Psychiatrists in Westlake Village, CA

Photo of Albert Mcnames, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Albert Mcnames
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master's in Nursing Education from the University of Phoenix and my Post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate from Maryville University. I have experience working with the patients across the lifespan.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master's in Nursing Education from the University of Phoenix and my Post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate from Maryville University. I have experience working with the patients across the lifespan.
(818) 794-1049 View (818) 794-1049
Photo of Ines Kaplan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ines Kaplan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of dedicated healthcare experience. My career began in hospital and home care settings, and for the past 8 years, I have served as a nurse practitioner, specializing in psychiatric and family healthcare. My focus is on helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health, including conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, ADHD, OCD, and stress stemming from various sources.
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of dedicated healthcare experience. My career began in hospital and home care settings, and for the past 8 years, I have served as a nurse practitioner, specializing in psychiatric and family healthcare. My focus is on helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health, including conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, ADHD, OCD, and stress stemming from various sources.
(818) 798-9689 View (818) 798-9689
Photo of Matthew Dawe, MD, Psychiatrist
Matthew Dawe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
My name is Matthew Dawe, I am a board certified Psychiatrist. I have been practicing Psychiatry for 32 years. Unlike most Psychiatrists, I do both medication management and Psychotherapy. I was trained in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Los Angeles Psychoanalytic Institute which is now known as The New Center for Psychoanalysis. I care deeply about helping people with their emotional struggles and I am committed to working diligently to find the most effective treatment for each patient.
My name is Matthew Dawe, I am a board certified Psychiatrist. I have been practicing Psychiatry for 32 years. Unlike most Psychiatrists, I do both medication management and Psychotherapy. I was trained in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Los Angeles Psychoanalytic Institute which is now known as The New Center for Psychoanalysis. I care deeply about helping people with their emotional struggles and I am committed to working diligently to find the most effective treatment for each patient.
(818) 272-8902 View (818) 272-8902
Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD , Psychiatrist
Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (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!
(805) 624-3578 View (805) 624-3578
Photo of Daniel Pimstone, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Pimstone
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
I see my role as a psychiatrist similar that of a consultant. While the client is the CEO of their body, I feel it takes teamwork and proper collaboration with their family, physician and other mental health providers to come to a well-rounded treatment plan that fits them personally. It is vital to collaborate with their PCP and associated mental health providers to help them heal as seamlessly as possible. Good communication is one of my hallmarks. I do not simply “push pills”, but rather seek a holistic and varied treatment approach that focuses on therapy, mindfulness, minimizing substances, nutrition, exercise and self-care.
I see my role as a psychiatrist similar that of a consultant. While the client is the CEO of their body, I feel it takes teamwork and proper collaboration with their family, physician and other mental health providers to come to a well-rounded treatment plan that fits them personally. It is vital to collaborate with their PCP and associated mental health providers to help them heal as seamlessly as possible. Good communication is one of my hallmarks. I do not simply “push pills”, but rather seek a holistic and varied treatment approach that focuses on therapy, mindfulness, minimizing substances, nutrition, exercise and self-care.
(805) 608-4018 View (805) 608-4018
Adam Burdick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Adam Burdick, M.D. is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, who is board certified in both Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. He has a private practice, which is a solely Tele-psychiatric practice servicing California. Appointments are available on select weekends and weekday evenings. Telehealth allows for both safety and convenience in the comfort of your home. Dr. Burdick trained at UCLA and Stanford. He treats a variety of psychiatric disorders including mood, anxiety, trauma and psychosis in individuals 18 years and older.
Adam Burdick, M.D. is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, who is board certified in both Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. He has a private practice, which is a solely Tele-psychiatric practice servicing California. Appointments are available on select weekends and weekday evenings. Telehealth allows for both safety and convenience in the comfort of your home. Dr. Burdick trained at UCLA and Stanford. He treats a variety of psychiatric disorders including mood, anxiety, trauma and psychosis in individuals 18 years and older.
(805) 491-9748 View (805) 491-9748
Photo of Dr. Todd Hill - Dr. Todd Hill - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Todd Hill - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Dr. Hill has been practicing Psychiatry for nearly 20 years. He now practices both Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Throughout his medical career, he owned his own private practice for 10 years, was on staff as a consultation psychiatrist for multiple Kansas City hospitals, and served as the Medical Director of Psychiatric Services at one of the largest hospitals in the Kansas City Metro area. Additionally, Dr. Hill served as Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Psychiatry at his alma mater, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences.
