Psychiatrists in Morro Bay, CA
![Photo of Pedro Guimaraes - Central Coast Behavioral Health, Inc , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90d2a3df-6fef-49f5-8ec5-c9f64d77e356/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our group provides medication management and psychotherapy services to a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as; Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Trauma, Substance/Addiction, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, and other various Mental Health Disorders.
Our group provides medication management and psychotherapy services to a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as; Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Trauma, Substance/Addiction, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, and other various Mental Health Disorders.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Deborah Holzman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74e8f747-3452-42b3-86c2-10cea5a94dd6/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication to mostly younger adults (18+) and college students with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD. I treat ADHD with a confirmed diagnoses; I don't offer ADHD testing. I do my best to help you understand potential side effects and how medication can help alleviate symptoms. Medication is one piece of a treatment plan. Most people I see also see a therapist. Taking the time to explore and understand your inner world in whatever way is valuable to you is an essential piece of treatment. I collaborate with a supervising psychiatrist, Margaret Bauman, MD.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication to mostly younger adults (18+) and college students with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD. I treat ADHD with a confirmed diagnoses; I don't offer ADHD testing. I do my best to help you understand potential side effects and how medication can help alleviate symptoms. Medication is one piece of a treatment plan. Most people I see also see a therapist. Taking the time to explore and understand your inner world in whatever way is valuable to you is an essential piece of treatment. I collaborate with a supervising psychiatrist, Margaret Bauman, MD.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c61e73d-df34-4ef5-889f-76af70226b60/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93402 (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 Srikanth Challagundla, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f772e90f-f675-4973-b426-b2bdb08a38ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked in multiple settings including emergency room, inpatient acute care, detoxification center, drug rehabilitation, outpatient, as well as at a correctional facility. Working in these various settings have exposed me to various psychiatric illnesses in different settings with varying severity. I focused on patient-centric treatment and have realized the importance of patients understanding the illness and making treatment choices based on their complete understanding. I firmly believe that patient’s active participation in the treatment and having good understanding of the illness facilitates good outcomes.
I have worked in multiple settings including emergency room, inpatient acute care, detoxification center, drug rehabilitation, outpatient, as well as at a correctional facility. Working in these various settings have exposed me to various psychiatric illnesses in different settings with varying severity. I focused on patient-centric treatment and have realized the importance of patients understanding the illness and making treatment choices based on their complete understanding. I firmly believe that patient’s active participation in the treatment and having good understanding of the illness facilitates good outcomes.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24245896-488d-434d-9b1d-1d611bfa4a68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
![Photo of Craig Fisher, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61c68983-648c-4f49-be40-bd5ac52f980a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new clients and can schedule you within a few days of you reaching out. I employ collaborative decision-making with you to reach your mental health goals. I work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My specialty is in the treatment, diagnosis, and medication management of mental health disorders. I am committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and will work collaboratively with your therapist and other providers for you to receive the best treatment and benefits of medication management.
I am accepting new clients and can schedule you within a few days of you reaching out. I employ collaborative decision-making with you to reach your mental health goals. I work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My specialty is in the treatment, diagnosis, and medication management of mental health disorders. I am committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and will work collaboratively with your therapist and other providers for you to receive the best treatment and benefits of medication management.
![Photo of Carla Hammond - Brainpower Wellness Institute, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caa79c12-fb26-4c20-8371-8ffa73fb6bf3/1/320x400.png)
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
![Photo of Anthony Thomas Whall, PA-C, CAQ PSY, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f91774b9-7109-48ee-b19b-87b049f3c099/2/320x400.jpeg)
My philosophy is straightforward: avoid medication unless necessary, use the lowest effective doses, and choose treatments with minimal side effects, always prioritizing your unique needs. Together, we’ll navigate your journey towards wellness, exploring innovative treatments and making informed decisions to enhance your happiness and productivity. For more information, visit my website at Well-BeingMentalHealth.com.
My philosophy is straightforward: avoid medication unless necessary, use the lowest effective doses, and choose treatments with minimal side effects, always prioritizing your unique needs. Together, we’ll navigate your journey towards wellness, exploring innovative treatments and making informed decisions to enhance your happiness and productivity. For more information, visit my website at Well-BeingMentalHealth.com.
