Psychiatrists in Fallbrook, CA
Jennifer Kalia-Overlie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fallbrook, CA 92028
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in learning about each individual and what kind of treatment aligns with them. Through thoughtful use of medication, newer emerging treatments such as Spravato, and brief psychotherapy, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person's lifestyle and personal beliefs.
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in learning about each individual and what kind of treatment aligns with them. Through thoughtful use of medication, newer emerging treatments such as Spravato, and brief psychotherapy, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person's lifestyle and personal beliefs.
I have experience treating a variety of mood/anxiety disorders including depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, Generalized anxiety disorder, and other disorders with success. Symptoms are reviewed in detail for the appropriate treatment options.
I have experience treating a variety of mood/anxiety disorders including depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, Generalized anxiety disorder, and other disorders with success. Symptoms are reviewed in detail for the appropriate treatment options.
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Nicole Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.
My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.
Daniel Reyes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
I advocate for creating a balanced life, emphasizing quality of life across various domains including self-care, family, career, education, relationships, and spirituality. I like to emphasize the ABCs of treatment progress, encouraging clients to adhere to discussed treatment plans, embrace the possibility of change, and explore complementary treatments beyond medication alone.
I advocate for creating a balanced life, emphasizing quality of life across various domains including self-care, family, career, education, relationships, and spirituality. I like to emphasize the ABCs of treatment progress, encouraging clients to adhere to discussed treatment plans, embrace the possibility of change, and explore complementary treatments beyond medication alone.
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. "
Joe is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in 2011. Afterwards, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant Program through the Department of Defense and accredited by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and commissioned as an Officer in the US Army. As a PA, Joe has worked in variety of settings - including Urgent Care, Emergency Medicine, and has extensive knowledge in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine from years of service in the substance use rehab industry.
Joe is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in 2011. Afterwards, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant Program through the Department of Defense and accredited by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and commissioned as an Officer in the US Army. As a PA, Joe has worked in variety of settings - including Urgent Care, Emergency Medicine, and has extensive knowledge in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine from years of service in the substance use rehab industry.
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
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
Suzanne Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
My name is Suzanne Simmons. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I treat patients of all ages. I have worked in healthcare for over 20 years. I spent most of my nursing career as an Intensive Care RN. I've always held an interest in helping those that are the most vulnerable. I chose psychiatry to help people achieve the best version of themselves. During my evaluation you will expect a thorough assessment including an extensive personal history and lab testing.
My name is Suzanne Simmons. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I treat patients of all ages. I have worked in healthcare for over 20 years. I spent most of my nursing career as an Intensive Care RN. I've always held an interest in helping those that are the most vulnerable. I chose psychiatry to help people achieve the best version of themselves. During my evaluation you will expect a thorough assessment including an extensive personal history and lab testing.
Leslie Sweere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Dr Leslie Sweere and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I focus mainly on ensuring that you are well informed about your possible condition and the available treatments for that. In my practice, you are in charge and as long as you are safe I will support any decision that you make. My main focus is doing whatever possible to have a positive impact on your day-to-day life. We are here to make you feel better and ensure you are well-informed. While I treat many conditions effectively my primary specialty is in mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder with and without the complication of dual diagnosis.
Hello, I'm Dr Leslie Sweere and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I focus mainly on ensuring that you are well informed about your possible condition and the available treatments for that. In my practice, you are in charge and as long as you are safe I will support any decision that you make. My main focus is doing whatever possible to have a positive impact on your day-to-day life. We are here to make you feel better and ensure you are well-informed. While I treat many conditions effectively my primary specialty is in mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder with and without the complication of dual diagnosis.
Penny Greaves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Penny Greaves has over twenty years of Nursing experience and received her bachelor's in nursing in 2007 and a Master of Nursing with a primary care nurse practitioner certificate in 2010 from Ryerson University, in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree in 2021 from National University and is dual certified with the ANCC in psychiatry and the AANP in family practice. She is currently pursuing a psychology doctorate degree (PsyD) to improve health outcomes. She is experienced with adults, adults with addictions, complex mental health problems, geriatrics and dementia.
Penny Greaves has over twenty years of Nursing experience and received her bachelor's in nursing in 2007 and a Master of Nursing with a primary care nurse practitioner certificate in 2010 from Ryerson University, in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree in 2021 from National University and is dual certified with the ANCC in psychiatry and the AANP in family practice. She is currently pursuing a psychology doctorate degree (PsyD) to improve health outcomes. She is experienced with adults, adults with addictions, complex mental health problems, geriatrics and dementia.
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Brandon Greenfield, M.D. is a graduate of the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed his residency in General Psychiatry at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital with additional fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Dr. Greenfield provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Greenfield has a holistic approach that emphasizes an empathic understanding of his patients and a wide range of therapeutic approaches to treatment.
Brandon Greenfield, M.D. is a graduate of the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed his residency in General Psychiatry at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital with additional fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Dr. Greenfield provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Greenfield has a holistic approach that emphasizes an empathic understanding of his patients and a wide range of therapeutic approaches to treatment.
Depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and anxiety can deeply affect your daily life, making it difficult to function and enjoy everyday activities. You might feel stuck, anxious, or emotionally unstable. I understand the profound impact these experiences can have on your well-being. My goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive space where we can work together to manage these challenges and promote your mental health
Depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and anxiety can deeply affect your daily life, making it difficult to function and enjoy everyday activities. You might feel stuck, anxious, or emotionally unstable. I understand the profound impact these experiences can have on your well-being. My goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive space where we can work together to manage these challenges and promote your mental health
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
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.
Cecilia Iacoviello is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from UMass Global University. She also received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner from Graceland University. Dr. Iacoviello has experience with acute and chronic mental health issues. Dr. Iacoviello believes the patient is at the center of care and strives to collaborate with other professionals to impart the best possible outcome for her clients.
Cecilia Iacoviello is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from UMass Global University. She also received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner from Graceland University. Dr. Iacoviello has experience with acute and chronic mental health issues. Dr. Iacoviello believes the patient is at the center of care and strives to collaborate with other professionals to impart the best possible outcome for her clients.
Dr. Sandra Cox is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1996. She has a BA in Biology from University of Missouri-Columbia, a Doctorate in Medicine from University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine and completed her Residency in Psychiatry at University of Colorado. Dr. Cox has extensive experience in treating patients with all types of psychiatric issues, from the mildest to the most severe. Dr. Cox is sensitive to her patients' needs to be heard and understood and always explains to them the reasoning behind whatever treatment she is recommending.
Dr. Sandra Cox is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1996. She has a BA in Biology from University of Missouri-Columbia, a Doctorate in Medicine from University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine and completed her Residency in Psychiatry at University of Colorado. Dr. Cox has extensive experience in treating patients with all types of psychiatric issues, from the mildest to the most severe. Dr. Cox is sensitive to her patients' needs to be heard and understood and always explains to them the reasoning behind whatever treatment she is recommending.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence based medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence based medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
See more therapy options for Fallbrook
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fallbrook, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Fallbrook, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Dual Diagnosis |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Fallbrook, CA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fallbrook?
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.