Psychiatrists in Los Altos, CA
![Photo of Laurence Tecott, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63854d8e-9c8a-41e0-bbf4-f6b6bac94a87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tecott holds the prestigious position of Professor Emeritus at UCSF, where he served as the Maurice Eliaser Professor in Molecular Biology and Genetics in the Department of Psychiatry within the School of Medicine. Additionally, he is affiliated with the Neuroscience Program and Biomedical Sciences Program at UCSF. Dr. Tecott is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, showcasing his expertise and commitment to the field.
Dr. Tecott holds the prestigious position of Professor Emeritus at UCSF, where he served as the Maurice Eliaser Professor in Molecular Biology and Genetics in the Department of Psychiatry within the School of Medicine. Additionally, he is affiliated with the Neuroscience Program and Biomedical Sciences Program at UCSF. Dr. Tecott is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, showcasing his expertise and commitment to the field.
![Photo of Mu Xu, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b903871-be73-4d44-83a3-1dbbc1a07579/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Xu is a University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and New York University trained psychiatrist with expertise in treating a variety of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Xu provides both medication management and psychotherapy (aka talk therapy). Dr. Xu offers online and in-person visits to residents of San Francisco Bay Area and online visits across California.
Dr. Xu is a University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and New York University trained psychiatrist with expertise in treating a variety of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Xu provides both medication management and psychotherapy (aka talk therapy). Dr. Xu offers online and in-person visits to residents of San Francisco Bay Area and online visits across California.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e0c301a-aebe-45bb-b517-479b8bdc4f2d/1/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022 (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 Zaakir Yoonas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ee47222-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Stanford-trained, Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a specialization in Adult ADHD and Mood & Anxiety disorders. My Psychiatry training at Stanford, where I also served as Chief Resident, has equipped me with the most up-to-date treatment strategies to help my clients achieve their goals as soon as possible. Our mission when working together is singularly focused on helping you build neuro-resilience -- the brain’s ability to not only weather the storms of life, but also to grow, change and constantly improve. Learn more at my website: www.DrYoonas.com.
I am a Stanford-trained, Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a specialization in Adult ADHD and Mood & Anxiety disorders. My Psychiatry training at Stanford, where I also served as Chief Resident, has equipped me with the most up-to-date treatment strategies to help my clients achieve their goals as soon as possible. Our mission when working together is singularly focused on helping you build neuro-resilience -- the brain’s ability to not only weather the storms of life, but also to grow, change and constantly improve. Learn more at my website: www.DrYoonas.com.
![Photo of Kimberly Erlich - Kimberly Erlich-Pediatric Mental Health Specialist, MSN, MPH, PNP-PC, PMHS-BC, CIMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06ae4c5a-0219-4584-abb5-d599c7ce9fa9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Erlich-Pediatric Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PNP-PC, PMHS-BC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024
Yale-trained Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; double board certified in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Mental Health & certified integrative mental health professional; in practice for 22 years. Collaborative style; committed to the use of evidence-based practices to promote mental health and wellness and treat behavioral disorders, while utilizing integrative/holistic interventions as appropriate. Skilled at treating anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, attention disorders, and disorders of behavioral regulation. I partner with Fullscript online supplement pharmacy: us.fullscript.com/welcome/kerlich.
Yale-trained Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; double board certified in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Mental Health & certified integrative mental health professional; in practice for 22 years. Collaborative style; committed to the use of evidence-based practices to promote mental health and wellness and treat behavioral disorders, while utilizing integrative/holistic interventions as appropriate. Skilled at treating anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, attention disorders, and disorders of behavioral regulation. I partner with Fullscript online supplement pharmacy: us.fullscript.com/welcome/kerlich.
![Photo of Vidushi Savant, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/deef4dac-666c-4fa2-8fa0-5c0b9f7131e2/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Savant specializes in addressing comorbid psychiatric disorders in individuals with medical illnesses. She holds dual board certifications in Psychosomatic Medicine and General Psychiatry since 2013.
Dr. Savant specializes in addressing comorbid psychiatric disorders in individuals with medical illnesses. She holds dual board certifications in Psychosomatic Medicine and General Psychiatry since 2013.
