Psychiatrists in Sanger, CA
![Photo of April Bodily, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2f25dc9-f0f9-42b6-a75d-caf66d5ef808/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! My name is April and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 18 years of experience in the nursing field, I am here to help clients of all walks of life. I frequently work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, BPAD, AUD, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, and other mood disorders. I am passionate about providing compassionate, patient-focused mental health care making sure that everyone feels heard, valued, and respected.
Welcome! My name is April and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 18 years of experience in the nursing field, I am here to help clients of all walks of life. I frequently work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, BPAD, AUD, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, and other mood disorders. I am passionate about providing compassionate, patient-focused mental health care making sure that everyone feels heard, valued, and respected.
![Photo of Caroline E Ndifon, PMHNP-B, NP, MSE/ED, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ce35b10-bc0b-4a7b-b02f-a82eadeecb54/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline E Ndifon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP, MSE/ED
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
ClearPath Mental Health understands the stressors induced to many of us either by previous or current experiences that cannot be resolved by one person. These stressors or traumatic experiences impaired our lives in many disorders that could manifested as depression, anxiety, sleep disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, substance abuse, and violent behavior and more. My treatment therapy starts by creating, a safe, supportive area, holistic and collaborative approaches that respect the cultural backgrounds of each patient seeking resolution in their specific diagnosis. I am here, you are not alone.
ClearPath Mental Health understands the stressors induced to many of us either by previous or current experiences that cannot be resolved by one person. These stressors or traumatic experiences impaired our lives in many disorders that could manifested as depression, anxiety, sleep disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, substance abuse, and violent behavior and more. My treatment therapy starts by creating, a safe, supportive area, holistic and collaborative approaches that respect the cultural backgrounds of each patient seeking resolution in their specific diagnosis. I am here, you are not alone.
![Photo of Navneet Kaur Mann, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/537b2c08-200d-4979-9f83-782a36e41a6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Navneet Kaur Mann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
Navneet Mann is a dual board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her family nurse practitioner from Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, CA, and her psychiatric nurse practitioner from National University in San Diego, CA. She earned her terminal degree in Nursing with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2022 from Grand Canyon University. Her ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive mental healthcare, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management, and therapy for psychiatric disorders.
Navneet Mann is a dual board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her family nurse practitioner from Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, CA, and her psychiatric nurse practitioner from National University in San Diego, CA. She earned her terminal degree in Nursing with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2022 from Grand Canyon University. Her ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive mental healthcare, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management, and therapy for psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Felista Anugom, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b56c9800-b18a-4f08-aeb8-f4c8b4f8dfec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Patient! Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others, reach out to me, a certified mental health specialist with a clear understanding and knowledge of what you're going through and will actively listen to you. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call me to schedule an appointment today. Check out our webpage at www.prudenttelepsychiatry.com
Now Accepting New Patient! Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others, reach out to me, a certified mental health specialist with a clear understanding and knowledge of what you're going through and will actively listen to you. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call me to schedule an appointment today. Check out our webpage at www.prudenttelepsychiatry.com
![Photo of Alex Capuchino, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd0c624d-9dd6-49ea-bf5b-1ae234cdc7dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alex Capuchino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practicitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in California and have been assisting patients with their mental health needs in the emergency room and inpatient psychiatric settings for the past 6 years. As a nurse practitioner, I use my experience gained in direct patient care to better relate to my clients and work with them to grow a better future.
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practicitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in California and have been assisting patients with their mental health needs in the emergency room and inpatient psychiatric settings for the past 6 years. As a nurse practitioner, I use my experience gained in direct patient care to better relate to my clients and work with them to grow a better future.
![Photo of Kemerick Takang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d058b489-3dfc-4e7a-8d56-f22c996c5903/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kemerick Takang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified mental health practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master's degree in mental health. I conduct mental health assessments and evaluations and treat and manage individuals with mental health concerns through psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.
I am a board-certified mental health practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master's degree in mental health. I conduct mental health assessments and evaluations and treat and manage individuals with mental health concerns through psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.
![Photo of Sandra Merino, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a278caea-f941-48b1-a303-6e4c251f3f7a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Merino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 1.5 years of experience and 17 years of experience as a Registered Nurse.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 1.5 years of experience and 17 years of experience as a Registered Nurse.
