Psychiatrists in La Honda, CA
![Photo of Magdalena Spariosu, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b10a6065-b5a8-4f86-807c-28bad311fbc0/1/320x400.png)
Hello and welcome to my page! As a Brain Injury Medicine Psychiatrist, I am passionate about helping high-achieving individuals who are facing the challenges of medical and neurological co-morbidities, particularly those who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whether recently or in the past. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance to patients recovering from TBI, who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, memory deficits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they work towards reclaiming their sense of self and achieving their optimal well-being once again.
Hello and welcome to my page! As a Brain Injury Medicine Psychiatrist, I am passionate about helping high-achieving individuals who are facing the challenges of medical and neurological co-morbidities, particularly those who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whether recently or in the past. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance to patients recovering from TBI, who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, memory deficits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they work towards reclaiming their sense of self and achieving their optimal well-being once again.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08b77ff3-e640-45f3-936c-a8b265696ba1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94028 (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. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc24639c-4437-41e9-94d5-88aba0b3d503/1/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028 (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 Ashley Miller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77e7a520-4e65-409b-9093-fa72c9397310/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Manar Abdelmegeed, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d95c78a-9647-44b5-9ff5-fe644d4e8f0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Are you a high achieving professional suffering from stress or burn out? Do you have mood changes? Do you feel easily overwhelmed by daily activities? Are you a parent wondering how to help your child reach their maximum potential? I am an integrative psychiatrist board certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry who believes in a holistic approach to mental health. I specialize in assessing and treating multiple mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients! Are you a high achieving professional suffering from stress or burn out? Do you have mood changes? Do you feel easily overwhelmed by daily activities? Are you a parent wondering how to help your child reach their maximum potential? I am an integrative psychiatrist board certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry who believes in a holistic approach to mental health. I specialize in assessing and treating multiple mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Harpreet Kaur Johl, DNP, MPH, CNL, FNP-BC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42feae06-cd20-4380-ae11-5210e9d5ffde/1/320x400.png)
Harpreet Kaur Johl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, CNL, FNP-BC, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
I am a doctorally prepared, dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I believe in providing holistic, whole person care. Besides medication management, psychotherapy and integrative modalities can provide the much needed support for patients. Exploring these modalities to help you improve your symptoms and quality of life is of utmost importance. Modalities explored are complementary and alternative medicine (CAMs) and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
I am a doctorally prepared, dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I believe in providing holistic, whole person care. Besides medication management, psychotherapy and integrative modalities can provide the much needed support for patients. Exploring these modalities to help you improve your symptoms and quality of life is of utmost importance. Modalities explored are complementary and alternative medicine (CAMs) and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Dr, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4ce809e-3b11-4159-8c27-e01ba3f57689/1/320x400.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 Serena Wu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe206670-93cc-4423-8f05-6b0070ea1023/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and family doctor who provides supportive therapy and medication management. I believe in the thoughtful use of psychiatric medications grounded in the best available evidence based principles. I use a combination of medications and therapeutic modalities to help each client achieve their mental health goals. I believe that lifestyle, nutrition and also physical health all interplay to influence mental health. I am here to support clients in whatever stage they are in with compassion and empathy.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and family doctor who provides supportive therapy and medication management. I believe in the thoughtful use of psychiatric medications grounded in the best available evidence based principles. I use a combination of medications and therapeutic modalities to help each client achieve their mental health goals. I believe that lifestyle, nutrition and also physical health all interplay to influence mental health. I am here to support clients in whatever stage they are in with compassion and empathy.
![Photo of John Whittier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05274161-b4c7-44c2-9c8b-43df8e5198be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. John Whittier is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. Dr. Whittier is primarily focused on medication management of general psychiatric conditions. He approaches each client as an individual, using the one-hour initial intake to get a comprehensive look at each client’s unique needs. From there he works with his clients to provide options and flexibility in the treatment plan utilizing a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and evidence-based alternative therapies.
