Psychiatrists in Torrance, CA
![Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df7ee67f-5b35-43c1-be25-616a0a3a0234/2/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at 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 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. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Ian Mojica - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a44983e0-cad8-4b20-90a7-f0f141a1219a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ian Mojica - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Ian is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Cal State University Long Beach and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from UC Irvine. Growing up in Orange County, Ian quickly learned about the existence of healthcare disparities within his community. He strongly believes that it is imperative to make mental health treatment more accessible to the greater population while reducing the stigma that accompanies psychiatric diagnoses. Ian has extensive experience in street medicine, working with the underprivileged population in Skid Row and Orange County.
Ian is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Cal State University Long Beach and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from UC Irvine. Growing up in Orange County, Ian quickly learned about the existence of healthcare disparities within his community. He strongly believes that it is imperative to make mental health treatment more accessible to the greater population while reducing the stigma that accompanies psychiatric diagnoses. Ian has extensive experience in street medicine, working with the underprivileged population in Skid Row and Orange County.
![Photo of Veronica Arres, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5be32138-a809-4fb6-aff0-fc064c7a142d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Arres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Veronica Arres is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats mental health conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). As a part of Pacific Pain & Wellness Group, her mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, she will construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Veronica Arres is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats mental health conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). As a part of Pacific Pain & Wellness Group, her mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, she will construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
![Photo of Stephanie Chan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77202113-5fcd-4b82-9645-04a2d5807db2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephanie Chan is a double board-certified child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist. She empathically listens and thoroughly assesses from biological, psychological, social, and cultural lenses, for the most accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. She believes strongly that the success of treatment comes from collaboration between provider and patient, emphasizing on open communication and psychoeducation throughout the treatment process. Her approach involves various therapy modalities (including CBT, DBT-informed, mindfulness), medication management when appropriate, or a combination of both.
Dr. Stephanie Chan is a double board-certified child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist. She empathically listens and thoroughly assesses from biological, psychological, social, and cultural lenses, for the most accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. She believes strongly that the success of treatment comes from collaboration between provider and patient, emphasizing on open communication and psychoeducation throughout the treatment process. Her approach involves various therapy modalities (including CBT, DBT-informed, mindfulness), medication management when appropriate, or a combination of both.
![Photo of Rose Mae Chung, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7ad7e60-3d01-4793-88cc-369f2b150854/1/320x400.png)
Rose Mae is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and helps adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and substance use. Rose Mae’s holistic approach uses therapeutic medication management, patient education, and other evidence-based practices.
Rose Mae is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and helps adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and substance use. Rose Mae’s holistic approach uses therapeutic medication management, patient education, and other evidence-based practices.
![Photo of Araceli Lozano - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88f16d48-c41a-4637-9ad0-93e248c2148c/1/320x400.png)
Araceli Lozano - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90504
As a combat veteran and first-generation Mexican American, Araceli has lived through unique experiences which have helped her develop a solid understanding of the diverse needs of people from various cultures and backgrounds. Her passion is working in mental health and helping people meet their goals through individualized pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. She is fluent in English and Spanish.
As a combat veteran and first-generation Mexican American, Araceli has lived through unique experiences which have helped her develop a solid understanding of the diverse needs of people from various cultures and backgrounds. Her passion is working in mental health and helping people meet their goals through individualized pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. She is fluent in English and Spanish.
![Photo of Stephany Lavigne - Stephany Lavigne - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2489fa29-1c81-4b8c-bf33-69ad83655dba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephany Lavigne - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503 (Online Only)
Dr. Stephany Lavigne, a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors from the University of South Alabama. With over a decade of experience, she has excelled in forensic psychiatry at Metropolitan State Hospital, caring for patients under penal codes and conservatorship. Dr. Lavigne has also demonstrated her commitment in diverse outpatient settings, providing quality mental health care.
Dr. Stephany Lavigne, a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors from the University of South Alabama. With over a decade of experience, she has excelled in forensic psychiatry at Metropolitan State Hospital, caring for patients under penal codes and conservatorship. Dr. Lavigne has also demonstrated her commitment in diverse outpatient settings, providing quality mental health care.
![Photo of Quy Dinh Pham, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21f48d18-5e51-41e6-a85d-9cbe25b06e3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Quy was born and raised in Orange County, California. His parents immigrated from Vietnam in 1984 and they taught him the importance of service and working with underserved populations. Quy currently practices Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. At Neuro Wellness Spa, we’re changing the way mental health is treated. From our expertly trained clinical teams to our thoughtfully designed centers, we’re committed to delivering innovative treatments to the highest clinical standards for the best possible outcomes. We understand medication and talk therapy aren’t the only option. This is mental health care, reimagined.
