Psychiatrists in El Dorado Hills, CA
![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 Krishna Bezwada - Mindful Health Solutions - Krishna Bezwada, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3243542a-32a9-4743-a326-0a97df072fc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Krishna Bezwada, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
My area of focus includes depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse. Recognizing the promising recovery and remission rates with neurostimulation, I am pleased to integrate Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) into my patient care. TMS may help patients who have not found relief from medications alone and TMS has minimal to no side effects.
My area of focus includes depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse. Recognizing the promising recovery and remission rates with neurostimulation, I am pleased to integrate Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) into my patient care. TMS may help patients who have not found relief from medications alone and TMS has minimal to no side effects.
![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
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 (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 Dr. Pegah Pajouhi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66e2bd40-2cbf-475c-9b8f-c5541c0bbfc8/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Pegah Pajouhi is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Pajouhi provides medication management and has a compassionate, evidence-based approach, accounting for the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that impact each patient’s mental health.
Dr. Pegah Pajouhi is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Pajouhi provides medication management and has a compassionate, evidence-based approach, accounting for the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that impact each patient’s mental health.
![Photo of Fabiola Sweet, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61c1122f-a80e-47aa-a464-4493e26b489d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fabiola Sweet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Is it hard for you to go to sleep and function every day? Are you noticiing it's difficult to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night? Is this affecting your self esteem, school grades, work, or achieving your goals? You are welcome here and you don't have to continue to suffer.
Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Is it hard for you to go to sleep and function every day? Are you noticiing it's difficult to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night? Is this affecting your self esteem, school grades, work, or achieving your goals? You are welcome here and you don't have to continue to suffer.
![Photo of Ani Behrouzi - Trauma Recovery Psychiatry Center , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c56d536b-2660-4e89-bcaf-4ae3319e2b17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trauma Recovery Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Welcome to my psychiatry practice focused on trauma recovery, where the journey towards healing begins with empathy and understanding. I specialize in providing tailored care for individuals navigating the enduring impacts of trauma on their well-being. Central to my approach is a profound comprehension of how trauma affects the mind, body, and soul. I acknowledge the diverse ways trauma can manifest, ranging from anxiety and depression to insomnia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thus, I adopt a holistic treatment strategy that delves into both the symptoms and root causes of distress.
Welcome to my psychiatry practice focused on trauma recovery, where the journey towards healing begins with empathy and understanding. I specialize in providing tailored care for individuals navigating the enduring impacts of trauma on their well-being. Central to my approach is a profound comprehension of how trauma affects the mind, body, and soul. I acknowledge the diverse ways trauma can manifest, ranging from anxiety and depression to insomnia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thus, I adopt a holistic treatment strategy that delves into both the symptoms and root causes of distress.
![Photo of Gaea Pope-Daum, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0426e9aa-9a2b-4857-97c1-818343c53196/1/320x400.jpeg)
My interests in TMS and esketamine treatments stem from my belief that there is no one-size-fits-all to mental health treatment. I am interested in finding what works best for each individual, rather than relying exclusively on more traditional treatment modalities. My ideal patient is interested in pursuing personal wellness – whatever that may mean to them as an individual.
My interests in TMS and esketamine treatments stem from my belief that there is no one-size-fits-all to mental health treatment. I am interested in finding what works best for each individual, rather than relying exclusively on more traditional treatment modalities. My ideal patient is interested in pursuing personal wellness – whatever that may mean to them as an individual.
![Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3306f8a0-ba6d-4498-9a6a-4072a8ecaa1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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
![Photo of Melissa Fisher, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37b803fa-18e5-4cd7-b517-8fc99807e555/1/320x400.png)
Melissa Fisher is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is committed to providing compassionate and empathetic care. She has been practicing medicine since 2003. Melissa is dual-certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. After working several years in hematology/oncology, she transitioned into psychiatry and completed a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been working in psychiatry for 10+ years and has experience treating adults of all ages in inpatient/skilled nursing and outpatient settings.
Melissa Fisher is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is committed to providing compassionate and empathetic care. She has been practicing medicine since 2003. Melissa is dual-certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. After working several years in hematology/oncology, she transitioned into psychiatry and completed a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been working in psychiatry for 10+ years and has experience treating adults of all ages in inpatient/skilled nursing and outpatient settings.
![Photo of Penelope Libeu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04191a2a-f63a-4d04-900c-1ee4ab2b2ba4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Penelope Libeu is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and has been in practice since 2018. She received her BA from UC Berkeley, earned her medical degree from Rush Medical College, and graduated from Northwestern Memorial Hospital's psychiatry residency program. Dr. Libeu's approach to improving mental health is multidisciplinary and may include combining medication(s) with psychotherapy, group therapy, relationship (couple's) therapy, and making lifestyle changes to improve your overall well-being, e. g.
Dr. Penelope Libeu is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and has been in practice since 2018. She received her BA from UC Berkeley, earned her medical degree from Rush Medical College, and graduated from Northwestern Memorial Hospital's psychiatry residency program. Dr. Libeu's approach to improving mental health is multidisciplinary and may include combining medication(s) with psychotherapy, group therapy, relationship (couple's) therapy, and making lifestyle changes to improve your overall well-being, e. g.
