Psychiatrists in Costa Mesa, CA
![Photo of Paul Gatdula - J. Paul Gatdula - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d92a9f2-fe94-4a73-97bb-205d5b588fab/1/320x400.jpeg)
J. Paul Gatdula - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
J. Paul Gatdula is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from West Coast University and achieved Magna Cum Laude. He then earned his Master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. J. Paul started his career as a psychiatric nurse and has 5 years of experience in mental and behavioral health. He has worked in Magnet hospitals in both inpatient and emergency room settings, and is experienced in treating patients of all ages, cultures, and genders.
J. Paul Gatdula is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from West Coast University and achieved Magna Cum Laude. He then earned his Master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. J. Paul started his career as a psychiatric nurse and has 5 years of experience in mental and behavioral health. He has worked in Magnet hospitals in both inpatient and emergency room settings, and is experienced in treating patients of all ages, cultures, and genders.
![Photo of Mehera Halliwell - TMS Health and Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f3f828c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
At TMS Health and Wellness we specialize in the relief of symptoms caused by major depressive disorder, anxiety, grief, addiction and obsessive compulsive disorder through TMS Therapy. TMS is now covered by most Insurances and Medicare.
At TMS Health and Wellness we specialize in the relief of symptoms caused by major depressive disorder, anxiety, grief, addiction and obsessive compulsive disorder through TMS Therapy. TMS is now covered by most Insurances and Medicare.
![Photo of Karissa Chisum, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2189b6b9-6bf1-4dcc-8aa5-fe3c99ca45c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karissa Chisum is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. With a focus on medication management, Karissa seeks to understand each client's individual needs. Client backgrounds, strengths they may already possess, and challenges they are going through are all taken into account . Karissa builds on these factors with an individualized, patient centered approach. Her training and education bring together medicine and the holistic care of nursing. She understands that many things can affect your mental health.
Karissa Chisum is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. With a focus on medication management, Karissa seeks to understand each client's individual needs. Client backgrounds, strengths they may already possess, and challenges they are going through are all taken into account . Karissa builds on these factors with an individualized, patient centered approach. Her training and education bring together medicine and the holistic care of nursing. She understands that many things can affect your mental health.
![Photo of Sayeh Beheshti, MD, MA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95084416-670d-4d5e-834f-95ecd66823cd/3/320x400.jpeg)
I treat children, age 8-19, who are suffering from the following: Suicidal Thoughts, Self Harm/Cutting, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive Disorder, Mild and Moderate Eating Disorders, Divorce/Family Problems, Personality Disorders, LGBTQ+ Related Issues. My therapists do individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and psychiatry in a comfortable upscale setting in Costa Mesa. We accept health insurance and we make treatment affordable. We have telehealth available for children anywhere in the state of California.
I treat children, age 8-19, who are suffering from the following: Suicidal Thoughts, Self Harm/Cutting, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive Disorder, Mild and Moderate Eating Disorders, Divorce/Family Problems, Personality Disorders, LGBTQ+ Related Issues. My therapists do individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and psychiatry in a comfortable upscale setting in Costa Mesa. We accept health insurance and we make treatment affordable. We have telehealth available for children anywhere in the state of California.
![Photo of Morgan Galipeau, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f83511d7-4c34-4967-87f5-ba93ede91be6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Galipeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (Online Only)
Trust is the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I understand that seeking help can be a daunting step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is holistic, considering not just the symptoms but also the underlying factors that contribute to your mental health. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
Trust is the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I understand that seeking help can be a daunting step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is holistic, considering not just the symptoms but also the underlying factors that contribute to your mental health. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Amanda Seif, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f25acffc-c243-4e37-8ab6-71bc3e7f1866/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Seif is a board certified psychiatrist with a subspecialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and integrative mental health. As an integrative psychiatrist, she looks with her patients and looks at the roots of their problems. Instead of addressing the illness itself only, Dr. Seif’s approach is proactive. Her goal is to find the deep cause of the current mental state of her patients, to better understand their thought process and to prevent future illness and setbacks. Dr. Seif’s journey, her education, and her passion for helping others have led her to develop a patient-centered outlook in her line of work.
