Psychiatrists in Corona, CA

Photo of Anthony Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881  (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions find hope and healing. I’ve had the privilege of working with patients experiencing ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I understand how incredibly isolating it may feel and the challenges you face. But together, we can work to improve your quality of life and develop strategies that empower you.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions find hope and healing. I’ve had the privilege of working with patients experiencing ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I understand how incredibly isolating it may feel and the challenges you face. But together, we can work to improve your quality of life and develop strategies that empower you.
(424) 222-8835 View (424) 222-8835
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881
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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, 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.
(909) 281-7490 View (909) 281-7490
Photo of Dr. Linda C Jackson - Sapphire Psychiatric Medical Group, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Prof, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sapphire Psychiatric Medical Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Prof, MSN
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92880
My goal is to restore hope to patients and families in their vulnerable moments by giving treatment with dignity, respect, and compassion at every interaction. Contributing to the stability of patients’ conditions by using tools at my disposal to conduct; assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, collaborating with multidisciplinary professionals.
My goal is to restore hope to patients and families in their vulnerable moments by giving treatment with dignity, respect, and compassion at every interaction. Contributing to the stability of patients’ conditions by using tools at my disposal to conduct; assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, collaborating with multidisciplinary professionals.
(909) 248-7973 View (909) 248-7973
Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyn Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, MFT
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881
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.
(909) 442-5451 View (909) 442-5451
Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881  (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.
(909) 326-7151 View (909) 326-7151
Photo of Stephanie Reed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Reed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. My practice focuses on helping people through a combination of medication (if needed) and other lifestyle or behavioral interventions that may help recovery and reaching personal goals. I treat adults of all ages for a broad range of conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I use an eclectic approach to helping people uncover and understand the nature of the struggles they are having and help us come to an effective treatment plan together.
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Reed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. My practice focuses on helping people through a combination of medication (if needed) and other lifestyle or behavioral interventions that may help recovery and reaching personal goals. I treat adults of all ages for a broad range of conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I use an eclectic approach to helping people uncover and understand the nature of the struggles they are having and help us come to an effective treatment plan together.
(760) 823-3041 View (760) 823-3041
Photo of Dr. Michael Garcia, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Garcia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92879
I treat individuals seeking true relief from symptoms and optimization of their wellness, especially those frustrated with ineffective results from generic mental healthcare. My mission is to help my clients gain insight, identify areas of improvement, and regain control over their mental and physical well-being by integrating evidence-based treatments with personalized healthcare. I am dedicated to empowering individuals through innovative and effective treatment options in telepsychiatry, weight loss, and in-person ketamine therapy for treatment resistance. I believe everyone deserves to live a fulfilling and joyful life,
I treat individuals seeking true relief from symptoms and optimization of their wellness, especially those frustrated with ineffective results from generic mental healthcare. My mission is to help my clients gain insight, identify areas of improvement, and regain control over their mental and physical well-being by integrating evidence-based treatments with personalized healthcare. I am dedicated to empowering individuals through innovative and effective treatment options in telepsychiatry, weight loss, and in-person ketamine therapy for treatment resistance. I believe everyone deserves to live a fulfilling and joyful life,
(951) 501-1608 View (951) 501-1608
Photo of Nelly Duarti, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nelly Duarti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92882  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing.
(909) 637-4740 View (909) 637-4740
Photo of May Vang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
May Vang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881  (Online Only)
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
(520) 335-3458 View (520) 335-3458
Photo of Shabana Haxton - Body and Soul Health Center, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Body and Soul Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92881
At Body and Soul Health Center, we are passionate about health education, wellness, and preventive medicine. We facilitate healing by combining a patient -centered approach with evidence-based research.
At Body and Soul Health Center, we are passionate about health education, wellness, and preventive medicine. We facilitate healing by combining a patient -centered approach with evidence-based research.
(909) 584-3421 View (909) 584-3421
Photo of Jinghan Zhang, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse
Jinghan Zhang
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92883
Jing Zhang is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2021. Jing possesses the capability to diagnose psychiatric disorders, formulate care plans, prescribe psychotropic medications, and continuously monitor progress to improve mental health outcomes. Outside of work, Jing has a genuine enthusiasm for practicing yoga and derives great enjoyment from spending quality time with her feline companions.
Jing Zhang is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2021. Jing possesses the capability to diagnose psychiatric disorders, formulate care plans, prescribe psychotropic medications, and continuously monitor progress to improve mental health outcomes. Outside of work, Jing has a genuine enthusiasm for practicing yoga and derives great enjoyment from spending quality time with her feline companions.