![Photo of Shannon Suo, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f713804-c7a0-49fe-8bf4-c8325cbbe27c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I completed my undergraduate studies at UC Davis with a BS in Zoology, focused on behavior. I attended University of Cincinnati School of Medicine for my medical degree and came back to Sacramento for a combined residency in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I chose the combined practice of Family Medicine and Psychiatry because I saw the impact that psychological concerns had on the health of individuals and how often primary care physicians were not prepared to understand or treat these problems. I maintain Board Certification in both Family Medicine and Adult Psychiatry.
I completed my undergraduate studies at UC Davis with a BS in Zoology, focused on behavior. I attended University of Cincinnati School of Medicine for my medical degree and came back to Sacramento for a combined residency in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I chose the combined practice of Family Medicine and Psychiatry because I saw the impact that psychological concerns had on the health of individuals and how often primary care physicians were not prepared to understand or treat these problems. I maintain Board Certification in both Family Medicine and Adult Psychiatry.
![Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dfe7f07-c9bd-41c2-a5d1-c6e7a356e302/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95762
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 Jeremy Ernst, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5481c81b-0e09-4bf4-9db2-886a7c079218/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jeremy Ernst is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Ernst helps clients by taking a holistic and collaborative approach to care. Together they are able to find root causes for mental health concerns and find safe and effective solutions. Outside of work, Dr. Ernst enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with his family.
Dr. Jeremy Ernst is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Ernst helps clients by taking a holistic and collaborative approach to care. Together they are able to find root causes for mental health concerns and find safe and effective solutions. Outside of work, Dr. Ernst enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with his family.
![Photo of Maisha Correia, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f7bbab9-ebd5-404a-8e7f-5ed6ae3cbe4f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Maisha Correia is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She earned her BA in Psychology with a Chemistry correlate from Vassar College, then moved to San Francisco to earn her MD from University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. Dr. Correia provides a thoughtful, complete diagnostic evaluation in addition to well considered medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She has a particular interest in treating chronic trauma symptoms as well as a broad base of experience doing so.
Dr. Maisha Correia is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She earned her BA in Psychology with a Chemistry correlate from Vassar College, then moved to San Francisco to earn her MD from University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. Dr. Correia provides a thoughtful, complete diagnostic evaluation in addition to well considered medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She has a particular interest in treating chronic trauma symptoms as well as a broad base of experience doing so.
![Photo of Maria Steiner-Renoir, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50737aff-1d69-4f50-ab0c-8db1ba842265/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Steiner-Renoir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95661
I am an integrative psychiatric provider who helps adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, life role transitions and trauma/PTSD related issues to regain their vitality and centeredness, create better understanding of self, and achieve closer relationships with others by using a holistic approach of care. I also have a special interest in working with individuals who are going through divorce, adoption, birth, moving, severe illness, or have experienced a death in their family.
I am an integrative psychiatric provider who helps adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, life role transitions and trauma/PTSD related issues to regain their vitality and centeredness, create better understanding of self, and achieve closer relationships with others by using a holistic approach of care. I also have a special interest in working with individuals who are going through divorce, adoption, birth, moving, severe illness, or have experienced a death in their family.
![Photo of Deborah S Johnson, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90c84dd2-116b-4e61-a08d-c1d2c5f85bf3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), trained across the lifespan but specialized with children, adolescents and families. In addition to practicing from a strengths-based perspective, I have taught child/adolescent/family psychotherapy at UCSF, where I am a Professor Emeritus in the PMHNP and DNP programs. Furthermore, I am a Fellow with American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP).
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), trained across the lifespan but specialized with children, adolescents and families. In addition to practicing from a strengths-based perspective, I have taught child/adolescent/family psychotherapy at UCSF, where I am a Professor Emeritus in the PMHNP and DNP programs. Furthermore, I am a Fellow with American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP).
Dr. Geetha Reddy graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in Molecular and Cell Biology, and earned her medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. She completed General Psychiatry training at University of California, San Francisco, and fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Northwestern University. She additionally obtained a Masters in Public Health from Harvard University. She is an active member of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
Dr. Geetha Reddy graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in Molecular and Cell Biology, and earned her medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. She completed General Psychiatry training at University of California, San Francisco, and fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Northwestern University. She additionally obtained a Masters in Public Health from Harvard University. She is an active member of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
![Photo of Anthony Kelada, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ca95f53-37ec-4883-a3c6-bfbef1fc495b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a psychiatrist with a college degree in physiology and neurosciences, so I have a good scientific foundation of how the brain and body works. I'm also a strong believer in Christian faith, in particular Coptic Orthodox, and apply that when I can.
I'm a psychiatrist with a college degree in physiology and neurosciences, so I have a good scientific foundation of how the brain and body works. I'm also a strong believer in Christian faith, in particular Coptic Orthodox, and apply that when I can.
See more therapy options for El Dorado Hills
Nearby Searches for El Dorado Hills
- Auburn
- Carmichael
- Citrus Heights
- Elk Grove
- Fair Oaks
- Folsom
- Granite Bay
- Orangevale
- Pilot Hill
- Rocklin
- Roseville
- Sacramento
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in El Dorado Hills, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in El Dorado Hills, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
89% | Depression |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Stress |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Elevance |
100% | Blue Shield |
How Psychiatrists in El Dorado Hills, CA see their clients
89% | In Person and Online | |
11% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in El Dorado Hills?
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.