Quy was born and raised in Orange County, California. His parents immigrated from Vietnam in 1984 and they taught him the importance of service and working with underserved populations. Quy currently practices Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. At Neuro Wellness Spa, we’re changing the way mental health is treated. From our expertly trained clinical teams to our thoughtfully designed centers, we’re committed to delivering innovative treatments to the highest clinical standards for the best possible outcomes. We understand medication and talk therapy aren’t the only option. This is mental health care, reimagined.
![Photo of Kartik Ananth - Pacific Pain & Wellness Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cdb69de-f238-46bb-8ae5-50d1f366330b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pacific Pain & Wellness Group takes a holistic approach to mental health treatment. We work closely with our team of pain management specialists to address the physical and emotional components of chronic pain, which can often co-occur with mental health disorders. Our pain & chronic pain management treatments include Ketamine infusions, Epidural injections, Diagnostic & therapeutic nerve blocks, Radiofrequency ablation, Spinal cord stimulation, Facet joint injections, Botox for migraines, and pre-surgical pain consultation.
Pacific Pain & Wellness Group takes a holistic approach to mental health treatment. We work closely with our team of pain management specialists to address the physical and emotional components of chronic pain, which can often co-occur with mental health disorders. Our pain & chronic pain management treatments include Ketamine infusions, Epidural injections, Diagnostic & therapeutic nerve blocks, Radiofrequency ablation, Spinal cord stimulation, Facet joint injections, Botox for migraines, and pre-surgical pain consultation.
![Photo of Josefina Reyes Sanchez, DNP, PMHNP, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ef2463-41d2-4a4a-836a-37e46c084bcd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Josefina Reyes Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Currently accepting new clients for appointments this week! Josefina is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice who treats mental health conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Josefina's mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, she will construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments this week! Josefina is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice who treats mental health conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Josefina's mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, she will construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
![Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/421a2997-5267-4ebc-9a1b-7189b0cf8c77/1/320x400.png)
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
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![Photo of Shanna Darling, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb3840d4-84f0-4247-9810-bab5e1953dd3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm here to improve your quality of life and help you become the best version of yourself. After 14 years, I've found success through 1) really listening, 2) having empathy, and 3) offering the best evidence-based and personalized tools to match the individual needs of each client. My specialties include depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, trauma, eating disorders, and ADHD. I hold a master’s degree from UCLA, where I learned the value of evidence-based practice and striving for the utmost quality of care. I am dual-certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner.
I'm here to improve your quality of life and help you become the best version of yourself. After 14 years, I've found success through 1) really listening, 2) having empathy, and 3) offering the best evidence-based and personalized tools to match the individual needs of each client. My specialties include depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, trauma, eating disorders, and ADHD. I hold a master’s degree from UCLA, where I learned the value of evidence-based practice and striving for the utmost quality of care. I am dual-certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Kartik Ananth - Pacific TMS Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51087f29-0fc6-4c62-8d86-6fd7ba997297/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pacific TMS Group approaches mental health using effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA approved, non-invasive alternative treatment, using up-to-date technology for those experiencing symptoms pertaining to depression. Our clinic also offers both traditional and new approaches to mood disorders guided by the principle of quality-of-life improvement and patient satisfaction, including med-management, psychotherapy, and ketamine infusions. Please proceed to this link for a complimentary TMS informational session: https://tinyurl.com/3yhec2nx
Pacific TMS Group approaches mental health using effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA approved, non-invasive alternative treatment, using up-to-date technology for those experiencing symptoms pertaining to depression. Our clinic also offers both traditional and new approaches to mood disorders guided by the principle of quality-of-life improvement and patient satisfaction, including med-management, psychotherapy, and ketamine infusions. Please proceed to this link for a complimentary TMS informational session: https://tinyurl.com/3yhec2nx
![Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8bdb8bf-ec1e-449b-9ea7-cf8bf1e88297/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
![Photo of Martha Koo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f98a9ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Martha B. Koo, M.D., completed her undergraduate studies at Princeton University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, and her medical training at UCLA Medical School, where she earned membership in the AOA and Sigma Xi Society for academic excellence. Dr. Koo completed her residency in psychiatry at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and then pursued psychoanalytic training at the New Center for Psychoanalysis. For over twenty years, Dr. Koo has enjoyed her private practice, providing outpatient psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and pharmacological treatment for individuals, couples, and families.
