Psychiatrists in Solvang, CA
![Photo of Guylene Joseph, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4318dc81-8e6e-4fb5-974e-7b319728f4f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Solvang, CA 93463 (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Michael Bolton, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c5761e9-8f97-458e-b9ca-5c5586d4b247/1/320x400.png)
Michael Bolton, M.D., specializes in ADHD. Dr. Bolton received his MD from Yale, his Master's in Health Policy from Harvard, and graduated from the Harvard Medical School/Mass General Hospital (MGH)/McLean Hospital Psychiatry Residency Program. He is board certified in psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Michael Bolton, M.D., specializes in ADHD. Dr. Bolton received his MD from Yale, his Master's in Health Policy from Harvard, and graduated from the Harvard Medical School/Mass General Hospital (MGH)/McLean Hospital Psychiatry Residency Program. He is board certified in psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
![Photo of Sofia Encarnacion, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aedcd25-7bdd-454e-9b16-8219c43e3d20/1/320x400.png)
Sofia Encarnacion, M.D., treats adults of all ages. She has devoted her life to the identification, treatment, and alleviation of patient discomfort. She does this through a carefully crafted mixture of caring, listening, and application of the most advanced therapeutic techniques and medications. She is fluent in both English and Spanish. In her many years of patient treatment, first as a clinical psychologist then as a psychiatrist, Dr. Encarnacion has developed particular expertise in the treatment of ADHD, female sexual medicine, and life coaching.
Sofia Encarnacion, M.D., treats adults of all ages. She has devoted her life to the identification, treatment, and alleviation of patient discomfort. She does this through a carefully crafted mixture of caring, listening, and application of the most advanced therapeutic techniques and medications. She is fluent in both English and Spanish. In her many years of patient treatment, first as a clinical psychologist then as a psychiatrist, Dr. Encarnacion has developed particular expertise in the treatment of ADHD, female sexual medicine, and life coaching.
![Photo of Danielle Lopez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/675f1c76-32b2-4014-90a2-810a3604e2e2/1/320x400.png)
Danielle Lopez, M.D. is an adult outpatient psychiatrist practicing since 2012. She graduated in 2007 from University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine and completed her residency training in 2012 at Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center. Dr. Lopez has worked in an array of settings, including inpatient addiction, subacute setting for severely and persistently mentally ill, homeless outreach, psychiatric urgent care and adult outpatient psychiatry.
Danielle Lopez, M.D. is an adult outpatient psychiatrist practicing since 2012. She graduated in 2007 from University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine and completed her residency training in 2012 at Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center. Dr. Lopez has worked in an array of settings, including inpatient addiction, subacute setting for severely and persistently mentally ill, homeless outreach, psychiatric urgent care and adult outpatient psychiatry.
![Photo of Mikhail Meyerovich, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28aa3022-f194-4be5-acd8-879d7c633fc4/1/320x400.png)
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Southern California, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Biology. I received my medical doctorate from the U. C. Davis School of Medicine, and completed my residency training in both Psychiatry and Family and Community Medicine at U. C. Davis Medical Center in Sacramento. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Southern California, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Biology. I received my medical doctorate from the U. C. Davis School of Medicine, and completed my residency training in both Psychiatry and Family and Community Medicine at U. C. Davis Medical Center in Sacramento. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Victoria Balogun, DNP, PHMPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a17c11e5-5b1f-430c-aa08-8eee7de1324d/1/320x400.png)
Victoria Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMPN
Verified Verified
Lompoc, CA 93436 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Victoria Balogun, a dedicated Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I specialize in medication management for a range of mental health conditions. With a focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders, I bring over 5 years of experience in providing compassionate care and evidence-based treatment to my clients. My approach is rooted in understanding each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're navigating the challenges of mood disorders or seeking solutions for improved sleep, I am committed to empowering you on your journey to mental wellness.
Hello, I’m Victoria Balogun, a dedicated Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I specialize in medication management for a range of mental health conditions. With a focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders, I bring over 5 years of experience in providing compassionate care and evidence-based treatment to my clients. My approach is rooted in understanding each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're navigating the challenges of mood disorders or seeking solutions for improved sleep, I am committed to empowering you on your journey to mental wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Adham Malaty, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2318f6c6-3c98-44b5-a6fb-ce3fe897c096/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Adham Malaty, an esteemed Psychiatrist, provides compassionate care to adults and seniors, catering to a wide range of mental health concerns. His expertise spans various areas, including, but not limited to, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, insomnias, and addiction medicine. Dr. Malaty completed his medical degree at Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt, and went on to pursue his residency in psychiatry at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. He holds dual board certifications in Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and Addiction Medicine
Dr. Adham Malaty, an esteemed Psychiatrist, provides compassionate care to adults and seniors, catering to a wide range of mental health concerns. His expertise spans various areas, including, but not limited to, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, insomnias, and addiction medicine. Dr. Malaty completed his medical degree at Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt, and went on to pursue his residency in psychiatry at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. He holds dual board certifications in Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and Addiction Medicine
![Photo of Anton Fisher - ★★TeleMind®★★, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35bccef8-846a-48a2-9f14-f43ac7e18b7d/1/320x400.png)
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed66857-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.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 Michael Ferguson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b218dc3-e8ee-4b8f-a077-40cd840fe21b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael M. Ferguson is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1981. He received Board Certification in Psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, earned his undergraduate degree from Rice University (summa cum laude), and completed his Medical Degree and Psychiatric Residency at UCLA. Dr. Ferguson provides medication evaluation and ongoing monitoring. He has extensive experience working with clients who have “Dual Diagnosis” (psychiatric conditions along with substance use disorders).
