Psychiatrists in Brisbane, CA
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![Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90a27160-65d7-4870-a59d-ac0d60697f41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Jean-Paul Cortez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c3e4412-d5d3-4c7e-a93e-6abf7809d17a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jean-Paul Cortez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015 (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m JP, your dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal during our sessions is to create an inclusive environment where you feel valued and supported. Whether you seek guidance, healing, or simply someone to listen, I am here to offer my expertise and support. I have over 10 years of healthcare experience - 4 of those specializing in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions including ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction/substance abuse, insomnia, bipolar disorder, trauma, and more.
Welcome! I’m JP, your dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal during our sessions is to create an inclusive environment where you feel valued and supported. Whether you seek guidance, healing, or simply someone to listen, I am here to offer my expertise and support. I have over 10 years of healthcare experience - 4 of those specializing in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions including ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction/substance abuse, insomnia, bipolar disorder, trauma, and more.
![Photo of Harry David Verby, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54e4087c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I Am a Nationally Recognised Speciaist in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Add/Adhd in Adults, Adolescents and Children as well as its frequently associated Comorbid Conditions such as Anxiety, Depression And Bipolar Disorder My Diagnostic initial Workup includes a thorough Battery of Diagnostic Inventories, A Face To Face Interview, and Administration of The QBT computer test, an FDA Approved Platform For Objective Adhd Diagnossi [see adhdmd.net for details
I Am a Nationally Recognised Speciaist in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Add/Adhd in Adults, Adolescents and Children as well as its frequently associated Comorbid Conditions such as Anxiety, Depression And Bipolar Disorder My Diagnostic initial Workup includes a thorough Battery of Diagnostic Inventories, A Face To Face Interview, and Administration of The QBT computer test, an FDA Approved Platform For Objective Adhd Diagnossi [see adhdmd.net for details
![Photo of Susan Word - TeleHealthPsyCare, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95271a32-e55f-4e70-b512-96ca9403bb63/3/320x400.jpeg)
What's bothering you the most today? Let's work on it. Sometimes meds help.
What's bothering you the most today? Let's work on it. Sometimes meds help.
![Photo of Armando León - Armando Leon MD | Courage Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1959b919-e48c-4e5c-b9e7-987afb48f286/2/320x400.jpeg)
Please visit my website at www.couragepsychiatry.org. Dr. Armando León is a licensed psychiatrist with experience in medication management and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. His clinical approach acknowledges the important roles that mindfulness and curiosity play in achieving and maintaining wellness. He sees early relationships as foundational to how we operate in the world and hopes to promote greater insight and capacity for change through this lens.
Please visit my website at www.couragepsychiatry.org. Dr. Armando León is a licensed psychiatrist with experience in medication management and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. His clinical approach acknowledges the important roles that mindfulness and curiosity play in achieving and maintaining wellness. He sees early relationships as foundational to how we operate in the world and hopes to promote greater insight and capacity for change through this lens.
![Photo of Steven James Pennybaker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fbfc54e-7d1a-48b0-a2a9-96e2920d2688/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steven James Pennybaker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109 (Online Only)
I am accepting patients for medication management, ketamine, and TMS. I am not available for weekly therapy. If you are looking to be a new patient, send me a message about your goals, treatment desired, and insurance carrier and if I have availability we will reach out! I am a psychiatrist who works with patients with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and psychotic illness. I enjoy working with patients and finding a treatment plan that works for them.
I am accepting patients for medication management, ketamine, and TMS. I am not available for weekly therapy. If you are looking to be a new patient, send me a message about your goals, treatment desired, and insurance carrier and if I have availability we will reach out! I am a psychiatrist who works with patients with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and psychotic illness. I enjoy working with patients and finding a treatment plan that works for them.
![Photo of Paul R Linde, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b118af76-789d-4dc8-ab36-3603e4895773/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years in emergency psychiatric care. I have international clinical and teaching experience, a published author and researcher, and have been a professor at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) for several decades. I am currently a clinical supervisor for Ria’s medical and coaching teams specializing in Alcohol Counseling Online.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years in emergency psychiatric care. I have international clinical and teaching experience, a published author and researcher, and have been a professor at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) for several decades. I am currently a clinical supervisor for Ria’s medical and coaching teams specializing in Alcohol Counseling Online.