(951) 904-2678 View (951) 904-2678
Photo of Rudy Roque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rudy Roque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92881  (Online Only)
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
(909) 498-7939 View (909) 498-7939
Photo of Rudy Roque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rudy Roque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92881  (Online Only)
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
(909) 325-7997 View (909) 325-7997
Photo of Dr. Reginald Casilang, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Reginald Casilang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92883
Do you experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, or negative thoughts? Difficulty concentrating, excessive worry, or feeling constantly on edge? Changes in appetite or weight, neglecting personal responsibilities, or withdrawing from social interactions? If treatments for depression, anxiety, or ADHD haven't worked, seeking help requires courage. I am here to provide support. You don't have to face these challenges alone. It would be my privilege to support you on your journey toward achieving your goals and improving your mental well-being.
Do you experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, or negative thoughts? Difficulty concentrating, excessive worry, or feeling constantly on edge? Changes in appetite or weight, neglecting personal responsibilities, or withdrawing from social interactions? If treatments for depression, anxiety, or ADHD haven't worked, seeking help requires courage. I am here to provide support. You don't have to face these challenges alone. It would be my privilege to support you on your journey toward achieving your goals and improving your mental well-being.
(714) 312-7431 View (714) 312-7431
Photo of Dr. Lina Augius, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Dr. Lina Augius
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92882  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Lina Augius, an Adult Psychiatrist certified by the board. My journey in psychiatry began with my residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where I also had the honor of being the Senior Resident for their Outpatient Psychiatry Department. Furthering my expertise, I underwent a year of specialized training at UCLA's Mood Disorders Clinic. I am a humanistic psychiatrist with a rich background spanning over 15 years across academic, public, and private sectors.
I am Dr. Lina Augius, an Adult Psychiatrist certified by the board. My journey in psychiatry began with my residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where I also had the honor of being the Senior Resident for their Outpatient Psychiatry Department. Furthering my expertise, I underwent a year of specialized training at UCLA's Mood Disorders Clinic. I am a humanistic psychiatrist with a rich background spanning over 15 years across academic, public, and private sectors.
(951) 651-0672 View (951) 651-0672
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(909) 402-0816 View (909) 402-0816
Photo of Orah Mahtov, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orah Mahtov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881  (Online Only)
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
(925) 886-4303 View (925) 886-4303
Photo of Devin Warnshuis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Devin Warnshuis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92879  (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to serving individuals with humility and a pure-hearted desire to facilitate their journey towards mental well-being. My mission is rooted in empowering others to reach their maximum potential by providing compassionate, competent, and effective psychiatric care. With a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique needs and concerns, I approach my practice with empathy and respect. I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, and I strive to create a safe environment where clients feel heard, valued, and understood.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to serving individuals with humility and a pure-hearted desire to facilitate their journey towards mental well-being. My mission is rooted in empowering others to reach their maximum potential by providing compassionate, competent, and effective psychiatric care. With a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique needs and concerns, I approach my practice with empathy and respect. I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, and I strive to create a safe environment where clients feel heard, valued, and understood.
(951) 724-4028 View (951) 724-4028
Photo of Catvy Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catvy Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92881
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.
(909) 345-5876 View (909) 345-5876
Photo of Britany Alexander, Psychiatrist
Britany Alexander
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92882  (Online Only)
I want you to feel better. I have had the joy of helping people heal from emotional stress for 14+ years. Helping those with anxiety, panic, and excessive worry is my passion. I also treat mood problems, sleep issues, chronic pain related mental issues, and offer therapy services. Treatment approach can include traditional mental health services (medications, therapy, mindfulness training,) along with natural interventions including supplements, herbs, lifestyle advice, and sleep rehab. If needed, I offer tests to examine how your diet, gut health, hormones, and micronutrients might be affecting your overall mental health.
I want you to feel better. I have had the joy of helping people heal from emotional stress for 14+ years. Helping those with anxiety, panic, and excessive worry is my passion. I also treat mood problems, sleep issues, chronic pain related mental issues, and offer therapy services. Treatment approach can include traditional mental health services (medications, therapy, mindfulness training,) along with natural interventions including supplements, herbs, lifestyle advice, and sleep rehab. If needed, I offer tests to examine how your diet, gut health, hormones, and micronutrients might be affecting your overall mental health.
(951) 210-7922 View (951) 210-7922
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Corona, CA

30+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in Corona, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
85% ADHD
82% Bipolar Disorder
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% Medication Management
64% Psychosis

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
97% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Corona, CA see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Corona?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.