Dr. Michael M. Ferguson is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1981. He received Board Certification in Psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, earned his undergraduate degree from Rice University (summa cum laude), and completed his Medical Degree and Psychiatric Residency at UCLA. Dr. Ferguson provides medication evaluation and ongoing monitoring. He has extensive experience working with clients who have “Dual Diagnosis” (psychiatric conditions along with substance use disorders).
![Photo of Alan L Schneider, MD, DLFAPA, DABPM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c3ba5c0-799f-4574-a215-e87af181b06a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alan L Schneider
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, DABPM
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 (Online Only)
My practice has always offered my clients a highly personalized care delivery model using a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. No two clients are alike and they are never treated that way. I bring a range of background to my work from years of research and academic practice as well as specialty certifications in adult psychiatry & neurology, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. The office is always available for questions/concerns, refills, or urgent matters. All calls are returned the same day. The average duration of my clients' time with me is 18 years, which speaks to the service they receive.
My practice has always offered my clients a highly personalized care delivery model using a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. No two clients are alike and they are never treated that way. I bring a range of background to my work from years of research and academic practice as well as specialty certifications in adult psychiatry & neurology, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. The office is always available for questions/concerns, refills, or urgent matters. All calls are returned the same day. The average duration of my clients' time with me is 18 years, which speaks to the service they receive.
![Photo of Holly Ann Olalia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3911d49c-4537-4717-8fde-c1c209500287/1/320x400.png)
Holly Ann Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91355 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Michael Polda, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cd4d491-8d5a-4c57-8675-78bcd549c627/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Polda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
My ideal client is an adult dealing with anxiety, depression, or the unique challenges of aging. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider who can help them navigate their mental health journey. Their goals include finding relief from their symptoms, improving their quality of life, and developing effective coping strategies. They value accessible, timely care and want a partner in their mental wellness journey who listens, understands, and provides personalized solutions.
My ideal client is an adult dealing with anxiety, depression, or the unique challenges of aging. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider who can help them navigate their mental health journey. Their goals include finding relief from their symptoms, improving their quality of life, and developing effective coping strategies. They value accessible, timely care and want a partner in their mental wellness journey who listens, understands, and provides personalized solutions.
![Photo of Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f4b9d4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.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 Jordan Rose, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d829c6c7-208d-4357-9f7b-0f25703aefd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (Online Only)
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
![Photo of Mary Garrett, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f92545e2-0cdc-44d7-a856-f8303cdd08c7/2/320x400.png)
I promote a holistic approach to care. In providing care, I attempt to raise awareness of the individual's medical condition related to mental health disorders. Patients are educated on their disorder and the biological changes that occur. Each treatment plan is individualized to the patient. Interventions are based on best-evidenced base practice. People can recover from mental health disorders, leading a fulfilling and productive life despite their disability. For certain people, it denotes a reduction in the severity of their symptoms. I believe that treatment adds to the spirit of a person, instead of diminishing their spirit.
I promote a holistic approach to care. In providing care, I attempt to raise awareness of the individual's medical condition related to mental health disorders. Patients are educated on their disorder and the biological changes that occur. Each treatment plan is individualized to the patient. Interventions are based on best-evidenced base practice. People can recover from mental health disorders, leading a fulfilling and productive life despite their disability. For certain people, it denotes a reduction in the severity of their symptoms. I believe that treatment adds to the spirit of a person, instead of diminishing their spirit.
![Photo of Patryce Bak, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/397bd1ff-abfc-4603-bea3-ab0efe0ef568/1/320x400.png)
Patryce became a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner after graduating from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. In addition to earning her health coach certification at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and training in ketamine-assisted therapy at the Polaris Insight Center, Patryce has deepened her knowledge throughout her own health journey, her experience working as an artist, and 20 years of yoga and spiritual exploration. As a holistic-minded Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Patryce considers the whole person when designing individualized treatment plans.
Patryce became a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner after graduating from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. In addition to earning her health coach certification at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and training in ketamine-assisted therapy at the Polaris Insight Center, Patryce has deepened her knowledge throughout her own health journey, her experience working as an artist, and 20 years of yoga and spiritual exploration. As a holistic-minded Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Patryce considers the whole person when designing individualized treatment plans.
![Photo of Uchenna Okoye, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68fd3ccc-fb96-45df-97c5-6a138d748abf/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79cb0500-a113-4789-b044-2c722be482f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bell Canyon, CA 91307 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecc962b5-d4d2-4586-b1fd-6f7ffdf3b34a/2/320x400.jpeg)
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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Nearby Searches for Solvang
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Solvang, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Solvang, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Anger Management |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Solvang, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Solvang?
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.