Psychiatrists in Pacoima, CA
![Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80fb0618-8717-409d-9636-ad880a199434/2/320x400.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 Ashley Cyronak - Carative Psychiatry , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cbc6104-0612-4a81-9693-745b4b4e184f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331 (Online Only)
Welcome to Carative Psychiatry! Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. At Carative Psychiatry, we desire to provide health services to our clients that focus on improving their mental health but also to educate and prevent future issues. Carative Psychiatry is a Nurse practitioner owned psychiatric practice that uses evidenced based practice to improve the quality of life of their clients. We see our clients through zoom
Welcome to Carative Psychiatry! Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. At Carative Psychiatry, we desire to provide health services to our clients that focus on improving their mental health but also to educate and prevent future issues. Carative Psychiatry is a Nurse practitioner owned psychiatric practice that uses evidenced based practice to improve the quality of life of their clients. We see our clients through zoom
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/599b6771-009c-43fe-a6df-e740b2be29e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
![Photo of Pablo Ghersi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfbb342d-2d83-4a00-bece-fb482e00caab/1/320x400.png)
Pablo Ghersi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Pablo and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Pablo Ghersi is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 14 years’ experience in healthcare. Pablo's passion for mental health sprung from his experience as a firefighter and paramedic in the city of Atlanta, working with the underserved population of the city. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Pablo and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Pablo Ghersi is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 14 years’ experience in healthcare. Pablo's passion for mental health sprung from his experience as a firefighter and paramedic in the city of Atlanta, working with the underserved population of the city. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Margarita Krasnova, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401d6faa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embracing the courage it takes to seek help, my practice offers a supportive space aimed at overcoming stigma and past hurdles. With a holistic focus, we prioritize resilience and coping strategies over medication alone, exploring a broad spectrum of therapeutic options tailored to individual strengths. This approach ensures comfort and empowerment, guiding patients through their journey towards healing with understanding and inclusivity.
Embracing the courage it takes to seek help, my practice offers a supportive space aimed at overcoming stigma and past hurdles. With a holistic focus, we prioritize resilience and coping strategies over medication alone, exploring a broad spectrum of therapeutic options tailored to individual strengths. This approach ensures comfort and empowerment, guiding patients through their journey towards healing with understanding and inclusivity.
![Photo of Cristian Penciu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d00077d-0398-4242-ae8e-b5f54642ec6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
![Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/586fa504-a216-488d-b502-f50967da0537/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sylmar, CA 91342 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
![Photo of Gregory McGowan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be0bef95-4fd2-4b0f-b612-35a66fca0d7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gregory McGowan is a licensed psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from Marshall University and then completed his residency in psychiatry at the University of California. Dr. McGowan currently practices at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA and sees patients at various locations, including Los Angeles, Van Nuys, Culver City, CA.
Dr. Gregory McGowan is a licensed psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from Marshall University and then completed his residency in psychiatry at the University of California. Dr. McGowan currently practices at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA and sees patients at various locations, including Los Angeles, Van Nuys, Culver City, CA.
![Photo of Dr. Jasbir Virk - Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eb700d9-4618-4f45-a105-4bef30fa117b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/facdbbb7-c64f-4420-8edc-bf6b5575616e/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 Alisa Monicayo, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/114c5ff2-25fd-44e6-a288-7f2476dd5e66/2/320x400.png)
Alisa Monicayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90068
Alisa believes that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all; each patient brings a unique experience, beliefs, and needs to their journey. She is passionate about women’s perinatal mental health and working with children and adolescents. Alisa uses medication management and other non-pharmacological techniques to help patients reach their full potential and the highest level of functioning. Her approach is compassionate, holistic, and patient-centered.
Alisa believes that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all; each patient brings a unique experience, beliefs, and needs to their journey. She is passionate about women’s perinatal mental health and working with children and adolescents. Alisa uses medication management and other non-pharmacological techniques to help patients reach their full potential and the highest level of functioning. Her approach is compassionate, holistic, and patient-centered.
![Photo of Surendra Chaganti, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc090e55-bf5f-43df-9837-28c596cd0493/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Suren Chaganti and I'm a member of the Grow Therapy prescribers team. I am currently based in MO. I am licensed in CA, FL, GA, and MO. I am currently practicing in CA and MO. I am relocating to Florida. I completed my Psychiatry residency at UMKC School of Medicine, and J.D. from Saint Louis University School of Law. I have been in practice since 1995.
