Psychiatrists in Cardiff By The Sea, CA
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in California below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jordan Blaine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/864f044f-4005-409d-a97f-db055affd196/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92023 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING 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.
ACCEPTING 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.
![Photo of Katrina Pratcher, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dce2af32-9beb-4ef1-8293-cccb857e3009/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katrina Pratcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Hi. How are you? I'm Katrina, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As you know, many people in this nation and around the world are experiencing psychological and mental discomfort. Our society is struggling because of inflation, strange new diseases, increase in crime and a multitude of other situations that impact out lives, thoughts relationships and overall ability to grow and live productive lives.
Hi. How are you? I'm Katrina, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As you know, many people in this nation and around the world are experiencing psychological and mental discomfort. Our society is struggling because of inflation, strange new diseases, increase in crime and a multitude of other situations that impact out lives, thoughts relationships and overall ability to grow and live productive lives.
![Photo of Adam Borecky, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db43a63b-c9f5-4fc3-acb6-b4ca51af404f/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Adam Borecky, based in Encinitas, CA, combines expertise and empathy in psychiatry. Trained at Loma Linda University, with over 16,640 hours in patient care, he specializes in diverse mental health disorders. As an out-of-network provider, he dedicates ample time to understand patient needs deeply, crafting creative solutions. Dr. Borecky's work on the 'Connection Index' and 'Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast' showcases his commitment to advancing mental health. Choose him for in-depth, individualized care.
Dr. Adam Borecky, based in Encinitas, CA, combines expertise and empathy in psychiatry. Trained at Loma Linda University, with over 16,640 hours in patient care, he specializes in diverse mental health disorders. As an out-of-network provider, he dedicates ample time to understand patient needs deeply, crafting creative solutions. Dr. Borecky's work on the 'Connection Index' and 'Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast' showcases his commitment to advancing mental health. Choose him for in-depth, individualized care.
![Photo of Jamie Sanders, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb8ebed-770b-44cb-9d03-35cdef7a44ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Jamie. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner which means generally people see me for medication evaluations and management to improve their mental health. My role is not limited to prescribing and I am a strong believer in the benefit of psychotherapy. My approach is very patient-centered and I am creative in integrating a variety of approaches, utilizing both medication and psychotherapeutic modalities, in my work with patients. My approach to medication management is founded in neurochemistry and neurobiology, tailored to each individual and their symptoms.
Hi, my name is Jamie. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner which means generally people see me for medication evaluations and management to improve their mental health. My role is not limited to prescribing and I am a strong believer in the benefit of psychotherapy. My approach is very patient-centered and I am creative in integrating a variety of approaches, utilizing both medication and psychotherapeutic modalities, in my work with patients. My approach to medication management is founded in neurochemistry and neurobiology, tailored to each individual and their symptoms.
![Photo of Tochukwu Nnadi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89b05c8f-8d03-481e-9106-76b2a8e5a3b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tochukwu Nnadi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master of Sciences in nursing from Maryville University. I will like you to know that our mental health is as importance as our physical health. So, thank you for taking a brave step for improving your mental health. I provide psychiatric care to clients across the live span (children, adolescences, and adults including elders).
Hi, I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master of Sciences in nursing from Maryville University. I will like you to know that our mental health is as importance as our physical health. So, thank you for taking a brave step for improving your mental health. I provide psychiatric care to clients across the live span (children, adolescences, and adults including elders).
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Mann, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/357d2222-2b6b-40f8-8d0c-5ad128d325cc/2/320x400.png)
Integrating therapy, medication and complementary treatments. I have an open, integrative approach with experience working with a wide range of ages, disorders, and cultural backgrounds. I have a special interest in coaching parents, helping individuals with anxiety disorders, difficulty with professional and personal relationships, and individuals going through life transitions.
Integrating therapy, medication and complementary treatments. I have an open, integrative approach with experience working with a wide range of ages, disorders, and cultural backgrounds. I have a special interest in coaching parents, helping individuals with anxiety disorders, difficulty with professional and personal relationships, and individuals going through life transitions.
