Psychiatrists in Patterson, CA
![Photo of Maryan Torres, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b4ab8d9-97fe-4b81-acc4-155b9bfd8a17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryan Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Patterson, CA 95363 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and taking a holistic approach to treating the overall person. With regard to mental health medication management services and treatment, I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience but also value personal observation and intuition.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and taking a holistic approach to treating the overall person. With regard to mental health medication management services and treatment, I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience but also value personal observation and intuition.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Rachel Lindseth - Southern Oregon Psychiatry, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/815b7454-d3f5-4308-8756-8f33c17babda/3/320x400.jpeg)
Southern Oregon Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95032 (Online Only)
Offering psychiatric evaluation, medication management, limited psychotherapy & ketamine treatment to adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia and other psychiatric & neurodevelopmental conditions throughout Oregon. Direct, open-minded & non-judgmental in my approach, I believe in partnering with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan utilizing the best available/most current evidence-based research in neuropsychiatry, as well as complementary & alternative treatments.
Offering psychiatric evaluation, medication management, limited psychotherapy & ketamine treatment to adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia and other psychiatric & neurodevelopmental conditions throughout Oregon. Direct, open-minded & non-judgmental in my approach, I believe in partnering with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan utilizing the best available/most current evidence-based research in neuropsychiatry, as well as complementary & alternative treatments.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b9ff578-c7fc-4ce4-bf43-0c4efaece8a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Toimbie Amaazee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db700d94-406c-496f-90e8-3572483a4b15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Toimbie Amaazee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95119 (Online Only)
Toimbie Amaazee is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in medication management.
Toimbie Amaazee is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in medication management.
![Photo of Kimberley Durr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c346a762-0e78-4e23-81a7-f044be56a8fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberley Durr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94544 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
![Photo of Ani Behrouzi - Trauma Recovery Psychiatry Center , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c56d536b-2660-4e89-bcaf-4ae3319e2b17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trauma Recovery Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Welcome to my psychiatry practice focused on trauma recovery, where the journey towards healing begins with empathy and understanding. I specialize in providing tailored care for individuals navigating the enduring impacts of trauma on their well-being. Central to my approach is a profound comprehension of how trauma affects the mind, body, and soul. I acknowledge the diverse ways trauma can manifest, ranging from anxiety and depression to insomnia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thus, I adopt a holistic treatment strategy that delves into both the symptoms and root causes of distress.
Welcome to my psychiatry practice focused on trauma recovery, where the journey towards healing begins with empathy and understanding. I specialize in providing tailored care for individuals navigating the enduring impacts of trauma on their well-being. Central to my approach is a profound comprehension of how trauma affects the mind, body, and soul. I acknowledge the diverse ways trauma can manifest, ranging from anxiety and depression to insomnia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thus, I adopt a holistic treatment strategy that delves into both the symptoms and root causes of distress.
![Photo of Simone Borghei, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1252225-ba40-4ab1-83a9-2dc8ae160503/1/320x400.jpeg)
am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who has worked in several clinical specialties including the pediatrics unit, pediatric intensive care unit, adult medical-surgical unit, telemetry unit, adult inpatient psychiatry unit, and postpartum unit as a registered nurse. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Azusa Pacific University in 2020 and am currently working toward my Doctorate in Nursing. After graduation, I completed a one-year residency for the Veterans Affairs in Sacramento and worked with veterans with severe mental illnesses, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who has worked in several clinical specialties including the pediatrics unit, pediatric intensive care unit, adult medical-surgical unit, telemetry unit, adult inpatient psychiatry unit, and postpartum unit as a registered nurse. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Azusa Pacific University in 2020 and am currently working toward my Doctorate in Nursing. After graduation, I completed a one-year residency for the Veterans Affairs in Sacramento and worked with veterans with severe mental illnesses, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Shanti Jampani - Shanti Jampani, MD | Mindful Health Solutions, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8440d22b-c4cc-49b6-bce5-13449978036d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shanti Jampani, MD | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
I'm happy to treat anyone who is struggling in some form in their day-to-day life and wants to get help, ranging from various mood disorders to psychosis.
I'm happy to treat anyone who is struggling in some form in their day-to-day life and wants to get help, ranging from various mood disorders to psychosis.
![Photo of Makenzie Wesner, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8799c8c4-c7f3-45f9-915d-bfc89e99beb6/5/320x400.jpeg)
Behavior problems, anxiety, and depression are the most commonly identified mental health challenges in children and teens. However, far too many go far too long without a deeper, comprehensive understanding of their unique barriers and gifts. For example, high academic performance and gender disparities may delay autism diagnosis. Sensory processing challenges generally underly ADHD. I designed a developmental psychiatry practice known as Behavioral Medicine at Family/Teen Therapy Center of Silicon Valley in order to provide toddlers to young adults - as well as their families - quick access to accurate, high-quality care.
Behavior problems, anxiety, and depression are the most commonly identified mental health challenges in children and teens. However, far too many go far too long without a deeper, comprehensive understanding of their unique barriers and gifts. For example, high academic performance and gender disparities may delay autism diagnosis. Sensory processing challenges generally underly ADHD. I designed a developmental psychiatry practice known as Behavioral Medicine at Family/Teen Therapy Center of Silicon Valley in order to provide toddlers to young adults - as well as their families - quick access to accurate, high-quality care.
