Psychiatrists in Monterey Park, CA
Accepting patients for both in-person and online appointments. I’m a UC Irvine, Harbor UCLA trained psychiatrist based in Pasadena, California. I treat a broad range of disorders and specialize in adult psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, and thought disorders. In my career, I’ve been fortunate to meet and work with people from all walks of life. I draw upon my diverse experiences and background in medicine, mental health, scientific research, and business administration to give my patients what they need—whether that be medication, therapy, or guidance.
Accepting patients for both in-person and online appointments. I’m a UC Irvine, Harbor UCLA trained psychiatrist based in Pasadena, California. I treat a broad range of disorders and specialize in adult psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, and thought disorders. In my career, I’ve been fortunate to meet and work with people from all walks of life. I draw upon my diverse experiences and background in medicine, mental health, scientific research, and business administration to give my patients what they need—whether that be medication, therapy, or guidance.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Welcome to Rula! My name is Kathy Hunter and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience in subacute detox, inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, a university counseling center, and inpatient pediatric psychiatry liaison. I am passionate about removing mental health stigma and focusing on health disparities in marginalized populations. I seek to have a strong working relationship with my patients, with a primary focus on autonomy, respect, relationships, and a deep understanding of how one's environment will have an impact on goals and progress.
Welcome to Rula! My name is Kathy Hunter and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience in subacute detox, inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, a university counseling center, and inpatient pediatric psychiatry liaison. I am passionate about removing mental health stigma and focusing on health disparities in marginalized populations. I seek to have a strong working relationship with my patients, with a primary focus on autonomy, respect, relationships, and a deep understanding of how one's environment will have an impact on goals and progress.
Judith Afonta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! Judith Afonta is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in treating a broad range of mental health conditions such as: Depression, anxiety, bipolar/mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, insomnia & more. She utilizes a culturally inclusive approach & integrates evidence-based pharmacology & brief psychotherapy into every session in order to best help create a personalized treatment plan for each of her clients.
Accepting New Patients! Judith Afonta is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in treating a broad range of mental health conditions such as: Depression, anxiety, bipolar/mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, insomnia & more. She utilizes a culturally inclusive approach & integrates evidence-based pharmacology & brief psychotherapy into every session in order to best help create a personalized treatment plan for each of her clients.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Troy Kurz MD, MS is a board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in psychopharmacology, ketamine treatment, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy. He sees patients of all ages, but has a keen interest in children and adolescence. He cares for a patients with a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and personality disorders. Pertaining to pediatrics and adolescents—he concentrates on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ health, trauma, and mood disorders.
Dr. Troy Kurz MD, MS is a board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in psychopharmacology, ketamine treatment, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy. He sees patients of all ages, but has a keen interest in children and adolescence. He cares for a patients with a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and personality disorders. Pertaining to pediatrics and adolescents—he concentrates on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ health, trauma, and mood disorders.
Justin Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026 (Online Only)
While I am positioned to offer a LGBTQ+ perspective in my practice, I support clients from all backgrounds in reaching their mental health goals through compassionate, patient-centered care. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex-positive counseling, mood disorders, and substance use disorders for adults over 18 years old. I approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, using psychotherapeutic modalities centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment.
While I am positioned to offer a LGBTQ+ perspective in my practice, I support clients from all backgrounds in reaching their mental health goals through compassionate, patient-centered care. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex-positive counseling, mood disorders, and substance use disorders for adults over 18 years old. I approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, using psychotherapeutic modalities centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment.
Menbi Tegegne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90032 (Online Only)
Hi. my name is Menbi. I am a psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I graduated with my master's from National University and I have been treating patients with both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for the last two years. I have worked in several settings from hospital, to outpatient, to remote and even in prison settings. I have treated patients with different mental health issues. I believe in holistic treatment. I am compassionate and dedicated to my client's well-being.
Hi. my name is Menbi. I am a psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I graduated with my master's from National University and I have been treating patients with both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for the last two years. I have worked in several settings from hospital, to outpatient, to remote and even in prison settings. I have treated patients with different mental health issues. I believe in holistic treatment. I am compassionate and dedicated to my client's well-being.
Jessica Mormann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I am Jessica, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner! I have worked in healthcare since 2003. I love helping people live their best lives! Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD should not hold you back from being your best self! I have past work experience in the critical care setting for over 7 years, acquiring a vast knowledge of pathophysiology and medical treatments.
Hello, I am Jessica, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner! I have worked in healthcare since 2003. I love helping people live their best lives! Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD should not hold you back from being your best self! I have past work experience in the critical care setting for over 7 years, acquiring a vast knowledge of pathophysiology and medical treatments.
Claudette Banda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027 (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!
Levitate Mental Health - Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Accepting New Clients- Levitate Mental Health is a psychiatric practice serving all residents of California. Enjoy the convenience of our Telepsychiatry services by attending your visits from the convenience of your home or office using your laptop or smart phone. Our providers have years of experience in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders & other mental health conditions. Busy schedule? We offer some evening and weekend appointments upon request. Call us or visit www.levitatementalhealth.com to schedule an appointment today. Guaranteed to secure an appointment with a provider fast.
Accepting New Clients- Levitate Mental Health is a psychiatric practice serving all residents of California. Enjoy the convenience of our Telepsychiatry services by attending your visits from the convenience of your home or office using your laptop or smart phone. Our providers have years of experience in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders & other mental health conditions. Busy schedule? We offer some evening and weekend appointments upon request. Call us or visit www.levitatementalhealth.com to schedule an appointment today. Guaranteed to secure an appointment with a provider fast.
