Psychiatrists in La Canada, CA
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.
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.
Claudette Banda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Canada, CA 91011 (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!
Dr. Feldman is a dedicated psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, with a focus on providing evidence-based, holistic mental healthcare. He brings a wealth of experience in treating a wide range of mental health conditions in both youth and adults, including depressive and anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, sleeping and eating disorders, and developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Feldman earned his medical degree from New York Medical College and completed his General Psychiatry Residency at Mount Sinai Morningside and West in New York City.
Dr. Feldman is a dedicated psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, with a focus on providing evidence-based, holistic mental healthcare. He brings a wealth of experience in treating a wide range of mental health conditions in both youth and adults, including depressive and anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, sleeping and eating disorders, and developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Feldman earned his medical degree from New York Medical College and completed his General Psychiatry Residency at Mount Sinai Morningside and West in New York City.
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
La Canada, CA 91011 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Zaydee Mercado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208 (Online Only)
Struggling with mental health and the decision to start, stop, change or continue medications can be daunting. That’s why I’m here to help you make an informed decision. I have extensive clinical experience and graduated with highest honors from my Bachelors Degree to my Doctorate Degree. I am dual board certified as Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to use my knowledge to alleviate the suffering and provide efficient care to the patients I serve.
Struggling with mental health and the decision to start, stop, change or continue medications can be daunting. That’s why I’m here to help you make an informed decision. I have extensive clinical experience and graduated with highest honors from my Bachelors Degree to my Doctorate Degree. I am dual board certified as Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to use my knowledge to alleviate the suffering and provide efficient care to the patients I serve.
If you’re reading this, you’re probably not feeling your best self. I often see patients who are struggling at work or have relationship problems. Some don’t have the motivation or energy to make change in their lives. I believe in collaborating closely with the patient in understanding their problem and recommending an evidence-based treatment plan that best serves their needs and goals.
If you’re reading this, you’re probably not feeling your best self. I often see patients who are struggling at work or have relationship problems. Some don’t have the motivation or energy to make change in their lives. I believe in collaborating closely with the patient in understanding their problem and recommending an evidence-based treatment plan that best serves their needs and goals.
Ozioma Enworom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care is holistic. I truly believe understanding the connection between the mind, body, and spirit is integral to achieving overall wellness. I enjoy working with individuals across the entire human lifespan and carefully take into consideration every individual’s cultural, social, economic, sexual, and religious values when developing a treatment plan. I look forward to collaborating with you on your journey towards mental health.
Hello and welcome! As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care is holistic. I truly believe understanding the connection between the mind, body, and spirit is integral to achieving overall wellness. I enjoy working with individuals across the entire human lifespan and carefully take into consideration every individual’s cultural, social, economic, sexual, and religious values when developing a treatment plan. I look forward to collaborating with you on your journey towards mental health.
Richard works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Richard believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Richard works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Richard believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
Pablo Ghersi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Pablo and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Pablo Ghersi is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 14 years’ experience in healthcare. Pablo's passion for mental health sprung from his experience as a firefighter and paramedic in the city of Atlanta, working with the underserved population of the city. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Pablo and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Pablo Ghersi is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 14 years’ experience in healthcare. Pablo's passion for mental health sprung from his experience as a firefighter and paramedic in the city of Atlanta, working with the underserved population of the city. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
Marianna Chavez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
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!
Mental C Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101 (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Mitchell, DNP, PMHNP- BC and US Air Force Veteran. As a psychiatric provider, my aim is to identify, address and modify conditions, limiting patterns and behaviors that diminish function and suppress growth. My philosophy is Bio-Psycho-Social; I acknowledge the whole dynamic being and maintain the explicit intent of fostering personal accountability, growth and development. I approach each therapeutic encounter as a unique opportunity to facilitate the process of expanding awareness and elevating consciousness. We believe illuminating barriers is the first step toward eliminating them.
