Psychiatrists in American Canyon, CA
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f27ce3a0-bdb4-4a65-91c1-52a108d7d000/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
American Canyon, CA 94503 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Jacqueline Constantino, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec17811b-ea0b-41d8-a081-fff6f383eff1/1/320x400.png)
Jacqueline Constantino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
American Canyon, CA 94503
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
![Photo of Michelle Ladringan, DNP, APRN, PHN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd7a872d-2bcd-4cd8-b8a0-156eba70cfdd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Ladringan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PHN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Canyon, CA 94503
Call me now- The interactions that occur between our bodies, minds, and environment have always piqued my curiosity. This curiosity has taken me on a plethora of excursions as I have learned how we come to be such distinct individuals. The medical specialty that makes the most sense is psychiatry and the bio-psycho-social approach, which considers all facets of a person's life. Being an integrative psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am receptive to both conventional and complementary/alternative methods for achieving recovery and completeness.
Call me now- The interactions that occur between our bodies, minds, and environment have always piqued my curiosity. This curiosity has taken me on a plethora of excursions as I have learned how we come to be such distinct individuals. The medical specialty that makes the most sense is psychiatry and the bio-psycho-social approach, which considers all facets of a person's life. Being an integrative psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am receptive to both conventional and complementary/alternative methods for achieving recovery and completeness.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f298c77b-8795-4318-aaa4-d994587de25c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a41a944b-761e-43b4-b34c-8753cac34093/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Navmoon Singh Mann, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff2f24b0-3915-4844-966d-72cb480e7c22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health challenges can be overwhelming. You do not have to face your struggles alone — call us today for a consultation and start down the path towards better health.
Mental health challenges can be overwhelming. You do not have to face your struggles alone — call us today for a consultation and start down the path towards better health.
My name is Andrea Hall, a board-certified Psychiatic Nurse Practitioner. I sought out opportunities to deepen my understanding of mental health care, I pursed additional training, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care to patients with complex psychiatric conditions.
My name is Andrea Hall, a board-certified Psychiatic Nurse Practitioner. I sought out opportunities to deepen my understanding of mental health care, I pursed additional training, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care to patients with complex psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Tiffany D Smith Gishizky, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88fc8a30-c6e6-488b-b67f-118eedf13bb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who works with individuals with complex mental health conditions.
Tiffany is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who works with individuals with complex mental health conditions.
![Photo of Tamara Lee, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4c3774d-e8d0-427d-af04-619dab5bfb23/1/320x400.png)
Tamara has over 28 years of experience. To achieve health and well-being, she embraces a bio-psycho-spiritual approach to symptom management. Tamara understands that health is a daily practice requiring commitment and believes in educating and empowering each person she works with to understand the identified health concerns, what treatment options may be, and the rationale for these.
Tamara has over 28 years of experience. To achieve health and well-being, she embraces a bio-psycho-spiritual approach to symptom management. Tamara understands that health is a daily practice requiring commitment and believes in educating and empowering each person she works with to understand the identified health concerns, what treatment options may be, and the rationale for these.
![Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a88d96c-249f-460e-9b94-779fa0691e7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94558
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Nataly Kuznetsov, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f931e7c-f383-4177-abbf-27d3a5230b24/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nataly Kuznetsov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
Have you experienced psychological trauma as a first responder or frontline healthcare worker? Do you find that feelings of isolation and depression are keeping you exhausted or angry? You are not alone and help is available. My name is Nataly. I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience in EMS, trauma and disaster response.
Have you experienced psychological trauma as a first responder or frontline healthcare worker? Do you find that feelings of isolation and depression are keeping you exhausted or angry? You are not alone and help is available. My name is Nataly. I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience in EMS, trauma and disaster response.
![Photo of Patricia Brown, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d5da959-7e0e-4654-b8a1-84307f089931/2/320x400.png)
Patty is a compassionate and dedicated advocate for mental well-being, who integrates her professional experience with her personal passions. Her heart is for family, her spirit craves exploration through travel, and she has a playful soul that finds joy in the camaraderie of games. Patty helps patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and grief using medication management. Her commitment to the well-being of patients extends beyond the clinical realm, embracing the richness of life’s experience and the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and soul.
