Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Phuong Pham, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be8e7de6-c8aa-49c1-abc1-cb23a342a652/1/320x400.png)
Phuong provides safe, high-quality, patient-centered care. She is driven by compassion, knowledge, honesty, and integrity.
Phuong provides safe, high-quality, patient-centered care. She is driven by compassion, knowledge, honesty, and integrity.
![Photo of Usha Ramineni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d844c896-94af-4880-81c6-a75d3deb30a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Usha Ramineni sees patients ages 5 to 64. Dr. Ramineni was recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists in 2010 by SLD Industries; and, from 2009 to 2014, Dr. Ramineni was given awards for her excellence as one of America's Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers' Research Council of America.
Dr. Usha Ramineni sees patients ages 5 to 64. Dr. Ramineni was recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists in 2010 by SLD Industries; and, from 2009 to 2014, Dr. Ramineni was given awards for her excellence as one of America's Top Psychiatrists by the Consumers' Research Council of America.
![Photo of Jaclyn Joyce, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c68a0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist based out of San Diego, California. I can prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, or both. I genuinely enjoy working with clients, hearing unique life stories, and finding ways to help each person as an individual. I have experience working with a wide variety of psychiatric concerns. There are also a few areas in which I have a special focus, including: working with older adolescents and college students, pregnancy, and new parents.
Hi there. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist based out of San Diego, California. I can prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, or both. I genuinely enjoy working with clients, hearing unique life stories, and finding ways to help each person as an individual. I have experience working with a wide variety of psychiatric concerns. There are also a few areas in which I have a special focus, including: working with older adolescents and college students, pregnancy, and new parents.
![Photo of Dr. Karine Khatchatrian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30d04fb8-c388-48f5-83f4-a62e82e137b9/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Karine Khatchatrian helps adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Dr. Karine Khatchatrian helps adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Raphael Morris, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a86eb986-0d7f-441b-ae30-df47e9a62a26/1/320x400.png)
Raphael Morris, MD is board certified in general psychiatry. He has extensive experience in assessing and treating adults and adolescents in both psychotherapy and with medications. Following forensic psychiatry fellowship training, he opened a clinical and forensic private practice and is particularly adept at assessing psychiatric disabilities, and managing the treatment needs of clients when there has been some involvement with the legal system, e. g. divorce, custody disputes, juvenile delinquency, and substance abuse histories.
Raphael Morris, MD is board certified in general psychiatry. He has extensive experience in assessing and treating adults and adolescents in both psychotherapy and with medications. Following forensic psychiatry fellowship training, he opened a clinical and forensic private practice and is particularly adept at assessing psychiatric disabilities, and managing the treatment needs of clients when there has been some involvement with the legal system, e. g. divorce, custody disputes, juvenile delinquency, and substance abuse histories.
![Photo of Mina Sardashti, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9d08d81-e294-47ed-a7f4-710fa66506c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mina works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Mina believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Mina works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Mina believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
![Photo of Cara Niemeier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/541f2bbe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Niemeier is a Board Certified Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.
Dr. Niemeier is a Board Certified Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.
![Photo of Dmitriy Sivtsov, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93e3bec2-7e77-43b9-99f9-2bc62b767f45/3/320x400.jpeg)
Starting with the first phone call or email, our central location, knowledgeable staff, expert physicians, seamless process of evaluation, treatment planning and delivery all designed to take unnecessary stress off your shoulders. We will work behind the scenes so you and your doctor can focus on the one most important thing - fighting depression.
Starting with the first phone call or email, our central location, knowledgeable staff, expert physicians, seamless process of evaluation, treatment planning and delivery all designed to take unnecessary stress off your shoulders. We will work behind the scenes so you and your doctor can focus on the one most important thing - fighting depression.
![Photo of Jordan Blaine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e377dc-f031-42a4-8cfc-87dd7e4ff07d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING 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.
ACCEPTING 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.