![Photo of Dr. Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bcdfe58-28f6-4f15-9140-db555f95ff5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
Introducing Dr. Sim: Your Partner in Mental Health and Well-being! Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Oladiran-Adighije, affectionately known as Dr. Sim! With over 14 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer.
Introducing Dr. Sim: Your Partner in Mental Health and Well-being! Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Oladiran-Adighije, affectionately known as Dr. Sim! With over 14 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer.
![Photo of Natalie Artinian, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/206ef517-ad77-42a6-a200-1ca53dbf9e7d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
![Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47a96326-e4f0-4f13-942c-897ec1935efa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
![Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9011716-da96-44d1-8177-69ad772f4431/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognisant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognisant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
![Photo of Julia Mitrevski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9e90abd-7533-4827-8820-31dad29fd2ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Finding the right person to listen to you is a very deep and personal decision. We all know how helpful it can feel to be understood. You may be struggling with relationship or work issues; you may feel alone and unsure of yourself; you may be coping with the loss of a loved one or with a life transition. You may be looking for help with a specific problem, or you may have a vague sense that things just don’t feel right to you. Feel free to contact me either by phone or e-mail for more information or to make an appointment.
Finding the right person to listen to you is a very deep and personal decision. We all know how helpful it can feel to be understood. You may be struggling with relationship or work issues; you may feel alone and unsure of yourself; you may be coping with the loss of a loved one or with a life transition. You may be looking for help with a specific problem, or you may have a vague sense that things just don’t feel right to you. Feel free to contact me either by phone or e-mail for more information or to make an appointment.
![Photo of Rachel Jumonville, PA-C , Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/820436af-05a6-47a2-a6df-1be579115fd3/1/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Kimberley Durr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64c9ede0-612f-482f-9666-e3a88a123d85/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
![Photo of Duy Tran, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e10ad0c1-907c-44e7-8871-55f00605da50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Duy Tran is an adult psychiatrist. He received his Medical Doctor degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed residency training in general psychiatry at the University of Michigan. Dr. Tran aims to provide mental health care that helps patients live more fulfilling life. Dr. Tran has extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations, including college students, LGBT, perinatal, veterans, and those with socioeconomic disadvantages
Dr. Duy Tran is an adult psychiatrist. He received his Medical Doctor degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed residency training in general psychiatry at the University of Michigan. Dr. Tran aims to provide mental health care that helps patients live more fulfilling life. Dr. Tran has extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations, including college students, LGBT, perinatal, veterans, and those with socioeconomic disadvantages
![Photo of Kristen Nelson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7592739-8148-4b16-a6c1-4ba068820402/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
After completing my Master’s as a Family Nurse Practitioner, my passion for mental health led me to further my education and become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My training provided valuable experience in dual diagnosis patients, helping me understand the complex interplay between mental health and substance use. This allows me to partner with patients in finding comprehensive solutions. I follow trauma informed care guidance and have experience in managing depressive, anxious, manic, psychotic and substance use disorders.
After completing my Master’s as a Family Nurse Practitioner, my passion for mental health led me to further my education and become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My training provided valuable experience in dual diagnosis patients, helping me understand the complex interplay between mental health and substance use. This allows me to partner with patients in finding comprehensive solutions. I follow trauma informed care guidance and have experience in managing depressive, anxious, manic, psychotic and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Andrew Kuhle, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5c816f7-0ec7-4cbd-8473-ad0528c82968/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have always been the friend that people have been able to turn to and consider a good listener. I love hearing people’s stories. While initially interested in psychology- and receiving my undergraduate degree in it- I initially resisted the inclination to go into psychiatry during medical school. However, during my clinical rotations, the psychiatry rotation was the one that left me feeling the most excited, engaged, and “alive.” I recognized this was my calling and continue to feel humbled and grateful to work with my patients.
I have always been the friend that people have been able to turn to and consider a good listener. I love hearing people’s stories. While initially interested in psychology- and receiving my undergraduate degree in it- I initially resisted the inclination to go into psychiatry during medical school. However, during my clinical rotations, the psychiatry rotation was the one that left me feeling the most excited, engaged, and “alive.” I recognized this was my calling and continue to feel humbled and grateful to work with my patients.
![Photo of Hari Nair, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b12668-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to create a judgement free, welcoming environment and treat my patients in a holistic and culturally competent manner through the use of evidence-based therapies and medications. I use a comprehensive approach to understand the emotional, psychosocial and interpersonal spheres of my patients' lives. This allows me to identify the strengths, vulnerabilities and needs of my patients. I prioritize making my patients feel as comfortable as possible, often by engaging them in their own interests.
I strive to create a judgement free, welcoming environment and treat my patients in a holistic and culturally competent manner through the use of evidence-based therapies and medications. I use a comprehensive approach to understand the emotional, psychosocial and interpersonal spheres of my patients' lives. This allows me to identify the strengths, vulnerabilities and needs of my patients. I prioritize making my patients feel as comfortable as possible, often by engaging them in their own interests.
See more therapy options for Patterson
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Patterson, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Patterson, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Substance Use |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Patterson, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Patterson?
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.