Psychiatrists in Montclair, CA
Salvage Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Montclair, CA 91763
Dr. Taiye Osawe is a highly skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience. As the CEO of Salvage Psychiatry, she brings a wealth of expertise in providing top-notch mental health care. Dr. Osawe specializes in working with all populations and has extensive experience in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD etc. At Salvage Psychiatry, clients find a supportive community of mental health experts offering personalized, compassionate, affordable, and high-quality services.
Dr. Taiye Osawe is a highly skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience. As the CEO of Salvage Psychiatry, she brings a wealth of expertise in providing top-notch mental health care. Dr. Osawe specializes in working with all populations and has extensive experience in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD etc. At Salvage Psychiatry, clients find a supportive community of mental health experts offering personalized, compassionate, affordable, and high-quality services.
Hi - I'm looking forward to meeting you! I have over 30 years experience helping people of all ages with depression, anxiety, substance use disorders and other chronic conditions... I use techniques like CBT, DBT, and Behavioral activation in solution focused sessions. Let's have a free introductory session to get to know each other!
Hi - I'm looking forward to meeting you! I have over 30 years experience helping people of all ages with depression, anxiety, substance use disorders and other chronic conditions... I use techniques like CBT, DBT, and Behavioral activation in solution focused sessions. Let's have a free introductory session to get to know each other!
Ngozi Anyanacho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ngozi, DNP, PMHNP, (Dr)
Verified Verified
Montclair, CA 91763
My Ideal clients have issues with mental health illness, they need care, and their goals are for me to advocate for them, patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care and treat them like I would want to be treated. Their goal is to get treated. They want love, empathy, compassion, understanding and as well as medication management and to get well.
My Ideal clients have issues with mental health illness, they need care, and their goals are for me to advocate for them, patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care and treat them like I would want to be treated. Their goal is to get treated. They want love, empathy, compassion, understanding and as well as medication management and to get well.
Felista Anugom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, CA 91763
Now Accepting New Patient! Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others, reach out to me, a certified mental health specialist with a clear understanding and knowledge of what you're going through and will actively listen to you. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call me to schedule an appointment today. Check out our webpage at www.prudenttelepsychiatry.com
Now Accepting New Patient! Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others, reach out to me, a certified mental health specialist with a clear understanding and knowledge of what you're going through and will actively listen to you. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call me to schedule an appointment today. Check out our webpage at www.prudenttelepsychiatry.com
Establishing connections with patients can be the starting point to explore issues causing mental struggles in us. My goal is to be the working partner with patients and work through these issues to alleviate both mental and physical distress. Areas of interests for me include depression, anxiety, stress and trauma related disorders, mood disorders, Asian American and immigrant mental health. I use both psychotherapy and medications as indicated in my treatment. Therapeutic approaches that I use include psychodynamic, behavioral, and supportive therapies.
Establishing connections with patients can be the starting point to explore issues causing mental struggles in us. My goal is to be the working partner with patients and work through these issues to alleviate both mental and physical distress. Areas of interests for me include depression, anxiety, stress and trauma related disorders, mood disorders, Asian American and immigrant mental health. I use both psychotherapy and medications as indicated in my treatment. Therapeutic approaches that I use include psychodynamic, behavioral, and supportive therapies.
Dr. Sulaiman Iqbal is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2024. Dr. Iqbal completed his MD and Psychiatry Residency at the University of New Mexico. He has experience treating children, adults, and the elderly, managing both mild and severe cases of Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Behavioral Outbursts, Insomnia, and Personality Disorders. Dr. Iqbal believes in using a combination of lifestyle, therapy, and medication interventions in an integrative approach to help patient's achieve wellness in all domains of life. Outside of work, Dr.
Dr. Sulaiman Iqbal is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2024. Dr. Iqbal completed his MD and Psychiatry Residency at the University of New Mexico. He has experience treating children, adults, and the elderly, managing both mild and severe cases of Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Behavioral Outbursts, Insomnia, and Personality Disorders. Dr. Iqbal believes in using a combination of lifestyle, therapy, and medication interventions in an integrative approach to help patient's achieve wellness in all domains of life. Outside of work, Dr.
