Psychiatrists in Whittier, CA
![Photo of Barbara J Justice, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/481eb396-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Justice is a double Board Certified General Psychiatrist with training in several subspecialties of psychiatry and medicine. Her philosophy of providing the art of medicine is that of being conservative but appropriate. The treatment is tailored to ones individual need. She provides Psychophamacological treatment to those who are in therapy and who need the additional healing of medicaion in order to maximize their attainment of health. Dr. Justice is a seasoned professional with a history that is rich and varied in the experience of caring for people. She obtained her Doctorate in 1977 at Howard University Medical School, Washington D.C.
Dr. Justice is a double Board Certified General Psychiatrist with training in several subspecialties of psychiatry and medicine. Her philosophy of providing the art of medicine is that of being conservative but appropriate. The treatment is tailored to ones individual need. She provides Psychophamacological treatment to those who are in therapy and who need the additional healing of medicaion in order to maximize their attainment of health. Dr. Justice is a seasoned professional with a history that is rich and varied in the experience of caring for people. She obtained her Doctorate in 1977 at Howard University Medical School, Washington D.C.
![Photo of Jianpeng Wang - Center For Behavior Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f49f420-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
![Photo of Jianpeng Wang - Center For Behavior Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4afbd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
![Photo of Jonathan Chia-Ho Lee, MD, MSc, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aafffe53-9cd8-4b58-95f4-84ada54a1964/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in a comprehensive approach to psychiatry. In addition to med-management, I find it important to incorporate the use of psychotherapy to help my patients find their path to mental health wellness. There is no "one size fits all" treatment and I enjoy working with my clients to help plot their unique course to freedom from their psychological ailments.
I believe in a comprehensive approach to psychiatry. In addition to med-management, I find it important to incorporate the use of psychotherapy to help my patients find their path to mental health wellness. There is no "one size fits all" treatment and I enjoy working with my clients to help plot their unique course to freedom from their psychological ailments.
![Photo of Tami Zorge - The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f09194f-355c-48cf-ae72-0631e5ecc71c/1/320x400.png)
The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90601 (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
![Photo of Chioma Okoro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac25eabd-7e1e-47f2-b145-84c54b598636/1/320x400.png)
Chioma Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90603 (Online Only)
Chioma Okoro is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BC-PMHNP) with over 13 years of experience in mental health. She specializes in working with adults and seniors who are experiencing major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and other psychiatric conditions.
Chioma Okoro is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BC-PMHNP) with over 13 years of experience in mental health. She specializes in working with adults and seniors who are experiencing major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and other psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Clint Nacar, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/992241bb-ccff-418a-901d-44ed98805e0a/2/320x400.png)
Clint Nacar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whittier, CA 90607
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression or adhd? Have you sought help for your mental health in the past but often felt rushed or struggled to connect with your provider? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. As a masters prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I focus on treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health diagnoses. I believe that working together collaboratively with each client is the key to creating an effective treatment plan to address each client’s unique situation and needs.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression or adhd? Have you sought help for your mental health in the past but often felt rushed or struggled to connect with your provider? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. As a masters prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I focus on treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health diagnoses. I believe that working together collaboratively with each client is the key to creating an effective treatment plan to address each client’s unique situation and needs.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11ca513a-e515-4c08-a34b-a8df4680234d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Roy Elevazo - Roy Elevazo & Associates, Inc, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23a149f5-f683-4333-948f-c7918fc6db6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roy Elevazo & Associates, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
Roy Elevazo is a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Roy specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and many other psychiatric disorders. His expertise and primary function lie in pharmacotherapy. In 2005, he received his Bachelor of Nursing from California State University, Long Beach, then his Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Long Beach in 2012 with honors. Roy is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society.
Roy Elevazo is a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Roy specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and many other psychiatric disorders. His expertise and primary function lie in pharmacotherapy. In 2005, he received his Bachelor of Nursing from California State University, Long Beach, then his Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Long Beach in 2012 with honors. Roy is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society.