Dr. Martha B. Koo, M.D., completed her undergraduate studies at Princeton University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, and her medical training at UCLA Medical School, where she earned membership in the AOA and Sigma Xi Society for academic excellence. Dr. Koo completed her residency in psychiatry at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and then pursued psychoanalytic training at the New Center for Psychoanalysis. For over twenty years, Dr. Koo has enjoyed her private practice, providing outpatient psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and pharmacological treatment for individuals, couples, and families.
![Photo of Dustin Stephens, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74434c94-4e5c-48a4-9089-0260efd97778/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
![Photo of Levitate Mental Health Telepsychiatry - Levitate Mental Health - Telepsychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39c501ce-816f-4e9f-93da-7b67469fdf2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Levitate Mental Health - Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90503
Accepting New Patients- Levitate Mental Health is a psychiatric practice serving all residents of California. Enjoy the convenience of our Telepsychiatry services by attending your visits from the convenience of your home or office using your laptop or smart phone. Our providers have years of experience in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders & other mental health conditions. Busy schedule? We offer some evening and weekend appointments upon request. Call us or visit www.levitatementalhealth.com to schedule an appointment today. Guaranteed to secure an appointment with a provider fast.
Accepting New Patients- Levitate Mental Health is a psychiatric practice serving all residents of California. Enjoy the convenience of our Telepsychiatry services by attending your visits from the convenience of your home or office using your laptop or smart phone. Our providers have years of experience in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders & other mental health conditions. Busy schedule? We offer some evening and weekend appointments upon request. Call us or visit www.levitatementalhealth.com to schedule an appointment today. Guaranteed to secure an appointment with a provider fast.
![Photo of Brenda Robertson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c2f7895-2b75-4605-afe4-d14e2e9d232e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes people struggle with meeting their full potential. Children can have a hard time meeting classroom expectations, older students or adults may be working to maximize their grades or skill sets in preparation for applications. Some people are in the unfortunate position of having to work what are essentially two jobs or study for qualifier exams that are frankly ridiculous. Feeling like you’re stuck in a loop is exhausting. I’m here to support you in exploring medication and therapy options for anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, low energy and difficulty achieving your goals.
Sometimes people struggle with meeting their full potential. Children can have a hard time meeting classroom expectations, older students or adults may be working to maximize their grades or skill sets in preparation for applications. Some people are in the unfortunate position of having to work what are essentially two jobs or study for qualifier exams that are frankly ridiculous. Feeling like you’re stuck in a loop is exhausting. I’m here to support you in exploring medication and therapy options for anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, low energy and difficulty achieving your goals.
![Photo of Shemiah Sullivan - Shemiah Sullivan-Muse Behavioral Health & Wellness, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ace9b156-93bd-4996-93cd-302b8db4833b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shemiah Sullivan-Muse Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90503 (Online Only)
“I am my own muse. I am the subject I know best. The subject I want to better,” Frida Kahlo. I love this quote as it represents my passion for encouraging others to embrace wellness and self-care because I do believe that mental healthcare is a form of self-care. And this is what we emphasize at Muse Behavioral Health and Wellness. Muse provides healthcare services that help you live life to the fullest. As a dual-licensed nurse practitioner, I am passionate about delivering personalized care and treating my patient, the person, rather than just your symptoms. Please note I do not provide therapy outside of medication management.
“I am my own muse. I am the subject I know best. The subject I want to better,” Frida Kahlo. I love this quote as it represents my passion for encouraging others to embrace wellness and self-care because I do believe that mental healthcare is a form of self-care. And this is what we emphasize at Muse Behavioral Health and Wellness. Muse provides healthcare services that help you live life to the fullest. As a dual-licensed nurse practitioner, I am passionate about delivering personalized care and treating my patient, the person, rather than just your symptoms. Please note I do not provide therapy outside of medication management.
![Photo of Brittany Skinner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35f1a628-6917-4daa-bb63-aa0a33c2f949/2/320x400.png)
Brittany is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. She was born and raised in a small town in Missouri before she came to California as a travel nurse. Brittany has an extensive critical care background as well as a background in psychiatry and addiction medicine, and she believes in staying up-to-date with all the newest technology and medications to find what truly works best for her patients. Having trained in large metropolitan areas as well as rural communities, it is her passion to provide affordable, quality mental health care to those in all areas.
Brittany is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. She was born and raised in a small town in Missouri before she came to California as a travel nurse. Brittany has an extensive critical care background as well as a background in psychiatry and addiction medicine, and she believes in staying up-to-date with all the newest technology and medications to find what truly works best for her patients. Having trained in large metropolitan areas as well as rural communities, it is her passion to provide affordable, quality mental health care to those in all areas.
See more therapy options for Torrance
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Torrance, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$287
Psychiatrists in Torrance, CA who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Medication Management |
80% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Torrance, CA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Torrance?
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.