Dr. Seif is a board certified psychiatrist with a subspecialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and integrative mental health. As an integrative psychiatrist, she looks with her patients and looks at the roots of their problems. Instead of addressing the illness itself only, Dr. Seif’s approach is proactive. Her goal is to find the deep cause of the current mental state of her patients, to better understand their thought process and to prevent future illness and setbacks. Dr. Seif’s journey, her education, and her passion for helping others have led her to develop a patient-centered outlook in her line of work.
![Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce845691-6fdb-450d-bbb3-5f33f3cfd909/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
![Photo of Hadi Estakhri, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bb222f3-8467-4287-9f3b-80f905712210/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
![Photo of Angharad Ames, MD, MA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aad091d1-7cb1-4460-a098-780f7bcfe90a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My passion is helping individuals overcome mental and emotional suffering associated with various aspects of the human condition. I practice a holistic, individualized, and comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment-planning that centers on a person's unique experiences, symptoms, and goals in order to alleviate symptoms and address root causes. I consider numerous factors that contribute to the etiology of psychiatric symptoms and I emphasize the dynamic interplay between mind, body, and lifestyle that influences the biological, psychological, and social facets of illness and wellness.
My passion is helping individuals overcome mental and emotional suffering associated with various aspects of the human condition. I practice a holistic, individualized, and comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment-planning that centers on a person's unique experiences, symptoms, and goals in order to alleviate symptoms and address root causes. I consider numerous factors that contribute to the etiology of psychiatric symptoms and I emphasize the dynamic interplay between mind, body, and lifestyle that influences the biological, psychological, and social facets of illness and wellness.
![Photo of Erin Fraser Benesch, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd80cc39-5b5a-402c-951f-085612827c7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Erin Benesch is double Board Certified in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She provides treatment for a wide range of complex mental health issues in children, adolescents and young adults using medications, psychotherapy, and other alternative modalities of treatment. Dr. Benesch believes in the optimization of medication management while minimizing polypharmacy and addictive medications. She strongly encourages comprehensive mental health treatment in a collaborative model with therapists practicing primary evidence-based intervention.
Dr. Erin Benesch is double Board Certified in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She provides treatment for a wide range of complex mental health issues in children, adolescents and young adults using medications, psychotherapy, and other alternative modalities of treatment. Dr. Benesch believes in the optimization of medication management while minimizing polypharmacy and addictive medications. She strongly encourages comprehensive mental health treatment in a collaborative model with therapists practicing primary evidence-based intervention.
![Photo of Katherine Weeks - Mindful Health Solutions - Katherine Weeks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52348f41-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Katherine Weeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I specialize in treating patients with anxiety or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). I believe mental health is a vital aspect of any individual's well-being, and I work to have every patient with depression be as symptom-free as possible and enjoy life to the fullest. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be an important treatment modality as it allows me to work with my patients and tailor individual treatment modalities specific to their symptoms, and relieve their suffering from depression or another psychological disorder. I believe that TMS can be an instrument as an alternative or additive to medications.
I specialize in treating patients with anxiety or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). I believe mental health is a vital aspect of any individual's well-being, and I work to have every patient with depression be as symptom-free as possible and enjoy life to the fullest. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be an important treatment modality as it allows me to work with my patients and tailor individual treatment modalities specific to their symptoms, and relieve their suffering from depression or another psychological disorder. I believe that TMS can be an instrument as an alternative or additive to medications.
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![Photo of Dr. Tina Allee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fc1c3a1-b308-452c-a5a2-a418de59520a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Tina Allee, MD and I’m excited to introduce myself. I went to UCLA for an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and a master’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology. I earned an MD from Stanford University, School of Medicine and completed specialty training in Psychiatry at UC Irvine School of Medicine.
Hello! My name is Tina Allee, MD and I’m excited to introduce myself. I went to UCLA for an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and a master’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology. I earned an MD from Stanford University, School of Medicine and completed specialty training in Psychiatry at UC Irvine School of Medicine.
