Psychiatrists in Plymouth, CA
![Photo of Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56d3626d-daf6-4804-825f-f9b59855beea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Plymouth, CA 95669 (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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Abhishek Rai - Psychiatrist (Integrative/Holistic), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7da0aa6-9114-4cc8-a135-2d9b68d052ec/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Abhishek Rai is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals grappling with psychiatric conditions such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. What sets Dr. Rai apart is his distinctive approach, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern medicine philosophies in a highly personalized manner for each patient. Driven by the conviction that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and spirit, he initiates treatment with medication but views complete healing as an intricate journey. He empowers his patients with evidence-based modalities and a diverse toolkit for a holistic and transformative healing experience
Dr. Abhishek Rai is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals grappling with psychiatric conditions such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. What sets Dr. Rai apart is his distinctive approach, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern medicine philosophies in a highly personalized manner for each patient. Driven by the conviction that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and spirit, he initiates treatment with medication but views complete healing as an intricate journey. He empowers his patients with evidence-based modalities and a diverse toolkit for a holistic and transformative healing experience
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c92c02a-24db-40b6-9317-aaa4896d7fc9/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fremont, CA 94538
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Dr. Farzook Fayyaz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfe8a2c3-9a20-4a72-bb44-9df4291c4cc9/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Farzook Fayyaz treats adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia, and trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. Dr. Fayyaz’s approach is empathetic, compassionate, and focused on active listening and providing patient-guided therapy.
Dr. Farzook Fayyaz treats adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia, and trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. Dr. Fayyaz’s approach is empathetic, compassionate, and focused on active listening and providing patient-guided therapy.
![Photo of Sridevi Banka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99de7ff3-f15d-4892-8697-7a608338e634/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sridevi Banka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dublin, CA 94568 (Online Only)
Hi, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a diverse educational and clinical background. I hold a Master's Degree from UCSF. I have extensive experience in diagnosing, prescribing and treating a variety of psychiatric disorders, including mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis, trauma, sleep disorders, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders. Over the years, I worked with diverse patient population in several hospital settings(in-patient, out-patient, Crisis Stabilization and Psychiatric Emergency Room) and treated mild-severe mental disorders.
Hi, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a diverse educational and clinical background. I hold a Master's Degree from UCSF. I have extensive experience in diagnosing, prescribing and treating a variety of psychiatric disorders, including mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis, trauma, sleep disorders, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders. Over the years, I worked with diverse patient population in several hospital settings(in-patient, out-patient, Crisis Stabilization and Psychiatric Emergency Room) and treated mild-severe mental disorders.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb3e50f-75ca-4189-b193-06f4ec66d0cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Ravi Hariprasad, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b1440c-1cd4-417e-ac4b-ce7a42c43289/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard (MGH) trained psychiatrist, an engineer and a serial entrepreneur. As an integrative physician, I am ambidextrous in performing as a psychopharmacologist, an Ayurvedic healer, a therapist, and a mindful life coach. Together we collaborate closely to identify and remove obstacles to wellness, to reduce suffering, and to gain a personal understanding of the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Your personal preferences and strengths guide our approach. Quite simply, I approach problem solving and treatment planning differently.
I am a Harvard (MGH) trained psychiatrist, an engineer and a serial entrepreneur. As an integrative physician, I am ambidextrous in performing as a psychopharmacologist, an Ayurvedic healer, a therapist, and a mindful life coach. Together we collaborate closely to identify and remove obstacles to wellness, to reduce suffering, and to gain a personal understanding of the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Your personal preferences and strengths guide our approach. Quite simply, I approach problem solving and treatment planning differently.
![Photo of Anissa Brown, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5c2a76a-4980-4e34-88c7-950763026d28/2/320x400.png)
Anissa is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and helps adults with comorbid mental health and addiction issues.
Anissa is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and helps adults with comorbid mental health and addiction issues.
![Photo of Catherine Stayer, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7d69b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES.
I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES.
I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0228c53b-5f06-4108-94d3-b9a03c1df7cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533 (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 Mel Ira Blaustein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c1f5991-87b1-4461-ab7f-64364607e193/1/320x400.png)
We are living through difficult times. With so much turmoil in the world and great divisiveness in our own country, many of us may be feeling anxious and worried. Anxiety and depression are on the rise, as well as alcohol and substance abuse problems, as we work to cope with our worries, fear, and pain. But it is important to remember that you are not alone.
