Psychiatrists in Hamilton City, CA
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62ac1fe2-f710-406a-9d0c-c7d8c35f51fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Hamilton City, CA 95951 (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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Tameka Dyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420e2b17-4f1d-42ba-a25a-d5c4fde8f496/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chico, CA 95926 (Online Only)
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
![Photo of Dr. Anoopinder Singh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3183c322-c077-4374-8518-643eb9288b3b/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Anoopinder Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Singh uses a holistic approach to treat college and university students and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, co-morbid disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and trauma. He has worked in disaster psychiatry outreach, the Medical Reserve Corps, and foreign and local governments, providing psychological first-aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India.
Dr. Anoopinder Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Singh uses a holistic approach to treat college and university students and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, co-morbid disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and trauma. He has worked in disaster psychiatry outreach, the Medical Reserve Corps, and foreign and local governments, providing psychological first-aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5edfabd6-9fc4-44f9-9cdb-f9eddf0a2505/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Julie LaFreniere, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d5efe85-1cc7-49d3-af69-a4a33851ea46/2/320x400.png)
Julie is board-certified with over 30 years of nursing experience in long-term care, inpatient, and outpatient facilities. She helps adults and seniors and brings a holistic, evidence-based approach to therapy using medication management, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, socialization, and spirituality.
Julie is board-certified with over 30 years of nursing experience in long-term care, inpatient, and outpatient facilities. She helps adults and seniors and brings a holistic, evidence-based approach to therapy using medication management, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, socialization, and spirituality.
![Photo of Nelly Duarti - Braincom Advanced Nursing , APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ab6273f-9b16-4c93-9f9e-66560b23fae7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Braincom Advanced Nursing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chico, CA 95926 (Online Only)
Hi, are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing.
Hi, are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of MacDana Seleçon, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a962ec-f532-4328-8efb-5edd4015e155/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a provider who listens well? Someone who doesn’t require you to spell out the symptoms of PTSD. Someone who sees you as a person and not a diagnosis. Imagine a provider with a holistic mental health approach and an understanding that some problems can’t be solved with a prescription. If you are nodding your head while reading this, perhaps your search is over!
Are you looking for a provider who listens well? Someone who doesn’t require you to spell out the symptoms of PTSD. Someone who sees you as a person and not a diagnosis. Imagine a provider with a holistic mental health approach and an understanding that some problems can’t be solved with a prescription. If you are nodding your head while reading this, perhaps your search is over!
![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
Folsom, CA 95630
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 Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82ef6369-a88d-48ef-ac61-2bcabcb4caf2/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Naveen Mishra, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467fcc5f-6e13-45fc-bce7-66be90624608/2/320x400.jpeg)
I take a Holistic Approach when addressing Your Psychiatric Care. I feel that Psychotherapy, Medication Management, Diet, Nutrition, Exercise and a Good Support System are essential Pieces to a Healthy Mind and Body. A D.O. or Doctor of Osteopathy undergoes the same training as an M.D. The key difference is that D.O.'s receive extra training in the interconnected system of nerves, muscles and bones that make up two-thirds of your body. In Psychiatry, this translates into treating the "whole person." For more information, please visit: The American Osteopathic Asssociation Website.
I take a Holistic Approach when addressing Your Psychiatric Care. I feel that Psychotherapy, Medication Management, Diet, Nutrition, Exercise and a Good Support System are essential Pieces to a Healthy Mind and Body. A D.O. or Doctor of Osteopathy undergoes the same training as an M.D. The key difference is that D.O.'s receive extra training in the interconnected system of nerves, muscles and bones that make up two-thirds of your body. In Psychiatry, this translates into treating the "whole person." For more information, please visit: The American Osteopathic Asssociation Website.
![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
Auburn, CA 95603
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 Angela Yuen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2573ee5b-84bb-4c31-a6b3-0dd987d04800/1/320x400.png)
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. I appreciate the idea of patients having not only access to medication management and psychotherapy but also the latest interventional psychiatric treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. I see TMS and Esketamine as great options for patients to consider when medication management and therapy alone do not provide adequate relief for depression. I am excited to see how these treatments evolve and develop over time as accessibility to these modalities improves.