![Photo of Britton Ashley Arey - South Coast Psychiatry, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f07e3a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
South Coast Psychiatry is a Concierge Psychiatry Outpatient Group Practice with adult psychiatrists who all offer personalized, comprehensive care to help support you and your family through every stage of life. We provide full-time administrative support, an upscale, beautiful office suite, and top-trained clinicians who can offer psychotherapy and medication management to patients with a wide variety of issues. Our clinicians are available to their patients 24/7, and our administrative team is available to our patients throughout the day. Patients thrive in our warm, caring, supportive environment.
South Coast Psychiatry is a Concierge Psychiatry Outpatient Group Practice with adult psychiatrists who all offer personalized, comprehensive care to help support you and your family through every stage of life. We provide full-time administrative support, an upscale, beautiful office suite, and top-trained clinicians who can offer psychotherapy and medication management to patients with a wide variety of issues. Our clinicians are available to their patients 24/7, and our administrative team is available to our patients throughout the day. Patients thrive in our warm, caring, supportive environment.
![Photo of Irina Filip - Mindful Health Solutions - Irina Filip, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/551548dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Irina Filip, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (Online Only)
I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. I have an extensive background and training in psychopharmacology and, in addition to my Doctor of Medicine, have completed my Doctor of Health Sciences.
I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. I have an extensive background and training in psychopharmacology and, in addition to my Doctor of Medicine, have completed my Doctor of Health Sciences.
![Photo of Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f4931f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Victoria Hughes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b4be9c-ea3f-4cb2-9baa-3e5ecc8fede1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Hughes is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. She has a BSN from Saint Mary's-Samuel Merritt an MSN, PMHNP from Maryville University and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau: International honor society for academic excellence and leadership in nursing. The most powerful healing medicine is caring. Victoria believes health is finding balance in all areas of your life. She offers a holistic, thoughtful, and collaborative approach to care. She is adept at aligning with your needs and respecting your philosophy of health to empower you toward your desired outcome.
Victoria Hughes is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. She has a BSN from Saint Mary's-Samuel Merritt an MSN, PMHNP from Maryville University and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau: International honor society for academic excellence and leadership in nursing. The most powerful healing medicine is caring. Victoria believes health is finding balance in all areas of your life. She offers a holistic, thoughtful, and collaborative approach to care. She is adept at aligning with your needs and respecting your philosophy of health to empower you toward your desired outcome.
![Photo of Marina Podlubnaya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16f506fe-ddbe-4be5-8c53-5b60182c21ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
My lifelong dream is to see the stigma related to mental health disappear. My hope is for all people to be free of shame and guilt when talking about their struggles with mental health. I have experience in treating a variety of disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and eating disorders. I strive to create a strong therapeutic and collaborative relationship in order to provide the best quality of care. My passions include working with clients with dual diagnoses and helping support them through their journey of recovery from substance abuse.
My lifelong dream is to see the stigma related to mental health disappear. My hope is for all people to be free of shame and guilt when talking about their struggles with mental health. I have experience in treating a variety of disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and eating disorders. I strive to create a strong therapeutic and collaborative relationship in order to provide the best quality of care. My passions include working with clients with dual diagnoses and helping support them through their journey of recovery from substance abuse.
![Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce7e2c67-fe0e-416c-808d-e2a3c580cb34/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/599b6771-009c-43fe-a6df-e740b2be29e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
![Photo of Nicole Poliquin - Nicole Poliquin MD, APC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d8887cd-fa6e-421d-89e9-35195227941d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nicole Poliquin has dedicated her life to helping people put their lives back together. She has many years of experience in the psychiatric field. In addition to being certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she is also a Diplomate of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and the American Society of Adolescent Psychiatry.
Dr. Nicole Poliquin has dedicated her life to helping people put their lives back together. She has many years of experience in the psychiatric field. In addition to being certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she is also a Diplomate of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and the American Society of Adolescent Psychiatry.
See more therapy options for Costa Mesa
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Costa Mesa, CA
80+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Costa Mesa, CA who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
89% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Medication Management |
84% | ADHD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | Optum |
92% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Costa Mesa, CA see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Costa Mesa?
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.