Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA
![Photo of Navneet Kaur Mann, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/537b2c08-200d-4979-9f83-782a36e41a6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Navneet Kaur Mann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95829 (Online Only)
Navneet Mann is a dual board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her family nurse practitioner from Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, CA, and her psychiatric nurse practitioner from National University in San Diego, CA. She earned her terminal degree in Nursing with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2022 from Grand Canyon University. Her ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive mental healthcare, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management, and therapy for psychiatric disorders.
Navneet Mann is a dual board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her family nurse practitioner from Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, CA, and her psychiatric nurse practitioner from National University in San Diego, CA. She earned her terminal degree in Nursing with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2022 from Grand Canyon University. Her ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive mental healthcare, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management, and therapy for psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Jaime R Loebner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bb96f87-8505-446b-88c7-36a04a005161/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jaime is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 11 years of experience in the mental health field.
Jaime is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 11 years of experience in the mental health field.
![Photo of Patricia Tinglin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e66b93b-ff3f-4aa8-9971-38f9d4b20c10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Tinglin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of San Francisco and is dually board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in many diverse areas as a Nurse Practitioner, including psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, pulmonary medicine, and academia. She is well versed in working with patients of all ages and has experience working with mild, moderate, and severe mental health disorders.
Patricia Tinglin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of San Francisco and is dually board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in many diverse areas as a Nurse Practitioner, including psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, pulmonary medicine, and academia. She is well versed in working with patients of all ages and has experience working with mild, moderate, and severe mental health disorders.
![Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3561075-7b98-488c-9715-4e02ad22bc9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
![Photo of Constance Henderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a82fc49-1b14-427b-9fba-fe07c140fef3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Constance Henderson earned a Doctor in Nursing Practice and specializes as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Oregon Health & Science University. She has been in practice since 2017. Constance firmly embraces a holistic approach to patient care, placing significant emphasis on the multifaceted roles that social, psychological, and environmental factors play in shaping one’s health and overall well-being. She champions the unique capacity of the nursing framework to bridge the divide between physical and psychiatric health realms.
Constance Henderson earned a Doctor in Nursing Practice and specializes as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Oregon Health & Science University. She has been in practice since 2017. Constance firmly embraces a holistic approach to patient care, placing significant emphasis on the multifaceted roles that social, psychological, and environmental factors play in shaping one’s health and overall well-being. She champions the unique capacity of the nursing framework to bridge the divide between physical and psychiatric health realms.
![Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry - Sacramento, MD, PMHNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6f51d1c-4cfe-49e7-ab28-89592de1a61e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Remedy Psychiatry - Sacramento
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95864 (Online Only)
Are you struggling, and talk therapy hasn't helped and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks or months to get an appointment or pay alot? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatry appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. We are now in-network and accept Aetna, Cigna, Optum and United Healthcare insurance plans or you may pay a low monthly fee for unlimited appointments.
Are you struggling, and talk therapy hasn't helped and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks or months to get an appointment or pay alot? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatry appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. We are now in-network and accept Aetna, Cigna, Optum and United Healthcare insurance plans or you may pay a low monthly fee for unlimited appointments.
![Photo of Pacific Heartwood Wellness - James Jung, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f09dcbee-4d7f-4861-bb11-fa4234c48e8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Because of my background, the bedrock of my approach to working with clients is simple; to meet you where you are. Whether you have spent years before seeking help like I did and this is the first time you are coming in, are very familiar with the process or anywhere in between you are welcome here. I value collaboration, shared decision making and identifying areas where we can further support your goals. I believe that the time meeting in the clinic or over telehealth is just part of the treatment to reduce suffering, find balance and improve quality of life.
Because of my background, the bedrock of my approach to working with clients is simple; to meet you where you are. Whether you have spent years before seeking help like I did and this is the first time you are coming in, are very familiar with the process or anywhere in between you are welcome here. I value collaboration, shared decision making and identifying areas where we can further support your goals. I believe that the time meeting in the clinic or over telehealth is just part of the treatment to reduce suffering, find balance and improve quality of life.
![Photo of Martina Nankivell, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cfaaf43-f81c-48ba-b733-0abdc659b1ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martina Nankivell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
![Photo of Dr. Ni Hla, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4814dc95-406b-4fc8-a78e-e9e9ca8e702b/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Ni Ni Hla has been with Mindpath Health since 2006.
Dr. Ni Ni Hla has been with Mindpath Health since 2006.
![Photo of Paula Wadell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b2567c6-21f1-490c-9dfc-d0958dff996f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer psychiatry services for children and adults.