Gina Ameri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
I have been actively treating mental health conditions across the lifespan, seeing patients ages 8-70. I have 3 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have over 17 years of experience working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am fully licensed in both California and Nevada, treating patients in both States. I manage an array of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, ODD, and ADHD, to name a few.
I have been actively treating mental health conditions across the lifespan, seeing patients ages 8-70. I have 3 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have over 17 years of experience working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am fully licensed in both California and Nevada, treating patients in both States. I manage an array of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, ODD, and ADHD, to name a few.
Porsha Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Online Only)
In my mental health practice, I advocate for a holistic treatment approach, recognizing the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit. My emphasis goes beyond symptom relief, delving into the root causes of mental well-being. By integrating diverse therapeutic modalities, lifestyle adjustments, and mindfulness techniques, I strive to facilitate a well-rounded healing experience. My goal is to empower individuals on a journey toward balance, resilience, and lasting mental health.
In my mental health practice, I advocate for a holistic treatment approach, recognizing the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit. My emphasis goes beyond symptom relief, delving into the root causes of mental well-being. By integrating diverse therapeutic modalities, lifestyle adjustments, and mindfulness techniques, I strive to facilitate a well-rounded healing experience. My goal is to empower individuals on a journey toward balance, resilience, and lasting mental health.
Jonathan Llamas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
Jonathan V. Llamas, DNP, PMHNP-BC received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University in 2013 and possesses an extensive nursing background caring for the adult population in the inpatient psychiatric and acute care settings at Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Center, AdventHealth Orlando, and Harbor UCLA Medical Center.
Jonathan V. Llamas, DNP, PMHNP-BC received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University in 2013 and possesses an extensive nursing background caring for the adult population in the inpatient psychiatric and acute care settings at Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Center, AdventHealth Orlando, and Harbor UCLA Medical Center.
Lydia Owuor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101 (Online Only)
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Driven to enhance my understanding of mental health care, I pursued additional training and collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive care to patients with complex psychiatric conditions.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Driven to enhance my understanding of mental health care, I pursued additional training and collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive care to patients with complex psychiatric conditions.
Tanisha Renee Ragland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90005 (Online Only)
At Bleux Onyx Health and Wellness, we wholeheartedly commit to guiding individuals beyond career standstill, cultivating self-love, and fostering personal growth. Additionally, I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD and many other mental health conditions. Our purpose is to empower you to unveil your passion and purpose, providing adept guidance in life and career coaching. Consider us your catalyst for positive transformation, unlocking your complete potential and guiding you towards fulfillment in both personal and professional realms. In addition to my private practice, I'm also a consult-liaison and career and life coach
At Bleux Onyx Health and Wellness, we wholeheartedly commit to guiding individuals beyond career standstill, cultivating self-love, and fostering personal growth. Additionally, I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD and many other mental health conditions. Our purpose is to empower you to unveil your passion and purpose, providing adept guidance in life and career coaching. Consider us your catalyst for positive transformation, unlocking your complete potential and guiding you towards fulfillment in both personal and professional realms. In addition to my private practice, I'm also a consult-liaison and career and life coach
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a rich background of specialized training and experience. I completed my clinical training at the prestigious UCLA Semel Institute where I was chief resident of the adult psychiatry residency program. While at UCLA I received additional training in reproductive psychiatry, including the treatment of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period through the Women's Life Center. This expertise is complemented by my extensive experience working with creative professionals, understanding the unique challenges they may face in their mental health journey.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a rich background of specialized training and experience. I completed my clinical training at the prestigious UCLA Semel Institute where I was chief resident of the adult psychiatry residency program. While at UCLA I received additional training in reproductive psychiatry, including the treatment of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period through the Women's Life Center. This expertise is complemented by my extensive experience working with creative professionals, understanding the unique challenges they may face in their mental health journey.
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 a challenging 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!
Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
Ariane Djeussoung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90011
Hello, I am Dr. Ariane Djeussoung, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC a dual board-certified Psychiatry-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with many years of healthcare experience. I have dedicated the past 8 years to providing compassionate care to cancer patients and their families; a community close to my heart. I believe in addressing not just the symptoms but also the root causes of mental health issues. By integrating conventional psychiatric care to holistic approaches, I aim to promote your overall well-being and empower you on your journey to mental health recovery and resilience.
Hello, I am Dr. Ariane Djeussoung, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC a dual board-certified Psychiatry-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with many years of healthcare experience. I have dedicated the past 8 years to providing compassionate care to cancer patients and their families; a community close to my heart. I believe in addressing not just the symptoms but also the root causes of mental health issues. By integrating conventional psychiatric care to holistic approaches, I aim to promote your overall well-being and empower you on your journey to mental health recovery and resilience.
Isaac Pro is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to your mental well-being. With extensive education and more than 8 years of hands-on experience in the mental health field, he is committed to providing patient-centered care that places your unique needs and concerns at the heart of your therapeutic journey. Isaac began his nursing career at Mount Saint Mary's University, earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Isaac Pro is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to your mental well-being. With extensive education and more than 8 years of hands-on experience in the mental health field, he is committed to providing patient-centered care that places your unique needs and concerns at the heart of your therapeutic journey. Isaac began his nursing career at Mount Saint Mary's University, earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
See more therapy options for Monterey Park
Nearby Searches for Monterey Park
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- Glendale
- Los Angeles
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- Pasadena
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- San Marino
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Monterey Park, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Monterey Park, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Monterey Park, CA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Monterey Park?
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.