Camay Rooney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, CA 91763 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Camay and I am so happy you are prioritizing your mental health. I aim to work with you to achieve optimum health so you may live your best life. I graduated from Pacific Lutheran University with my BSN and have been an RN since 2003. I started my career in Adult Med/Surg, worked in home health and finally found employment that provides my passion for mental health in 2014. I have mental and behavioral health RN experience in adult/geriatric inpatient hospitalization and also in correctional mental health. I graduated from Gonzaga University with my MSN, focus in psychiatry & am board certified.
Hi! My name is Camay and I am so happy you are prioritizing your mental health. I aim to work with you to achieve optimum health so you may live your best life. I graduated from Pacific Lutheran University with my BSN and have been an RN since 2003. I started my career in Adult Med/Surg, worked in home health and finally found employment that provides my passion for mental health in 2014. I have mental and behavioral health RN experience in adult/geriatric inpatient hospitalization and also in correctional mental health. I graduated from Gonzaga University with my MSN, focus in psychiatry & am board certified.
Caroline E Ndifon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP, MSE/ED
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, CA 91763 (Online Only)
ClearPath Mental Health understands the stressors induced to many of us either by previous or current experiences that cannot be resolved by one person. These stressors or traumatic experiences impaired our lives in many disorders that could manifested as depression, anxiety, sleep disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, substance abuse, and violent behavior and more. My treatment therapy starts by creating, a safe, supportive area, holistic and collaborative approaches that respect the cultural backgrounds of each patient seeking resolution in their specific diagnosis. I am here, you are not alone.
ClearPath Mental Health understands the stressors induced to many of us either by previous or current experiences that cannot be resolved by one person. These stressors or traumatic experiences impaired our lives in many disorders that could manifested as depression, anxiety, sleep disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, substance abuse, and violent behavior and more. My treatment therapy starts by creating, a safe, supportive area, holistic and collaborative approaches that respect the cultural backgrounds of each patient seeking resolution in their specific diagnosis. I am here, you are not alone.
Dr. Pirard is particularly passionate about addressing addiction and substance use disorders. Board certified in addiction medicine, she brings a wealth of experience in treating alcohol and drug use issues. Her background includes significant contributions to initiatives combating the opioid crisis on a national level, where she has both presented and published extensively on the subject. Her deep understanding of addiction and her compassionate approach make her a valuable resource for individuals seeking to overcome substance use challenges. Beyond her clinical work, Dr.
Dr. Pirard is particularly passionate about addressing addiction and substance use disorders. Board certified in addiction medicine, she brings a wealth of experience in treating alcohol and drug use issues. Her background includes significant contributions to initiatives combating the opioid crisis on a national level, where she has both presented and published extensively on the subject. Her deep understanding of addiction and her compassionate approach make her a valuable resource for individuals seeking to overcome substance use challenges. Beyond her clinical work, Dr.
I am a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with extensive experience in treating children & adolescents. I treat children, adolescents and adults. I have an empathetic and non-judgment approach and am committed to providing the highest quality of care for my patients. I use psychotropic medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In my practice, I empower my patients to improve their coping skills and interpersonal skills in order to achieve their optimal mental health.
I am a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with extensive experience in treating children & adolescents. I treat children, adolescents and adults. I have an empathetic and non-judgment approach and am committed to providing the highest quality of care for my patients. I use psychotropic medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In my practice, I empower my patients to improve their coping skills and interpersonal skills in order to achieve their optimal mental health.
Carmela Zaragoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, CA 91762 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Jaspreet Takhar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, CA 91762 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Gloria Sudeta FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She able to prescribe medications for you to help with your mood, depression, and anxiety symptoms as well as medications for other issues. She is bilingual in Spanish as well. Gloria sees children as young as 5 years and up, as well as adults and geriatrics. You can schedule multiple ways, such as through Zocdoc.com, Headway, or Grow Therapy. You may also text 909-229-6851.
