Psychiatrists in Camp Pendleton, CA
Dr. Brandon Niemeier is a Board-certified psychiatrist, who completed training at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and the Portland VA Medical Center. As someone who believes in obtaining an accurate diagnosis with a goal to facilitate the best treatment possible, his main focus is on psychopharmacology when needed, utilizing the most up to date research, and balancing your mental and physical health. He specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues.
Dr. Brandon Niemeier is a Board-certified psychiatrist, who completed training at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and the Portland VA Medical Center. As someone who believes in obtaining an accurate diagnosis with a goal to facilitate the best treatment possible, his main focus is on psychopharmacology when needed, utilizing the most up to date research, and balancing your mental and physical health. He specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues.
KMG Psychiatry (Dr. Ankur Bindal)
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA, FAASM
Verified Verified
Camp Pendleton, CA 92055 (Online Only)
KMG Psychiatry is an integrative psychiatry practice (with 3 offices in Vista, Sorrento Valley and Chula Vista areas providing convenient access) delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to the communities of San-Diego County, with a multi-faceted approach, striving to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths, creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient, using a combination of traditional and innovative treatments. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and state of the art Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
KMG Psychiatry is an integrative psychiatry practice (with 3 offices in Vista, Sorrento Valley and Chula Vista areas providing convenient access) delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to the communities of San-Diego County, with a multi-faceted approach, striving to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths, creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient, using a combination of traditional and innovative treatments. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and state of the art Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92049 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92052 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92049 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
Martina Nankivell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92049 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
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.
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92049 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
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. Now, welcoming 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
Crownview Concierge Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
We are currently accepting new patients! Concierge services allow you to have appointments more conveniently without long waiting periods! We prioritize your schedule and respond within 48 hours. We take pride in being upfront and honest as well as being available to answer any questions that you have. First adult member: $240 a month, $720/quarter, or $2800/ year and Each additional member: $200 off per year. Services include coordination between specialists, emergency help, and unlimited visits. Services do not include TMS, ketamine treatments, infusions, and injections but we offer these services at our Thrive location.
We are currently accepting new patients! Concierge services allow you to have appointments more conveniently without long waiting periods! We prioritize your schedule and respond within 48 hours. We take pride in being upfront and honest as well as being available to answer any questions that you have. First adult member: $240 a month, $720/quarter, or $2800/ year and Each additional member: $200 off per year. Services include coordination between specialists, emergency help, and unlimited visits. Services do not include TMS, ketamine treatments, infusions, and injections but we offer these services at our Thrive location.
Heather Saltos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92052 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Child Psychiatrist residing in San Diego, CA. I love working with children, teens and their families. I understand the struggle of finding a good mental health provider and I am here to help. I have my board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Dartmouth University and am Adult certified as well. I am family oriented, have 3 children of my own, and value both therapy and medication management strategies. There is not a one step approach for treatment and I tailor my management on a patient by patient basis.If you or your family member are struggling, please do not hesitate to reach to reach out.
I am a Child Psychiatrist residing in San Diego, CA. I love working with children, teens and their families. I understand the struggle of finding a good mental health provider and I am here to help. I have my board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Dartmouth University and am Adult certified as well. I am family oriented, have 3 children of my own, and value both therapy and medication management strategies. There is not a one step approach for treatment and I tailor my management on a patient by patient basis.If you or your family member are struggling, please do not hesitate to reach to reach out.
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
See more therapy options for Camp Pendleton
Nearby Searches for Camp Pendleton
- Carlsbad
- Dana Point
- Encinitas
- Mission Viejo
- Murrieta
- Oceanside
- San Clemente
- San Juan Capistrano
- San Marcos
- Temecula
- Vista
- Wildomar
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Camp Pendleton, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Camp Pendleton, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Carelon Health IPA of California (CHIPA) |
How Psychiatrists in Camp Pendleton, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Camp Pendleton?
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.