Psychiatrists in Simi Valley, CA
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/667c1013-a717-45f6-ad51-7d08e161f4a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Bianca Best, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec69af76-c735-41ae-81ca-e67a7352edc0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bianca Best
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
![Photo of Sarah Raike, PA-C , Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb575b35-3b04-4cba-ac9a-5d41f9010c6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Uchenna Okoye, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db91d0e7-bf07-4933-b704-fd8c078d602e/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Jordan Rose, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d829c6c7-208d-4357-9f7b-0f25703aefd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065 (Online Only)
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
![Photo of Dr. Angel Aguilera, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5423dae0-3b8a-40c8-b51d-5304bac2e0b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angel Aguilera
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063 (Online Only)
As a psychiatrist, I'm dedicated to supporting patients in overcoming mental health challenges like anxiety, ADHD, depression, and trauma. With expertise in diagnosing and treating diverse psychiatric conditions, I offer personalized, high-quality care that addresses individual needs for emotional wellbeing.
As a psychiatrist, I'm dedicated to supporting patients in overcoming mental health challenges like anxiety, ADHD, depression, and trauma. With expertise in diagnosing and treating diverse psychiatric conditions, I offer personalized, high-quality care that addresses individual needs for emotional wellbeing.
![Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49958596-d283-4ff1-8495-19f91f1d3e06/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6b63e2e-bca2-45ee-929f-c0df59eabcdf/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente , MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff410e19-9dff-4d7e-9695-1c5eee20c86a/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Kailee Marin, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cac3d96c-269a-4aaf-a24f-3b738caeba8b/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Sham Singh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfc5d502-c80d-4067-b78a-4cbbe911463c/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
15 Second Videos
Anne Phan-Huy
Bianca Best
Uchenna Okoye
Riz Ahmad
Bonmente
Sham Singh
Catalina Villa
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Ronil Shah
![Photo of Catalina Villa, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb1e0ad8-19c1-41dd-bc1c-71e4cbc31016/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed66857-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f4b9d4-46cd-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 Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/747ef477-41f9-482f-a24a-98e9166fe615/1/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b638e4e0-60e6-4350-b654-8f0364e615e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93064 (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 Derek VanCamp, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88aae44c-85af-437d-b448-719591ba33ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derek VanCamp, DNP is a psychiatric specialist with 30 years of experience in emergency care, family practice, critical care, and psychiatric disorders. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from West Coast University Los Angeles, a Master’s degree from Vanderbilt University, a Doctoral degree from Vanderbilt University, and a Postdoctoral degree in psychiatry and mental health from Regis College of Boston. He is board-certified in acute care, gerontology, and psychiatry/mental health and specializes in treating children, adult, and geriatric patients.
Derek VanCamp, DNP is a psychiatric specialist with 30 years of experience in emergency care, family practice, critical care, and psychiatric disorders. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from West Coast University Los Angeles, a Master’s degree from Vanderbilt University, a Doctoral degree from Vanderbilt University, and a Postdoctoral degree in psychiatry and mental health from Regis College of Boston. He is board-certified in acute care, gerontology, and psychiatry/mental health and specializes in treating children, adult, and geriatric patients.
![Photo of Traci Babcock, RN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5230e7ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Traci Babcock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, NP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065 (Online Only)
I am an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner for 23 years. I accept most major insurances. I work with Family Psychological Services, a Regional Behavioral Health Center. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with adolescents and adults ages 17 and up. I have provided direct services through Cedars-Sinai Hospital, USC, and other major neuropsychiatric departments for psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health disorders, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, and critical care.
I am an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner for 23 years. I accept most major insurances. I work with Family Psychological Services, a Regional Behavioral Health Center. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with adolescents and adults ages 17 and up. I have provided direct services through Cedars-Sinai Hospital, USC, and other major neuropsychiatric departments for psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health disorders, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, and critical care.
![Photo of Sabira Saifuddin - Family Psychiatry - Counseling & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdb4b12b-e23c-4732-92f5-fe5dbab78cbc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Family Psychiatry - Counseling & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93062 (Online Only)
Psychiatric Treatment & Counseling for the Whole family. We have a Multidisciplinary Team of Psychiatrist, Nurse Practitioners & Psychotherapists We perform Psychiatric Assessments & Treatment of ADHD in Adults and Children, Anxiety Disorders ( Panic attacks, Generalized Anxiety, OCD ) Depressive Disorders ( Major Depression), Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorders Etc. We combine conventional medical treatment with non-medication treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ( TMS ) for Severe depression for patients who don't respond well to Medications.
Psychiatric Treatment & Counseling for the Whole family. We have a Multidisciplinary Team of Psychiatrist, Nurse Practitioners & Psychotherapists We perform Psychiatric Assessments & Treatment of ADHD in Adults and Children, Anxiety Disorders ( Panic attacks, Generalized Anxiety, OCD ) Depressive Disorders ( Major Depression), Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorders Etc. We combine conventional medical treatment with non-medication treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ( TMS ) for Severe depression for patients who don't respond well to Medications.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fa2b318-8888-4626-9dd4-fd8332bd17e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
See more therapy options for Simi Valley
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Simi Valley, CA
20+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Simi Valley, CA who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
84% | Medication Management |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
76% | ADHD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Simi Valley, CA see their clients
72% | Online Only | |
28% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
57% | Male | |
43% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Simi Valley?
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.