Psychiatrists in Sylmar, CA
![Photo of Dr. Amenaghawon Ugwuede, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dc64047-4a52-452c-a7e1-9a6808ed240c/5/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Amenaghawon Ugwuede
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylmar, CA 91342 (Online Only)
Dominus Mental Health was established by Dr. Amenaghawon Ugwuede, DNP, PMHNP-BC, with the vision of delivering high-quality and evidence-based mental health treatment via telepsychiatry to individuals living in regions with restricted access and obstacles to mental health services. Dr. Ugwuede recognizes that certain communities, especially Black individuals and children of immigrants, face unique challenges when seeking mental health support. As a result, she has specialized in these areas and strives to provide culturally sensitive and affirming care that builds trust and understanding.
Dominus Mental Health was established by Dr. Amenaghawon Ugwuede, DNP, PMHNP-BC, with the vision of delivering high-quality and evidence-based mental health treatment via telepsychiatry to individuals living in regions with restricted access and obstacles to mental health services. Dr. Ugwuede recognizes that certain communities, especially Black individuals and children of immigrants, face unique challenges when seeking mental health support. As a result, she has specialized in these areas and strives to provide culturally sensitive and affirming care that builds trust and understanding.
![Photo of Tameka Dyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7df7d26-bc78-474b-857c-4796f0d8d7df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
![Photo of Tameka Dyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420e2b17-4f1d-42ba-a25a-d5c4fde8f496/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
![Photo of Leslie Sweere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f7ca22f-56e1-418c-a4ef-6d2119914212/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Sweere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sylmar, CA 91342 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Dr Leslie Sweere and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I focus mainly on ensuring that you are well informed about your possible condition and the available treatments for that. In my practice, you are in charge and as long as you are safe I will support any decision that you make. My main focus is doing whatever possible to have a positive impact on your day-to-day life. We are here to make you feel better and ensure you are well-informed. While I treat many conditions effectively my primary specialty is in mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder with and without the complication of dual diagnosis.
Hello, I'm Dr Leslie Sweere and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I focus mainly on ensuring that you are well informed about your possible condition and the available treatments for that. In my practice, you are in charge and as long as you are safe I will support any decision that you make. My main focus is doing whatever possible to have a positive impact on your day-to-day life. We are here to make you feel better and ensure you are well-informed. While I treat many conditions effectively my primary specialty is in mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder with and without the complication of dual diagnosis.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Gregory McGowan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be0bef95-4fd2-4b0f-b612-35a66fca0d7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gregory McGowan is a licensed psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from Marshall University and then completed his residency in psychiatry at the University of California. Dr. McGowan currently practices at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA and sees patients at various locations, including Los Angeles, Van Nuys, Culver City, CA.
Dr. Gregory McGowan is a licensed psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from Marshall University and then completed his residency in psychiatry at the University of California. Dr. McGowan currently practices at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA and sees patients at various locations, including Los Angeles, Van Nuys, Culver City, CA.
![Photo of Clark Chen, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8513e998-60b7-4da0-a505-04312f9b35e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - Hi there! I am dual board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is taking on new patients by video appointments. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, depression, bipolar, oppositional defiant disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
Accepting New Patients - Hi there! I am dual board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is taking on new patients by video appointments. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, depression, bipolar, oppositional defiant disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
![Photo of Stan Mesen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ac97219-929f-42b0-a739-b2bd0d8cab2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stan Mesen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607 (Online Only)
I realize that most of us could use support, particularly during times of overwhelming challenges within our personal and professional lives. Our lives are complex and come with significant obligations and expectations from our families, friends, and ourselves. If the challenges become overwhelming, we may start to doubt our abilities to manage our affairs and interactions with others. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction remain unaddressed, thoughts and feelings may evolve into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment, understanding we need help.
I realize that most of us could use support, particularly during times of overwhelming challenges within our personal and professional lives. Our lives are complex and come with significant obligations and expectations from our families, friends, and ourselves. If the challenges become overwhelming, we may start to doubt our abilities to manage our affairs and interactions with others. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction remain unaddressed, thoughts and feelings may evolve into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment, understanding we need help.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2da428e5-8e17-42d8-9e58-e71e1c241b7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Rome Evangelista, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad57bdc7-5c29-40d5-ad9a-020292e59be7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rome Evangelista
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is experiencing mental health challenges but is motivated to seek help and make positive changes in their life. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. Despite these struggles, they possess a willingness to engage in the therapeutic process and are open to exploring different treatment options.
My ideal client is someone who is experiencing mental health challenges but is motivated to seek help and make positive changes in their life. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. Despite these struggles, they possess a willingness to engage in the therapeutic process and are open to exploring different treatment options.
![Photo of Phebee William - Pw Psych NP Services Pllc, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3edb021-03a5-4447-aa87-5bc14956c302/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pw Psych NP Services Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91321 (Online Only)
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my prfessional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my prfessional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
![Photo of Armine Harutyunyan, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e82a7aec-9e18-45bf-a245-9e912ec14988/3/320x400.jpeg)
Armine Harutyunyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Reseda, CA 91335
Dr. Harutyunyan is a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. I strongly believe that providing excellent, compassionate, and evidence-based care would lead to great results in patients' recovery. I provide brief psychotherapy and medication management. I strongly believe that medications play a key role in the treatment of symptoms, and prevent relapses of psychiatric conditions. I only recommend medications if medically indicated and attempt to keep them as simple as possible.
