Psychiatrists in San Rafael, CA
![Photo of David Roth, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b11ff94b-3ef8-485b-bcd3-f58a2d74ac48/2/320x400.png)
What are their issues, their needs, their goals? What do they want and why? I have enjoyed working with a wide variety of adults and youth over my career so far. My only requirements from patients are honesty and a desire for self-improvement.
What are their issues, their needs, their goals? What do they want and why? I have enjoyed working with a wide variety of adults and youth over my career so far. My only requirements from patients are honesty and a desire for self-improvement.
![Photo of Colleen Sun, PMHNP, -BC, CEN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/110f59bb-2ec8-44a0-b1a3-7960261e2ff8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen Sun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, CEN, MSN
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903 (Online Only)
I currently accept new adult patients for medication management. My services include, but are not limited to psychiatric assessment, medication management and supportive therapy. My therapeutic style is casual, interactive and professional. I recognize mental health is uniquely personal, so I tailor evaluations and treatments to your needs. My experience being a Registered Nurse in a busy community emergency department has helped me view each patient individually. I hope to combat the stigma of mental health, bring awareness to the field, and be a good model for the community. I strive to make patients feel heard and taken care of.
I currently accept new adult patients for medication management. My services include, but are not limited to psychiatric assessment, medication management and supportive therapy. My therapeutic style is casual, interactive and professional. I recognize mental health is uniquely personal, so I tailor evaluations and treatments to your needs. My experience being a Registered Nurse in a busy community emergency department has helped me view each patient individually. I hope to combat the stigma of mental health, bring awareness to the field, and be a good model for the community. I strive to make patients feel heard and taken care of.
![Photo of Kim Schurman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bb64678-0460-467d-853f-e7da7e2587e2/1/320x400.png)
I am a psychiatrist with a focused interest in working with patients who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety. My style of psychiatry is a warm, curious, and empathic approach to working with my patients. I prefer to work collaboratively in order to help patients understand themselves and their treatment process.
I am a psychiatrist with a focused interest in working with patients who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety. My style of psychiatry is a warm, curious, and empathic approach to working with my patients. I prefer to work collaboratively in order to help patients understand themselves and their treatment process.
![Photo of Eugene L Schoenfeld, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaea89c3-5b93-4ffd-b4f0-4d58de1fd74a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I do general psychiatry, medication management, addiction medicine, and consult with attorneys on issues involving criminal and civil issues. For details about my work and background see my Website at www.eugeneschoenfeld.com
I do general psychiatry, medication management, addiction medicine, and consult with attorneys on issues involving criminal and civil issues. For details about my work and background see my Website at www.eugeneschoenfeld.com
![Photo of Roderick Williams - Clarity Squared Behavioral, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d760c00e-d183-4d78-ba75-2f36a04c1806/2/320x400.png)
Clarity Squared Behavioral
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been involved in the mental health field for more than ten years in various positions. I've earned both a BS and MS in Nursing from The University of Southern Mississippi. I am experienced in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, with an emphasis on treating depression and addiction that is resistive to treatment. "My current interest lies in bariatric psychiatry, which I believe is often intertwined with depression and addiction."
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been involved in the mental health field for more than ten years in various positions. I've earned both a BS and MS in Nursing from The University of Southern Mississippi. I am experienced in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, with an emphasis on treating depression and addiction that is resistive to treatment. "My current interest lies in bariatric psychiatry, which I believe is often intertwined with depression and addiction."
![Photo of Richard A. Bermudes, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29155b15-19b0-4acd-9e9c-00a77c1ac255/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Bermudes is a compassionate, collaborative board-certified psychiatrist specializing in treating teens and adults with Major Depression, Bipolar Depression, and Anxiety conditions such as Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. He has been at the forefront of numerous innovative treatments, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), Esketamine, and Ketamine. In his telehealth practice, he incorporates cutting-edge medication management and psychological treatments.
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Bermudes is a compassionate, collaborative board-certified psychiatrist specializing in treating teens and adults with Major Depression, Bipolar Depression, and Anxiety conditions such as Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. He has been at the forefront of numerous innovative treatments, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), Esketamine, and Ketamine. In his telehealth practice, he incorporates cutting-edge medication management and psychological treatments.