![Photo of Lydia Owuor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5d22eff-e9c5-4c06-9aad-3f83950da4fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lydia Owuor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a licenses Professional Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in California.
Hi! I am a licenses Professional Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in California.
![Photo of Rachael Mehl, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afe9a366-42b2-4f93-a9f8-f9f18f28405c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helping individuals achieve optimal health and happiness is my greatest calling. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a strong nursing foundation and specialized psychiatric training, I offer a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care. My goal is to empower those struggling with mental health challenges through a holistic, patient-centered approach, fostering trust and mutual respect.
Helping individuals achieve optimal health and happiness is my greatest calling. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a strong nursing foundation and specialized psychiatric training, I offer a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care. My goal is to empower those struggling with mental health challenges through a holistic, patient-centered approach, fostering trust and mutual respect.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed66651-46cd-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 Todd Benjamin Young, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423d10d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Young is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the communities of Northern San Diego County, with offices conveniently located in Encinitas. He has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, both in outpatient and acute care settings. Areas of focus include mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, ADHD, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions, behavioral disorders, and many others.Primary treatment modalities include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, using applied principles of psychodynamic psychiatry, functional medicine, nutrition, healthy relationships, personal development and lifestyle design
Dr. Young is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the communities of Northern San Diego County, with offices conveniently located in Encinitas. He has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, both in outpatient and acute care settings. Areas of focus include mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, ADHD, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions, behavioral disorders, and many others.Primary treatment modalities include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, using applied principles of psychodynamic psychiatry, functional medicine, nutrition, healthy relationships, personal development and lifestyle design
![Photo of Trinette Radasa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/455166a4-9b0a-4107-bbe2-d564b8d429dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trinette Radasa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist (ACNS) based in California. I received my Doctorate in Nursing Practice and FNP Certificate from University of Texas at El Paso, Masters in Nursing with ACNS focus and PMHNP Certificates from New Mexico State University, and have been practicing for approximately 8 years as a PMHNP. I currently treat a wide range of adolescents and adults using various psychotherapy and medication modalities.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist (ACNS) based in California. I received my Doctorate in Nursing Practice and FNP Certificate from University of Texas at El Paso, Masters in Nursing with ACNS focus and PMHNP Certificates from New Mexico State University, and have been practicing for approximately 8 years as a PMHNP. I currently treat a wide range of adolescents and adults using various psychotherapy and medication modalities.
![Photo of Amy Milroy, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c080df1-0ba1-4d29-ad66-4ba1eb5342a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Milroy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92023
Are you ready to heal? Let's work together! You may be experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, substance use, or other concerns, and you are seeking wellness. Appointments with me provide personalized blends of medicine and therapy. I have special expertise in ADHD, PTSD and CPTSD, anxiety, and depression. I offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in clinic and retreat settings in California, as well as via telehealth in California and Illinois. I also provide regular medication management and therapy via telehealth in CA, IL, and NM. I'm here for you whether you're wanting progressive or traditional approaches.
Are you ready to heal? Let's work together! You may be experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, substance use, or other concerns, and you are seeking wellness. Appointments with me provide personalized blends of medicine and therapy. I have special expertise in ADHD, PTSD and CPTSD, anxiety, and depression. I offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in clinic and retreat settings in California, as well as via telehealth in California and Illinois. I also provide regular medication management and therapy via telehealth in CA, IL, and NM. I'm here for you whether you're wanting progressive or traditional approaches.
![Photo of Sarita R Shah, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6f97b98-8916-4ee4-b4ae-9ac76a37ef24/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist. I work with people to live their most fulfilling lives while managing anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I also have specialty training in maternal mental health, encompassing pre-conception counseling, pregnancy, and postpartum mental health concerns. My goal is for us to build a relationship where we decide on a treatment plan together that prioritizes your goals.
Welcome! I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist. I work with people to live their most fulfilling lives while managing anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I also have specialty training in maternal mental health, encompassing pre-conception counseling, pregnancy, and postpartum mental health concerns. My goal is for us to build a relationship where we decide on a treatment plan together that prioritizes your goals.
