead, we are all a complex combination of genetic predisposition, upbringing, and other influences that make us the people we are.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5f83f9e-5b70-45d1-beeb-7f46bf5537f6/1/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Rania Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ac45f3b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based medication management, and individual psychotherapy. My focus is on mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorder. I also treat patients with OCD and ADHD.
I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based medication management, and individual psychotherapy. My focus is on mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorder. I also treat patients with OCD and ADHD.
![Photo of Michelle Kwok, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfe1f3a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified psychiatrist, I treat psychiatric conditions using the bio-psycho-social framework. Psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, like thyroid problems, the effects of chemotherapy, strokes, or genetic predisposition. Psychiatric issues may also have psychological causes, such as the lack of coping skills, difficulty processing situations, or early life experiences. Finally, psychiatric disorders may have sociological explanations: overwhelming expectations of one's social setting, perhaps, or drastic changes in one's environment.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I treat psychiatric conditions using the bio-psycho-social framework. Psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, like thyroid problems, the effects of chemotherapy, strokes, or genetic predisposition. Psychiatric issues may also have psychological causes, such as the lack of coping skills, difficulty processing situations, or early life experiences. Finally, psychiatric disorders may have sociological explanations: overwhelming expectations of one's social setting, perhaps, or drastic changes in one's environment.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f4064d8-77be-41a6-96c0-5f338adf3da0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Matthew May, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0b1c2a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Perhaps you are suffering from anxiety or depression, would like better relationships or healthier habits? If so, I have some excellent news for you. There are many new and powerful therapy methods that can lead to rapid and profound improvements, even cures, without requiring medication. If this sounds interesting to you, I would be honored to work with you, collaboratively and compassionately, to help you achieve your goals.
Perhaps you are suffering from anxiety or depression, would like better relationships or healthier habits? If so, I have some excellent news for you. There are many new and powerful therapy methods that can lead to rapid and profound improvements, even cures, without requiring medication. If this sounds interesting to you, I would be honored to work with you, collaboratively and compassionately, to help you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Stephen H Richmond, MD, PsyD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a2abd6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen H Richmond
Psychiatrist, MD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Not accepting new clients
I treat the entire person, which includes both psychology and biochemistry, if needed. For both people struggling with addictions, and for those with other issues, the focus is on the difficulty with being fully present to one's life. My ideal client is someone motivated to look inside, and ready to open up to the richness and pitfalls of his or her internal world.
I treat the entire person, which includes both psychology and biochemistry, if needed. For both people struggling with addictions, and for those with other issues, the focus is on the difficulty with being fully present to one's life. My ideal client is someone motivated to look inside, and ready to open up to the richness and pitfalls of his or her internal world.
![Photo of Beatrice Rabkin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e09efdf2-9871-4114-8d2b-f3d50881a28f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I have office locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto. While I specialize in medication management, I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I have office locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto. While I specialize in medication management, I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
See more therapy options for 94025
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 94025
50+
Average cost per session
$387
Psychiatrists in 94025 who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
84% | ADHD |
76% | Medication Management |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Sleep or Insomnia |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Aetna |
67% | Blue Cross |
56% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 94025 see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
52% | Male | |
48% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 94025?
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.