Dr. John Whittier is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. Dr. Whittier is primarily focused on medication management of general psychiatric conditions. He approaches each client as an individual, using the one-hour initial intake to get a comprehensive look at each client’s unique needs. From there he works with his clients to provide options and flexibility in the treatment plan utilizing a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and evidence-based alternative therapies.
![Photo of Anita Garloff, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51fa2b50-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anita is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience helping patients with anxiety and mood disorders.
Anita is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience helping patients with anxiety and mood disorders.
![Photo of Nwankaego Nwandei, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/263f7684-ac08-40d7-bc76-edebf34ba1d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
![Photo of Steven James Pennybaker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fbfc54e-7d1a-48b0-a2a9-96e2920d2688/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steven James Pennybaker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109 (Online Only)
I am accepting patients for medication management, ketamine, and TMS. I am not available for weekly therapy. If you are looking to be a new patient, send me a message about your goals, treatment desired, and insurance carrier and if I have availability we will reach out! I am a psychiatrist who works with patients with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and psychotic illness. I enjoy working with patients and finding a treatment plan that works for them.
I am accepting patients for medication management, ketamine, and TMS. I am not available for weekly therapy. If you are looking to be a new patient, send me a message about your goals, treatment desired, and insurance carrier and if I have availability we will reach out! I am a psychiatrist who works with patients with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and psychotic illness. I enjoy working with patients and finding a treatment plan that works for them.
![Photo of Jamie Lacsina, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6da6f1c-7af0-4219-b8eb-9767abf7df0d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with a vast array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, and addiction. I am particularly interested in women's mental health as well as reproductive psychiatry. I utilize both psychopharmacologic forms of treatment as well as psychodynamic, DBT informed, CBT styles of therapy. I am originally from the Bay Area. I studied Genetics at UC Davis. I then went on to obtain my Masters Degree in Biophysics and Physiology at Georgetown University. I then returned to California where I obtained my medical degree from Touro University- CA.
I have experience working with a vast array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, and addiction. I am particularly interested in women's mental health as well as reproductive psychiatry. I utilize both psychopharmacologic forms of treatment as well as psychodynamic, DBT informed, CBT styles of therapy. I am originally from the Bay Area. I studied Genetics at UC Davis. I then went on to obtain my Masters Degree in Biophysics and Physiology at Georgetown University. I then returned to California where I obtained my medical degree from Touro University- CA.
![Photo of Nikhil Majumdar - Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e660a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
![Photo of Cynthia Florin - Cynthia Florin, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437efd0a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, problems with attention, are in a life transition, experiencing trauma and its consequences, or have wishes for a greater sense of authenticity, my 30 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist and psychotherapist has convinced me that a good relationship with a mental health provider can help you understand, accept and value your unique story. I believe it is my passion for this work that has led me to be selected as one of the "Best Doctors in America" for 20 straight years.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, problems with attention, are in a life transition, experiencing trauma and its consequences, or have wishes for a greater sense of authenticity, my 30 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist and psychotherapist has convinced me that a good relationship with a mental health provider can help you understand, accept and value your unique story. I believe it is my passion for this work that has led me to be selected as one of the "Best Doctors in America" for 20 straight years.
![Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7fd0c1f-f7d8-4abc-8145-7b18dbfc9215/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
![Photo of Ifeyinwa Utoh-Ofodile, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/760a89bb-b78e-4c85-815b-b28ad6ab0264/1/320x400.png)
Ifeyinwa Utoh-Ofodile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608 (Online Only)
Ideal clients are adults facing mood swings, anxiety, life adjustments, or attention challenges. They seek understanding, support, and evidence-based interventions to navigate their mental health journey toward improved well-being and fulfillment.
Ideal clients are adults facing mood swings, anxiety, life adjustments, or attention challenges. They seek understanding, support, and evidence-based interventions to navigate their mental health journey toward improved well-being and fulfillment.
![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 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 Zainob Jenmi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ef503ec-082d-4b87-bb64-8da4068e2f6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zainob Jenmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111 (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
See more therapy options for La Honda
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in La Honda, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in La Honda, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Infertility |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Other |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in La Honda, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in La Honda?
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.