Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Ripal Patel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e98b0a4-b8e2-4e78-8d1c-a72a39abbb9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ripal Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109 (Online Only)
Hello! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner provider, I am committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based, and individualized care to each of my patients. I believe that mental health care should be tailored to each person's specific needs and experiences.
Hello! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner provider, I am committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based, and individualized care to each of my patients. I believe that mental health care should be tailored to each person's specific needs and experiences.
![Photo of Usha Ramineni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d844c896-94af-4880-81c6-a75d3deb30a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Usha Ramineni sees patients ages 5 to 64. Dr. Ramineni was recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists in 2010 by SLD Industries; and, from 2009 to 2014, Dr. Ramineni was given awards for her excellence as one of America's Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers' Research Council of America.
Dr. Usha Ramineni sees patients ages 5 to 64. Dr. Ramineni was recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists in 2010 by SLD Industries; and, from 2009 to 2014, Dr. Ramineni was given awards for her excellence as one of America's Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers' Research Council of America.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47474bf9-513f-405d-85c7-d4c59c13b1a7/1/320x400.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 Samir Hamed, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2efdaa5b-90cb-4b76-885c-036ec5477821/2/320x400.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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, 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.
![Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b3ac96-9076-4ca7-9d4d-a34ac75b33e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
![Photo of Sarah Pai, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0237365-4e29-4653-a3e8-5e81aa6d663d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience treating adult patients in San Diego county. I am hoping to connect with clients who are looking for a psychiatric provider who is not only skilled in diganosis and prescribing, but is able to understand your unique needs and build a trusted partnership in your care. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my patients.
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience treating adult patients in San Diego county. I am hoping to connect with clients who are looking for a psychiatric provider who is not only skilled in diganosis and prescribing, but is able to understand your unique needs and build a trusted partnership in your care. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my patients.
![Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3f036c5-0e61-4d1e-8aea-a0266a0d949f/1/320x400.png)
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
![Photo of Milka Galvez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54ff7b65-9cd1-4b9b-99f0-b94f94c46267/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you going through a difficult time? Is it tough to get yourself out of bed in the morning and start the day? Feeling overwhelmed, sad, or anxious that it's difficult to concentrate on daily tasks. Please know that you are at the right place. Your life does not have to stay this way and we can work together to get you back in control of your life. The peaks and valleys will not be as drastic anymore. The cloud over your head will no longer follow you throughout the day. Together we will work on controlling your emotions rather than your emotions controlling you.
Are you going through a difficult time? Is it tough to get yourself out of bed in the morning and start the day? Feeling overwhelmed, sad, or anxious that it's difficult to concentrate on daily tasks. Please know that you are at the right place. Your life does not have to stay this way and we can work together to get you back in control of your life. The peaks and valleys will not be as drastic anymore. The cloud over your head will no longer follow you throughout the day. Together we will work on controlling your emotions rather than your emotions controlling you.
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18ab648c-e33a-4bf0-9874-e7054a2a4722/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
![Photo of Ashok Parameswaran, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12660e6d-ca8f-4636-ac0c-99f55eed1e00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ashok Parameswaran is a licensed and board-certified psychiatrist. Born outside of Philadelphia PA, he moved to San Diego for residency. In San Diego, he has worked in a variety of outpatient clinical care settings serving patients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Dr. Ashok Parameswaran is a licensed and board-certified psychiatrist. Born outside of Philadelphia PA, he moved to San Diego for residency. In San Diego, he has worked in a variety of outpatient clinical care settings serving patients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
![Photo of Deval A Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5347cd6a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
15 Second Videos
Dominique Sanders
Ronil Shah
Jon Deam
Sham Singh
Jay Timacdog
Aveo Wellness: Therapy & Psychiatry
Susan Solimine
Molly McLaren
Jack Mkroyan
The Focus Doc
Dominique Sanders
Robert McLay
Leah Haddad
Remedy Psychiatry San Diego
Braincom Advanced Nursing
Catalina Villa
Jack Mkroyan
Nicolas Badre
Jonathan Allotey
Anne Phan-Huy
Ryan Thebo
Jessica Vermeulen
Lauren Prasek
Ike Uzowulu
Open Mind Health
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Uchenna Okoye
Natalie Love
Kai Macdonald
Leah Haddad
Jordan Blaine
Jonathan Allotey
Ryan Thebo
Riz Ahmad
Shreesh Prasad
Elena Urbiztondo
Sauntrice O'Quin
Jacquelyn Hamed
Riz Ahmad
Duke Nyarecha
Sonoran Psychiatric Care
Azmeena Hashem
Mottsin Thomas
Catalina Villa
Nancy Wu
Mentally Healthycare
Sham Singh
Rebecca R Kolb
Sham Singh
Uchenna Okoye
![Photo of Fay M Azad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c1f9b26-098a-42e6-886d-20bc55d3a4dc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I take new patients from anywhere within California and offer telehealth which makes my availability flexible. I have a special interest in treating insomnia, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. My recommended therapy may include over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle modifications, and antidepressant/ antianxiety/ other psychiatric medications. I use the lowest effective dosing and utilize genetic testing when indicated.