![Photo of Shebna N Osanmoh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0c18947-556c-49bc-9d4f-ca78a5249841/1/320x400.jpeg)
Navigating the complexities of mental health challenges can be an overwhelming journey, but you're not alone. I'm Shebna Osanmoh, and I'm here to walk alongside you on this path towards healing and resilience. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be a daunting step, but please know that your well-being is my utmost priority. My commitment to you is rooted in empathy.. Please contact for my appointments at SavantCare Clinics for Lewisville, Austin, San Antonio and Houston in TX-Phone: (469) 946-7897, Sacramento, CA-Phone: (916) 745-8199, New York, NY-Phone: (332) 456-4362 and Atlanta, GA-Ph: (470) 480-0362.
Navigating the complexities of mental health challenges can be an overwhelming journey, but you're not alone. I'm Shebna Osanmoh, and I'm here to walk alongside you on this path towards healing and resilience. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be a daunting step, but please know that your well-being is my utmost priority. My commitment to you is rooted in empathy.. Please contact for my appointments at SavantCare Clinics for Lewisville, Austin, San Antonio and Houston in TX-Phone: (469) 946-7897, Sacramento, CA-Phone: (916) 745-8199, New York, NY-Phone: (332) 456-4362 and Atlanta, GA-Ph: (470) 480-0362.
![Photo of Inna E Larsen, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b19fc83-2863-41be-acf9-200bd007d584/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat adult patients for a wide variety of mental health issues or disorders. I also welcome patients, who do not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but are interested in their personal or professional growth. My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic and may incorporate different therapeutic modalities based on their effectiveness for your individual needs and goals.
I treat adult patients for a wide variety of mental health issues or disorders. I also welcome patients, who do not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but are interested in their personal or professional growth. My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic and may incorporate different therapeutic modalities based on their effectiveness for your individual needs and goals.
![Photo of Aimee McArthur, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cd5c071-3d59-4061-b706-38ae7b1c1086/2/320x400.png)
Dr. McArthur is a distinguished and compassionate psychiatrist, committed to enhancing the lives of adults grappling with psychiatric disorders. With an unwavering dedication to understanding the intricacies of the human mind, Dr. McArthur has been earning respect for her expertise and personalized approach to patient care.
Dr. McArthur is a distinguished and compassionate psychiatrist, committed to enhancing the lives of adults grappling with psychiatric disorders. With an unwavering dedication to understanding the intricacies of the human mind, Dr. McArthur has been earning respect for her expertise and personalized approach to patient care.
![Photo of Zaakir Yoonas - Elite Focus Clinic, Inc., MD, MFT, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eca4f8e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elite Focus Clinic was founded by three of Silicon Valley's top adult ADHD and cognitive performance experts (Zaakir Yoonas, M.D., Lawrence Choy, M.D., and Phil Boissiere, MFT). The goal of our clinic is to provide cutting edge medical and psychological approaches for the management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in adults. We also work with professionals that do not have ADHD, who strive to reach optimal mental performance in their professional and personal lives.
Elite Focus Clinic was founded by three of Silicon Valley's top adult ADHD and cognitive performance experts (Zaakir Yoonas, M.D., Lawrence Choy, M.D., and Phil Boissiere, MFT). The goal of our clinic is to provide cutting edge medical and psychological approaches for the management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in adults. We also work with professionals that do not have ADHD, who strive to reach optimal mental performance in their professional and personal lives.
![Photo of Swapnil Khurana, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3bf3923-0bac-46c4-9e71-107977e9ea0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Swapnil Khurana is an experienced and board-certified psychiatrist and psychosomatic medicine specialist who brings over a decade of expertise to her practice. She is committed to delivering high-quality care to her patients and providing them with the best possible treatment options. Her dedication and passion for her field make her a valuable asset to the healthcare community.
Dr. Swapnil Khurana is an experienced and board-certified psychiatrist and psychosomatic medicine specialist who brings over a decade of expertise to her practice. She is committed to delivering high-quality care to her patients and providing them with the best possible treatment options. Her dedication and passion for her field make her a valuable asset to the healthcare community.
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![Photo of Lise A Rak, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3beca53f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in practice for 25 year. I work with patients in ongoing psychotherapy to help identify, understand, and work through patterns that may lead to unhappiness and anxiety in life, work, and relationships. Since I am a psychiatrist and can prescribe medication, I may recommend medication when I feel it would be helpful. The decision to use medication is arrived at mutually, with the patient, and medication treatment is provided in conjunction with the "talking" part of the treatment. Given our psychological and biological complexity, I have found this coordinated approach to be most effective and helpful for patients.