I offer psychiatry services for children and adults.
![Photo of Rachel Martino, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c57b7c0b-8c69-4dc5-8cc1-0ec1f76fef7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rachel Martino is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2019. She obtained her Medical Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. She completed Psychiatry Residency at the University of California Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science in Sacramento, California. She is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 2023. Dr. Martino specializes in women’s mental health and works with women or female-identifying patients ages 18-64.
Dr. Rachel Martino is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2019. She obtained her Medical Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. She completed Psychiatry Residency at the University of California Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science in Sacramento, California. She is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 2023. Dr. Martino specializes in women’s mental health and works with women or female-identifying patients ages 18-64.
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![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8a9821b-4474-43dd-8184-62cc14780be1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi - Well Psyche Medical Group Inc, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb9db0e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
www.WellPsyche.com Balancing mental and physical wellness is an art and a science! Dr. Adel is an expert in the field of psychiatry. He treats children, adolescents, and adults. His practice offers the latest in Telemedicine, allowing you to visit with your doctor from the convenience of your home or work. Dr. Adel takes a conservative approach to medication management and strives to help his clients consistently function at their best without side effects.
www.WellPsyche.com Balancing mental and physical wellness is an art and a science! Dr. Adel is an expert in the field of psychiatry. He treats children, adolescents, and adults. His practice offers the latest in Telemedicine, allowing you to visit with your doctor from the convenience of your home or work. Dr. Adel takes a conservative approach to medication management and strives to help his clients consistently function at their best without side effects.
![Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/189b65df-5496-49fd-9179-2288b07d3944/1/320x400.png)
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
![Photo of Catvy Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6525dc65-b965-4415-a492-034de748bde2/1/320x400.png)
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 Michelle D Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/368ea722-5386-43b0-a7aa-d631909ec02a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle D Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94204 (Online Only)
Life brings about stressors, I believe working together can bring about a positive change. Hello, I am Michelle D. Brown, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctorate Degree in Nursing from Brandman University. Since 2016, my clinical focus surrounds the treatment of a variety of psychiatric illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Additionally, as a dual certified nurse practitioner in Woman’s Health Care (WHCNP) for over 20 years, I treat woman's care needs. I specialize in assessment, diagnosis and medication management based on individualized client symptoms and needs.
Life brings about stressors, I believe working together can bring about a positive change. Hello, I am Michelle D. Brown, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctorate Degree in Nursing from Brandman University. Since 2016, my clinical focus surrounds the treatment of a variety of psychiatric illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Additionally, as a dual certified nurse practitioner in Woman’s Health Care (WHCNP) for over 20 years, I treat woman's care needs. I specialize in assessment, diagnosis and medication management based on individualized client symptoms and needs.
![Photo of Dr. Robert Trimmer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/702092bd-4ef5-435c-b188-b7ceb2002ff3/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Robert Trimmer is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and helps with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and mood disorders.
Dr. Robert Trimmer is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and helps with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Jason Garner - Mindful Health Solutions - Jason Garner, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/501ae08d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I focus on helping patients with mood disorders, anxiety, and personality disorders. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) allows another access point to healing for those suffering from mental illness and can make a difference in helping a patient find relief.
I focus on helping patients with mood disorders, anxiety, and personality disorders. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) allows another access point to healing for those suffering from mental illness and can make a difference in helping a patient find relief.
![Photo of Anton Fisher - ★★TeleMind®★★, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35bccef8-846a-48a2-9f14-f43ac7e18b7d/1/320x400.png)
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
![Photo of Julia Reece, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7ae4665-5d2c-4f83-8f42-ca34abc6349c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia C. Reece is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BS in Biochemistry from the University of Washington, an MD from the University of Washington School of Medicine, and completed her Psychiatry residency at UC Davis Medical Center Psychiatry Training Program. Julia takes an individualized, patient-centered approach to care. As a psychiatrist, she prescribes medications when needed, provides psychotherapy as her schedule allows, and always supports patients in improving their overall health and wellbeing.
Julia C. Reece is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BS in Biochemistry from the University of Washington, an MD from the University of Washington School of Medicine, and completed her Psychiatry residency at UC Davis Medical Center Psychiatry Training Program. Julia takes an individualized, patient-centered approach to care. As a psychiatrist, she prescribes medications when needed, provides psychotherapy as her schedule allows, and always supports patients in improving their overall health and wellbeing.
See more therapy options for Sacramento
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$237
Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
77% | Medication Management |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
96% | Aetna |
95% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
38% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sacramento?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.