Psychiatrists in Ontario, CA
![Photo of Faith Ogala - Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS), MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f59cffbc-1312-48a2-87d3-01b05e69299d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Behavioral Solutions (MBS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91761 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send an email directly to info@mbspsych.org.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Are you experiencing Depression and Anxiety? We can help you. Get your life back today. Our goal is to provide you and your family with high-quality evidence based care. Faith is caring and compassionate about mental health. She provides unique person-centered mental health services to children, adults, and elderly population suffering from mental health disorders. We offer virtual visits. Schedule your consultation today by calling -888-550-4842 or Text 469-722-7334. You can also send an email directly to info@mbspsych.org.
![Photo of Erin Jenkins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27dfe68b-de33-4625-b15a-8a0fde4d6867/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761 (Online Only)
I am a licensed Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also dual certified in Family Medicine. Throughout my nearly 24 year career in medicine my focus has been in helping people through their most difficult challenges.
I am a licensed Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also dual certified in Family Medicine. Throughout my nearly 24 year career in medicine my focus has been in helping people through their most difficult challenges.
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da3a5162-0202-4708-a2b9-3c87013058d0/1/320x400.png)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Thasanee Fong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8d8a692-a7b9-4256-a809-9dd512c4d061/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thasanee Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91764 (Online Only)
Hi there, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for adults (18 – 65 years old). I have 6 years of experience in mental health working in various settings.
Hi there, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for adults (18 – 65 years old). I have 6 years of experience in mental health working in various settings.
![Photo of Catalina Villa, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0849289-aa81-4c0d-ad1c-9cd36c389e93/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![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
Ontario, CA 91761 (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 Gloria Sudeta, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64fc617f-9044-4f66-ab5c-ba4dadc0fb74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gloria Sudeta FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She able to prescribe medications for you to help with your mood, depression, and anxiety symptoms as well as medications for other issues. She is bilingual in Spanish as well. Gloria sees children as young as 5 years and up, as well as adults and geriatrics. You can schedule multiple ways, such as through Zocdoc.com, Headway, or Grow Therapy. You may also text 909-229-6851.
Gloria Sudeta FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She able to prescribe medications for you to help with your mood, depression, and anxiety symptoms as well as medications for other issues. She is bilingual in Spanish as well. Gloria sees children as young as 5 years and up, as well as adults and geriatrics. You can schedule multiple ways, such as through Zocdoc.com, Headway, or Grow Therapy. You may also text 909-229-6851.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed66dbd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.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 Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26763c15-3470-4c5a-adf4-cfd696d6423d/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91762 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $249, Follow-ups are $99
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $249, Follow-ups are $99
![Photo of Kailee Marin, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/630d515c-a986-4343-812b-9a308e028576/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Angela Cooper, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4a52dd3-bc28-4797-b9d6-e351c0588a67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761 (Online Only)
Hello! I serve adults ages 18-64 located anywhere in California. I currently have office locations in San Diego, Los Angeles, and Northern California and specialize in ADHD treatment. I am passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you face and supporting you in achieving your goals. Living in a rural area in California, I recognize the unique challenges faced by clients in my community, including limited access to mental health services and a lack of resources to support their mental health needs.
Hello! I serve adults ages 18-64 located anywhere in California. I currently have office locations in San Diego, Los Angeles, and Northern California and specialize in ADHD treatment. I am passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you face and supporting you in achieving your goals. Living in a rural area in California, I recognize the unique challenges faced by clients in my community, including limited access to mental health services and a lack of resources to support their mental health needs.
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Marianna Chavez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91761
Accepting new patients! I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for children, teens, and young adults. Are you suffering from anxiety or anger? Uncontrollable moods or emotions? Depression, trauma, or extreme stress? Are you unable to concentrate or get your work done? You do not have to! I am here to help. You can start healing today!
Accepting new patients! I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for children, teens, and young adults. Are you suffering from anxiety or anger? Uncontrollable moods or emotions? Depression, trauma, or extreme stress? Are you unable to concentrate or get your work done? You do not have to! I am here to help. You can start healing today!
![Photo of Uchenna Okoye, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6caff2bc-dfcf-4d2e-b3f2-2630640c5016/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Claudette Banda, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1efba1e8-5086-4e7b-ae01-e63fbbab63a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Claudette Banda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91764 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f4bcbb-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 Sham Singh, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52254084-331f-493a-9a7a-b36b80b60bb2/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Sameer Hassamal, MD, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ef39858-5d8b-4395-9402-01838908eeb6/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialization lies in managing complex and challenging cases, particularly those unresponsive to standard treatments.
My specialization lies in managing complex and challenging cases, particularly those unresponsive to standard treatments.
![Photo of Eucharia Maduafokwa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1047873c-17f1-4a98-866a-3ce59e0ee590/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eucharia Maduafokwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761 (Online Only)
Do you want to take control of your mental health? Are you overwhelmed by the effect of your mental health problem on your daily life activities? We offer services in treating adults with a wide range of mental health conditions such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression. Insomnia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Personality disorder, Schizophrenia, Autistic disorder and Eating Disorder.
Do you want to take control of your mental health? Are you overwhelmed by the effect of your mental health problem on your daily life activities? We offer services in treating adults with a wide range of mental health conditions such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression. Insomnia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Personality disorder, Schizophrenia, Autistic disorder and Eating Disorder.
![Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d546da55-4cb0-4e8f-bf05-38076807660d/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Joseph Modestus, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488ddfbc-d6bb-4396-9196-736204617b9b/6/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Modestus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, MBA
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761 (Online Only)
My ideal client faces a range of mental health challenges, seeking support to manage anxiety, depression, or other conditions. They need compassionate, personalized care to navigate their journey. Their goals are to achieve emotional stability, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall well-being. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to create an effective treatment plan. My passion for people and their stories, coupled with my dedication to mental health advocacy, drives me to help clients debunk misconceptions and achieve their goals.
My ideal client faces a range of mental health challenges, seeking support to manage anxiety, depression, or other conditions. They need compassionate, personalized care to navigate their journey. Their goals are to achieve emotional stability, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall well-being. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to create an effective treatment plan. My passion for people and their stories, coupled with my dedication to mental health advocacy, drives me to help clients debunk misconceptions and achieve their goals.
See more therapy options for Ontario
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ontario, CA
70+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Ontario, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
91% | ADHD |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
99% | Aetna |
99% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Ontario, CA see their clients
71% | Online Only | |
29% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
56% | Female | |
44% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ontario?
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.