Psychiatrists in Kensington, CA
![Photo of Bradley Engwall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4af405e7-8358-409a-b815-62d8d913c6ea/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kyle Chen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a8ee48-05df-44b3-b64f-65c1563b555f/1/320x400.png)
Kyle Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
Kyle Chen PMHNP-BC Licensed in: California Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Kyle Chen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He received his degree from California State University – Los Angeles and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 6 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient facilities. His goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatments through evidence-based practices.
Kyle Chen PMHNP-BC Licensed in: California Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Kyle Chen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He received his degree from California State University – Los Angeles and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 6 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient facilities. His goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatments through evidence-based practices.
![Photo of Tara N Valenzuela, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71ba6eee-3c3c-4191-b189-d037ac27bab0/1/320x400.png)
Tara N Valenzuela
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
![Photo of Ravi Hariprasad, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b1440c-1cd4-417e-ac4b-ce7a42c43289/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard (MGH) trained psychiatrist, an engineer and a serial entrepreneur. As an integrative physician, I am ambidextrous in performing as a psychopharmacologist, an Ayurvedic healer, a therapist, and a mindful life coach. Together we collaborate closely to identify and remove obstacles to wellness, to reduce suffering, and to gain a personal understanding of the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Your personal preferences and strengths guide our approach. Quite simply, I approach problem solving and treatment planning differently.
I am a Harvard (MGH) trained psychiatrist, an engineer and a serial entrepreneur. As an integrative physician, I am ambidextrous in performing as a psychopharmacologist, an Ayurvedic healer, a therapist, and a mindful life coach. Together we collaborate closely to identify and remove obstacles to wellness, to reduce suffering, and to gain a personal understanding of the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Your personal preferences and strengths guide our approach. Quite simply, I approach problem solving and treatment planning differently.
![Photo of Kumar Vedantham, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c4da72b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kumar Vedantham
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94709
Waitlist for new clients
Combining Science with Kindness is what drew me to psychiatry and is the cornerstone of my practice. After graduating from Brown Medical School, I completed my psychiatry training at UCSF. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years. I currently treat veterans at the Oakland VA Clinic and teach medical students at UCSF. I am proficient at treating Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, ADHD, Addiction, and Trauma. My practice is primarily focused on pharmacologic treatment though I always view my patients through a holistic lens. The engine of my practice is curiosity and compassion.
Combining Science with Kindness is what drew me to psychiatry and is the cornerstone of my practice. After graduating from Brown Medical School, I completed my psychiatry training at UCSF. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years. I currently treat veterans at the Oakland VA Clinic and teach medical students at UCSF. I am proficient at treating Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, ADHD, Addiction, and Trauma. My practice is primarily focused on pharmacologic treatment though I always view my patients through a holistic lens. The engine of my practice is curiosity and compassion.
![Photo of Thakkar Hiten Smita - Bay Area Clinical Associates - BACA, MD, LMFT, LCSW, MPH, AMFT, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/454233dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Bay Area Clinical Associates - BACA
Psychiatrist, MD, LMFT, LCSW, MPH, AMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Bay Area Clinical Associates (BACA) is a physician-owned and operated organization committed to providing integrated, scientific, empathetic mental health treatment for kids, teens, young adults and their families. As a note, we serve only ages 26 years and under. BACA is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of child & adolescent psychiatrists, licensed marriage & family therapists, and licensed clinical social workers. We work to take the "mystery" out of psychiatric care and have a relaxed, fun, caring environment at our clinics. Our Berkeley outpatient clinic is currently impacted but we have openings for our IOPs.
Bay Area Clinical Associates (BACA) is a physician-owned and operated organization committed to providing integrated, scientific, empathetic mental health treatment for kids, teens, young adults and their families. As a note, we serve only ages 26 years and under. BACA is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of child & adolescent psychiatrists, licensed marriage & family therapists, and licensed clinical social workers. We work to take the "mystery" out of psychiatric care and have a relaxed, fun, caring environment at our clinics. Our Berkeley outpatient clinic is currently impacted but we have openings for our IOPs.
![Photo of Norman Postone, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460e45e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, I provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for a broad range of psychiatric and medical-psychiatric problems affecting adults. My approach in therapy is to collaboratively work with you to clarify and understand the issues and conflicts that currently interfere with achieving your life goals. The primary aim of the therapy would be for you to be able to make long lasting and satisfying changes in your life. I combine medication with psychotherapy when needed.
As a board certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, I provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for a broad range of psychiatric and medical-psychiatric problems affecting adults. My approach in therapy is to collaboratively work with you to clarify and understand the issues and conflicts that currently interfere with achieving your life goals. The primary aim of the therapy would be for you to be able to make long lasting and satisfying changes in your life. I combine medication with psychotherapy when needed.
![Photo of Shelly Tran, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a817cdda-5961-42ba-a99b-301e7c6bef55/1/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment philosophy is to get to know each person as a whole. I want to get to know you, your story, and what matters to you. If needed, I will help you tell your story. I approach the therapeutic relationship as a partnership built on trust and communication with you in the driver’s seat. The better you can help me understand your world, the better I can pull from the resources available to me to share with you. You will understand what is going on with you or your child and be active participants in this journey. I enjoy working with parents/caregivers and families and believe it is essential to a child’s treatment & recovery.
My treatment philosophy is to get to know each person as a whole. I want to get to know you, your story, and what matters to you. If needed, I will help you tell your story. I approach the therapeutic relationship as a partnership built on trust and communication with you in the driver’s seat. The better you can help me understand your world, the better I can pull from the resources available to me to share with you. You will understand what is going on with you or your child and be active participants in this journey. I enjoy working with parents/caregivers and families and believe it is essential to a child’s treatment & recovery.