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d28c3afa-4418-4dfe-8ec5-5980acd0facd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102 (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 Michelle Kwok, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfe1f3a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified psychiatrist, I treat psychiatric conditions using the bio-psycho-social framework. Psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, like thyroid problems, the effects of chemotherapy, strokes, or genetic predisposition. Psychiatric issues may also have psychological causes, such as the lack of coping skills, difficulty processing situations, or early life experiences. Finally, psychiatric disorders may have sociological explanations: overwhelming expectations of one's social setting, perhaps, or drastic changes in one's environment.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I treat psychiatric conditions using the bio-psycho-social framework. Psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, like thyroid problems, the effects of chemotherapy, strokes, or genetic predisposition. Psychiatric issues may also have psychological causes, such as the lack of coping skills, difficulty processing situations, or early life experiences. Finally, psychiatric disorders may have sociological explanations: overwhelming expectations of one's social setting, perhaps, or drastic changes in one's environment.
![Photo of Kimberly Erlich - Kimberly Erlich-Pediatric Mental Health Specialist, MSN, MPH, PNP-PC, PMHS-BC, CIMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06ae4c5a-0219-4584-abb5-d599c7ce9fa9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Erlich-Pediatric Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PNP-PC, PMHS-BC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
Yale-trained Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; double board certified in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Mental Health & certified integrative mental health professional; in practice for 22 years. Collaborative style; committed to the use of evidence-based practices to promote mental health and wellness and treat behavioral disorders, while utilizing integrative/holistic interventions as appropriate. Skilled at treating anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, attention disorders, and disorders of behavioral regulation. I partner with Fullscript online supplement pharmacy: us.fullscript.com/welcome/kerlich.
Yale-trained Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; double board certified in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Mental Health & certified integrative mental health professional; in practice for 22 years. Collaborative style; committed to the use of evidence-based practices to promote mental health and wellness and treat behavioral disorders, while utilizing integrative/holistic interventions as appropriate. Skilled at treating anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, attention disorders, and disorders of behavioral regulation. I partner with Fullscript online supplement pharmacy: us.fullscript.com/welcome/kerlich.
![Photo of Aurelio Edward Galang Sadang, PMHNPBC, NP-C, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8a8034b-3380-4a91-82ed-6126f8e9f10d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aurelio Edward Galang Sadang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, NP-C, RN
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010 (Online Only)
I am here to help you feel better, achieve your goals in life and give you hope. I am not here to judge but to understand what is going on through your mind. We will be successful with your cooperation. It would not be easy, with our hard work and determination, nothing is impossible.
I am here to help you feel better, achieve your goals in life and give you hope. I am not here to judge but to understand what is going on through your mind. We will be successful with your cooperation. It would not be easy, with our hard work and determination, nothing is impossible.
![Photo of Jan B Weber - Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry, Jan Weber, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf64dfb3-66be-4eaf-868a-6da00946cd6c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, Jan Weber, MD
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044 (Online Only)
Welcome to Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry! As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with subspecialty in child and adolescent psychiatry and additional training in complementary medicine, I provide holistic mental health treatment for children, teenagers and adults with a particular focus on nutrition and homeopathy. I have more than 20 years of clinical experience, as well as a track record of excellent clinical outcomes.
Welcome to Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry! As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with subspecialty in child and adolescent psychiatry and additional training in complementary medicine, I provide holistic mental health treatment for children, teenagers and adults with a particular focus on nutrition and homeopathy. I have more than 20 years of clinical experience, as well as a track record of excellent clinical outcomes.
![Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - Sheenie Ambardar, MD, Concierge Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81397c7d-48de-44fe-90b5-e7caa9d0a27a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheenie Ambardar, MD, Concierge Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive psychiatrist and therapist who understands and respects your unique cultural heritage and will genuinely honor your lived experiences, history, and personal journey? Have you been told that psychiatry and therapy are only for those lacking in inner strength and resolve? Are you in need of a supportive environment where you can freely express yourself and get the treatment you need for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Insomnia?
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive psychiatrist and therapist who understands and respects your unique cultural heritage and will genuinely honor your lived experiences, history, and personal journey? Have you been told that psychiatry and therapy are only for those lacking in inner strength and resolve? Are you in need of a supportive environment where you can freely express yourself and get the treatment you need for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Insomnia?
![Photo of Rama Dronamraju - Mindful Health Solutions - Rama Dronamraju, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53cdfa6b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Rama Dronamraju, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I focus on patients with clinical depression, bipolar depression, treatment-resistant mood and psychotic disorders. I am particularly interested in helping patients with neuromodulation and brain stimulation therapies, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
I focus on patients with clinical depression, bipolar depression, treatment-resistant mood and psychotic disorders. I am particularly interested in helping patients with neuromodulation and brain stimulation therapies, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
![Photo of Tiffany Hwang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f513c73-6395-440c-a552-9b5929190b85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I'm a women's mental health psychiatrist. I provide medication management and therapy for women throughout all of life's stages and hormonal changes. Additionally, as a reproductive psychiatrist, I specialize in caring for women with depression and anxiety who are pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or managing the postpartum course. My specialty extends to depressive and anxious symptoms related to periods or undergoing fertility treatments.
