Psychiatrists in Kingsburg, CA
![Photo of Dr. Ani Tokat, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23543f63-4b85-47ca-80c6-9f01b7ba588c/1/320x400.png)
Welcome to Psychiatry 4 Women, where YOU matter! Hello, I am Dr. Ani Tokat, a mother, doctor, educator, and an entrepreneur. I focus on women's mental health needs in all stages of their lives, with emphasis on moms. If you like hole-in-the-wall, little gem type places, then search no further. I created this solo practice with you in mind, without any corporate influence. I brought old school Psychiatry into modern times, where you have direct access to your doctor, where you are not a number in a busy clinic, where you are seen as a human being rather than as a symptom, where your voice is heard without judgement.
Welcome to Psychiatry 4 Women, where YOU matter! Hello, I am Dr. Ani Tokat, a mother, doctor, educator, and an entrepreneur. I focus on women's mental health needs in all stages of their lives, with emphasis on moms. If you like hole-in-the-wall, little gem type places, then search no further. I created this solo practice with you in mind, without any corporate influence. I brought old school Psychiatry into modern times, where you have direct access to your doctor, where you are not a number in a busy clinic, where you are seen as a human being rather than as a symptom, where your voice is heard without judgement.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Priyanka, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc58623c-9ea2-4c3e-881e-bc211708dbcb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Priyanka is a board-certified psychiatrist. She attended medical school in India and came to the United States in 2006 to continue her education. She first attended the Nutrition and Dietetics program at Syracuse University and then joined the psychiatry residency program at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, New York.
Dr. Priyanka is a board-certified psychiatrist. She attended medical school in India and came to the United States in 2006 to continue her education. She first attended the Nutrition and Dietetics program at Syracuse University and then joined the psychiatry residency program at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, New York.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/879b6be7-cabb-4f75-b814-31bc07ac4ec8/1/320x400.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-bas 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-bas 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 Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6a1d983-de95-43a2-83df-7668d390aed8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Paso Robles, CA 93446 (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 Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453d935d-f6fc-441a-b166-0651675cfeb0/1/320x400.png)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c85d75b-96d9-4106-b3ea-cc0c6c32d09b/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93726
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a4f2776-3864-4a23-b153-3039b8d14a17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Dr. Jaberpreet Dhaliwal, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d0597b1-f8a8-4354-ac92-29b3714373b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Jaberpreet Dhaliwal, an Adult Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other health problems through medication management and psychotherapy. Raised in California’s rural Central Valley by a single mother, Dr. Dhaliwal understands the challenges of overcoming adversity and the importance of mental health. After earning his doctorate, he completed an additional four years of specialized training in psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco-Fresno Medical System. He brings his extensive experience from the UC medical system and California's Department of State Hospitals.
Meet Dr. Jaberpreet Dhaliwal, an Adult Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other health problems through medication management and psychotherapy. Raised in California’s rural Central Valley by a single mother, Dr. Dhaliwal understands the challenges of overcoming adversity and the importance of mental health. After earning his doctorate, he completed an additional four years of specialized training in psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco-Fresno Medical System. He brings his extensive experience from the UC medical system and California's Department of State Hospitals.
![Photo of Martina Nankivell, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cfaaf43-f81c-48ba-b733-0abdc659b1ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13fd8dfd-fa01-455d-9d27-acbea590bdee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Anton Fisher - ★★TeleMind®★★, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35bccef8-846a-48a2-9f14-f43ac7e18b7d/1/320x400.png)
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
![Photo of Thomas Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75a16b7b-c8c1-4523-bc6e-0254b08bb5de/1/320x400.png)
Thomas Johnson, MD is a psychiatry specialist in Gardena, CA and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from University of California, Irvine School of Medicine in 1993. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.
Thomas Johnson, MD is a psychiatry specialist in Gardena, CA and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from University of California, Irvine School of Medicine in 1993. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a828557f-dee9-4a6e-b4c5-416cd90576d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5b4b8f6-853b-4306-a427-d8de28d5fdc9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Dr. Damien Lee Young, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72ac8b9b-0985-4990-8803-62d0c738a6ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Damien Lee Young is board-eligible and specializes in adult psychiatry. Dr. Lee Young was raised in the Caribbean where conversations about mental health were “taboo.” He seeks to promote mental health for individuals who experienced similar upbringings. Dr. Lee Young utilizes medication management with a strong interest in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). He completed his residency at New York Metropolitan Hospital, where he engaged with a diverse patient population. Patients here had dual psychiatric/medical or psychiatric/addiction diagnoses. Dr. Lee Young is an aviation enthusiast and has flown solo.
Dr. Damien Lee Young is board-eligible and specializes in adult psychiatry. Dr. Lee Young was raised in the Caribbean where conversations about mental health were “taboo.” He seeks to promote mental health for individuals who experienced similar upbringings. Dr. Lee Young utilizes medication management with a strong interest in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). He completed his residency at New York Metropolitan Hospital, where he engaged with a diverse patient population. Patients here had dual psychiatric/medical or psychiatric/addiction diagnoses. Dr. Lee Young is an aviation enthusiast and has flown solo.
![Photo of Talia Luc, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acb6f769-3486-43d3-90c2-6b7cccee0f05/1/320x400.png)
Talia Luc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Templeton, CA 93465
As a dual-board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, my mission is to provide holistic mental health care that is both compassionate and evidence-based to promote the best outcomes for you. I acknowledge that achieving your optimal well-being isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and I take pride in delivering personalized treatment plans for each person. I offer general mental health, brief psychotherapy, and a functional and integrative approach to enhance your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
As a dual-board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, my mission is to provide holistic mental health care that is both compassionate and evidence-based to promote the best outcomes for you. I acknowledge that achieving your optimal well-being isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, and I take pride in delivering personalized treatment plans for each person. I offer general mental health, brief psychotherapy, and a functional and integrative approach to enhance your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
![Photo of Stuti Bhandari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50575fab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stuti Bhandari is board-certified and focuses on children, transitional-age youth, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Bhandari is well-versed in psychopharmacology and treats with medication management and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
Dr. Stuti Bhandari is board-certified and focuses on children, transitional-age youth, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Bhandari is well-versed in psychopharmacology and treats with medication management and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
![Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edea841a-08c4-43eb-93a9-5cd33c713ecd/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
![Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39528089-0d12-401e-94db-3e211733a5aa/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 Tami Zorge - The Mindful Lemon , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6da2db4e-4f41-460c-9986-1cfb457f7e51/1/320x400.png)
The Mindful Lemon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
See more therapy options for Kingsburg
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kingsburg, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kingsburg, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Infertility |
100% | Life Coaching |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Kingsburg, CA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kingsburg?
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.