![Photo of Adebowale Adeniji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab05ca43-9cfd-4c1d-bda6-64bdc6ef6394/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adebowale Adeniji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Wale Adeniji pronounced Wa-lay. The origin of my name comes from Nigeria and holds the meaning “royalty comes home. “ When I think of royalty; luxury comes to mind. The ability to sustain peace within the mind and body is a luxury! I strive to sustain peace within my mind and body by maintaining a journal of gratitude, running a half marathon every year, and devoting time to laugh with loved ones. I have provided psychiatric treatment to severely mentally ill for several years.
Welcome, my name is Wale Adeniji pronounced Wa-lay. The origin of my name comes from Nigeria and holds the meaning “royalty comes home. “ When I think of royalty; luxury comes to mind. The ability to sustain peace within the mind and body is a luxury! I strive to sustain peace within my mind and body by maintaining a journal of gratitude, running a half marathon every year, and devoting time to laugh with loved ones. I have provided psychiatric treatment to severely mentally ill for several years.
![Photo of Devin Warnshuis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db96c5d9-a5cf-474a-9cd5-79c6532e42a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Devin Warnshuis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to serving individuals with humility and a pure-hearted desire to facilitate their journey towards mental well-being. My mission is rooted in empowering others to reach their maximum potential by providing compassionate, competent, and effective psychiatric care. With a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique needs and concerns, I approach my practice with empathy and respect. I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, and I strive to create a safe environment where clients feel heard, valued, and understood.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to serving individuals with humility and a pure-hearted desire to facilitate their journey towards mental well-being. My mission is rooted in empowering others to reach their maximum potential by providing compassionate, competent, and effective psychiatric care. With a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique needs and concerns, I approach my practice with empathy and respect. I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, and I strive to create a safe environment where clients feel heard, valued, and understood.
![Photo of Heather Jo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea886c9d-0061-459e-a574-06111b10af39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I graduated from the University of California, San Francisco. I have 8 years of experience working as a primary nurse practitioner.
Hello, I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I graduated from the University of California, San Francisco. I have 8 years of experience working as a primary nurse practitioner.
![Photo of Liza Alvarado, DNP, APRN, PHN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67e6c63f-0d81-46d5-adbd-be75e74e36d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Liza Alvarado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PHN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657
Thank you for taking the time to read my page, and for considering me to help you on your mental health journey. I am a seasoned Behavioral Health professional that offers holistic care with over 20 years of nursing experience. With dual board certifications and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, I provide comprehensive psychiatric care, fostering a caring, and compassionate approach, promoting wellness and positive mental health outcomes.
Thank you for taking the time to read my page, and for considering me to help you on your mental health journey. I am a seasoned Behavioral Health professional that offers holistic care with over 20 years of nursing experience. With dual board certifications and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, I provide comprehensive psychiatric care, fostering a caring, and compassionate approach, promoting wellness and positive mental health outcomes.
![Photo of Emily Palacio, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/950ffda7-ceca-40e3-9c4e-139dcf455731/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Palacio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Emily Palacio. I am bilingual. I speak English and Spanish. I am dually board certified as a doctoral-prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner in California. I have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I have 4 years of medication management experience and 1 year of experience in therapy training. I was an emergency department nurse for 17 years and have been practicing as a family nurse practitioner at Kaiser Permanente in family practice, obstetrics and gynecology, and dermatology specialties.
Welcome! My name is Emily Palacio. I am bilingual. I speak English and Spanish. I am dually board certified as a doctoral-prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner in California. I have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I have 4 years of medication management experience and 1 year of experience in therapy training. I was an emergency department nurse for 17 years and have been practicing as a family nurse practitioner at Kaiser Permanente in family practice, obstetrics and gynecology, and dermatology specialties.
![Photo of Lindsay Barrientos, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a23488-b846-49d9-9898-888289c62774/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Barrientos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Hispanic female immigrant with over a decade of nursing experience and specialized training as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am passionate about providing compassionate and culturally sensitive mental health care. I am fluent in Spanish and deeply understand the unique challenges faced by minorities who navigate mental health issues within the context of non-Westernized cultural backgrounds.