![Photo of Sarah Blue, MD-BC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1375f46-d403-4c9c-88f8-c411fe5e0cae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Ruth Ann Powe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67737566-1cf6-4664-aeb7-43d3aee05dc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Ann Powe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
15 Second Videos
Jordan Blaine
Robert McLay
Leah Haddad
The Focus Doc
Leah Haddad
Natalie Love
Ryan Thebo
Jonathan Allotey
Jon Deam
Ike Uzowulu
Jonathan Allotey
Jay Timacdog
Riz Ahmad
Ryan Thebo
Open Mind Health
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Remedy Psychiatry San Diego
Aveo Wellness: Therapy & Psychiatry
Uchenna Okoye
Dominique Sanders
Molly McLaren
Nicolas Badre
Braincom Advanced Nursing
Kai Macdonald
Catalina Villa
Susan Solimine
Sham Singh
Jack Mkroyan
Ronil Shah
Lauren Prasek
Anne Phan-Huy
Dominique Sanders
Jack Mkroyan
Jessica Vermeulen
Mottsin Thomas
Elena Urbiztondo
Jacquelyn Hamed
Riz Ahmad
Duke Nyarecha
Shreesh Prasad
Azmeena Hashem
Sauntrice O'Quin
Sonoran Psychiatric Care
Jordan Blaine
Mentally Healthycare
Catalina Villa
Nancy Wu
Rebecca R Kolb
Sham Singh
Uchenna Okoye
![Photo of Tara Pundiak Toohey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88c50068-6965-4d34-8e25-67d85c062bab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Toohey is board certified in adult psychiatry with extensive experience in emergency psychiatry and reproductive mental health with a boutique psychiatry practice in California. She completed residency at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in New York City and has over 20 years' experience. She served as faculty at UCSD and University of Hawaii. In addition to the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis and ADHD, her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry and management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She is a consultant in hospitals and emergency rooms throughout California.
Dr. Toohey is board certified in adult psychiatry with extensive experience in emergency psychiatry and reproductive mental health with a boutique psychiatry practice in California. She completed residency at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in New York City and has over 20 years' experience. She served as faculty at UCSD and University of Hawaii. In addition to the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis and ADHD, her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry and management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She is a consultant in hospitals and emergency rooms throughout California.
![Photo of Brandon Cole, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09c38e93-8f90-462b-96e2-2c33bb5e603c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you seeking compassionate support on your mental health journey? I would be honored to be your dedicated guide to holistic wellness and empowerment. I am passionate about helping my clients reach their full potential and have more satisfaction in life and relationships. My approach is anything but one-size-fits-all. I believe in the power of personalized care, tailored to your unique needs, goals, and values. I combine evidence-based practices with a holistic perspective, addressing the multifaceted nature of mental health struggles with understanding and empathy.
Are you seeking compassionate support on your mental health journey? I would be honored to be your dedicated guide to holistic wellness and empowerment. I am passionate about helping my clients reach their full potential and have more satisfaction in life and relationships. My approach is anything but one-size-fits-all. I believe in the power of personalized care, tailored to your unique needs, goals, and values. I combine evidence-based practices with a holistic perspective, addressing the multifaceted nature of mental health struggles with understanding and empathy.
![Photo of Milka Galvez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/248fa672-878b-43ed-a793-0b924252b7ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Milka Galvez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master’s Degree from Walden University. I have experience working as a nurse in an acute and outpatient setting. I am passionate in working with adolescents, adults and the geriatric patients by not only caring for them but assisting them to wellness. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, traveling and spending time with my family.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master’s Degree from Walden University. I have experience working as a nurse in an acute and outpatient setting. I am passionate in working with adolescents, adults and the geriatric patients by not only caring for them but assisting them to wellness. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, traveling and spending time with my family.
![Photo of Ryan Bolt, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae4eefac-dd7f-4a56-8b71-53ee14c10f59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Bolt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
I believe in an integrative approach with a focus on wholeness and client-centered care. Using these foundations, I strive to provide comprehensive care that incorporates complementary treatments, genetic testing, lifestyle modification, therapy, and medication management. My goal is to foster an environment of trust and understanding so that we can work together to achieve your goals. I am easily accessible even outside of clinic hours via text, email, or phone.
I believe in an integrative approach with a focus on wholeness and client-centered care. Using these foundations, I strive to provide comprehensive care that incorporates complementary treatments, genetic testing, lifestyle modification, therapy, and medication management. My goal is to foster an environment of trust and understanding so that we can work together to achieve your goals. I am easily accessible even outside of clinic hours via text, email, or phone.