![Photo of Laurice Haycraft, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a00f22-7e1c-4121-b765-5d9782c45826/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurice Haycraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650 (Online Only)
The complexities of life can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. In some instances, emotional pain can be just as debilitating as physical pain which can impact one’s ability to function mentally, socially, and professionally. One of the greatest rewards for me is witnessing the positive outcomes of providing holistic care for patients who have suffered from various mental disorders. My greatest strength as a provider is treating my patients with compassion, empathy, dignity, and respect.
The complexities of life can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. In some instances, emotional pain can be just as debilitating as physical pain which can impact one’s ability to function mentally, socially, and professionally. One of the greatest rewards for me is witnessing the positive outcomes of providing holistic care for patients who have suffered from various mental disorders. My greatest strength as a provider is treating my patients with compassion, empathy, dignity, and respect.
![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
Anaheim, CA 92801
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 Brittnai Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45e53d92-60ce-4a60-b840-66d047cbf6e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Gate, CA 90280 (Online Only)
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Bruce Bassi - TelepsychHealth, MD, NP, LCPC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e626fc14-28aa-4727-aa77-fdfe6ccde67d/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We usually have availability within 1-2 weeks. Feel free to check out our reviews on our website, TelepsychHealth. Please call or message us to request an ASAP appointment: www.telepsychhealth.com/request
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We usually have availability within 1-2 weeks. Feel free to check out our reviews on our website, TelepsychHealth. Please call or message us to request an ASAP appointment: www.telepsychhealth.com/request
![Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd5c09a0-5810-4c01-838e-ed891c284ce3/1/320x400.png)
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92801 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4ae55b4-9176-47c7-be4d-eb8ac5003c59/2/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f77848d-e9a7-4591-b05f-5907f25a91d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
![Photo of Medard Sison - Renewed ADHD Treatment Center-ADHD Testing & Evals, DNP, PMHNP, ADHD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb28a38c-dfab-47e8-aa8a-938d497b423b/1/320x400.png)
Renewed ADHD Treatment Center-ADHD Testing & Evals
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ADHD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Renewed Mental Health Group, APNC is a nationally known Psychiatric-Mental Health and ADHD Treatment Center with over 10 years of experience helping diagnose and treat patients throughout California. Our providers are specialized in the evaluation, treatment, and support of individuals with ADHD, learning problems, and related behavioral difficulties and received their training at top-ranked programs around the nation such as UCLA, UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Cedars Sinai, Veterans Affairs, and more. Not only do our providers treat ADHD, but we treat other mental health disorders as well.
Renewed Mental Health Group, APNC is a nationally known Psychiatric-Mental Health and ADHD Treatment Center with over 10 years of experience helping diagnose and treat patients throughout California. Our providers are specialized in the evaluation, treatment, and support of individuals with ADHD, learning problems, and related behavioral difficulties and received their training at top-ranked programs around the nation such as UCLA, UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Cedars Sinai, Veterans Affairs, and more. Not only do our providers treat ADHD, but we treat other mental health disorders as well.
![Photo of Erika Brenda Arias, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b09a433d-2565-4475-962f-3b3579f7f934/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in the field. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I work with patients who struggle with depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine. My approach is supportive, compassion focused, and culturally sensitive while incorporating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in the field. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I work with patients who struggle with depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine. My approach is supportive, compassion focused, and culturally sensitive while incorporating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
![Photo of Jessica Jun, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78693abd-9d43-4319-bee0-f3cfa813b020/2/320x400.jpeg)
My focus is to improve individual well-being and quality of life through symptom management. I plan to work together in personalizing treatment that meets goals and lifestyles.
My focus is to improve individual well-being and quality of life through symptom management. I plan to work together in personalizing treatment that meets goals and lifestyles.
![Photo of Eryn Patchett - Charlie Health, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd89999d-012d-4b58-87f8-63797c99f765/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ca
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ca
See more therapy options for Whittier
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Whittier, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Whittier, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Magellan |
How Psychiatrists in Whittier, CA see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Whittier?
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.