![Photo of Dr. Andrew D Monasterio, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d92989d-ec16-494f-8348-888b5bc017b9/3/320x400.png)
Dr. Andrew D Monasterio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Isla Vista, CA 93117
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management. Originally from Tennessee but culturally identifying as a Californian, I blend my Southern hospitality, West Coast inclusivity, and home-grown empathy to create a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free atmosphere. I use a flexible, modern biopsychosocial approach to authentically connect with people to fully understand their unique selves, journeys, struggles, and goals. We will collaboratively develop a holistic, whole-person wellness plan tailored to your individualized needs and goals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management. Originally from Tennessee but culturally identifying as a Californian, I blend my Southern hospitality, West Coast inclusivity, and home-grown empathy to create a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free atmosphere. I use a flexible, modern biopsychosocial approach to authentically connect with people to fully understand their unique selves, journeys, struggles, and goals. We will collaboratively develop a holistic, whole-person wellness plan tailored to your individualized needs and goals.
![Photo of Mary P Meiselman, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9b702fc-0127-4b2c-b5d8-d1898c3240fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary is passionate about guiding patients on their journey to improved wellness. Focused on psychiatry and medication management, she thrives on the dynamic nature of the field and embraces its ever-changing advances. Mary incorporates evidence-based approaches, offering support and psychoeducation and encouraging collaboration with other health care providers and family members. Her patients, predominantly composed of women, benefit from her holistic biopsychosocial approach, considering factors like support systems, living conditions, medical history, and social networks during evaluation and treatment.
Mary is passionate about guiding patients on their journey to improved wellness. Focused on psychiatry and medication management, she thrives on the dynamic nature of the field and embraces its ever-changing advances. Mary incorporates evidence-based approaches, offering support and psychoeducation and encouraging collaboration with other health care providers and family members. Her patients, predominantly composed of women, benefit from her holistic biopsychosocial approach, considering factors like support systems, living conditions, medical history, and social networks during evaluation and treatment.
![Photo of Barry Mills, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c61fd5ba-af36-4b53-a98d-7b7890daf2d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Barry Mills MD, PhD, has over twenty-five years experience as a psychiatrist including teaching on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. He commonly treats problems such as ADD/ADHD, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and chemical dependency, among other conditions. Dr. Mills has received a MD degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and a PhD from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Carpinteria, CA. He has been an Editor for the Harvard Review of Psychiatry, a Harvard Faculty Teaching Award nominee, consultant to the U. S.
Barry Mills MD, PhD, has over twenty-five years experience as a psychiatrist including teaching on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. He commonly treats problems such as ADD/ADHD, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and chemical dependency, among other conditions. Dr. Mills has received a MD degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and a PhD from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Carpinteria, CA. He has been an Editor for the Harvard Review of Psychiatry, a Harvard Faculty Teaching Award nominee, consultant to the U. S.
![Photo of Sarina Singhi, NP, PMHNP, ND, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbf7dadc-ec96-4117-b543-506eed5453f1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarina Singhi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, ND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311 (Online Only)
I recognize that depression and anxiety can be logical responses to difficult life events. Many adults who experienced losses and traumas in childhood have never processed these events and continue to suffer their impacts. Let me help you in your healing process. I offer medication prescribing in conjunction with therapy, or either alone, to best serve your needs. I offer weekend and evening on-line appointments with affordable fees and a supportive, solution-oriented approach. I am trained in therapies for emotion regulation such as DBT and cognitive restructuring. LGBT-ally and polyamory-friendly.
I recognize that depression and anxiety can be logical responses to difficult life events. Many adults who experienced losses and traumas in childhood have never processed these events and continue to suffer their impacts. Let me help you in your healing process. I offer medication prescribing in conjunction with therapy, or either alone, to best serve your needs. I offer weekend and evening on-line appointments with affordable fees and a supportive, solution-oriented approach. I am trained in therapies for emotion regulation such as DBT and cognitive restructuring. LGBT-ally and polyamory-friendly.
![Photo of Dr. Micah Martinez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff9c23e9-4956-4ba3-b4c5-95c041cacb2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Micah Martinez is a dedicated psychiatrist who helps young adults and adults through therapy and medication management. He creates a supportive environment for his patients, valuing the importance of their unique experiences. Dr. Martinez encourages patients to take an active role in their treatment plans, believing in the significance of their contribution to the healing process. He uses holistic and evidence-based techniques, including acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and psychodynamic therapy, tailoring his methods to meet each patient’s needs.
Dr. Micah Martinez is a dedicated psychiatrist who helps young adults and adults through therapy and medication management. He creates a supportive environment for his patients, valuing the importance of their unique experiences. Dr. Martinez encourages patients to take an active role in their treatment plans, believing in the significance of their contribution to the healing process. He uses holistic and evidence-based techniques, including acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and psychodynamic therapy, tailoring his methods to meet each patient’s needs.
