Psychiatrists in El Dorado, CA
![Photo of Dr. Abhishek Rai - Psychiatrist (Integrative/Holistic), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7da0aa6-9114-4cc8-a135-2d9b68d052ec/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Abhishek Rai is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals grappling with psychiatric conditions such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. What sets Dr. Rai apart is his distinctive approach, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern medicine philosophies in a highly personalized manner for each patient. Driven by the conviction that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and spirit, he initiates treatment with medication but views complete healing as an intricate journey. He empowers his patients with evidence-based modalities and a diverse toolkit for a holistic and transformative healing experience
Dr. Abhishek Rai is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals grappling with psychiatric conditions such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. What sets Dr. Rai apart is his distinctive approach, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern medicine philosophies in a highly personalized manner for each patient. Driven by the conviction that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and spirit, he initiates treatment with medication but views complete healing as an intricate journey. He empowers his patients with evidence-based modalities and a diverse toolkit for a holistic and transformative healing experience
Catherine Mane Bulaong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsychNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado, CA 95623
Not accepting new clients
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07f5116c-7fab-44cb-8217-977d6ea4e235/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Placerville, CA 95667 (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 Joe Hibbeln, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aebcfffa-c3d0-4a9b-af10-fc452e12c759/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist with a focused interest in people struggling with major depression disorder, bipolar disorders, aggressive disorders, ADHD and addictions. I also have a special interest in the field of nutritional psychiatry. Different diets have different affects on the mind and body, and taking that into account is something I find crucial to a wholistic form of treatment along with medications and other alternatives. I feel it is critical to ensure that everyone’s brain receives adequate and fundamental nutrition when looking at their overall mental health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist with a focused interest in people struggling with major depression disorder, bipolar disorders, aggressive disorders, ADHD and addictions. I also have a special interest in the field of nutritional psychiatry. Different diets have different affects on the mind and body, and taking that into account is something I find crucial to a wholistic form of treatment along with medications and other alternatives. I feel it is critical to ensure that everyone’s brain receives adequate and fundamental nutrition when looking at their overall mental health.
![Photo of Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56d3626d-daf6-4804-825f-f9b59855beea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Plymouth, CA 95669 (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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Li Kelly, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78708f82-051f-4f53-b11f-512a2967aaf8/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a healthcare provider, my goal is to work with you to meet your healthcare needs, including your emotional and psychosocial needs.
As a healthcare provider, my goal is to work with you to meet your healthcare needs, including your emotional and psychosocial needs.
![Photo of Dr. Eleanor Curry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5161b9ba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Eleanor Curry cares for women needing maternal mental health and reproductive psychiatry.
Dr. Eleanor Curry cares for women needing maternal mental health and reproductive psychiatry.
Leah Haile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553
Leah Haile is a highly credited Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience with specialties in Perinatal Mental Health, Birth Trauma, and Infertility. Driven by her passion for comprehensive care, Leah earned three degrees: a Bachelors of Science in Nursing, a Masters of Nursing as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, and a Masters of Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Leah Haile is a highly credited Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience with specialties in Perinatal Mental Health, Birth Trauma, and Infertility. Driven by her passion for comprehensive care, Leah earned three degrees: a Bachelors of Science in Nursing, a Masters of Nursing as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, and a Masters of Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Brittany Lute, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ddd01ec-f1f3-4591-a9d2-de644cac5f59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Elizabeth Mole, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60ca0678-68f5-41bd-b16f-20fea2e82ec0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Mole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588 (Online Only)
Dr. Mole, DNP, PMHNP-BC, has an extensive background in treating a wide range of mental health issues, from depression to schizophrenia, ensuring that each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs. Her approach is not just about addressing symptoms but nurturing overall wellness, leveraging cutting-edge treatments and a compassionate, understanding demeanor to foster healing and growth. With a Doctorate of Nursing from Johns Hopkins University and a Masters in Nursing from UCSF, Dr. Mole, DNP, PMHNP-BC, brings over a decade of experience. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Dr. Mole, DNP, PMHNP-BC, has an extensive background in treating a wide range of mental health issues, from depression to schizophrenia, ensuring that each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs. Her approach is not just about addressing symptoms but nurturing overall wellness, leveraging cutting-edge treatments and a compassionate, understanding demeanor to foster healing and growth. With a Doctorate of Nursing from Johns Hopkins University and a Masters in Nursing from UCSF, Dr. Mole, DNP, PMHNP-BC, brings over a decade of experience. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
![Photo of Sanh Nguyen - Sacramento Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5fd0e53-c9d1-48da-9ac3-a656d3d1ac30/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Sacramento Psychiatry and Psychotherapy. My name is Sanh Nguyen, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 11 years of experience. I am trained in Osteopathic medicine and have a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatry. Let's work together to help you find mastery in your relationships with family, friends, coworkers and yourself. My approach to psychiatry is collaborative and patient centered. I support and empower my patients to have an active role in their mental health care.
Welcome to Sacramento Psychiatry and Psychotherapy. My name is Sanh Nguyen, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 11 years of experience. I am trained in Osteopathic medicine and have a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatry. Let's work together to help you find mastery in your relationships with family, friends, coworkers and yourself. My approach to psychiatry is collaborative and patient centered. I support and empower my patients to have an active role in their mental health care.
![Photo of Yuhuan Xie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c016576-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental illnesses not only cause psychological pain, they also prevents you from fully engaging and functioning in daily school/work, personal and family life. You want to restore your previous functioning as soon as possible.
Mental illnesses not only cause psychological pain, they also prevents you from fully engaging and functioning in daily school/work, personal and family life. You want to restore your previous functioning as soon as possible.
![Photo of Cori Hanagami, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f1ed672-8516-4f32-9503-7f74486c4735/1/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative. I recognize that seeking help for psychological distress requires a tremendous amount of courage and feel honored to work with individuals as they navigate through challenging life situations. Often the path to healing is multifaceted and may involve weekly psychotherapy, lifestyle/behavioral changes, and/or medications. I specialize in treatment of adults with OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and trauma related disorders. I primarily provide medication management services and have limited availability for weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy.
My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative. I recognize that seeking help for psychological distress requires a tremendous amount of courage and feel honored to work with individuals as they navigate through challenging life situations. Often the path to healing is multifaceted and may involve weekly psychotherapy, lifestyle/behavioral changes, and/or medications. I specialize in treatment of adults with OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and trauma related disorders. I primarily provide medication management services and have limited availability for weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c866456-2525-4a1a-86ac-ac97e95ae9f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Scott Smolar, DO, DFASAM, PC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b0339b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Smolar's extensive experience treating a full range of ages, backgrounds, mental health and addiction issues makes him well suited to help individuals struggling with a multitude of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Smolar's extensive experience treating a full range of ages, backgrounds, mental health and addiction issues makes him well suited to help individuals struggling with a multitude of psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8bcec97-ce31-4a30-a7ea-cf64d5ba8c8b/1/320x400.png)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) 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 (Telepsychiatry) 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 Eric Nghe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45bd37a5-8129-4e8c-8d52-52095ec44e17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Nghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814 (Online Only)
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
![Photo of Allison Shue, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/440fb222-1c32-4e77-8f88-c227751d1ea9/1/320x400.png)
Allison is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping children and adults.
Allison is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping children and adults.
![Photo of Uchenna Okoye, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f4351a5-2c59-46ef-89a9-ea3af2d627da/1/320x400.png)
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!
![Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f61b2655-b9a7-4d21-b614-a2eb57d4dfef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95747 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
See more therapy options for El Dorado
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in El Dorado, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in El Dorado, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in El Dorado, CA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in El Dorado?
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.