My name is Suren Chaganti and I'm a member of the Grow Therapy prescribers team. I am currently based in MO. I am licensed in CA, FL, GA, and MO. I am currently practicing in CA and MO. I am relocating to Florida. I completed my Psychiatry residency at UMKC School of Medicine, and J.D. from Saint Louis University School of Law. I have been in practice since 1995.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed34b68-46cd-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 Jordan Blaine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3561f4f-63e2-4e58-936c-17ec7ae54c0c/1/320x400.png)
Jordan Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505 (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 Alex Lazar - Alex Lazar TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d8b5d5e-bf87-4a35-a46a-c18860eb85cb/2/320x400.png)
Welcome to Bliss TMS! Founded and led by Dr. Alex Lazar who has over 25 years of experience in the field of mental health and psychiatry. At the heart of our practice, Bliss TMS is dedicated to treat patients with depression who have failed to attain satisfactory improvement from a prior or current antidepressant medication.
Welcome to Bliss TMS! Founded and led by Dr. Alex Lazar who has over 25 years of experience in the field of mental health and psychiatry. At the heart of our practice, Bliss TMS is dedicated to treat patients with depression who have failed to attain satisfactory improvement from a prior or current antidepressant medication.
![Photo of Sunni Erika Gessel, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42d21ffe-2b73-45dd-b087-5d1526e11af2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sunni Erika Gessel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hollywood, CA 91601
I treat mild to moderate mental health conditions through therapeutic interventions and medication monitoring.
I treat mild to moderate mental health conditions through therapeutic interventions and medication monitoring.
![Photo of Lorraine Nxumalo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1c4022a-7faf-4c23-94e5-58d91d2980a3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine Nxumalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
I am Lorraine Nxumalo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in diverse mental health settings. I prioritize compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals facing mental health challenges. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I aim to work closely with patients, respecting their beliefs and unique needs, and ensuring their voices are heard. My goal is to provide tailored, patient-centered care.
I am Lorraine Nxumalo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in diverse mental health settings. I prioritize compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals facing mental health challenges. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I aim to work closely with patients, respecting their beliefs and unique needs, and ensuring their voices are heard. My goal is to provide tailored, patient-centered care.
![Photo of Hripsime Kalanderian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aabf7fe-2101-4179-a135-4144f1a3c56e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that your mental health treatment should be as unique and individualized as you are. We are far more than just a group of symptoms that make up diagnoses, only to be treated with a generic list of medications. In my practice, I aim to incorporate evidence-based treatments while also considering the different factors that impact your mental health while working in collaboration with you. I limit my caseload to optimize availability for my established patients along with providing flexibility in scheduling and appointment times.
I believe that your mental health treatment should be as unique and individualized as you are. We are far more than just a group of symptoms that make up diagnoses, only to be treated with a generic list of medications. In my practice, I aim to incorporate evidence-based treatments while also considering the different factors that impact your mental health while working in collaboration with you. I limit my caseload to optimize availability for my established patients along with providing flexibility in scheduling and appointment times.
![Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b730e1b9-7844-42c2-a084-25716731b78a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
![Photo of Dr. Taiye Owareye Osawe - Salvage Psychiatry , DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79678c10-c9f8-4b29-a726-331c5c323510/3/320x400.jpeg)
Salvage Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91411
Dr. Taiye Osawe is a highly skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience. As the CEO of Salvage Psychiatry, she brings a wealth of expertise in providing top-notch mental health care. Dr. Osawe specializes in working with all populations and has extensive experience in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD etc. At Salvage Psychiatry, clients find a supportive community of mental health experts offering personalized, compassionate, affordable, and high-quality services.
Dr. Taiye Osawe is a highly skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience. As the CEO of Salvage Psychiatry, she brings a wealth of expertise in providing top-notch mental health care. Dr. Osawe specializes in working with all populations and has extensive experience in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD etc. At Salvage Psychiatry, clients find a supportive community of mental health experts offering personalized, compassionate, affordable, and high-quality services.
See more therapy options for Pacoima
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pacoima, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Pacoima, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Pacoima, CA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pacoima?
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.