Welcome! I'm a women's mental health psychiatrist. I provide medication management and therapy for women throughout all of life's stages and hormonal changes. Additionally, as a reproductive psychiatrist, I specialize in caring for women with depression and anxiety who are pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or managing the postpartum course. My specialty extends to depressive and anxious symptoms related to periods or undergoing fertility treatments.
![Photo of Aura Mena, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15e7f287-a79f-475f-97f1-8b3ec40baf23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner I worked for 12 years as an inpatient nurse at a local hospital, 8 of which were as an inpatient psychiatric nurse working with the adult population. I've spent the last 6 years working as a Community Mental Health Nurse with underserved communities in the county that suffer from severe mental illnesses. During that time, I also completed the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at UCSF. My area of expertise are adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. From the start of my career, I realized that I have the responsibility to meet my clients where they are.
Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner I worked for 12 years as an inpatient nurse at a local hospital, 8 of which were as an inpatient psychiatric nurse working with the adult population. I've spent the last 6 years working as a Community Mental Health Nurse with underserved communities in the county that suffer from severe mental illnesses. During that time, I also completed the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at UCSF. My area of expertise are adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. From the start of my career, I realized that I have the responsibility to meet my clients where they are.
![Photo of Ellen M Walker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4894e33f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you make transformative life changes and build emotional resilience through a collaborative process. We will work using talk therapy to explore your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, personality, and relationships to better sort out your reasons for seeking help. We will consider whether there is a biological aspect to your difficulties and if you may benefit from medications to enhance your therapy. Finally, we will identify your goals, strengths, temperament, interests, personality traits, and life experiences to tailor an individual treatment for you.
My goal is to help you make transformative life changes and build emotional resilience through a collaborative process. We will work using talk therapy to explore your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, personality, and relationships to better sort out your reasons for seeking help. We will consider whether there is a biological aspect to your difficulties and if you may benefit from medications to enhance your therapy. Finally, we will identify your goals, strengths, temperament, interests, personality traits, and life experiences to tailor an individual treatment for you.
![Photo of Dora-Linda Wang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/562c0875-958c-4802-9e62-5d0fe7ef73c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Treatment Philosophy & Approach: Each individual is unique, and each person's treatment should be unique. Count on me to bring all my experience to your service. This includes my foundations as a Yale-educated physician who was then trained by some of the most expert psychopharmacologists and psychotherapists at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute. I was born in Brazil, served as President of the APA Caucus of Asian American Psychiatrists, and I am of the Greek Orthodox faith. I will embrace your unique cultural identity. I have practiced for nearly 30 years.
Treatment Philosophy & Approach: Each individual is unique, and each person's treatment should be unique. Count on me to bring all my experience to your service. This includes my foundations as a Yale-educated physician who was then trained by some of the most expert psychopharmacologists and psychotherapists at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute. I was born in Brazil, served as President of the APA Caucus of Asian American Psychiatrists, and I am of the Greek Orthodox faith. I will embrace your unique cultural identity. I have practiced for nearly 30 years.
![Photo of Dr. Earth Hasassri, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a0e140a-beae-4ca0-a778-7faad204a6b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with training from Stanford, UCSF, and the Mayo Clinic. My goal is to help you or your loved one start feeling better. I take the time to listen closely to understand what you're experiencing and can provide support through both therapy and medication. I work with individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and specialize in treating ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other unique neuropsychiatric conditions. Together, we'll work towards your goals and enhance your quality of life.
I'm a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with training from Stanford, UCSF, and the Mayo Clinic. My goal is to help you or your loved one start feeling better. I take the time to listen closely to understand what you're experiencing and can provide support through both therapy and medication. I work with individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and specialize in treating ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other unique neuropsychiatric conditions. Together, we'll work towards your goals and enhance your quality of life.
![Photo of Jessica Crawford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54efe3c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
**COVID-19 Update** Life in the Bay Area was already complex and stress-inducing, and now we contend with a major public health crisis. Many of my current clients want help coping with difficult current events and life changes from the pandemic. Generally I see clients experiencing a range of mood and anxiety challenges. Many of my clients are high performers who excel at school or work, yet want to accelerate their personal growth and improve relationships with those around them.
**COVID-19 Update** Life in the Bay Area was already complex and stress-inducing, and now we contend with a major public health crisis. Many of my current clients want help coping with difficult current events and life changes from the pandemic. Generally I see clients experiencing a range of mood and anxiety challenges. Many of my clients are high performers who excel at school or work, yet want to accelerate their personal growth and improve relationships with those around them.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Brisbane, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Brisbane, CA who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Brisbane, 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 Brisbane?
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.