Psychiatrists in Healdsburg, CA
![Photo of Shannon Jones, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91eac78f-8eb7-4a80-9288-9516725eaa6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Healdsburg, CA 95448 (Online Only)
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fe93b50-1a1c-4e3b-8a59-6a7f9802f9b2/1/320x400.png)
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Windsor, CA 95492 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/808f7a54-f95d-46f7-8752-8b0967c5dfee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Windsor, CA 95492 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County and 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 and University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Natalie Artinian, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/206ef517-ad77-42a6-a200-1ca53dbf9e7d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
![Photo of Sean Tai, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bedafdc-38a1-4613-aab9-1e8eb512f121/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sean Tai’s approach towards mental health is holistic and integrative, with a focus on biological, psychological, and sociological contributors to psychiatric illness and wellness. He is especially interested in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. He believes in individualized, collaborative treatment plans as well as the importance of psychotherapy to help with recovery.
Dr. Sean Tai’s approach towards mental health is holistic and integrative, with a focus on biological, psychological, and sociological contributors to psychiatric illness and wellness. He is especially interested in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. He believes in individualized, collaborative treatment plans as well as the importance of psychotherapy to help with recovery.
![Photo of Sham Singh, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cd45c7f-203c-44f5-b757-2092e0e6449c/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Dr, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/882a5c06-0563-4944-93e7-a94df82b4669/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kevin Rosi - Mindful Health Solutions - Kevin Rosi, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4412a2e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating patients with Mood Depressive Disorders (MDD), which, according to the Centers for Disease Control, may impact 14-17% of the adult population in their lifetime. Also known as "clinical depression", patients who suffer from this may be treated with medication, interventional psychotherapy, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
I specialize in treating patients with Mood Depressive Disorders (MDD), which, according to the Centers for Disease Control, may impact 14-17% of the adult population in their lifetime. Also known as "clinical depression", patients who suffer from this may be treated with medication, interventional psychotherapy, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
![Photo of Edgaradrian Yepescorrea - Adrian Yepes, NP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ca691d2-72f2-4697-9a36-8be326b5bfc8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adrian Yepes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a background as a psychologist and advanced training from UCSF. I offer virtual and in-person visits for adults in California, providing psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder. My approach is compassionate and culturally sensitive, focusing on empowering you to take control of your mental health journey.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a background as a psychologist and advanced training from UCSF. I offer virtual and in-person visits for adults in California, providing psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder. My approach is compassionate and culturally sensitive, focusing on empowering you to take control of your mental health journey.
![Photo of John Hosley, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a37810c2-bbb5-4c00-b4f8-c945f96068ef/2/320x400.png)
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. I am an associate provider of Headlands ATS, a leader in addiction psychiatry. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility - and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. I am an associate provider of Headlands ATS, a leader in addiction psychiatry. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility - and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
![Photo of Nancy Pletcher, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e79088ea-d5ae-4fc5-ac52-e5e16e985fef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Pletcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nancy and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety, medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nancy and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety, medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of R. Robert Eskuchen Jr., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caec55e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you want to be known and understood deeply without restrictions? Do you want to unearth the lost parts of yourself during an integrative process with another person? Do you want to have the experience that someone gets you and even understands the parts of yourself you don't enjoy or that cause you trouble?
Do you want to be known and understood deeply without restrictions? Do you want to unearth the lost parts of yourself during an integrative process with another person? Do you want to have the experience that someone gets you and even understands the parts of yourself you don't enjoy or that cause you trouble?
![Photo of Tiffani Ordonez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b21d281-5973-431c-a921-c1a3493ca87c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffani Marie Ordonez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2016. Before working in healthcare, she received an art practice and art history degree from the University of California, Berkeley and completed a year of academic training in marriage and family therapy with a concentration in art therapy at Notre Dame de Namur. She received an accelerated BSN degree at Samuel Merritt University and worked for two years as an ICU registered nurse before completing her MSN degree in from the University of California, San Francisco.
Tiffani Marie Ordonez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2016. Before working in healthcare, she received an art practice and art history degree from the University of California, Berkeley and completed a year of academic training in marriage and family therapy with a concentration in art therapy at Notre Dame de Namur. She received an accelerated BSN degree at Samuel Merritt University and worked for two years as an ICU registered nurse before completing her MSN degree in from the University of California, San Francisco.
