Psychiatrists in Tiburon, CA
![Photo of Shannon Wozniak, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57090b06-052d-4844-a1d9-8276d42bac57/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Wozniak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920 (Online Only)
Shannon is a provider with 20 years of experience in psychopharmacology and medication management. Her clinical roles have included partnerships with various healthcare startups, hospital and community mental health affiliations, academics and the director of psychiatric services at a Bay Area nonprofit. In her private practice she values a collaborative treatment approach with her clients.
Shannon is a provider with 20 years of experience in psychopharmacology and medication management. Her clinical roles have included partnerships with various healthcare startups, hospital and community mental health affiliations, academics and the director of psychiatric services at a Bay Area nonprofit. In her private practice she values a collaborative treatment approach with her clients.
![Photo of Melinda Cuthbert, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b53265f-0e8d-4046-984a-be28e51acdc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Cuthbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
![Photo of Anise Tatiana Wheeler - Valley Integrative Psychiatric Health & Wellness , DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0b97b36-b56d-4389-9206-66ee4fd7ba4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Valley Integrative Psychiatric Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920
Are you tired of feeling hopeless due to chronic pain and related behavioral conditions? It's time to take back control of your life and discover the better you at our practice. Do you want to find the root causes of your pain and break up the roadblocks that victimize you and prevent you from reaching your authentic-self? As a compassionate and knowledgeable doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner, I'm dedicated to empowering adult clients, ages 18 to 98, dealing with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, ADHD, chronic migraines, insomnia, and PTSD.
Are you tired of feeling hopeless due to chronic pain and related behavioral conditions? It's time to take back control of your life and discover the better you at our practice. Do you want to find the root causes of your pain and break up the roadblocks that victimize you and prevent you from reaching your authentic-self? As a compassionate and knowledgeable doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner, I'm dedicated to empowering adult clients, ages 18 to 98, dealing with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, ADHD, chronic migraines, insomnia, and PTSD.
![Photo of Zachary D. Torry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db90b57c-ef8c-47db-8609-4f4d971fbd77/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and provide medication management as well as psychotherapy to late teens and adults. My treatment philosophy incorporates a humanistic mind-body approach that appreciates the unique strengths and cultural background of each individual. My emphasis is on helping and not medicating. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship and make every effort to ensure that each patient's experience in treatment is comfortable and safe. And, importantly, I firmly believe in walking down the treatment path together.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and provide medication management as well as psychotherapy to late teens and adults. My treatment philosophy incorporates a humanistic mind-body approach that appreciates the unique strengths and cultural background of each individual. My emphasis is on helping and not medicating. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship and make every effort to ensure that each patient's experience in treatment is comfortable and safe. And, importantly, I firmly believe in walking down the treatment path together.
![Photo of Sarah J Polfliet, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c049d2d8-625c-496a-aee9-f2696f380527/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8aca0be-753e-4a09-95ad-ce3f97233dce/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla 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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jeffrey Don Rediger, MD, MDiv, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f16f736f-5d44-4585-b980-658c32dcb79a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Don Rediger
Psychiatrist, MD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Jeffrey Rediger, MD, MDiv. I welcome you, and hope I can help you find what you are looking for. I want to extend my warmest welcome to you. Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and I commend you for taking this important action towards your well-being. I understand that seeking psychiatric care can feel daunting, especially if you have experienced trauma or have faced significant challenges in your life. Please know that you are not alone, your feelings are valid, and it's my intention that you'll find a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment here, where your experiences will be respected and understood.
My name is Jeffrey Rediger, MD, MDiv. I welcome you, and hope I can help you find what you are looking for. I want to extend my warmest welcome to you. Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and I commend you for taking this important action towards your well-being. I understand that seeking psychiatric care can feel daunting, especially if you have experienced trauma or have faced significant challenges in your life. Please know that you are not alone, your feelings are valid, and it's my intention that you'll find a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment here, where your experiences will be respected and understood.
![Photo of Lisa Youngblood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0c6964f-162a-4f18-88bb-0b95eb8c47c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Youngblood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941 (Online Only)
We are a dedicated telepsychiatry clinic that specializes in providing remote psychiatric and psychological services. Our comprehensive range of telepsychiatry options includes Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, and Spravato (Esketamine), all conveniently delivered to patients in the comfort of their own homes. We proudly serve veterans and welcome most insurances, including Medicare and Partnership (Beacon).
