Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA
![Photo of Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c1fb425-e8d1-417a-9f47-054de354632b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834 (Online Only)
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
Dr. Geetha Reddy graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in Molecular and Cell Biology, and earned her medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. She completed General Psychiatry training at University of California, San Francisco, and fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Northwestern University. She additionally obtained a Masters in Public Health from Harvard University. She is an active member of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
Dr. Geetha Reddy graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in Molecular and Cell Biology, and earned her medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. She completed General Psychiatry training at University of California, San Francisco, and fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Northwestern University. She additionally obtained a Masters in Public Health from Harvard University. She is an active member of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
![Photo of Anton Fisher - ★★TeleMind®★★, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35bccef8-846a-48a2-9f14-f43ac7e18b7d/1/320x400.png)
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
![Photo of Martina Nankivell, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cfaaf43-f81c-48ba-b733-0abdc659b1ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martina Nankivell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
![Photo of Dr. Danielle Alexander, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f59adf45-b3e4-47d9-8fed-8756a8075ba6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist based in Sacramento, California. Virtual appointments available throughout California.
I am a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist based in Sacramento, California. Virtual appointments available throughout California.
![Photo of Kelsey Salzberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a198bb8-8a7f-40f1-aa34-ea21c7056e87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Salzberg is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist in California practicing since 2012. She obtained her Medical Degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, DC and completed her Adult Psychiatric Residency at UC San Francisco in San Francisco, CA. She served as Chief Resident of Outpatient Services and was awarded an Area of Distinction in Women's Mental Health during residency. Dr. Salzberg uses an integrative approach in care involving medications and psychotherapy as appropriate for each individual.
Kelsey Salzberg is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist in California practicing since 2012. She obtained her Medical Degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, DC and completed her Adult Psychiatric Residency at UC San Francisco in San Francisco, CA. She served as Chief Resident of Outpatient Services and was awarded an Area of Distinction in Women's Mental Health during residency. Dr. Salzberg uses an integrative approach in care involving medications and psychotherapy as appropriate for each individual.
![Photo of Jane Egbufoama, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d7320d8-c89e-493e-8598-1f5cbd7cb69b/1/320x400.png)
Jane is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience.
Jane is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience.
![Photo of Dr. Ari Harris, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c28cb210-22d6-4eab-bfad-32ed56287338/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ari Harris is a board-certified psychiatrist and helps children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Harris uses a collaborative approach focusing on the interrelationship between mind, body, and spirituality.
Dr. Ari Harris is a board-certified psychiatrist and helps children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Harris uses a collaborative approach focusing on the interrelationship between mind, body, and spirituality.
![Photo of Rhea Singson-Tapang - Mindful Health Solution - Rhea Singson-Tapang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f7f156-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solution - Rhea Singson-Tapang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825 (Online Only)
I take care of patients, include help with prescribing and managing medications, who have a variety of psychiatric disorders such as Major Depressive Disorders (MDD), bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders.
I take care of patients, include help with prescribing and managing medications, who have a variety of psychiatric disorders such as Major Depressive Disorders (MDD), bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Keith Lui - Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fdce719-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
![Photo of Patricia Tinglin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e66b93b-ff3f-4aa8-9971-38f9d4b20c10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Tinglin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of San Francisco and is dually board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in many diverse areas as a Nurse Practitioner, including psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, pulmonary medicine, and academia. She is well versed in working with patients of all ages and has experience working with mild, moderate, and severe mental health disorders.
Patricia Tinglin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of San Francisco and is dually board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in many diverse areas as a Nurse Practitioner, including psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, pulmonary medicine, and academia. She is well versed in working with patients of all ages and has experience working with mild, moderate, and severe mental health disorders.
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![Photo of Toni Ann Locke, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/250d56b3-61a5-40f4-8986-7b9a77c06183/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Cal State San Marcos. I obtained my post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from National University. In addition to medication management, I use a combination of CBT and emotionally focused therapy. The theoretical approaches that I use are humanistic and cognitive perspectives.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Cal State San Marcos. I obtained my post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from National University. In addition to medication management, I use a combination of CBT and emotionally focused therapy. The theoretical approaches that I use are humanistic and cognitive perspectives.