I'm Dr. Mitchell, DNP, PMHNP- BC and US Air Force Veteran. As a psychiatric provider, my aim is to identify, address and modify conditions, limiting patterns and behaviors that diminish function and suppress growth. My philosophy is Bio-Psycho-Social; I acknowledge the whole dynamic being and maintain the explicit intent of fostering personal accountability, growth and development. I approach each therapeutic encounter as a unique opportunity to facilitate the process of expanding awareness and elevating consciousness. We believe illuminating barriers is the first step toward eliminating them.
Sessions integrate psychiatric medicine, digital lifestyle training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy in a seamless manner. I have a special interest in the effects of ubiquitous daily use of technology on human relationships which includes the effects of video games, social media, and mobile phone use. As technology becomes more seamlessly woven into our lives, a person’s digital psycho-social experiences become equally important as a person’s real life. Other psychiatric interests include a focus on ADHD, impulse control disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and Tourette’s syndrome.
Sessions integrate psychiatric medicine, digital lifestyle training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy in a seamless manner. I have a special interest in the effects of ubiquitous daily use of technology on human relationships which includes the effects of video games, social media, and mobile phone use. As technology becomes more seamlessly woven into our lives, a person’s digital psycho-social experiences become equally important as a person’s real life. Other psychiatric interests include a focus on ADHD, impulse control disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and Tourette’s syndrome.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Dr. Sicher is board certified in both General Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, she who believes in integrated, whole-person oriented psychiatric care that takes into account an individual's unique circumstances and needs. There are additional associates in the practice, so if Dr. Sicher is unavailable another psychiatrist/provider may be available.
Dr. Sicher is board certified in both General Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, she who believes in integrated, whole-person oriented psychiatric care that takes into account an individual's unique circumstances and needs. There are additional associates in the practice, so if Dr. Sicher is unavailable another psychiatrist/provider may be available.
Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
My journey and commitment towards practicing integrative psychiatry stems from years of work experience and a keen focus on treating the whole person, by getting to the root cause of symptoms, utilizing tools such as lab testing, supplements, psychotherapy, and medication support.
Hi! I am Dr. Duong (pronounce yoo-ung), a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for integrating traditional psychiatric practices with holistic and complementary therapies. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental health is a multifaceted journey that requires a comprehensive and personalized approach. My specialty is in mood and personality disorders, complex trauma, anxiety/ADHD, and Asian American/BIPOC & LGTBQ+ mental health. My goal is to empower your authentic self and optimize your mental health journey so that you can lead a more fulfilling life.
Hi! I am Dr. Duong (pronounce yoo-ung), a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for integrating traditional psychiatric practices with holistic and complementary therapies. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental health is a multifaceted journey that requires a comprehensive and personalized approach. My specialty is in mood and personality disorders, complex trauma, anxiety/ADHD, and Asian American/BIPOC & LGTBQ+ mental health. My goal is to empower your authentic self and optimize your mental health journey so that you can lead a more fulfilling life.
I have experience with all age groups,ADHD,anxiety,depression, trauma,women's mental health,bipolar,addiction,chronic diseases,end of life and parents and/or children with medical conditions.I thrive to provide you with the best compassionate & superior care.I am a provider that listens to you & your child’s needs.Treatment & plan of care are personalized to the client's needs & age group.You can expect someone that will advocate for you & provide you with the tools needed to become the best version of Yourself.A welcoming environment that is safe & confidential with a nonjudgmental provider is waiting for you.Hope to meet you soon!
I have experience with all age groups,ADHD,anxiety,depression, trauma,women's mental health,bipolar,addiction,chronic diseases,end of life and parents and/or children with medical conditions.I thrive to provide you with the best compassionate & superior care.I am a provider that listens to you & your child’s needs.Treatment & plan of care are personalized to the client's needs & age group.You can expect someone that will advocate for you & provide you with the tools needed to become the best version of Yourself.A welcoming environment that is safe & confidential with a nonjudgmental provider is waiting for you.Hope to meet you soon!
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!
See more therapy options for La Canada
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in La Canada, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in La Canada, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Relationship Issues |
80% | Parenting |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in La Canada, CA see their clients
80% | Online Only | |
20% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Male | |
20% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in La Canada?
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.