We are a dedicated telepsychiatry clinic that specializes in providing remote psychiatric and psychological services. Our comprehensive range of telepsychiatry options includes Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, and Spravato (Esketamine), all conveniently delivered to patients in the comfort of their own homes. We proudly serve veterans and welcome most insurances, including Medicare and Partnership (Beacon).
![Photo of Julia Mitrevski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9e90abd-7533-4827-8820-31dad29fd2ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Finding the right person to listen to you is a very deep and personal decision. We all know how helpful it can feel to be understood. You may be struggling with relationship or work issues; you may feel alone and unsure of yourself; you may be coping with the loss of a loved one or with a life transition. You may be looking for help with a specific problem, or you may have a vague sense that things just don’t feel right to you. Feel free to contact me either by phone or e-mail for more information or to make an appointment.
Finding the right person to listen to you is a very deep and personal decision. We all know how helpful it can feel to be understood. You may be struggling with relationship or work issues; you may feel alone and unsure of yourself; you may be coping with the loss of a loved one or with a life transition. You may be looking for help with a specific problem, or you may have a vague sense that things just don’t feel right to you. Feel free to contact me either by phone or e-mail for more information or to make an appointment.
![Photo of Brooke Bearden, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9100bdc7-2134-4faa-aca5-03af563594b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Bearden is a nationally certified Physician Associate specializing in psychiatry with an integrative approach, focusing on the development of the patient-provider relationship as well as the patient’s relationship with their own mind and body. She strives to create a trusted, non-judgmental space to offer individualized treatment plans blending lifestyle approaches, psychotherapy, and medication management with shared decision making. Brooke values exploring mindfulness, nervous system regulation, nutrition, sleep, movement, and interpersonal relationships to support the wellness journey.
Brooke Bearden is a nationally certified Physician Associate specializing in psychiatry with an integrative approach, focusing on the development of the patient-provider relationship as well as the patient’s relationship with their own mind and body. She strives to create a trusted, non-judgmental space to offer individualized treatment plans blending lifestyle approaches, psychotherapy, and medication management with shared decision making. Brooke values exploring mindfulness, nervous system regulation, nutrition, sleep, movement, and interpersonal relationships to support the wellness journey.
![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
Sausalito, CA 94965 (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 Kevin Knack, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0a2732b-f6c8-40ad-8488-6d161c487864/1/320x400.jpeg)
We offer a range of psychiatric and psychological services, including TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, and Spravato (Esketamine). TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is for treating certain neurological conditions, like Major Depressive Disorder, and enhancing cognitive function. We also provide telepsychiatry options for patients who prefer home visits. We work with veterans too. Most insurances, including Medicare and Partnership (Beacon), are welcome.
We offer a range of psychiatric and psychological services, including TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, and Spravato (Esketamine). TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is for treating certain neurological conditions, like Major Depressive Disorder, and enhancing cognitive function. We also provide telepsychiatry options for patients who prefer home visits. We work with veterans too. Most insurances, including Medicare and Partnership (Beacon), are welcome.
![Photo of Bay Area Anxiety Specialist Tracy Foose, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45e3e019-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bay Area Anxiety Specialist Tracy Foose
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I spent much of the past decade overseeing an anxiety-focused clinical program at UCSF and teaching about the neuroscience of fear and anxiety at the school of medicine. So when I decided to build a psychiatry practice closer to home, I knew I wanted to continue that specialty focus in my own community.
I spent much of the past decade overseeing an anxiety-focused clinical program at UCSF and teaching about the neuroscience of fear and anxiety at the school of medicine. So when I decided to build a psychiatry practice closer to home, I knew I wanted to continue that specialty focus in my own community.
![Photo of Madison Buchanan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ee83a61-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work well with individuals who want to understanding the deeper origins of recurrent life problems, and who are committed to meeting weekly or more frequently for therapy. If you are already in quality therapy with another provider, I can support that work with medication consultation at less frequent intervals.
I work well with individuals who want to understanding the deeper origins of recurrent life problems, and who are committed to meeting weekly or more frequently for therapy. If you are already in quality therapy with another provider, I can support that work with medication consultation at less frequent intervals.
