Psychiatrists in 95008
![Photo of Neil Rajdev, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64b627f9-3939-49f3-bced-1ec32f01ce0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a general adult psychiatrist with experience treating a variety of conditions and a special interest in OCD, student-athlete mental health, mood and anxiety disorders. I employ a holistic view of mental health that first requires being curious about the unique dynamics that might be affecting your well-being. While medications are often important, I also believe in addressing aspects of one’s lifestyle (sleep, exercise, diet) and examining interpersonal, occupational, among other stressors in a judgement-free, supportive environment.
I am a general adult psychiatrist with experience treating a variety of conditions and a special interest in OCD, student-athlete mental health, mood and anxiety disorders. I employ a holistic view of mental health that first requires being curious about the unique dynamics that might be affecting your well-being. While medications are often important, I also believe in addressing aspects of one’s lifestyle (sleep, exercise, diet) and examining interpersonal, occupational, among other stressors in a judgement-free, supportive environment.
![Photo of Satya Shah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1199a7c2-4976-4b62-905c-b3df8e8600f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Satya Shah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Campbell, CA 95008 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing comprehensive care for adults and adolescents with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and insomnia. I prioritize an evidenced-based and collaborative approach with my clients to develop a treatment plan that fits their unique needs and values. This can include medication, lifestyle modification, mindfulness practices, and therapeutic interventions.
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing comprehensive care for adults and adolescents with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and insomnia. I prioritize an evidenced-based and collaborative approach with my clients to develop a treatment plan that fits their unique needs and values. This can include medication, lifestyle modification, mindfulness practices, and therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Bruce Wermuth - LGTC Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd28b51a-5711-41c2-9117-31854a14a8e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Comprehensive Mental Health Practice comprised of Psychiatrists, Psychiatric nurse practitioners, Psychiatric Physician Assistants and Psychotherapists. Members of our team from various disciplines collaborate and coordinate interventions in order to provide the most effective and current treatment options.
Comprehensive Mental Health Practice comprised of Psychiatrists, Psychiatric nurse practitioners, Psychiatric Physician Assistants and Psychotherapists. Members of our team from various disciplines collaborate and coordinate interventions in order to provide the most effective and current treatment options.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/603b67cf-d443-4c78-ba93-443f88a16dc5/1/320x400.png)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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 Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Dr, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4ce809e-3b11-4159-8c27-e01ba3f57689/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? 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 Caroline Stone, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1f8f8ab-8276-4688-a81a-9017c499d32d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Stone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008 (Online Only)
I work with individuals of all backgrounds and origins. With over 5 years of experience in Mental Health I've learned that medicine is not one size fits all and I will work with you to develop a comprehensive personalized treatment plan. While my practice relies heavily on pharmaceutical treatment I believe the best approach to mental health is one that looks at the whole individual and incorporates different modalities including physical health and well being, therapeutic techniques, and mindfulness and meditation.
I work with individuals of all backgrounds and origins. With over 5 years of experience in Mental Health I've learned that medicine is not one size fits all and I will work with you to develop a comprehensive personalized treatment plan. While my practice relies heavily on pharmaceutical treatment I believe the best approach to mental health is one that looks at the whole individual and incorporates different modalities including physical health and well being, therapeutic techniques, and mindfulness and meditation.
![Photo of Jeffrey Chen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d36e29-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults. I attended Northwestern University for my medical school training and completed a General Psychiatry Residency at Emory University and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Washington. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, OCD and ADHD.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults. I attended Northwestern University for my medical school training and completed a General Psychiatry Residency at Emory University and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Washington. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, OCD and ADHD.
![Photo of Dr. Manar Abdelmegeed, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d95c78a-9647-44b5-9ff5-fe644d4e8f0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Are you a high achieving professional suffering from stress or burn out? Do you have mood changes? Do you feel easily overwhelmed by daily activities? Are you a parent wondering how to help your child reach their maximum potential? I am an integrative psychiatrist board certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry who believes in a holistic approach to mental health. I specialize in assessing and treating multiple mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients! Are you a high achieving professional suffering from stress or burn out? Do you have mood changes? Do you feel easily overwhelmed by daily activities? Are you a parent wondering how to help your child reach their maximum potential? I am an integrative psychiatrist board certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry who believes in a holistic approach to mental health. I specialize in assessing and treating multiple mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Julio Monterrey, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96b57e09-458c-4875-a57b-d8b4319f77fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to provide the highest quality patient-centered care. I do this by specializing in diagnostic clarification of complex cases by using the latest in diagnostic tools, by providing clear and consistent communication with all patients so we holistically understand your goals and preferences, as well as collaborating with the rest of your care team (e.g., PCP, therapist, and school personnel for children and teens).
My mission is to provide the highest quality patient-centered care. I do this by specializing in diagnostic clarification of complex cases by using the latest in diagnostic tools, by providing clear and consistent communication with all patients so we holistically understand your goals and preferences, as well as collaborating with the rest of your care team (e.g., PCP, therapist, and school personnel for children and teens).
![Photo of Renata Costa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f21fac62-14f4-44ca-8142-f2fdeeb18a63/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that every human being has the ability to create a sense of wellbeing and peace in their life. I am here to walk alongside you and find the path that can help you reach your goals. I use a holistic and compassionate approach in my practice. I believe loyalty and integrity must be the basis for every encounter. Comprehensive psychiatric care involves not only medication management, but also cognitive/behavioral strategies, client-based interventions, family collaboration, mindfulness and a variety of tools to help you succeed.