Patty is a compassionate and dedicated advocate for mental well-being, who integrates her professional experience with her personal passions. Her heart is for family, her spirit craves exploration through travel, and she has a playful soul that finds joy in the camaraderie of games. Patty helps patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and grief using medication management. Her commitment to the well-being of patients extends beyond the clinical realm, embracing the richness of life’s experience and the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and soul.
![Photo of Oyebola Oyelade, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c292031-2890-4612-9fdb-52839dc0aad0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Benicia, CA 94510 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
![Photo of Stacey Amber Flores - Integrated Psychiatric Nursing Inc, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c123912-8ca6-45fb-ae50-7dc71554b585/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Psychiatric Nursing Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vallejo, CA 94590
I offer comprehensive psychiatric services to children, teens and adults. I work with adolescents and adults with bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. l enjoy helping kiddos navigate ADHD, ODD, DMDD treatment options and psychotherapeutic interventions which may be beneficial. My goal is to help each client reach their goals and explore all domains of life and evaluate areas which may need some extra care. Whether you're going through a life stressor and need help navigating that or are ready to work on a chronic problem, I am here to help see you through this and provide you with comprehensive care.
I offer comprehensive psychiatric services to children, teens and adults. I work with adolescents and adults with bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. l enjoy helping kiddos navigate ADHD, ODD, DMDD treatment options and psychotherapeutic interventions which may be beneficial. My goal is to help each client reach their goals and explore all domains of life and evaluate areas which may need some extra care. Whether you're going through a life stressor and need help navigating that or are ready to work on a chronic problem, I am here to help see you through this and provide you with comprehensive care.
![Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/747ef477-41f9-482f-a24a-98e9166fe615/1/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
![Photo of Keleigh Jefferson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd9978a8-04b9-4354-8192-217d0e55cdff/1/320x400.png)
Keleigh Jefferson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Vallejo, CA 94590 (Online Only)
Keleigh Jefferson is a Doctorate Prepared Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and individualized care to teens and adults who are seeking assistance in coping with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, stress management, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, and self-esteem management. She believes it is crucial to evaluate the interconnectedness of a patient's environment, emotions, culture, physical health, spiritual beliefs, and relationships in order to gain a deeper understanding of their goals for improving health and wellness.
Keleigh Jefferson is a Doctorate Prepared Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and individualized care to teens and adults who are seeking assistance in coping with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, stress management, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, and self-esteem management. She believes it is crucial to evaluate the interconnectedness of a patient's environment, emotions, culture, physical health, spiritual beliefs, and relationships in order to gain a deeper understanding of their goals for improving health and wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a567a1a-93de-448a-b6c1-ba23d85a194e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Jimmark Abenojar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f033547-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Jimmark Abenojar. My training and experience is broad and includes general psychiatry training and child & adolescent subspecialty training. I am also a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and have been practicing medicine since 2005. I have been working in the field of mental health since 1995. My practice of psychiatry is traditional, in that I spend a considerable amount of time early in the evaluation phase to learn about you and understand what difficulties you may be experiencing.
My name is Dr. Jimmark Abenojar. My training and experience is broad and includes general psychiatry training and child & adolescent subspecialty training. I am also a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and have been practicing medicine since 2005. I have been working in the field of mental health since 1995. My practice of psychiatry is traditional, in that I spend a considerable amount of time early in the evaluation phase to learn about you and understand what difficulties you may be experiencing.
![Photo of Rebecca Blakesley, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/390d646f-fb53-4f22-af48-7671a6977577/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
![Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fe93b50-1a1c-4e3b-8a59-6a7f9802f9b2/1/320x400.png)
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vallejo, CA 94591 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
See more therapy options for American Canyon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in American Canyon, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in American Canyon, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Veterans |
67% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Depression |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Grief |
67% | Parenting |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in American Canyon, CA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in American Canyon?
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.