![Photo of Sanjoy Sathpathy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ca5772-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
From an early age, I have been encouraged to be curious and inquisitive in humanity. This attracted me to the profession of psychiatry, which gave me the opportunity to have a positive impact on an individual. Empowering each patient is of my highest concern and I make every effort to instill confidence and provide support through the healing process.
From an early age, I have been encouraged to be curious and inquisitive in humanity. This attracted me to the profession of psychiatry, which gave me the opportunity to have a positive impact on an individual. Empowering each patient is of my highest concern and I make every effort to instill confidence and provide support through the healing process.
![Photo of Weei LoAllen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2483abd-eed9-4470-b1d5-dd8492d784f4/2/320x400.png)
Do you feel something is holding you or your loved one back? Many of us can feel stuck or overwhelmed when adjusting to change. When struggling with old and new challenges in our lives, it takes courage to reach out for help. You do not have to venture forth alone. Together, we can work through the issues at hand and rediscover your full potential. I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I am here to help you optimize different aspects of your life and reconnect with the sense of purpose deep within you. It is time to prioritize your wellness and mental health.
Do you feel something is holding you or your loved one back? Many of us can feel stuck or overwhelmed when adjusting to change. When struggling with old and new challenges in our lives, it takes courage to reach out for help. You do not have to venture forth alone. Together, we can work through the issues at hand and rediscover your full potential. I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I am here to help you optimize different aspects of your life and reconnect with the sense of purpose deep within you. It is time to prioritize your wellness and mental health.
![Photo of Robert McLay, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ac2a89c-5dc9-4bfc-85bb-1e4e771d527c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robert McLay is a psychiatrist and pain medicine physician who received board certifications in three areas: General Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Psychosomatic Medicine (the overlap between medical and mental health). He has a special focus on military, their families, and high-performance issues, but treats all mental health conditions. Dr. McLay received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Johns Hopkins University, and his Ph.D. in neuroscience and M.D. from Tulane University. He received specialty training from Naval Medical Center, the University of California San Diego, and the American Psychoanalytic Association.
Robert McLay is a psychiatrist and pain medicine physician who received board certifications in three areas: General Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Psychosomatic Medicine (the overlap between medical and mental health). He has a special focus on military, their families, and high-performance issues, but treats all mental health conditions. Dr. McLay received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Johns Hopkins University, and his Ph.D. in neuroscience and M.D. from Tulane University. He received specialty training from Naval Medical Center, the University of California San Diego, and the American Psychoanalytic Association.
![Photo of Emily Econie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ae703b-0c1e-4cdb-b21c-0b4df044e22f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Econie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Science in Homeland Security from San Diego State University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing/Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University. Emily has a diverse background working in a variety of environments including San Diego's busiest Emergency Departments as well as the acute inpatient psychiatric setting. Most people are surprised to hear that nursing is not her first career.
Emily Econie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Science in Homeland Security from San Diego State University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing/Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University. Emily has a diverse background working in a variety of environments including San Diego's busiest Emergency Departments as well as the acute inpatient psychiatric setting. Most people are surprised to hear that nursing is not her first career.
![Photo of Anna Amour Ross, PMHNP, CNS-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c080843-8c46-4ab1-b5e6-573caef95e57/5/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Amour Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNS-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122 (Online Only)
Are you looking for an experienced psych med provider with a conservative approach to prescription meds? Dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience, Anna has proven success in assisting patients (age 17+) w/ complex dual diagnosis. Licenses in AZ, CA, OR, MD & WA providing prompt access to mental health services for conditions that include ADHD (non-stimulants), Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Chronic Pain, Insomnia, Mood, PTSD. Woman Veteran Owned Private Practice serving 5 States via convenient virtual telehealth appointments. Accepting New Patients Now!
Are you looking for an experienced psych med provider with a conservative approach to prescription meds? Dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience, Anna has proven success in assisting patients (age 17+) w/ complex dual diagnosis. Licenses in AZ, CA, OR, MD & WA providing prompt access to mental health services for conditions that include ADHD (non-stimulants), Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Chronic Pain, Insomnia, Mood, PTSD. Woman Veteran Owned Private Practice serving 5 States via convenient virtual telehealth appointments. Accepting New Patients Now!
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
400+
Average cost per session
$227
Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
39% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Diego?
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.