Dr. Hill has been practicing Psychiatry for nearly 20 years. He now practices both Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Throughout his medical career, he owned his own private practice for 10 years, was on staff as a consultation psychiatrist for multiple Kansas City hospitals, and served as the Medical Director of Psychiatric Services at one of the largest hospitals in the Kansas City Metro area. Additionally, Dr. Hill served as Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Psychiatry at his alma mater, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences.
(424) 238-6522 View (424) 238-6522
Photo of Ranita Hahm - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ranita Hahm - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Ranita Hahm is a Dual Board Certified Adult-Gerontology and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her post-master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) and her nurse practitioner master’s degree from the University of California of Los Angeles (UCLA). Her bachelor’s degree is from Mount St. Mary’s University. She practiced in primary care and occupational health for seven years before transitioning to mental health.
Ranita Hahm is a Dual Board Certified Adult-Gerontology and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her post-master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) and her nurse practitioner master’s degree from the University of California of Los Angeles (UCLA). Her bachelor’s degree is from Mount St. Mary’s University. She practiced in primary care and occupational health for seven years before transitioning to mental health.
(818) 514-7160 View (818) 514-7160
Photo of Priya Parmar - State Of Mind Wellness Center- Priya Parmar, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
State Of Mind Wellness Center- Priya Parmar, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
State of Mind Wellness Center is a state of the art psychiatry practice that uses evidence based treatments for mental distress. Here, you are seen and heard by a board certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience. Dr Parmar is an expert in the field of mental health. She is caring, warm and she understands human development and how trauma can impact a person. She uses a humanistic based psychotherapeutic approach and is skilled in providing medications as needed. Dr Parmar also provides Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy to people with cPTSD who qualify. TMS is also offered as needed.
State of Mind Wellness Center is a state of the art psychiatry practice that uses evidence based treatments for mental distress. Here, you are seen and heard by a board certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience. Dr Parmar is an expert in the field of mental health. She is caring, warm and she understands human development and how trauma can impact a person. She uses a humanistic based psychotherapeutic approach and is skilled in providing medications as needed. Dr Parmar also provides Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy to people with cPTSD who qualify. TMS is also offered as needed.
(805) 491-9620 View (805) 491-9620
Photo of Ed Santos Jesalva - Ed S Jesalva, MD, Inc, MD, Psychiatrist
Ed S Jesalva, MD, Inc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Ed S. Jesalva, M.D. has been in private practice in psychiatry since 1989, providing psycho diagnostic evaluations, psychopharmacotherapy, stabilization and acute management of adults and adolescents in an in-patient and out-patient setting. He takes a biological, psychological, social, and spiritual approach to treatment. As a diagnostician, he feels that it's important and significant to have accurate diagnoses of the patient to be able to have an effective treatment plan. Dr Jesalva maintains an active out-patient practice in treating adolescent, adult and geriatric patients who suffer from mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, and substance abuse.
Ed S. Jesalva, M.D. has been in private practice in psychiatry since 1989, providing psycho diagnostic evaluations, psychopharmacotherapy, stabilization and acute management of adults and adolescents in an in-patient and out-patient setting. He takes a biological, psychological, social, and spiritual approach to treatment. As a diagnostician, he feels that it's important and significant to have accurate diagnoses of the patient to be able to have an effective treatment plan. Dr Jesalva maintains an active out-patient practice in treating adolescent, adult and geriatric patients who suffer from mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, and substance abuse.
(805) 749-2549 View (805) 749-2549
Photo of Michael Polda, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Polda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
My ideal client is an adult dealing with anxiety, depression, or the unique challenges of aging. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider who can help them navigate their mental health journey. Their goals include finding relief from their symptoms, improving their quality of life, and developing effective coping strategies. They value accessible, timely care and want a partner in their mental wellness journey who listens, understands, and provides personalized solutions.
My ideal client is an adult dealing with anxiety, depression, or the unique challenges of aging. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider who can help them navigate their mental health journey. Their goals include finding relief from their symptoms, improving their quality of life, and developing effective coping strategies. They value accessible, timely care and want a partner in their mental wellness journey who listens, understands, and provides personalized solutions.