![Photo of Olga Segal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf7d799-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
We offer a full range of psychiatric and psychological services: TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology - Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Spravato (Also known as Esketamine). TMS Therapy is a therapy designed for the treatment of certain Neurological conditions, specifically Major Depressive Disorder. Remission from Depression. Knowledgeable approach to medication management. For patients who want to be seen at the convenience of their homes, we provide telepsychiatry options. Most Insurances are Welcome, including Medicare & Partnership (Beacon)
We offer a full range of psychiatric and psychological services: TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology - Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Spravato (Also known as Esketamine). TMS Therapy is a therapy designed for the treatment of certain Neurological conditions, specifically Major Depressive Disorder. Remission from Depression. Knowledgeable approach to medication management. For patients who want to be seen at the convenience of their homes, we provide telepsychiatry options. Most Insurances are Welcome, including Medicare & Partnership (Beacon)
![Photo of Joseph Stricker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31e036f2-fd10-4a8b-b3c0-114ef598ed0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Adult Psychiatry. I have trained and worked at leading hospital systems across the United States in many treatment settings. I opened this practice to offer the highest quality mental healthcare to patients and families. I firmly believe that a strong and trusting treatment relationship forms the backbone of successful care. My clinic is open on Saturdays to be minimally disruptive to work, school, and families.
Hello! I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Adult Psychiatry. I have trained and worked at leading hospital systems across the United States in many treatment settings. I opened this practice to offer the highest quality mental healthcare to patients and families. I firmly believe that a strong and trusting treatment relationship forms the backbone of successful care. My clinic is open on Saturdays to be minimally disruptive to work, school, and families.
![Photo of Gabriel Aranovich - The Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd497d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to providing innovative treatments and personalized care. We offer psychotherapy and medication management for optimizing well-being. Our team specializes in cutting edge, evidence based treatments. We have providers who have expertise treating sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and other common and complex conditions. We are a dedicated team of providers who work closely and collaboratively to provide the best care possible to our patients and their families.
We are a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to providing innovative treatments and personalized care. We offer psychotherapy and medication management for optimizing well-being. Our team specializes in cutting edge, evidence based treatments. We have providers who have expertise treating sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and other common and complex conditions. We are a dedicated team of providers who work closely and collaboratively to provide the best care possible to our patients and their families.
![Photo of Ravi Chandra, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51d30d3b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Experience, insight, integrity, depth, support. I specialize in understanding you and what's happening: your culture, current dilemmas, patterns, strengths, interests, relationships, life history, and visions of yourself and the world. Our work will be tailored to fit your individual needs, through therapy, medications, or both. I have advanced training and interest in depth work, including psychodynamic and mindfulness approaches. The goal is to help you cope with life, grow, enjoy fulfilling relationships, achieve your potential and develop resilience. Board Certified Distinguished Fellow of the APA, active writer, and member of Asian American committee of the Northern California Psychiatric Society.
Experience, insight, integrity, depth, support. I specialize in understanding you and what's happening: your culture, current dilemmas, patterns, strengths, interests, relationships, life history, and visions of yourself and the world. Our work will be tailored to fit your individual needs, through therapy, medications, or both. I have advanced training and interest in depth work, including psychodynamic and mindfulness approaches. The goal is to help you cope with life, grow, enjoy fulfilling relationships, achieve your potential and develop resilience. Board Certified Distinguished Fellow of the APA, active writer, and member of Asian American committee of the Northern California Psychiatric Society.
![Photo of Matthew Carpinello, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1925cd6-826c-4446-9d68-3ca60885409f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Matthew Carpinello, MD is a Psychiatrist and a board certified in Psychiatry and accepts multiple insurance plans.
Dr. Matthew Carpinello, MD is a Psychiatrist and a board certified in Psychiatry and accepts multiple insurance plans.
![Photo of Dr. Cuneyt Tegin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ad95bc1-1a84-4635-8dcf-0a84cda569da/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients via TeleConference.
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients via TeleConference.
See more therapy options for Tiburon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Tiburon, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Tiburon, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Sleep or Insomnia |
83% | Medication Management |
50% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
24 Years
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Tiburon, CA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Tiburon?
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.