![Photo of Chandra Rogers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b068061-4b99-4969-9301-97bb858269d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chandra Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
![Photo of Rita Onwenna, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e6a176a-7ccd-44e8-8b82-ed5689e79e7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rita Onwenna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Rita Onwenna, DNP is an experienced and a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Rita completed her doctorate degree in nursing practice at Walden University. She received her post doctorate certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Bradman University. She obtained her master’s degrees in nursing with emphasis in family medicine and school health services from California State University, Long Beach.
Rita Onwenna, DNP is an experienced and a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Rita completed her doctorate degree in nursing practice at Walden University. She received her post doctorate certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Bradman University. She obtained her master’s degrees in nursing with emphasis in family medicine and school health services from California State University, Long Beach.
![Photo of Nasreen Safdar Rahman, NP, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ad3af67-5505-482e-8399-e5f9543aecf8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nasreen Safdar Rahman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
I have been working as a psych mental health nurse practitioner for the past 3 years in a nonprofit organization, but I have been in healthcare for the past 22 years and out of those 14 years I have been working as a family nurse practitioner with patients from diverse backgrounds in the family practice as well as urgent care setting. I have diverse life experience which includes teaching high school, college and nursing students preparing them for their bachelor's and master's programs.
I have been working as a psych mental health nurse practitioner for the past 3 years in a nonprofit organization, but I have been in healthcare for the past 22 years and out of those 14 years I have been working as a family nurse practitioner with patients from diverse backgrounds in the family practice as well as urgent care setting. I have diverse life experience which includes teaching high school, college and nursing students preparing them for their bachelor's and master's programs.
![Photo of Ani Balabegian, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e351cbf7-616b-4c80-a9f9-f4ff08dc0f1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ani Balabegian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a nurse practitioner based in California.
Hi! I am a nurse practitioner based in California.
![Photo of Jose Menendez Interiano, PHNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89e97830-7753-4231-b8c5-54842ec136b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jose Menendez Interiano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHNP-BC
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Hello everyone, I’m Jose. Mental health is a journey that may bring about multiple and complex behavioral situations to our lives. Thus, have you ever felt like giving up? Lack of enjoyment or motivation in your life? Have you noticed an aura of disengagement with your friends, family, or coworkers? Are you increasingly developing low frustration tolerance that keeps you from feeling accomplished in your daily life, whether is from symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood instability, substance use or psychosis? You are not alone! And we can form a caring team centered according to your individual situation.
Hello everyone, I’m Jose. Mental health is a journey that may bring about multiple and complex behavioral situations to our lives. Thus, have you ever felt like giving up? Lack of enjoyment or motivation in your life? Have you noticed an aura of disengagement with your friends, family, or coworkers? Are you increasingly developing low frustration tolerance that keeps you from feeling accomplished in your daily life, whether is from symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood instability, substance use or psychosis? You are not alone! And we can form a caring team centered according to your individual situation.
![Photo of Jordan Blaine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41569cfd-1783-47b1-abcc-beb1c6269114/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING 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.
ACCEPTING 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.
![Photo of Emily Palacio, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/950ffda7-ceca-40e3-9c4e-139dcf455731/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Palacio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Emily Palacio. I am bilingual. I speak English and Spanish. I am dually board certified as a doctoral-prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner in California. I have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I have 4 years of medication management experience and 1 year of experience in therapy training. I was an emergency department nurse for 17 years and have been practicing as a family nurse practitioner at Kaiser Permanente in family practice, obstetrics and gynecology, and dermatology specialties.
Welcome! My name is Emily Palacio. I am bilingual. I speak English and Spanish. I am dually board certified as a doctoral-prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner in California. I have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I have 4 years of medication management experience and 1 year of experience in therapy training. I was an emergency department nurse for 17 years and have been practicing as a family nurse practitioner at Kaiser Permanente in family practice, obstetrics and gynecology, and dermatology specialties.
See more therapy options for Cardiff By The Sea
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cardiff By The Sea, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Cardiff By The Sea, CA who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Cardiff By The Sea, CA see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cardiff By The Sea?
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.