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. I appreciate the idea of patients having not only access to medication management and psychotherapy but also the latest interventional psychiatric treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. I see TMS and Esketamine as great options for patients to consider when medication management and therapy alone do not provide adequate relief for depression. I am excited to see how these treatments evolve and develop over time as accessibility to these modalities improves.
![Photo of Thomas Earwood, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7df82727-d84d-4190-ad91-8d4573aba9dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am Dr. Thomas L. Earwood, I am licensed Psychiatrist. I received my medical degree from Medical College of Georgia and has been in practice for more than 20 years. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and empathetic care to each of my patients. My extensive background in the field has equipped me with a deep understanding of diverse mental health issues and effective treatment strategies.
Hi! I am Dr. Thomas L. Earwood, I am licensed Psychiatrist. I received my medical degree from Medical College of Georgia and has been in practice for more than 20 years. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and empathetic care to each of my patients. My extensive background in the field has equipped me with a deep understanding of diverse mental health issues and effective treatment strategies.
![Photo of Dr. Vishal Patel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0fd7c7a-e4c2-4952-991b-f23d568fca89/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Vishal Patel is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Patel is guided by psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches.
Dr. Vishal Patel is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Patel is guided by psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches.
![Photo of Oyebola Oyelade, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c292031-2890-4612-9fdb-52839dc0aad0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, CA 95648 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
![Photo of Jane Egbufoama, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d7320d8-c89e-493e-8598-1f5cbd7cb69b/1/320x400.png)
Jane is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience.
Jane is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience.
![Photo of Jamie Fauth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7c47ab4-239c-4aa7-b56b-ab74ccdbf9c7/1/320x400.png)
Jamie Fauth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Citrus Heights, CA 95610 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Jamie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating women’s issues, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community. During sessions, I use a compassion focused and client centered therapeutic approach. I take a holistic perspective on mental health medication treatment and will carefully evaluate your background, lifestyle, and health history to help you choose the right medication.
Hi, I’m Jamie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating women’s issues, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community. During sessions, I use a compassion focused and client centered therapeutic approach. I take a holistic perspective on mental health medication treatment and will carefully evaluate your background, lifestyle, and health history to help you choose the right medication.
![Photo of Jerry H. Gelbart, MD, QME, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71f5d7f1-f3dd-4a02-b472-2496d0419bcf/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Jerry Gelbart. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, went to college in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I attended medical school at Ohio State University, and trained in Psychiatry at UCLA. I’ve been in private practice for 30+ years. I have helped many people suffering from psychological symptoms with medication and firmly advocate biologic methods of treatment. I’ve had an even greater passion, however, for teaching people how to understand their emotions, and how to put that information to use to reduce problematic symptoms and find greater fulfillment in life.
My name is Jerry Gelbart. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, went to college in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I attended medical school at Ohio State University, and trained in Psychiatry at UCLA. I’ve been in private practice for 30+ years. I have helped many people suffering from psychological symptoms with medication and firmly advocate biologic methods of treatment. I’ve had an even greater passion, however, for teaching people how to understand their emotions, and how to put that information to use to reduce problematic symptoms and find greater fulfillment in life.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526f8830-6bcf-4331-b5e6-b4d450fb3bb0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Woodland, CA 95695 (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 Patricia Tinglin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e66b93b-ff3f-4aa8-9971-38f9d4b20c10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Tinglin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of San Francisco and is dually board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in many diverse areas as a Nurse Practitioner, including psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, pulmonary medicine, and academia. She is well versed in working with patients of all ages and has experience working with mild, moderate, and severe mental health disorders.
Patricia Tinglin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of San Francisco and is dually board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in many diverse areas as a Nurse Practitioner, including psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, pulmonary medicine, and academia. She is well versed in working with patients of all ages and has experience working with mild, moderate, and severe mental health disorders.
See more therapy options for Hamilton City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hamilton City, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hamilton City, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Parenting |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Hamilton City, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hamilton City?
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.