![Photo of Dr. Chanelle Ramsubick, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7861c104-110f-4c4f-a895-1b55eaa10301/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Chanelle Ramsubick works with patients of all ages with a focus on mood disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. She uses a compassionate and non-judgmental approach that can include medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Dr. Ramsubick collaborates with patients in a safe environment to create an individualized treatment plan. She believes mental health is an integral part of overall health and should be prioritized.
Dr. Chanelle Ramsubick works with patients of all ages with a focus on mood disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. She uses a compassionate and non-judgmental approach that can include medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Dr. Ramsubick collaborates with patients in a safe environment to create an individualized treatment plan. She believes mental health is an integral part of overall health and should be prioritized.
![Photo of James Reich, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54cce60c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone from time to time needs a helping hand. I am experienced with professor appointments at UCSF and Stanford. I treat outpatients in person and by telepsychiatry with medication management and psychotherapy (CBT and Mindfulness). My patients tend to be talented professionals (doctors, lawyers, tech) who have done well but have hit a bump with emotional symptoms, stress, or life difficulties. I believe each patient has unique needs that must be individually assessed and addressed. When indicated I use medication. I am a good choice for someone seeking a therapist and psychiatrist in one person.
Everyone from time to time needs a helping hand. I am experienced with professor appointments at UCSF and Stanford. I treat outpatients in person and by telepsychiatry with medication management and psychotherapy (CBT and Mindfulness). My patients tend to be talented professionals (doctors, lawyers, tech) who have done well but have hit a bump with emotional symptoms, stress, or life difficulties. I believe each patient has unique needs that must be individually assessed and addressed. When indicated I use medication. I am a good choice for someone seeking a therapist and psychiatrist in one person.
![Photo of Elena Rapoport, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aeaa483-b797-4d1b-a037-ae04b5349f1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My training, experience, and broad interest in human behaviors, human interactions, the variety of human experiences have led me to treat a number of conditions. I truly care about my patients. I want to help you confront your anxieties, your fears, and your issues. I understand the discomfort you might be experiencing due to the overwhelming complexities you may be feeling. I want you to feel better, and I will draw upon my expertise to explore techniques and methods that will help you start feeling like yourself again. I specialize in helping people feel better using individualized medication management and TMS therapy.
My training, experience, and broad interest in human behaviors, human interactions, the variety of human experiences have led me to treat a number of conditions. I truly care about my patients. I want to help you confront your anxieties, your fears, and your issues. I understand the discomfort you might be experiencing due to the overwhelming complexities you may be feeling. I want you to feel better, and I will draw upon my expertise to explore techniques and methods that will help you start feeling like yourself again. I specialize in helping people feel better using individualized medication management and TMS therapy.
![Photo of Tarina Quraishi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d588ff10-5716-44e5-827f-d40c8418768b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Stanford-trained MD with expertise in ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD and depression.
I am a Stanford-trained MD with expertise in ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD and depression.
![Photo of Tirath Gill, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e73b1c2f-919f-4680-b726-dc5f1c1c2366/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in practice for over 25 years serving patients and communities in different roles. I believe in keeping the patient’s concerns front and center when making treatment plans and it delights me to see them get better. I believe many individuals are capable of brilliant insights that can bring lasting joy and peace in their lives. I believe in the great potential of cognitive behavior therapy and other therapies. Sometimes therapy works even better when combined with the right psychiatric medication. I enjoy working with other clinicians on collaborative care.
I have been in practice for over 25 years serving patients and communities in different roles. I believe in keeping the patient’s concerns front and center when making treatment plans and it delights me to see them get better. I believe many individuals are capable of brilliant insights that can bring lasting joy and peace in their lives. I believe in the great potential of cognitive behavior therapy and other therapies. Sometimes therapy works even better when combined with the right psychiatric medication. I enjoy working with other clinicians on collaborative care.
![Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/289a0851-735f-4145-b022-c0d5db182d54/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
![Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f2b1ec7-d886-47ed-8a40-551e7f4ab8e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
See more therapy options for Healdsburg
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Healdsburg, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Healdsburg, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Veterans |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Healdsburg, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Healdsburg?
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.