![Photo of Kevin Rosi - Mindful Health Solutions - Kevin Rosi, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4412a2e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating patients with Mood Depressive Disorders (MDD), which, according to the Centers for Disease Control, may impact 14-17% of the adult population in their lifetime. Also known as "clinical depression", patients who suffer from this may be treated with medication, interventional psychotherapy, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
I specialize in treating patients with Mood Depressive Disorders (MDD), which, according to the Centers for Disease Control, may impact 14-17% of the adult population in their lifetime. Also known as "clinical depression", patients who suffer from this may be treated with medication, interventional psychotherapy, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
![Photo of Amy Jensen, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bbb2da8-c6b4-41c7-8509-10758303e3f5/4/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95841 (Online Only)
I am licensed in CA, AZ and OR. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2009 and have worked in the mental health field since 2000. I am Board Certified by ANCC. I specialize in adults with chronic and acute mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, anxiety and I have a subspecialty in adults with developmental disabilities/autism. I provide a thorough and ongoing evaluation of previous and current symptoms and stressors and work with each person towards their individualized goal of treatment.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and OR. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2009 and have worked in the mental health field since 2000. I am Board Certified by ANCC. I specialize in adults with chronic and acute mental health concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, anxiety and I have a subspecialty in adults with developmental disabilities/autism. I provide a thorough and ongoing evaluation of previous and current symptoms and stressors and work with each person towards their individualized goal of treatment.
![Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3561075-7b98-488c-9715-4e02ad22bc9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
![Photo of Paula Wadell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b2567c6-21f1-490c-9dfc-d0958dff996f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer psychiatry services for children and adults.
I offer psychiatry services for children and adults.
![Photo of Faisal Ahmed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0826a4c6-61bd-41f1-a5be-dfc208e8e6a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neuro-developmental disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities, significantly impact a person's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The need for mental health support in these cases is paramount. These individuals often face challenges in communication, social interaction, and managing emotions, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Effective mental health interventions tailored to their unique needs can provide crucial coping strategies, emotional regulation tools, and social skills training. By addressing their mental well-being alongside their developmental challenges,
Neuro-developmental disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities, significantly impact a person's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The need for mental health support in these cases is paramount. These individuals often face challenges in communication, social interaction, and managing emotions, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Effective mental health interventions tailored to their unique needs can provide crucial coping strategies, emotional regulation tools, and social skills training. By addressing their mental well-being alongside their developmental challenges,
Humanity Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834 (Online Only)
I have 20 plus years experience in the healthcare industry. My specialty area is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner BC. I conduct patient assessments, evaluations, and diagnoses of various mental health disorders. Treatment of complex, resistant disorders are available. The goal of this practice is to bring about mental health and well-being. I look forward to working with you toward reaching your wellness goals.
I have 20 plus years experience in the healthcare industry. My specialty area is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner BC. I conduct patient assessments, evaluations, and diagnoses of various mental health disorders. Treatment of complex, resistant disorders are available. The goal of this practice is to bring about mental health and well-being. I look forward to working with you toward reaching your wellness goals.
![Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/189b65df-5496-49fd-9179-2288b07d3944/1/320x400.png)
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
![Photo of Davina Gloria Onyelo Uchegbu - ACE Health and Wellness Solutions INC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b70459e-5f81-44cc-9de1-5432b71319ab/2/320x400.png)
ACE Health and Wellness Solutions INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95829
Dr. Davina Uchegbu DNP is board-certified PMHNP. She began her career in healthcare over twenty years ago and brings in a vast wealth of knowledge in psychiatry and mental health, after devoting most of those years to acquiring advanced knowledge in mental health management.
Dr. Davina Uchegbu DNP is board-certified PMHNP. She began her career in healthcare over twenty years ago and brings in a vast wealth of knowledge in psychiatry and mental health, after devoting most of those years to acquiring advanced knowledge in mental health management.
See more therapy options for Sacramento
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
96% | Aetna |
96% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sacramento?
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.