We are living through difficult times. With so much turmoil in the world and great divisiveness in our own country, many of us may be feeling anxious and worried. Anxiety and depression are on the rise, as well as alcohol and substance abuse problems, as we work to cope with our worries, fear, and pain. But it is important to remember that you are not alone.
![Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dfe7f07-c9bd-41c2-a5d1-c6e7a356e302/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95811
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Ifeoma Okwu - Embodied Wellness Psychiatry, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5641f808-8c3a-4995-8b12-ac957c5e184e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834 (Online Only)
Ifeoma Okwu is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington and California. She treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and specializes in mental health, weight management, sexual dysfunction, and thyroid optimization.
Ifeoma Okwu is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington and California. She treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and specializes in mental health, weight management, sexual dysfunction, and thyroid optimization.
![Photo of Eric Glassgold - Eric Glassgold, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0c3cc58-d069-44b7-ad50-8f06c50d5ca4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patients come to see me when they experience emotional pain and need help figuring out how to improve their lives. Sometimes a problem has built up over time and reaches a saturation point. It may relate to work or school, to a love or family relationship, or to something completely unexpected--a layoff, breakup, accident, sudden illness or even a death--that uncovers a long neglected area of development.
Patients come to see me when they experience emotional pain and need help figuring out how to improve their lives. Sometimes a problem has built up over time and reaches a saturation point. It may relate to work or school, to a love or family relationship, or to something completely unexpected--a layoff, breakup, accident, sudden illness or even a death--that uncovers a long neglected area of development.
![Photo of Teresa Lee, MD, FAPA, CGP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/506f1760-7520-40a7-bbca-729d70a6daa6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling "stuck" or even "paralyzed" in your career, daily life, or relationships (in areas even beyond romantic) are often why people seek me. My culturally open approach means we will understand how your past and present relationships, ideas, and feelings shape who you are today. I primarily offer psychodynamic and relational therapy and add in CBT, DBT, and mindfulness as needed. Talk therapy can lead to deep and lasting changes, and medications, when thoughtfully prescribed, can lessen the intensity of pain and suffering. With my medical and therapy resources, we will create an approach that lends itself to personal growth.
Feeling "stuck" or even "paralyzed" in your career, daily life, or relationships (in areas even beyond romantic) are often why people seek me. My culturally open approach means we will understand how your past and present relationships, ideas, and feelings shape who you are today. I primarily offer psychodynamic and relational therapy and add in CBT, DBT, and mindfulness as needed. Talk therapy can lead to deep and lasting changes, and medications, when thoughtfully prescribed, can lessen the intensity of pain and suffering. With my medical and therapy resources, we will create an approach that lends itself to personal growth.
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bfe1566-1672-46fe-b383-458e4a91e26c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and I do both medication management and pyschotherapy. I treat adults and adolescents with multiple mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, attention deficit disorder (ADHD/ADD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), insomnia, panic attacks, eating disorders, and relationship issues. I also have a special interest in women's health and treating women during pregnancy, post-partum, and pregnancy planning.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and I do both medication management and pyschotherapy. I treat adults and adolescents with multiple mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, attention deficit disorder (ADHD/ADD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), insomnia, panic attacks, eating disorders, and relationship issues. I also have a special interest in women's health and treating women during pregnancy, post-partum, and pregnancy planning.
![Photo of Haining Yu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed35ce52-3f6e-4515-adc5-2a6f8df477ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
During college, I developed an interest in psychology and neuroscience. After college, I became a middle school teacher, and found my passion in working with children and families. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health that encompasses physical health and psychological health. I work with patients and families in a collaborative manner, setting shared treatment goals, and believe that patients often hold the key to moving forward towards these goals.
During college, I developed an interest in psychology and neuroscience. After college, I became a middle school teacher, and found my passion in working with children and families. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health that encompasses physical health and psychological health. I work with patients and families in a collaborative manner, setting shared treatment goals, and believe that patients often hold the key to moving forward towards these goals.
![Photo of Whitney Smith - K. Whitney Smith, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da200bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
![Photo of Grace Marian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13456da7-3646-41ab-b571-11a83f52f211/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. I offer integrative and holistic psychiatric treatment for children, adolescents and young adults, in particular. I also treat older adults and my understanding of development and early challenges better informs my work with them as well.
I am a licensed child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. I offer integrative and holistic psychiatric treatment for children, adolescents and young adults, in particular. I also treat older adults and my understanding of development and early challenges better informs my work with them as well.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Plymouth, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Plymouth, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Parenting |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Plymouth, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Plymouth?
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.