As a dedicated Hispanic female immigrant with over a decade of nursing experience and specialized training as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am passionate about providing compassionate and culturally sensitive mental health care. I am fluent in Spanish and deeply understand the unique challenges faced by minorities who navigate mental health issues within the context of non-Westernized cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Art Yeh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daf01b6e-ccbe-4180-9c0d-1c304303d8a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I'm Art Yeh (pronounced "yay!"). I've worked in behavioral health for over 10 years. I've worked as a prescriber in a wide array of settings in different states. I've done psychiatric consulting and specializes in many disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorders, and psychosis. I've worked telehealth treating clients across the lifespan.
Hi there! I'm Art Yeh (pronounced "yay!"). I've worked in behavioral health for over 10 years. I've worked as a prescriber in a wide array of settings in different states. I've done psychiatric consulting and specializes in many disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorders, and psychosis. I've worked telehealth treating clients across the lifespan.
![Photo of Morgan Galipeau, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f83511d7-4c34-4967-87f5-ba93ede91be6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Galipeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
Trust is the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I understand that seeking help can be a daunting step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is holistic, considering not just the symptoms but also the underlying factors that contribute to your mental health. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
Trust is the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I understand that seeking help can be a daunting step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is holistic, considering not just the symptoms but also the underlying factors that contribute to your mental health. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Rohzan Altre, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6cd6561-605e-4c32-86d0-4be7034b633a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rohzan utilizes her extensive year of experience as a psychiatric nurse to provide individualized care to every patient. She has worked with veterans, special needs, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, and autism spectrum disorders. Rohzan’s years of experience as a registered nurse have enabled her to have extensive training throughout her years of practice. She understands that mental health care requires careful examination of all aspects in every patient’s life to support healing and stability. Rohzan champions in safe and evidenced based practice.
Rohzan utilizes her extensive year of experience as a psychiatric nurse to provide individualized care to every patient. She has worked with veterans, special needs, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, and autism spectrum disorders. Rohzan’s years of experience as a registered nurse have enabled her to have extensive training throughout her years of practice. She understands that mental health care requires careful examination of all aspects in every patient’s life to support healing and stability. Rohzan champions in safe and evidenced based practice.
![Photo of Benedicta Osuji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46216108-482a-4b3d-a80e-ac7e42403b33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
Benedicta Osuji is a passionate and caring provider to her patients. She believes that it is important to consider biological, psychological, and social factors when addressing behavioral health concerns, she is passionate and caring to her patients.
Benedicta Osuji is a passionate and caring provider to her patients. She believes that it is important to consider biological, psychological, and social factors when addressing behavioral health concerns, she is passionate and caring to her patients.
![Photo of Christine E, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89fe2857-65f2-46cd-be8b-ff8c60942001/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine E
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
Hello! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide validation and support in your journey towards better mental well-being. My approach is warm, holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. My experience has not only honed my knowledge and understanding of mental health conditions, but also reinforces my drive and deep commitment to provide quality mental health care.
Hello! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide validation and support in your journey towards better mental well-being. My approach is warm, holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. My experience has not only honed my knowledge and understanding of mental health conditions, but also reinforces my drive and deep commitment to provide quality mental health care.
![Photo of Anne Winfrey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0f983ae-2b67-4fb7-b244-32d1d767d43e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than nine years of experience providing care to patients with mental health challenges. I graduated with a doctoral degree in Nurse Practice from the university of Massachusetts. I work with teenagers and adults who are struggling with mental health challenges and help them achieve optimal functioning in life matters and be the best version of themselves.
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than nine years of experience providing care to patients with mental health challenges. I graduated with a doctoral degree in Nurse Practice from the university of Massachusetts. I work with teenagers and adults who are struggling with mental health challenges and help them achieve optimal functioning in life matters and be the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Ese Ogbetuo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99919bed-d4a1-432d-bf6f-5a9e69bc2fd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ese Ogbetuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sanger, CA 93657 (Online Only)
Ese Ogbetuo, PMHNP, has always loved science since childhood hence her determination to pursue a career in the medical field with specialty in both family and psychiatry. She takes particular interest in mental health managing conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, grief and loss.
Ese Ogbetuo, PMHNP, has always loved science since childhood hence her determination to pursue a career in the medical field with specialty in both family and psychiatry. She takes particular interest in mental health managing conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, grief and loss.
See more therapy options for Sanger
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sanger, CA
40+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Sanger, CA who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
46% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Sanger, CA see their clients
86% | Online Only | |
14% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
95% | Female | |
5% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sanger?
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.