I have been in practice for 25 year. I work with patients in ongoing psychotherapy to help identify, understand, and work through patterns that may lead to unhappiness and anxiety in life, work, and relationships. Since I am a psychiatrist and can prescribe medication, I may recommend medication when I feel it would be helpful. The decision to use medication is arrived at mutually, with the patient, and medication treatment is provided in conjunction with the "talking" part of the treatment. Given our psychological and biological complexity, I have found this coordinated approach to be most effective and helpful for patients.
![Photo of Howard Fenn, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ce91bec-86e6-4330-80eb-f9884b1caecf/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Fenn's dedication to psychiatry is evident in his multifaceted roles, where he contributes to the mental well-being of veterans, individuals affected by Alzheimer's, and the broader community in Palo Alto. His comprehensive education and diverse training underscore his ability to address the complex needs of his patients, making him a valuable asset in the field of psychiatry.
Dr. Fenn's dedication to psychiatry is evident in his multifaceted roles, where he contributes to the mental well-being of veterans, individuals affected by Alzheimer's, and the broader community in Palo Alto. His comprehensive education and diverse training underscore his ability to address the complex needs of his patients, making him a valuable asset in the field of psychiatry.
![Photo of Mehnaz Hyder, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7ddaf91-f4a8-4867-835e-5816754ae7bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Please note-cash only practice. Your brain is the most brilliantly designed piece of engineering in the whole universe. It allows you to experience the world. It's where all of your great ideas live. And it's what makes you a unique individual. You are one in billions! You are meant to experience joy and to do spectacular things-according to your best paradigm based on your values. Traumatic life experiences and chronic stress can interfere with your ability to curate your paradigm which may lead to depression, anxiety, and poor functioning. I can help you with these symptoms.
Please note-cash only practice. Your brain is the most brilliantly designed piece of engineering in the whole universe. It allows you to experience the world. It's where all of your great ideas live. And it's what makes you a unique individual. You are one in billions! You are meant to experience joy and to do spectacular things-according to your best paradigm based on your values. Traumatic life experiences and chronic stress can interfere with your ability to curate your paradigm which may lead to depression, anxiety, and poor functioning. I can help you with these symptoms.
![Photo of Michael F Cochran, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d324c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a general psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist. I have extensive experience helping patients with complex psycho-pharmacologic needs. In addition, I’ve steadily acquired a range of therapy skills: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the cornerstone of many evidence-based treatments; Motivational Interviewing (MI), particularly useful for addiction (e.g. alcohol, cannabis, gaming, etc.); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), often with older clients; Exposure/Response Prevention, as well as non-exposure-based treatment, for OCD or intrusive thoughts; and I'm currently training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I’m a general psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist. I have extensive experience helping patients with complex psycho-pharmacologic needs. In addition, I’ve steadily acquired a range of therapy skills: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the cornerstone of many evidence-based treatments; Motivational Interviewing (MI), particularly useful for addiction (e.g. alcohol, cannabis, gaming, etc.); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), often with older clients; Exposure/Response Prevention, as well as non-exposure-based treatment, for OCD or intrusive thoughts; and I'm currently training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
![Photo of Joann Mundin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401f4222-4226-4179-9880-98ed76abbb40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mundin is a dedicated and experienced psychiatrist with her practice spanning over Lewisville, Austin, Houston & San Antonio in TX- Phone: (469)-946-7897, in 2300 West Sahara Ave, Suite 800. Las Vegas, NV 89102, Phone: (725)-214-2366 and San Diego, CA-Phone: (619-272-2728) . Since 2003, she has provided comprehensive assessments and treatments for patients with severe mental illness across various settings, such as hospitals, offices, jails, workplaces, and telehealth services. Dr. Mundin is passionate about using a multidisciplinary, collaborative team approach to deliver the highest quality psychiatric care to her patients.