![Photo of Nadege Barbe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce0d2165-72b0-4272-b447-57bf68104003/1/320x400.jpeg)
I was born and raised in South Florida and went on to complete medical school and training in Miami, FL. I developed a passion for working with families early in medical training. I have trained in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency/crisis services. I also have training in DBT and have worked with college students at the University of Miami undergraduate campus.
I was born and raised in South Florida and went on to complete medical school and training in Miami, FL. I developed a passion for working with families early in medical training. I have trained in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency/crisis services. I also have training in DBT and have worked with college students at the University of Miami undergraduate campus.
![Photo of Mohsen Vazirian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f66dc24-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Vazirian is a compassionate psychiatrist who deeply cares about his patient’s health and well-being. He is a kind and expert listener and works closely with each of his patients to develop a detailed treatment plan just for them. He is an experienced board-certified psychiatrist with deep knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and treating a broad spectrum of mental health and emotional conditions using medications and psychotherapy.
Dr. Vazirian is a compassionate psychiatrist who deeply cares about his patient’s health and well-being. He is a kind and expert listener and works closely with each of his patients to develop a detailed treatment plan just for them. He is an experienced board-certified psychiatrist with deep knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and treating a broad spectrum of mental health and emotional conditions using medications and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/952e2beb-1ff1-42fe-a946-f1e31eaaa863/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705 (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 Les Tsang - berkeley behavioral health & wellness, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12dcb6b4-24ac-44a3-9d0f-8663cdf161a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life is hard. Relationships are stressful. Welcome to berkeley behavioral health & wellness. We’re here to help. We offer treatment for a full range of behavioral health conditions in an environment that is supportive, collaborative and personalized to each individual. Dr. Tsang is a UCLA-trained, board certified Psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience specializing in Ketamine treatment and medication management.
Life is hard. Relationships are stressful. Welcome to berkeley behavioral health & wellness. We’re here to help. We offer treatment for a full range of behavioral health conditions in an environment that is supportive, collaborative and personalized to each individual. Dr. Tsang is a UCLA-trained, board certified Psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience specializing in Ketamine treatment and medication management.
![Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44237c10-f733-4a51-a68e-d92917ab745a/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Emily R Watters, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66209bf6-89c3-46e2-93f1-bc0b6516c94e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been a licensed psychiatrist for 15 years. I primarily treat trauma-related issues, depression, anxiety and ADHD. My approach is psychodynamically-oriented and practical. I understand the importance of creating safety in a relationship and carefully tailor my approach to what will best meet your needs and best allow you to heal and grow.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been a licensed psychiatrist for 15 years. I primarily treat trauma-related issues, depression, anxiety and ADHD. My approach is psychodynamically-oriented and practical. I understand the importance of creating safety in a relationship and carefully tailor my approach to what will best meet your needs and best allow you to heal and grow.
![Photo of Terri King, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68d4c676-a973-43d7-b360-e1fb069c2169/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my work with clients, I prefer to use a strength based approach and I strive to understand what makes life meaningful and worth celebrating. At the same time, I also try to uncover and collaborate with other treatment providers to address barriers to health and wellness. I am a strong believer in team building and advocacy for adults, adolescents and children under my care. I completed an undergraduate degree in Ethnic Studies and Integrated Biology at UC Berkeley. I attended Medical School, Adult Psychiatry Residency and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York.
In my work with clients, I prefer to use a strength based approach and I strive to understand what makes life meaningful and worth celebrating. At the same time, I also try to uncover and collaborate with other treatment providers to address barriers to health and wellness. I am a strong believer in team building and advocacy for adults, adolescents and children under my care. I completed an undergraduate degree in Ethnic Studies and Integrated Biology at UC Berkeley. I attended Medical School, Adult Psychiatry Residency and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York.
![Photo of Whitney Smith - K. Whitney Smith, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da200bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
![Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8f40983-4f11-4296-9fe2-e9d8080008a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Greg Roussett - Restorative Psychiatry: Be Well. Sleep Well., NP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f8d808-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Restorative Psychiatry: Be Well. Sleep Well.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Trouble sleeping or can't focus? Big meeting the next day and you're not at your 100%? For more than a decade, I’ve helped high achieving individuals overcome insomnia.
Trouble sleeping or can't focus? Big meeting the next day and you're not at your 100%? For more than a decade, I’ve helped high achieving individuals overcome insomnia.
![Photo of Emily Toch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fb30f9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Toch is deeply committed to the care of her patients. She believes in a collaborative, thoughtful, and humanistic approach to treatment, offering more than just a neurobiological perspective on the wide range of mental health, relationship, and unique life circumstances that bring patients to her door. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar illness, grief and loss, and difficulties with relationships and life transitions. She has experience with women's mental health issues and also offers the possibility of combining medication with psychotherapy when clinically indicated.
Dr. Toch is deeply committed to the care of her patients. She believes in a collaborative, thoughtful, and humanistic approach to treatment, offering more than just a neurobiological perspective on the wide range of mental health, relationship, and unique life circumstances that bring patients to her door. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar illness, grief and loss, and difficulties with relationships and life transitions. She has experience with women's mental health issues and also offers the possibility of combining medication with psychotherapy when clinically indicated.
![Photo of Beatrice Rabkin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e09efdf2-9871-4114-8d2b-f3d50881a28f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I have office locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto. While I specialize in medication management, I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I have office locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto. While I specialize in medication management, I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
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Nearby Searches for Kensington
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kensington, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kensington, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
Average years in practice
28 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Kensington, CA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kensington?
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.