Psychiatrists in Fort Bragg, CA

Photo of Daniel Chandler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Bragg, CA 95437  (Online Only)
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Veronica Arres, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica Arres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eureka, CA 95501
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 535-3207 View (650) 535-3207
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eureka, CA 95501
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(888) 909-8676 View (888) 909-8676
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95407  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(707) 532-2144 View (707) 532-2144
Photo of Alex Terreau, MD, Psychiatrist
Alex Terreau
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472  (Online Only)
Most of us want to live more freely and fully as our authentic self. Yet, a range of issues and struggles can get in our way. Sometimes it’s a mental health or major life challenge, unresolved pain from our past, outdated beliefs, difficult feelings, or unintegrated parts of ourselves or identities. We suffer, feeling overwhelmed, lost, and disconnected. We may simply want relief. Sometimes, our suffering is a call into more of our depth, to awaken spiritually, or to expand into our potential and purpose. With empathy and compassion, I can meet you where you’re at and help you find your way towards wellness and new possibilities.
Most of us want to live more freely and fully as our authentic self. Yet, a range of issues and struggles can get in our way. Sometimes it’s a mental health or major life challenge, unresolved pain from our past, outdated beliefs, difficult feelings, or unintegrated parts of ourselves or identities. We suffer, feeling overwhelmed, lost, and disconnected. We may simply want relief. Sometimes, our suffering is a call into more of our depth, to awaken spiritually, or to expand into our potential and purpose. With empathy and compassion, I can meet you where you’re at and help you find your way towards wellness and new possibilities.
(707) 402-9513 View (707) 402-9513
Photo of Lemlem Payne, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lemlem Payne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95401  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Lemlem, a psychiatric nurse practitioner here to support and guide you through this journey. My current practice is rooted in meeting clients 'where they are,' working cohesively to untangle inner conflicts, and facilitating each client’s journey towards insight, agency, and self-efficacy.
Hello, I'm Lemlem, a psychiatric nurse practitioner here to support and guide you through this journey. My current practice is rooted in meeting clients 'where they are,' working cohesively to untangle inner conflicts, and facilitating each client’s journey towards insight, agency, and self-efficacy.
(707) 600-2954 View (707) 600-2954
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eureka, CA 95501
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(408) 413-3653 View (408) 413-3653
Amy Shefftz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403  (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
(707) 340-6730 View (707) 340-6730
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(415) 324-6930 View (415) 324-6930
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County and 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 and 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.
(707) 510-4740 View (707) 510-4740
Photo of Jacqueline Chan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Chan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eureka, CA 95501
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(408) 869-1869 View (408) 869-1869
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401  (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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, 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.
(909) 531-4083 View (909) 531-4083
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
View
Photo of Sharon Smith, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharon Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404  (Online Only)
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and family medicine primary care. I am deeply committed to helping individuals facing complex mental health challenges. I provide medication management for adults and children. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for personalized, patient-centered care. My goal is to be your trusted partner on the journey to mental well-being, providing support, understanding, and guidance for a fulfilling life. I am committed to being your trusted partner on this transformative journey.
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and family medicine primary care. I am deeply committed to helping individuals facing complex mental health challenges. I provide medication management for adults and children. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for personalized, patient-centered care. My goal is to be your trusted partner on the journey to mental well-being, providing support, understanding, and guidance for a fulfilling life. I am committed to being your trusted partner on this transformative journey.
(907) 802-2969 View (907) 802-2969
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Eureka, CA 95501  (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.
(707) 598-8574 View (707) 598-8574
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eureka, CA 95501
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(408) 413-0269 View (408) 413-0269
Photo of Robert L Okin, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert L Okin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pope Valley, CA 94567  (Online Only)
Robert L. Okin, MD, Psychiatrist. People come to see me when they are stuck in their lives or struggling with problems in relationships, careers, and other areas. They often feel depressed and anxious. I am acutely aware of how difficult is for many people to take the leap of asking for help: self-doubt, worries that they don’t deserve help, anxiety about having to face their problems, uncertainty about the quality of the provider – all tend to slow people down in seeking help even when they have suffered for a long time. Many people often don’t exactly know why they have such pain in their lives.
Robert L. Okin, MD, Psychiatrist. People come to see me when they are stuck in their lives or struggling with problems in relationships, careers, and other areas. They often feel depressed and anxious. I am acutely aware of how difficult is for many people to take the leap of asking for help: self-doubt, worries that they don’t deserve help, anxiety about having to face their problems, uncertainty about the quality of the provider – all tend to slow people down in seeking help even when they have suffered for a long time. Many people often don’t exactly know why they have such pain in their lives.
(707) 620-1311 View (707) 620-1311
Photo of Ashley Miller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eureka, CA 95501
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(408) 869-6367 View (408) 869-6367
Photo of Olajumoke Adeyemi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olajumoke Adeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95405  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatic Nurse Practitioner.
I am a board-certified Psychiatic Nurse Practitioner.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Jordan Rose, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95401  (Online Only)
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
(628) 232-8399 View (628) 232-8399

See more therapy options for Fort Bragg

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Bragg, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Fort Bragg, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis
100% Other

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Coventry

How Psychiatrists in Fort Bragg, CA see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Bragg?

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.