Dr. Mundin is a dedicated and experienced psychiatrist with her practice spanning over Lewisville, Austin, Houston & San Antonio in TX- Phone: (469)-946-7897, in 2300 West Sahara Ave, Suite 800. Las Vegas, NV 89102, Phone: (725)-214-2366 and San Diego, CA-Phone: (619-272-2728) . Since 2003, she has provided comprehensive assessments and treatments for patients with severe mental illness across various settings, such as hospitals, offices, jails, workplaces, and telehealth services. Dr. Mundin is passionate about using a multidisciplinary, collaborative team approach to deliver the highest quality psychiatric care to her patients.
![Photo of Danielle Kamis, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ef719b4-23a8-447f-b374-922d7b4ff88b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kamis is a caring, non- judgmental, empathic psychiatrist who practices medicine with an integrative approach. Unifying psychotherapy and medication management, as well as the crucial components of restorative sleep, consistent exercise, healthy diet, stress management, and mind-body practices such as meditation and mindfulness to optimize her patient’s health and performance. Dr. Kamis does not contract or negotiate with any insurance companies in her private practice.
Dr. Kamis is a caring, non- judgmental, empathic psychiatrist who practices medicine with an integrative approach. Unifying psychotherapy and medication management, as well as the crucial components of restorative sleep, consistent exercise, healthy diet, stress management, and mind-body practices such as meditation and mindfulness to optimize her patient’s health and performance. Dr. Kamis does not contract or negotiate with any insurance companies in her private practice.
![Photo of Mali A Mann - Mali Mann MD, MD, FIPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4782f629-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mali Mann, MD is adult, adolescent and child psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in Palo Alto and San Francisco California. After finishing her medical school, she finished her residency and child fellowship at University Rochester and Kanas. She finished adolescent Medicine fellowship at Stanford university Psychiatry Department. She completed her adult and child psychoanalytic training at San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis. She is a faculty member and Training and supervising psychoanalyst, adult and child at SFCP. She is also an adjunct Clinical Professor at Stanford University, School of Medicine. She published "Psychoanalytic Aspect of Assisted reproductive Technology" and collection of her poetry.
Mali Mann, MD is adult, adolescent and child psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in Palo Alto and San Francisco California. After finishing her medical school, she finished her residency and child fellowship at University Rochester and Kanas. She finished adolescent Medicine fellowship at Stanford university Psychiatry Department. She completed her adult and child psychoanalytic training at San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis. She is a faculty member and Training and supervising psychoanalyst, adult and child at SFCP. She is also an adjunct Clinical Professor at Stanford University, School of Medicine. She published "Psychoanalytic Aspect of Assisted reproductive Technology" and collection of her poetry.
![Photo of Andrea Ament, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81537794-f9e5-49db-80eb-54c69666a22c/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Ament, a psychiatrist with training from Stanford, specializes in addressing psychiatric disorders in adults. She holds dual board certifications in Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine (Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry).
Dr. Ament, a psychiatrist with training from Stanford, specializes in addressing psychiatric disorders in adults. She holds dual board certifications in Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine (Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry).
![Photo of Leena A Khanzode, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9be2663c-6add-482d-922d-84e9308bcb9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am tranied in both Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Stanford Hospital and Clinics. I am also an experienced Board certified Psychiatrist.I provide quality,evidence based treatment to help individuals and families overcome difficulties and lead happier, more productive lives. I believe in a holistic approach to address your concerns through careful evaluation and psychotherapy and medication management.
I offer treatment including both psychotherapy and medication management, for a wide variety of psychiatric disorders for all ages including Children, Adolescents and Adults. I provide Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy (IPT, Mindfullness based psychotherapy,family therapy and Parent training.
I am tranied in both Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Stanford Hospital and Clinics. I am also an experienced Board certified Psychiatrist.I provide quality,evidence based treatment to help individuals and families overcome difficulties and lead happier, more productive lives. I believe in a holistic approach to address your concerns through careful evaluation and psychotherapy and medication management.
I offer treatment including both psychotherapy and medication management, for a wide variety of psychiatric disorders for all ages including Children, Adolescents and Adults. I provide Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy (IPT, Mindfullness based psychotherapy,family therapy and Parent training.
See more therapy options for Los Altos
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Los Altos, CA
50+
Average cost per session
$375
Psychiatrists in Los Altos, CA who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
98% | Anxiety |
89% | Medication Management |
86% | ADHD |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
20 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Los Altos, CA see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
51% | Male | |
49% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Los Altos?
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.