I take new patients from anywhere within California and offer telehealth which makes my availability flexible. I have a special interest in treating insomnia, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. My recommended therapy may include over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle modifications, and antidepressant/ antianxiety/ other psychiatric medications. I use the lowest effective dosing and utilize genetic testing when indicated.
![Photo of Kirsten Manalo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/706b888e-a899-497b-9de2-8e2a632c25de/1/320x400.png)
Kirsten Manalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in treating a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I have 8 years of nursing experience with background specialties in psychiatric/mental health, medical-surgical, home health, and academia. My education and experience enables me to treat patients with a holistic approach meaning other factors that affect mental health and well-being are taken into consideration as well. This includes addressing multiple facets of health including emotional, psychological, physiological, sociocultural, and spiritual.
I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in treating a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I have 8 years of nursing experience with background specialties in psychiatric/mental health, medical-surgical, home health, and academia. My education and experience enables me to treat patients with a holistic approach meaning other factors that affect mental health and well-being are taken into consideration as well. This includes addressing multiple facets of health including emotional, psychological, physiological, sociocultural, and spiritual.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0bbdcdc-03d5-46b3-95ad-395c246f1e0c/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.
![Photo of Dr. Jon Deam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9ecad3f-580b-4073-ba4c-d8eefb21de19/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jon, founder of Aveo Wellness, a concierge psychiatry practice, knows all about helping you face challenges and life transitions with medication optimization, therapy, life-coaching, and addiction/overuse management.
Dr. Jon, founder of Aveo Wellness, a concierge psychiatry practice, knows all about helping you face challenges and life transitions with medication optimization, therapy, life-coaching, and addiction/overuse management.
![Photo of Martina Nankivell, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94b447be-0460-465c-9360-2e246e7643ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martina Nankivell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
![Photo of Blaire Heath, DO, PharmaD, RD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03ca1e06-46e2-4eab-9582-948a68db01e6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Blaire Heath grew up in Southern California and started doing volunteer work locally and abroad when she was in high school, including mission trips to Latin America and Africa. Her passion for helping others and health brought me to pursue the field of nutrition and pharmacy. However, following a medical mission trip to Haiti after the earthquake in 2010, she really felt a calling to pursue medicine and work more closely with patients. She loves that the field of mental health applies to the whole person: body, mind, and spirit and that overall health means not just addressing a single area of one’s life.
Dr. Blaire Heath grew up in Southern California and started doing volunteer work locally and abroad when she was in high school, including mission trips to Latin America and Africa. Her passion for helping others and health brought me to pursue the field of nutrition and pharmacy. However, following a medical mission trip to Haiti after the earthquake in 2010, she really felt a calling to pursue medicine and work more closely with patients. She loves that the field of mental health applies to the whole person: body, mind, and spirit and that overall health means not just addressing a single area of one’s life.
![Photo of Milka Galvez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/248fa672-878b-43ed-a793-0b924252b7ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Milka Galvez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master’s Degree from Walden University. I have experience working as a nurse in an acute and outpatient setting. I am passionate in working with adolescents, adults and the geriatric patients by not only caring for them but assisting them to wellness. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, traveling and spending time with my family.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master’s Degree from Walden University. I have experience working as a nurse in an acute and outpatient setting. I am passionate in working with adolescents, adults and the geriatric patients by not only caring for them but assisting them to wellness. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, traveling and spending time with my family.
![Photo of Ryan Bolt, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae4eefac-dd7f-4a56-8b71-53ee14c10f59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Bolt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
I believe in an integrative approach with a focus on wholeness and client-centered care. Using these foundations, I strive to provide comprehensive care that incorporates complementary treatments, genetic testing, lifestyle modification, therapy, and medication management. My goal is to foster an environment of trust and understanding so that we can work together to achieve your goals. I am easily accessible even outside of clinic hours via text, email, or phone.
I believe in an integrative approach with a focus on wholeness and client-centered care. Using these foundations, I strive to provide comprehensive care that incorporates complementary treatments, genetic testing, lifestyle modification, therapy, and medication management. My goal is to foster an environment of trust and understanding so that we can work together to achieve your goals. I am easily accessible even outside of clinic hours via text, email, or phone.
![Photo of Davis A Suskind, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42785d5d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of emotional and self-esteem difficulties, via understanding the inter-relationship between the mind and the brain at various levels. Most of my patients come for consultation because of problems with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, problems in succeeding (or enjoying success), or difficulties making certain life transitions. Many have been experiencing marital/couple distress. I currently teach at UCSD Medical School and the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute.
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of emotional and self-esteem difficulties, via understanding the inter-relationship between the mind and the brain at various levels. Most of my patients come for consultation because of problems with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, problems in succeeding (or enjoying success), or difficulties making certain life transitions. Many have been experiencing marital/couple distress. I currently teach at UCSD Medical School and the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute.
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
400+
Average cost per session
$227
Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
39% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Diego?
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.