Psychiatrists in California
![Photo of Natalie Artinian, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/206ef517-ad77-42a6-a200-1ca53dbf9e7d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
![Photo of Daron Watts, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82c497ce-7efe-4709-b58c-e3f895b49dce/1/320x400.png)
Daron Watts, MD is is a board certified psychiatrist in Gardena, CA and has over 25 years of experience in the medical field.
Daron Watts, MD is is a board certified psychiatrist in Gardena, CA and has over 25 years of experience in the medical field.
![Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62c27c7d-5ea1-4905-bfda-0370db138c4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Jon Duey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6daa7d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my BA in Psychology at UC Berkeley in 2008. I have vast experience as a counselor in various settings for children and adolescents with severe emotional disturbance. I then obtained my Bachelors of Science in Nursing at Columbia University in 2012 and completed the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program at Columbia University in 2014.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my BA in Psychology at UC Berkeley in 2008. I have vast experience as a counselor in various settings for children and adolescents with severe emotional disturbance. I then obtained my Bachelors of Science in Nursing at Columbia University in 2012 and completed the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program at Columbia University in 2014.
![Photo of Janet Revels, PMHNP, MSN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9eb277b9-f78e-4907-9a1a-68ed6782c8b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
The state of mental health among youth in the United States demands attention. The most basic definition of childhood mental health is " healthy social development, the achievement of development and emotional milestones, and effective coping skills, so all children have a positive quality of life and can function well in school, at home, and in their communities”. Effective treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral health disorders is required for children to avoid the negative impact on the individual, their families, and society which can be devastating and long-lasting.
The state of mental health among youth in the United States demands attention. The most basic definition of childhood mental health is " healthy social development, the achievement of development and emotional milestones, and effective coping skills, so all children have a positive quality of life and can function well in school, at home, and in their communities”. Effective treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral health disorders is required for children to avoid the negative impact on the individual, their families, and society which can be devastating and long-lasting.
![Photo of Dr. Manar Abdelmegeed, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d95c78a-9647-44b5-9ff5-fe644d4e8f0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! Are you a high achieving professional suffering from stress or burn out? Do you have mood changes? Do you feel easily overwhelmed by daily activities? Are you a parent wondering how to help your child reach their maximum potential? I am an integrative psychiatrist board certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry who believes in a holistic approach to mental health. I specialize in assessing and treating multiple mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients! Are you a high achieving professional suffering from stress or burn out? Do you have mood changes? Do you feel easily overwhelmed by daily activities? Are you a parent wondering how to help your child reach their maximum potential? I am an integrative psychiatrist board certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry who believes in a holistic approach to mental health. I specialize in assessing and treating multiple mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Navmoon Singh Mann, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a0a4981-a5b3-46bd-88cb-f442992bd8f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health challenges can be scary and often leave you feeling overwhelmed. You do not have to face your struggles alone — call me today for a consultation and start down the path toward better health and greater joy.
Mental health challenges can be scary and often leave you feeling overwhelmed. You do not have to face your struggles alone — call me today for a consultation and start down the path toward better health and greater joy.
![Photo of Dr. Harpreet Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb9f99a-9330-4448-951d-4a63831cbeec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Harpreet Kaur, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist who has subspecialty training and certification in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Kaur received her medical education at Government Medical College in Patiala, India and completed her residency at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. She completed both her fellowships at the University of Maryland Sheppard Pratt Health System.
Harpreet Kaur, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist who has subspecialty training and certification in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Kaur received her medical education at Government Medical College in Patiala, India and completed her residency at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. She completed both her fellowships at the University of Maryland Sheppard Pratt Health System.
![Photo of Catvy Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18fbd09e-3cce-40b3-8744-93f9eacaf663/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catvy Nguyen 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. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen 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. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
![Photo of Candice Marie Rugg, BSN, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70ee0be5-d62e-42ce-912f-e177f3ac01ed/3/320x400.jpeg)
Candice Marie Rugg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I specialize in working with patients who struggle with substance use disorders. My approach is based on a harm reduction model, utilizing trauma informed care and a whole person focus when considering treatment options. The care I offer is always client centric and non-judgemental. My other areas of interest include sexual health/sex positivity, and I am passionate in providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, body-positive, Alt sex/Alt relationship-affirming, and LGBTQIA informed.
I specialize in working with patients who struggle with substance use disorders. My approach is based on a harm reduction model, utilizing trauma informed care and a whole person focus when considering treatment options. The care I offer is always client centric and non-judgemental. My other areas of interest include sexual health/sex positivity, and I am passionate in providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, body-positive, Alt sex/Alt relationship-affirming, and LGBTQIA informed.
![Photo of Marianna Chavez, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96be6e5f-c228-4758-a82b-648c03f4852d/3/320x400.jpeg)
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!
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![Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2c9e37c-6a3c-4d60-b9c6-1a2dbbd0add7/1/320x400.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 Said A Ibrahimi - Brain Wellness Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49791e68-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ibrahimi specializes in psychiatric treatment in child & adolescents, adults, and addiction. He is a member of The American Academy of Psychoanalysis and Dynamic Psychiatry and he is Board certified in Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Ibrahimi channels his energy into providing individualized care for each of his patients, as each patient exhibits a variety of symptoms and disorders. He is dedicated to reaching the root cause of the symptoms that patients exhibit, so that treatment is maximized to its optimal effects.