(805) 870-9438 View (805) 870-9438
Photo of Kofi Omane, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kofi Omane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), certified across the lifespan. I received my Bachelor and Masters of Science in Nursing from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA. I have several years of psychiatric experience as a mental health counselor, psychiatric registered staff nurse, and PMHNP-BC. These experiences include emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and community-based psychiatric settings. I have a passion for working with individuals of all ages to improve mental health and overall quality of life.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), certified across the lifespan. I received my Bachelor and Masters of Science in Nursing from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA. I have several years of psychiatric experience as a mental health counselor, psychiatric registered staff nurse, and PMHNP-BC. These experiences include emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and community-based psychiatric settings. I have a passion for working with individuals of all ages to improve mental health and overall quality of life.
(818) 975-3419 View (818) 975-3419
Photo of Sabira Saifuddin - Family Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Psychiatric Treatment & Counseling for the Whole family. We have a Multidisciplinary Team of Psychiatrist, Nurse Practitioners & Psychotherapists We perform Psychiatric Assessments & Treatment of ADHD in Adults and Children, Anxiety Disorders ( Panic attacks, Generalized Anxiety, OCD ) Depressive Disorders ( Major Depression), Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorders Etc. We combine conventional medical treatment with non-medication treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ( TMS ) for Severe depression for patients who don't respond well to Medications.
Psychiatric Treatment & Counseling for the Whole family. We have a Multidisciplinary Team of Psychiatrist, Nurse Practitioners & Psychotherapists We perform Psychiatric Assessments & Treatment of ADHD in Adults and Children, Anxiety Disorders ( Panic attacks, Generalized Anxiety, OCD ) Depressive Disorders ( Major Depression), Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorders Etc. We combine conventional medical treatment with non-medication treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ( TMS ) for Severe depression for patients who don't respond well to Medications.
(805) 693-4104 View (805) 693-4104
Photo of Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(424) 396-0514 View (424) 396-0514
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, MD, Psychiatrist
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(424) 396-0111 View (424) 396-0111
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(424) 347-6576 View (424) 347-6576
Photo of Brian S. Taylor, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian S. Taylor
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361
As a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, I see adults and adolescents ages 15 and older who desire evaluation and treatment of their mental health issue(s) regardless of complexity. I offer a complete psychiatric evaluation, including a psychosocial assessment and make recommendations for you based on evidence-based practice guidelines. I have previously worked in the community mental health setting serving the seriously and persistently mentally ill populations of the Bay Area and Southern California. Psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic strategies are tailored to relieve the distressing symptoms impacting your life and well-being.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, I see adults and adolescents ages 15 and older who desire evaluation and treatment of their mental health issue(s) regardless of complexity. I offer a complete psychiatric evaluation, including a psychosocial assessment and make recommendations for you based on evidence-based practice guidelines. I have previously worked in the community mental health setting serving the seriously and persistently mentally ill populations of the Bay Area and Southern California. Psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic strategies are tailored to relieve the distressing symptoms impacting your life and well-being.
(805) 978-8146 View (805) 978-8146
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
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.
(408) 351-8474 View (408) 351-8474
Photo of Sham Singh, MD , Psychiatrist
Sham Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
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!
(818) 873-3007 View (818) 873-3007
Photo of Jasmine Delijani, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jasmine Delijani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, or navigating complex emotions in life? Or are you a woman facing challenges during pregnancy and postpartum periods? Serving adolescents and adults of all genders and cultural backgrounds, my expertise lies in providing compassionate, judgment-free, comprehensive telepsychiatry across California. Seeking relief and a path to wellbeing? My approach combines traditional psychiatry—medications & therapy—with holistic methods like supplementation, genetic/lab testing, and sleep optimization. Let's uncover the root causes and tailor a journey towards your vibrant health.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, or navigating complex emotions in life? Or are you a woman facing challenges during pregnancy and postpartum periods? Serving adolescents and adults of all genders and cultural backgrounds, my expertise lies in providing compassionate, judgment-free, comprehensive telepsychiatry across California. Seeking relief and a path to wellbeing? My approach combines traditional psychiatry—medications & therapy—with holistic methods like supplementation, genetic/lab testing, and sleep optimization. Let's uncover the root causes and tailor a journey towards your vibrant health.
(805) 978-9798 View (805) 978-9798
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See more therapy options for Westlake Village

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Westlake Village, CA

20+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Westlake Village, CA who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
87% Medication Management
83% ADHD
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

22 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Westlake Village, CA see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Male
38% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Westlake Village?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.