Psychiatrists in Novato, CA
![Photo of Theresa Carla Negrido Johnson, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f736d30-dd7d-4be4-a396-163f610ade2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Carla Negrido Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
I specialize in medication management. I work with individuals dealing with mood dysregulation, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and attention issues. My goal is to support you in understanding and managing your mental health in a compassionate and holistic way.
I specialize in medication management. I work with individuals dealing with mood dysregulation, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and attention issues. My goal is to support you in understanding and managing your mental health in a compassionate and holistic way.
![Photo of Patricia Jane Stamm - Patricia Stamm, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ccfcb42-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you struggling with what’s going on with the world? As a psychotherapist I provide a caring, empathic environment to get you back to functioning at your best. I can help you feel more energy, joy, and self-esteem. I also work with relationship problems and difficulties dealing with aging.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you struggling with what’s going on with the world? As a psychotherapist I provide a caring, empathic environment to get you back to functioning at your best. I can help you feel more energy, joy, and self-esteem. I also work with relationship problems and difficulties dealing with aging.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8aca0be-753e-4a09-95ad-ce3f97233dce/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 Nikhil Majumdar - Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e660a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kevin Knack, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0a2732b-f6c8-40ad-8488-6d161c487864/1/320x400.jpeg)
We offer a range of psychiatric and psychological services, including TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, and Spravato (Esketamine). TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is for treating certain neurological conditions, like Major Depressive Disorder, and enhancing cognitive function. We also provide telepsychiatry options for patients who prefer home visits. We work with veterans too. Most insurances, including Medicare and Partnership (Beacon), are welcome.
We offer a range of psychiatric and psychological services, including TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, and Spravato (Esketamine). TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is for treating certain neurological conditions, like Major Depressive Disorder, and enhancing cognitive function. We also provide telepsychiatry options for patients who prefer home visits. We work with veterans too. Most insurances, including Medicare and Partnership (Beacon), are welcome.
![Photo of David Scott May, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40969a25-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified child and adult psychiatrist in private practice for 30 years. I am highly trained to do psychiatric evaluations, various types of psychotherapy and medication consultations for psychiatric conditions. My approach varies depending on the need of the individual, the couple or the family. I work collaboratively with my patients. I attempt as broad of a view of each individual as possible. I look at environmental, social, psychological, and biological forces; and use this holistic view when considering the designing of a course of treatment for an individual.
I am a board certified child and adult psychiatrist in private practice for 30 years. I am highly trained to do psychiatric evaluations, various types of psychotherapy and medication consultations for psychiatric conditions. My approach varies depending on the need of the individual, the couple or the family. I work collaboratively with my patients. I attempt as broad of a view of each individual as possible. I look at environmental, social, psychological, and biological forces; and use this holistic view when considering the designing of a course of treatment for an individual.
![Photo of Olga Segal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf7d799-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
We offer a full range of psychiatric and psychological services: TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology - Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Spravato (Also known as Esketamine). TMS Therapy is a therapy designed for the treatment of certain Neurological conditions, specifically Major Depressive Disorder. Remission from Depression. Knowledgeable approach to medication management. For patients who want to be seen at the convenience of their homes, we provide telepsychiatry options. Most Insurances are Welcome, including Medicare & Partnership (Beacon)
We offer a full range of psychiatric and psychological services: TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology - Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Spravato (Also known as Esketamine). TMS Therapy is a therapy designed for the treatment of certain Neurological conditions, specifically Major Depressive Disorder. Remission from Depression. Knowledgeable approach to medication management. For patients who want to be seen at the convenience of their homes, we provide telepsychiatry options. Most Insurances are Welcome, including Medicare & Partnership (Beacon)
![Photo of Jordan Eipper, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95aa2880-3098-4fec-83db-abd1d1800192/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a UCSF-trained psychiatrist working with adults experiencing the full spectrum of mental health challenges. I fit well with people who desire to go deeper than symptom suppression and work together to uncover the root causes beneath emotional suffering. This can include but often goes beyond medication prescribing. True healing requires us to care for all the different elements that make up our lives, from the physical body to the mind and beyond. I place an emphasis on the psychological impact of traumatic experiences and the importance of lifestyle factors like sleep, movement, nutrition, spirituality, and relationships.