Dr. Harutyunyan is a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. I strongly believe that providing excellent, compassionate, and evidence-based care would lead to great results in patients' recovery. I provide brief psychotherapy and medication management. I strongly believe that medications play a key role in the treatment of symptoms, and prevent relapses of psychiatric conditions. I only recommend medications if medically indicated and attempt to keep them as simple as possible.
Alejandra Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91411 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. My specialty is in Women’s Health and I focus on providing personalized treatment through an integrative approach to help women thrive in mind & body.
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. My specialty is in Women’s Health and I focus on providing personalized treatment through an integrative approach to help women thrive in mind & body.
![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 Clarita, CA 91321 (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 Hannah Goldberg, MSN, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62b5498b-fbaf-4576-b69b-be0a76ac56f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Goldberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I specialize in psychiatric assessment and medication management for children, adolescents, and young adults. I provide a safe, empathic and non-judgmental space to listen to both the parents and child. I value our dialogue when discussing a a treatment plan and role for medication. Should we decide on medication as an approach, I will work with you to find the option that best fits your values. In formulating a diagnosis I consider emotional, medical, and environmental contributors.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I specialize in psychiatric assessment and medication management for children, adolescents, and young adults. I provide a safe, empathic and non-judgmental space to listen to both the parents and child. I value our dialogue when discussing a a treatment plan and role for medication. Should we decide on medication as an approach, I will work with you to find the option that best fits your values. In formulating a diagnosis I consider emotional, medical, and environmental contributors.
![Photo of Sabira Saifuddin - Family Psychiatry - Counseling - Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41616336-2379-48a4-b87c-2b42ef875465/3/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatric Treatment & Counseling for the Whole Family. We are a Full Service Psychiatry & Counseling Practice. We Have a Team of Psychiatrists, Nurse Practitioners, Marriage & Family Therapists. We Offer Psychiatric Assessment & Treatment of ADHD in Adults and Children, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorders. We Combine Conventional Medical Treatment With New Non-Drug, Non-Invasive, FPD Approved, Safe & Effective Treatment Modalities Like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS ).
Psychiatric Treatment & Counseling for the Whole Family. We are a Full Service Psychiatry & Counseling Practice. We Have a Team of Psychiatrists, Nurse Practitioners, Marriage & Family Therapists. We Offer Psychiatric Assessment & Treatment of ADHD in Adults and Children, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorders. We Combine Conventional Medical Treatment With New Non-Drug, Non-Invasive, FPD Approved, Safe & Effective Treatment Modalities Like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS ).
![Photo of Khadeer Khan, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3389dfc6-04c3-40cc-a60b-e19f747f6b85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Khadeer Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91606 (Online Only)
As your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I want to remind you of something incredibly important: your journey towards mental wellness is a courageous one. Every step you take, no matter how small it may seem, is a triumph worth celebrating. In the midst of life's challenges, it's easy to lose sight of your own strength and resilience. But I'm here to remind you that you possess an inner power that can overcome any obstacle. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of your mind with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support. Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Take the time to nurture your mind,
As your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I want to remind you of something incredibly important: your journey towards mental wellness is a courageous one. Every step you take, no matter how small it may seem, is a triumph worth celebrating. In the midst of life's challenges, it's easy to lose sight of your own strength and resilience. But I'm here to remind you that you possess an inner power that can overcome any obstacle. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of your mind with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support. Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Take the time to nurture your mind,
![Photo of Torri Taylor-Spencer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b56528a4-4c0f-4509-ba46-cc44eb7a523e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Torri Taylor-Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381 (Online Only)
I help adolescents & adults with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and ADHD who are seeking a return to a more positive emotional state with increased focus and productivity, better sleep, and more fulfillment and joy in their lives. I offer patient-centered holistic care that includes a unique blend of treatment modalities. I specialize in working with those part of vulnerable populations such as children, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities who have not had positive experiences with psychiatric treatment in the past, as well as working with peripartum women.
I help adolescents & adults with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and ADHD who are seeking a return to a more positive emotional state with increased focus and productivity, better sleep, and more fulfillment and joy in their lives. I offer patient-centered holistic care that includes a unique blend of treatment modalities. I specialize in working with those part of vulnerable populations such as children, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities who have not had positive experiences with psychiatric treatment in the past, as well as working with peripartum women.
![Photo of Princess McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/693e599a-36ca-4257-9d5e-51fa892bbd39/1/320x400.png)
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Granada Hills, CA 91344 (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 Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5247e19-eaeb-4b89-bbb2-e8a818ce96e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
![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
Santa Clarita, CA 91387 (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.
See more therapy options for Sylmar
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sylmar, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sylmar, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Alcohol Use |
75% | Depression |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Dual Diagnosis |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Sylmar, CA see their clients
75% | Online Only | |
25% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sylmar?
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.