Psychiatrists in Salinas, CA
Calm corner Mental health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Salinas, CA 93905
Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings, anxiety, depression? I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. At calm corner mental health we understand that seeking mental health care that feels both supportive and culturally sensitive is essential. That's why we are proud to offer a team of experienced and compassionate black psychiatrists in Los Angeles who are committed to providing you with the highest level of mental care.
Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings, anxiety, depression? I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. At calm corner mental health we understand that seeking mental health care that feels both supportive and culturally sensitive is essential. That's why we are proud to offer a team of experienced and compassionate black psychiatrists in Los Angeles who are committed to providing you with the highest level of mental care.
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salinas, CA 93905 (Online Only)
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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.
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.
Briauna Linton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salinas, CA 93905 (Online Only)
My name is Briauna and I have a diverse clinical background spanning over 9 years. I have showcased my expertise in various domains, notably in critical care, which has lead to my decision to become a dedicated provider. In addition to my clinical expertise, I often emphasize patient education, advocacy, and empowerment. I work to reduce stigma associated with mental illness, promote resilience, and support individuals in achieving their therapeutic goals. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that addresses the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of mental health.
My name is Briauna and I have a diverse clinical background spanning over 9 years. I have showcased my expertise in various domains, notably in critical care, which has lead to my decision to become a dedicated provider. In addition to my clinical expertise, I often emphasize patient education, advocacy, and empowerment. I work to reduce stigma associated with mental illness, promote resilience, and support individuals in achieving their therapeutic goals. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that addresses the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of mental health.
Porsha Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salinas, CA 93906 (Online Only)
In my mental health practice, I advocate for a holistic treatment approach, recognizing the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit. My emphasis goes beyond symptom relief, delving into the root causes of mental well-being. By integrating diverse therapeutic modalities, lifestyle adjustments, and mindfulness techniques, I strive to facilitate a well-rounded healing experience. My goal is to empower individuals on a journey toward balance, resilience, and lasting mental health.
In my mental health practice, I advocate for a holistic treatment approach, recognizing the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit. My emphasis goes beyond symptom relief, delving into the root causes of mental well-being. By integrating diverse therapeutic modalities, lifestyle adjustments, and mindfulness techniques, I strive to facilitate a well-rounded healing experience. My goal is to empower individuals on a journey toward balance, resilience, and lasting mental health.
Online Psychiatrists
I am a UCSF and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist specialized in helping you unlock your full potential. I work with adults struggling with mood, anxiety, and focus problems - as well as difficulties in relationships, career, or sense of self - who are invested in developing a deeper understanding of themselves and taking an active role in their self-improvement; those looking to get at the root causes of new or long-festering problems and committed to making positive changes to support their wellbeing.
I am a UCSF and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist specialized in helping you unlock your full potential. I work with adults struggling with mood, anxiety, and focus problems - as well as difficulties in relationships, career, or sense of self - who are invested in developing a deeper understanding of themselves and taking an active role in their self-improvement; those looking to get at the root causes of new or long-festering problems and committed to making positive changes to support their wellbeing.
Do you want to be known and understood deeply without restrictions? Do you want to unearth the lost parts of yourself during an integrative process with another person? Do you want to have the experience that someone gets you and even understands the parts of yourself you don't enjoy or that cause you trouble?
Do you want to be known and understood deeply without restrictions? Do you want to unearth the lost parts of yourself during an integrative process with another person? Do you want to have the experience that someone gets you and even understands the parts of yourself you don't enjoy or that cause you trouble?
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95113
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
Jennique 'jenn' Simplice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501 (Online Only)
Jenn Simplice is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Jenn received her bachelors on the East Coast from New Jersey City University and is originally from the Bronx, New York. Jenn migrated to the West Coast as a travel RN where she completed her masters and currently continues to reside in southern CA. Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations including adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community.
Jenn Simplice is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Jenn received her bachelors on the East Coast from New Jersey City University and is originally from the Bronx, New York. Jenn migrated to the West Coast as a travel RN where she completed her masters and currently continues to reside in southern CA. Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations including adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community.
I am a Board-Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on managing care for patients with anxiety, depression, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I have a passion for LGBTQ and SGM health and have a dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have always loved talking with people one-on-one and hearing their stories. Starting my nursing career in cardiology, I found myself taking the time to listen to patient’s fears and worries. In these moments, I saw how vital mental health was in conjunction with physical health, and went back to school to study psychiatric mental health.
I am a Board-Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on managing care for patients with anxiety, depression, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I have a passion for LGBTQ and SGM health and have a dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have always loved talking with people one-on-one and hearing their stories. Starting my nursing career in cardiology, I found myself taking the time to listen to patient’s fears and worries. In these moments, I saw how vital mental health was in conjunction with physical health, and went back to school to study psychiatric mental health.
I embrace a collaborative approach with my patients. I want to provide knowledge and experience so as to empower my patients to make informed decisions about their available treatment options. My style is grounded in the mind-body connection by blending mindfulness, behaviors, and holistic interventions with medications.
I embrace a collaborative approach with my patients. I want to provide knowledge and experience so as to empower my patients to make informed decisions about their available treatment options. My style is grounded in the mind-body connection by blending mindfulness, behaviors, and holistic interventions with medications.
Open availability for Bay Area and Southern California. Hylermed is a California based telepsychiatry and face to face practice for routine, urgent, and crisis visits. Initial consultations can be scheduled within one business day thanks to our fluid availability. Treatment for ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, schizophrenia, trauma and other conditions are accessible. In addition, the practice is available for all Lyra Health clients. If you’re seeking a provider that is affordable, congenial, experienced and relatable, you came to the right place.
Open availability for Bay Area and Southern California. Hylermed is a California based telepsychiatry and face to face practice for routine, urgent, and crisis visits. Initial consultations can be scheduled within one business day thanks to our fluid availability. Treatment for ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, schizophrenia, trauma and other conditions are accessible. In addition, the practice is available for all Lyra Health clients. If you’re seeking a provider that is affordable, congenial, experienced and relatable, you came to the right place.
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Piedmont, CA 94610 (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.
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553 (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.
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
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!
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Nearby Searches for Salinas
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Salinas, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Salinas, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
78% | Eating Disorders |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Grief |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Salinas, CA see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Salinas?
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.