![Photo of Setare Eslami, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9953d5-7ed2-4e06-ad23-2d283448e59b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my practice! Serving my clients during tough moments on their journey is my honor. I am an adult psychiatrist who tailors treatments for adults of all ages and backgrounds.
Welcome to my practice! Serving my clients during tough moments on their journey is my honor. I am an adult psychiatrist who tailors treatments for adults of all ages and backgrounds.
![Photo of Sherif El-Asyouty, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e710e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. El-Asyouty believes it’s important to not confuse the person with their illness. Alcoholism, substance abuse and chemical dependency are all diseases that affect the nervous system resulting in a loss of control over the use of substances. Dr. El-Asyouty is aware of the need to be very careful about using addictive medications in patients who are in recovery from addiction. Additionally, it is also important to recognize that people who are in recovery from depression and anxiety usually also require a change in the way that the individual processes feeling information, which Dr. El-Asyouty provides in a training program.
Dr. El-Asyouty believes it’s important to not confuse the person with their illness. Alcoholism, substance abuse and chemical dependency are all diseases that affect the nervous system resulting in a loss of control over the use of substances. Dr. El-Asyouty is aware of the need to be very careful about using addictive medications in patients who are in recovery from addiction. Additionally, it is also important to recognize that people who are in recovery from depression and anxiety usually also require a change in the way that the individual processes feeling information, which Dr. El-Asyouty provides in a training program.
![Photo of Dr. Adham Malaty - Santa Barbara World Class Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2318f6c6-3c98-44b5-a6fb-ce3fe897c096/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Adham Malaty, an esteemed Psychiatrist, provides compassionate care to adults and seniors, catering to a wide range of mental health concerns. His expertise spans various areas, including, but not limited to, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, insomnias, and addiction medicine. Dr. Malaty completed his medical degree at Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt, and went on to pursue his residency in psychiatry at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. He holds dual board certifications in Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and Addiction Medicine
Dr. Adham Malaty, an esteemed Psychiatrist, provides compassionate care to adults and seniors, catering to a wide range of mental health concerns. His expertise spans various areas, including, but not limited to, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, insomnias, and addiction medicine. Dr. Malaty completed his medical degree at Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt, and went on to pursue his residency in psychiatry at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. He holds dual board certifications in Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and Addiction Medicine
![Photo of Mikhail Meyerovich, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28aa3022-f194-4be5-acd8-879d7c633fc4/1/320x400.png)
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Southern California, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Biology. I received my medical doctorate from the U. C. Davis School of Medicine, and completed my residency training in both Psychiatry and Family and Community Medicine at U. C. Davis Medical Center in Sacramento. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Southern California, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Biology. I received my medical doctorate from the U. C. Davis School of Medicine, and completed my residency training in both Psychiatry and Family and Community Medicine at U. C. Davis Medical Center in Sacramento. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f0968be-e6ba-44fd-98c6-13233135eed5/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Douglas Peter Murphy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d881dea7-ead8-4b6e-84cf-3a5c29462302/2/320x400.jpeg)
My care derives a holistic approach to care informed by evidence-based guidelines to care in a highly collaborative approach. It always begins with making a warm and comfortable therapeutic relationship. Preventative care and an emphasis on living habits that promote health & wellness. It is common that medications may be part of most treatment plans in my practice, associated with teaching and some form of psychotherapy to facilitate long-term gains and improve chances for successful outcomes.
My care derives a holistic approach to care informed by evidence-based guidelines to care in a highly collaborative approach. It always begins with making a warm and comfortable therapeutic relationship. Preventative care and an emphasis on living habits that promote health & wellness. It is common that medications may be part of most treatment plans in my practice, associated with teaching and some form of psychotherapy to facilitate long-term gains and improve chances for successful outcomes.
![Photo of Michael Brian Mantz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400c13a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. I practice an integrative style that uses a wide range of treatment options with a focus on addressing root cause issues. I have received training in psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, nutrition, supplements, and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Before going to medical school, I obtained a masters degree in herbal medicine. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make significant changes in their life and is open to addressing their issues with the help of empathic and knowledgeable guide to help them achieve optimal health.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. I practice an integrative style that uses a wide range of treatment options with a focus on addressing root cause issues. I have received training in psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, nutrition, supplements, and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Before going to medical school, I obtained a masters degree in herbal medicine. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make significant changes in their life and is open to addressing their issues with the help of empathic and knowledgeable guide to help them achieve optimal health.
See more therapy options for Morro Bay
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Morro Bay, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Morro Bay, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Magellan |
How Psychiatrists in Morro Bay, CA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Morro Bay?
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.