![Photo of Kim Salinger, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, AHN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b946d873-24a9-4269-a684-3142cdf8ec07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Salinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, AHN, APRN
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Holistic & Integrative Psychiatry for creative, unique and neurodiverse individuals. I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. Emphasizing positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Focus on now and future forward (no dredging up the past). Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
Holistic & Integrative Psychiatry for creative, unique and neurodiverse individuals. I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. Emphasizing positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Focus on now and future forward (no dredging up the past). Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
![Photo of Sally Daganzo, MD, FACP, CEDS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bd051f0-cb9d-4b80-b962-aeef354ebef2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry and Internal Medicine specializing in highly personalized care for those with eating disorders and their complications as well as in complex or difficult to diagnose symptoms including POTS, Long Covid, ME/CFS. Primary care psychiatric services offered. All care available in person and/or virtual.
Psychiatry and Internal Medicine specializing in highly personalized care for those with eating disorders and their complications as well as in complex or difficult to diagnose symptoms including POTS, Long Covid, ME/CFS. Primary care psychiatric services offered. All care available in person and/or virtual.
![Photo of Sarah J Polfliet, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c049d2d8-625c-496a-aee9-f2696f380527/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
![Photo of Michael Adam Ciranni, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc02fce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I earned a Ph.D. in cognitive neuropsychology from UC Berkeley before attending medical school at UC San Francisco and later specializing in psychiatry at New York University. As a result, I have a thorough understanding of the neural pathways involved in emotions and cognition, how they develop, how they are regulated, and the relevant neurotransmitters. I have applied my training to develop a specific expertise in identifying and treating ADHD in adults. While neural pathways affect behavior, your mind doesn't exist in a vacuum. Your mind developed and operates under distinct circumstances.
I earned a Ph.D. in cognitive neuropsychology from UC Berkeley before attending medical school at UC San Francisco and later specializing in psychiatry at New York University. As a result, I have a thorough understanding of the neural pathways involved in emotions and cognition, how they develop, how they are regulated, and the relevant neurotransmitters. I have applied my training to develop a specific expertise in identifying and treating ADHD in adults. While neural pathways affect behavior, your mind doesn't exist in a vacuum. Your mind developed and operates under distinct circumstances.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8aca0be-753e-4a09-95ad-ce3f97233dce/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901 (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.
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![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c866456-2525-4a1a-86ac-ac97e95ae9f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea3ca6ac-d7b8-4e1d-9ec1-18f4ad682ef4/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Chloe Strycker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c2ebf7-ca8b-4d6b-a48c-625210af34cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Strycker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903 (Online Only)
Hi! I am Chloe, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am providing a full range of primary mental care services. I offer treatment modalities including both medication and psychotherapeutic management.
Hi! I am Chloe, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am providing a full range of primary mental care services. I offer treatment modalities including both medication and psychotherapeutic management.
![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 Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51887ba4-65c0-4741-adce-c607543e8ad5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
![Photo of Nikhil Majumdar - Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e660a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
![Photo of Steve Balt, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c95fd95-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults and adolescents with addictions, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and psychosis. I offer both medication management and psychotherapy. My approach to medications is a conservative one: I use medications (including Suboxone) only when patients have a full understanding of their risks and benefits, and I am willing to help patients taper or discontinue medications that provide little benefit, or which cause harm. At all times, I am eager to collaborate with other providers (therapists, counselors, alternative medicine specialists) to provide the optimal care for my patients.
I am a psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults and adolescents with addictions, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and psychosis. I offer both medication management and psychotherapy. My approach to medications is a conservative one: I use medications (including Suboxone) only when patients have a full understanding of their risks and benefits, and I am willing to help patients taper or discontinue medications that provide little benefit, or which cause harm. At all times, I am eager to collaborate with other providers (therapists, counselors, alternative medicine specialists) to provide the optimal care for my patients.
![Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c66fb9a-f91f-4bfc-b180-e4a786d8d47d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901 (Online Only)
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1ff7a06-67ed-4363-a08b-32fe9622f4ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
See more therapy options for San Rafael
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Rafael, CA
40+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in San Rafael, CA who prioritize treating:
88% | Anxiety |
83% | Medication Management |
81% | Depression |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | ADHD |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Optum |
76% | Aetna |
76% | Elevance |
How Psychiatrists in San Rafael, CA see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
55% | Male | |
45% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Rafael?
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.