I'm a UCSF-trained psychiatrist working with adults experiencing the full spectrum of mental health challenges. I fit well with people who desire to go deeper than symptom suppression and work together to uncover the root causes beneath emotional suffering. This can include but often goes beyond medication prescribing. True healing requires us to care for all the different elements that make up our lives, from the physical body to the mind and beyond. I place an emphasis on the psychological impact of traumatic experiences and the importance of lifestyle factors like sleep, movement, nutrition, spirituality, and relationships.
![Photo of Alex Terreau, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b67f14-abdf-474f-8308-eadec0164689/1/320x400.jpeg)
Most of us want to live more freely and fully as our authentic self. Yet, a range of issues and struggles can get in our way. Sometimes it’s a mental health or major life challenge, unresolved pain from our past, outdated beliefs, difficult feelings, or unintegrated parts of ourselves or identities. We suffer, feeling overwhelmed, lost, and disconnected. We may simply want relief. Sometimes, our suffering is a call into more of our depth, to awaken spiritually, or to expand into our potential and purpose. With empathy and compassion, I can meet you where you’re at and help you find your way towards wellness and new possibilities.
Most of us want to live more freely and fully as our authentic self. Yet, a range of issues and struggles can get in our way. Sometimes it’s a mental health or major life challenge, unresolved pain from our past, outdated beliefs, difficult feelings, or unintegrated parts of ourselves or identities. We suffer, feeling overwhelmed, lost, and disconnected. We may simply want relief. Sometimes, our suffering is a call into more of our depth, to awaken spiritually, or to expand into our potential and purpose. With empathy and compassion, I can meet you where you’re at and help you find your way towards wellness and new possibilities.
![Photo of David Roth, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b11ff94b-3ef8-485b-bcd3-f58a2d74ac48/2/320x400.png)
What are their issues, their needs, their goals? What do they want and why? I have enjoyed working with a wide variety of adults and youth over my career so far. My only requirements from patients are honesty and a desire for self-improvement.
What are their issues, their needs, their goals? What do they want and why? I have enjoyed working with a wide variety of adults and youth over my career so far. My only requirements from patients are honesty and a desire for self-improvement.
![Photo of Kim Salinger, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, AHN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b946d873-24a9-4269-a684-3142cdf8ec07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Salinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, AHN, APRN
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Holistic & Integrative Psychiatry for creative, unique and neurodiverse individuals. I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. Emphasizing positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Focus on now and future forward (no dredging up the past). Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
Holistic & Integrative Psychiatry for creative, unique and neurodiverse individuals. I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. Emphasizing positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Focus on now and future forward (no dredging up the past). Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f4064d8-77be-41a6-96c0-5f338adf3da0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960 (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 Edward Davis, MD, ABPN, ABAM, ABPM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51c5d3a2-3e02-48a2-956b-cea62bd79d3c/4/320x400.jpeg)
I look for ways to optimize individual treatment and seek opportunities to surpass previous functioning. My goal is to help patients achieve their full potential and self-actualize. I follow a positive strength based approach that is highly individualized. After graduating from the Juilliard School, I prepared for medical studies at the City University of New York. Then completed medical studies at U.C.S.F. and psychiatry residency at Stanford University. I have recently renewed Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology 2020, Addiction Medicine 2019 and Pain Medicine 2017.
I look for ways to optimize individual treatment and seek opportunities to surpass previous functioning. My goal is to help patients achieve their full potential and self-actualize. I follow a positive strength based approach that is highly individualized. After graduating from the Juilliard School, I prepared for medical studies at the City University of New York. Then completed medical studies at U.C.S.F. and psychiatry residency at Stanford University. I have recently renewed Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology 2020, Addiction Medicine 2019 and Pain Medicine 2017.
![Photo of Neha Nayyar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a823700-9fe4-48e6-a759-02525cce0cc7/1/320x400.png)
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bbeed78-9114-4415-bbe9-75804eaf2718/1/320x400.png)
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 Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c866456-2525-4a1a-86ac-ac97e95ae9f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1ff7a06-67ed-4363-a08b-32fe9622f4ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903 (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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, 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.
![Photo of Rebecca Blakesley, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/390d646f-fb53-4f22-af48-7671a6977577/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Blakesley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94912
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
![Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c66fb9a-f91f-4bfc-b180-e4a786d8d47d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901 (Online Only)
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.
See more therapy options for Novato
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Novato, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Novato, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
60% | ADHD |
60% | Bipolar Disorder |
60% | Medication Management |
60% | Stress |
40% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Novato, CA see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Male | |
40% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Novato?
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.