Dr. Ibrahimi specializes in psychiatric treatment in child & adolescents, adults, and addiction. He is a member of The American Academy of Psychoanalysis and Dynamic Psychiatry and he is Board certified in Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Ibrahimi channels his energy into providing individualized care for each of his patients, as each patient exhibits a variety of symptoms and disorders. He is dedicated to reaching the root cause of the symptoms that patients exhibit, so that treatment is maximized to its optimal effects.
![Photo of Barton Blinder, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d449326-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clinical Professor of Psychiatry UCIrvineAdult and Child Psychiatry and Psychoanalysis Expert in Eating Disorders. Childhood anxiety and depression. Integrating pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy
Clinical Professor of Psychiatry UCIrvineAdult and Child Psychiatry and Psychoanalysis Expert in Eating Disorders. Childhood anxiety and depression. Integrating pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy
![Photo of Sarah Pai, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0237365-4e29-4653-a3e8-5e81aa6d663d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience treating adult patients in San Diego county. I am hoping to connect with clients who are looking for a psychiatric provider who is not only skilled in diganosis and prescribing, but is able to understand your unique needs and build a trusted partnership in your care. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my patients.
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience treating adult patients in San Diego county. I am hoping to connect with clients who are looking for a psychiatric provider who is not only skilled in diganosis and prescribing, but is able to understand your unique needs and build a trusted partnership in your care. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my patients.
![Photo of Dr. Emily Willow, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e63bc51-0cda-4907-9120-4f998314bf5c/2/320x400.png)
I am a board certified UCSF-trained psychiatrist, researcher, and educator based in San Francisco, California. My practice and research focus is on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies and I have worked on multiple clinical trials investigating psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy – including both MDMA and psilocybin. In addition to my private practice, I am an attending at UCSF and ZSFGH in Psychiatric Emergency Services. Please see my website for more information regarding my private practice services.
I am a board certified UCSF-trained psychiatrist, researcher, and educator based in San Francisco, California. My practice and research focus is on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies and I have worked on multiple clinical trials investigating psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy – including both MDMA and psilocybin. In addition to my private practice, I am an attending at UCSF and ZSFGH in Psychiatric Emergency Services. Please see my website for more information regarding my private practice services.
![Photo of Michelle Guchereau, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e01cc6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist for adults, adolescents and children. I currently lead a diverse team of psychiatry providers and therapists at Well Coast Medical Corporation. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), mood disorders, trauma and anxiety. We provide thorough psychiatric assessments, medications and/or psychotherapy for adults and youth. We also collaborate with other therapists to provide medication evaluations and treatment for patients who are actively in therapy elsewhere.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist for adults, adolescents and children. I currently lead a diverse team of psychiatry providers and therapists at Well Coast Medical Corporation. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), mood disorders, trauma and anxiety. We provide thorough psychiatric assessments, medications and/or psychotherapy for adults and youth. We also collaborate with other therapists to provide medication evaluations and treatment for patients who are actively in therapy elsewhere.
![Photo of Sarah Schenk, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c99bc42e-ce3d-471b-b31d-e31f6d2b1a62/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Schenk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549 (Online Only)
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, I specialize in helping young professionals, healthcare workers and adults age 18-65 struggling with perfectionism, low self-worth, burnout, and a constant feeling of “tired but wired” achieve a more balanced and joyful life by offering a holistic approach to treatment.
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, I specialize in helping young professionals, healthcare workers and adults age 18-65 struggling with perfectionism, low self-worth, burnout, and a constant feeling of “tired but wired” achieve a more balanced and joyful life by offering a holistic approach to treatment.
![Photo of Neal D Amin, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08c176bd-ad83-40c5-bf49-f672ece40841/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy is a gateway to a new understanding of your life, your relationships, your thoughts, your emotions, and your overall well-being. I am a psychiatrist and neurobiologist with education from Stanford (residency), UC San Diego (MD and PhD), and Columbia University (BA) who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management for anxiety and depression. It is my goal to help you on your journey for deeper meaning in your relationships and professional life. This work begins with an open ended exploration, defining (or re-defining) fulfilling personal goals, and identifying patterns that are setting you back.
Therapy is a gateway to a new understanding of your life, your relationships, your thoughts, your emotions, and your overall well-being. I am a psychiatrist and neurobiologist with education from Stanford (residency), UC San Diego (MD and PhD), and Columbia University (BA) who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management for anxiety and depression. It is my goal to help you on your journey for deeper meaning in your relationships and professional life. This work begins with an open ended exploration, defining (or re-defining) fulfilling personal goals, and identifying patterns that are setting you back.
![Photo of Enrique Lm Ochoa, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51d2dbca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry certified psychiatrist retired from UC Davis Department of Psychiatry specializing in medication management. While at UC Davis, I was an Attending at the Sacramento County Mental Health Treatment Center and later, the Medical Director at Turning Point-ISA. Upon retirement, I worked for 8 years at Heritage Oaks Hospital doing inpatient psychiatry. I am a Volunteer Clinical Faculty at UCD Psychiatry and I teach Residents and Medical Students.
I am an American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry certified psychiatrist retired from UC Davis Department of Psychiatry specializing in medication management. While at UC Davis, I was an Attending at the Sacramento County Mental Health Treatment Center and later, the Medical Director at Turning Point-ISA. Upon retirement, I worked for 8 years at Heritage Oaks Hospital doing inpatient psychiatry. I am a Volunteer Clinical Faculty at UCD Psychiatry and I teach Residents and Medical Students.
See more therapy options for California
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$288
Psychiatrists in California who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
78% | Medication Management |
77% | ADHD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in California see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
41% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in California?
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.