I believe that every human being has the ability to create a sense of wellbeing and peace in their life. I am here to walk alongside you and find the path that can help you reach your goals. I use a holistic and compassionate approach in my practice. I believe loyalty and integrity must be the basis for every encounter. Comprehensive psychiatric care involves not only medication management, but also cognitive/behavioral strategies, client-based interventions, family collaboration, mindfulness and a variety of tools to help you succeed.
![Photo of Christopher E Jones, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f52f916-9944-4d0d-bca8-3df3ea2efc6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher E Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008 (Online Only)
Over the past 20 years working in mental healthcare, I have enjoyed the great opportunity to serve patients and their families. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I worked first at the San Francisco VA Medical Center, through their post-graduate residency program, and then for the past several years, I worked with medically underserved populations throughout New Mexico, first in person and then via telehealth.
Over the past 20 years working in mental healthcare, I have enjoyed the great opportunity to serve patients and their families. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I worked first at the San Francisco VA Medical Center, through their post-graduate residency program, and then for the past several years, I worked with medically underserved populations throughout New Mexico, first in person and then via telehealth.
![Photo of Michael They, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ccbcd69-d862-4007-9cef-0ba7aacfb8d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael They is a board-certified Psychiatric nurse practitioner. He is treating children, adolescent, and adult clients who has ADHD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Insomnia, Mood Disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, (eg. Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, OCD), Erectile dysfunction, alcohol use disorder and drug use disorder and more...
Michael They is a board-certified Psychiatric nurse practitioner. He is treating children, adolescent, and adult clients who has ADHD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Insomnia, Mood Disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, (eg. Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, OCD), Erectile dysfunction, alcohol use disorder and drug use disorder and more...
![Photo of Sir Norman Melancon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9267f942-544c-461f-9d55-208a06ec9e3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
There may be parts of your life and your identity that have been undernourished or ignored. Something is going on within you and around you that is causing distress and suffering. Perhaps, that experience is more complicated because of your gender, culture, religion, profession, and you are looking for someone with both the medical tools and the life experience to be able to understand you. People who are drawn to work with me are seeking a doctor who they can connect with, not based on the names of their disorders, but rather because they know that they can share the hidden parts of themselves and receive expert medical care.
There may be parts of your life and your identity that have been undernourished or ignored. Something is going on within you and around you that is causing distress and suffering. Perhaps, that experience is more complicated because of your gender, culture, religion, profession, and you are looking for someone with both the medical tools and the life experience to be able to understand you. People who are drawn to work with me are seeking a doctor who they can connect with, not based on the names of their disorders, but rather because they know that they can share the hidden parts of themselves and receive expert medical care.
![Photo of Agata Sitek, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3525106-c8b9-4e0d-958a-44f6eccee472/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your well-being is my priority, and I am dedicated to working with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.
Your well-being is my priority, and I am dedicated to working with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Juan Rondaeu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6188e0c9-fa75-4dc0-95a3-bac707abdddf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Juan Rondeau is a highly experienced and respected psychiatrist, providing a thorough diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of mental, emotional and behavioral health conditions.
Dr. Juan Rondeau is a highly experienced and respected psychiatrist, providing a thorough diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of mental, emotional and behavioral health conditions.
![Photo of Makenzie Wesner, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8799c8c4-c7f3-45f9-915d-bfc89e99beb6/5/320x400.jpeg)
Behavior problems, anxiety, and depression are the most commonly identified mental health challenges in children and teens. However, far too many go far too long without a deeper, comprehensive understanding of their unique barriers and gifts. For example, high academic performance and gender disparities may delay autism diagnosis. Sensory processing challenges generally underly ADHD. I designed a developmental psychiatry practice known as Behavioral Medicine at Family/Teen Therapy Center of Silicon Valley in order to provide toddlers to young adults - as well as their families - quick access to accurate, high-quality care.
Behavior problems, anxiety, and depression are the most commonly identified mental health challenges in children and teens. However, far too many go far too long without a deeper, comprehensive understanding of their unique barriers and gifts. For example, high academic performance and gender disparities may delay autism diagnosis. Sensory processing challenges generally underly ADHD. I designed a developmental psychiatry practice known as Behavioral Medicine at Family/Teen Therapy Center of Silicon Valley in order to provide toddlers to young adults - as well as their families - quick access to accurate, high-quality care.
![Photo of Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f4b6bd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Sharon Atwood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1def670c-03c2-4577-a260-e1b67d2d6293/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Atwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008 (Online Only)
Sharon Atwood, MS, APRN, NP-C, PMHNP-BC earned her Master of Science degree in Nursing from Florida Atlantic University, and holds a Post Master’s certification from the University of Miami in mental health nursing. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kean University. She is licensed in California.
Sharon Atwood, MS, APRN, NP-C, PMHNP-BC earned her Master of Science degree in Nursing from Florida Atlantic University, and holds a Post Master’s certification from the University of Miami in mental health nursing. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kean University. She is licensed in California.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21466e16-d3ec-4ee6-8540-43b07ce90478/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008 (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 Tami Zorge - The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f09194f-355c-48cf-ae72-0631e5ecc71c/1/320x400.png)
The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008 (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, and 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, and 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.
See more therapy options for 95008
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 95008
20+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in 95008 who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
92% | ADHD |
88% | Depression |
83% | Medication Management |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 95008 see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Male | |
40% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 95008?
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.