Gloria Sudeta FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She able to prescribe medications for you to help with your mood, depression, and anxiety symptoms as well as medications for other issues. She is bilingual in Spanish as well. Gloria sees children as young as 5 years and up, as well as adults and geriatrics. You can schedule multiple ways, such as through Zocdoc.com, Headway, or Grow Therapy. You may also text 909-229-6851.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Mia Abigail Mateo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chino, CA 91710 (Online Only)
I am ANCC- certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, also with MSN- FNP- C. I provide comprehensive assessment, psychoeducation, and psychiatric interventions such as medication management and psychotherapy. I speak Tagalog and English. Through my empathetic approach and strong therapeutic interactions with patients, I seek to create an environment of safety and encouragement in which people feel empowered to address their mental health challenges. I work with patients, families, and other healthcare providers to create tailored treatment regimens promoting overall health and recovery.
I am ANCC- certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, also with MSN- FNP- C. I provide comprehensive assessment, psychoeducation, and psychiatric interventions such as medication management and psychotherapy. I speak Tagalog and English. Through my empathetic approach and strong therapeutic interactions with patients, I seek to create an environment of safety and encouragement in which people feel empowered to address their mental health challenges. I work with patients, families, and other healthcare providers to create tailored treatment regimens promoting overall health and recovery.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Chinette Salveron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chino, CA 91710 (Online Only)
In my over 10 years of experience in mental health services, I have accumulated extensive knowledge in clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I also have years of experience treating PTSD which typically goes hand in hand with those who have symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. I understand that many struggle with the symptoms related to these diagnoses and want clarity and stability to be able to maintain relationships and function in the workplace/society.
In my over 10 years of experience in mental health services, I have accumulated extensive knowledge in clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I also have years of experience treating PTSD which typically goes hand in hand with those who have symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. I understand that many struggle with the symptoms related to these diagnoses and want clarity and stability to be able to maintain relationships and function in the workplace/society.
I am Dr. Lina Augius, an Adult Psychiatrist certified by the board. My journey in psychiatry began with my residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where I also had the honor of being the Senior Resident for their Outpatient Psychiatry Department. Furthering my expertise, I underwent a year of specialized training at UCLA's Mood Disorders Clinic. I am a humanistic psychiatrist with a rich background spanning over 15 years across academic, public, and private sectors.
I am Dr. Lina Augius, an Adult Psychiatrist certified by the board. My journey in psychiatry began with my residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where I also had the honor of being the Senior Resident for their Outpatient Psychiatry Department. Furthering my expertise, I underwent a year of specialized training at UCLA's Mood Disorders Clinic. I am a humanistic psychiatrist with a rich background spanning over 15 years across academic, public, and private sectors.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91762 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $249, Follow-ups are $99
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $249, Follow-ups are $99
Paul Choi is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and also holds a Board Certification for Family Practice. With over a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner and registered nurse, Paul brings a holistic approach to patients of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, and sexual identities. He firmly believes that quality mental health needs to be easily accessible. Paul emphasizes the importance of incorporating the recovery model into his day-to-day practice. He provides compassionate care that is evidence-based and personalized to each client’s needs.
Paul Choi is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and also holds a Board Certification for Family Practice. With over a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner and registered nurse, Paul brings a holistic approach to patients of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, and sexual identities. He firmly believes that quality mental health needs to be easily accessible. Paul emphasizes the importance of incorporating the recovery model into his day-to-day practice. He provides compassionate care that is evidence-based and personalized to each client’s needs.
See more therapy options for Montclair
Nearby Searches for Montclair
- Alta Loma
- Chino
- Chino Hills
- Claremont
- Diamond Bar
- Eastvale
- La Verne
- Norco
- Ontario
- Pomona
- Rancho Cucamonga
- Upland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Montclair, CA
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Montclair, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
93% | Depression |
86% | Medication Management |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | ADHD |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Montclair, CA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Montclair?
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.