Psychiatrists in La Canada Flintridge, CA
![Photo of Alysha Woods, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8732338f-5c8e-4a01-8533-78fadc5b26e2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alysha Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Noticing it’s hard to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night. Cycles of sadness, nervousness, and tiredness that feel like they will continue forever. Feeling unsure of how to move past painful memories. Is this affecting self esteem, work, school performance, or achieving your goals? Wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Please know you are welcome in this space and life doesn't have to stay this way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Noticing it’s hard to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night. Cycles of sadness, nervousness, and tiredness that feel like they will continue forever. Feeling unsure of how to move past painful memories. Is this affecting self esteem, work, school performance, or achieving your goals? Wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Please know you are welcome in this space and life doesn't have to stay this way.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3866010f-2840-43f3-b852-bc234c82964e/2/320x400.png)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, 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.
![Photo of Michael Feldmeier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/442bf3bb-42b5-4b77-a27a-5584dbb4febb/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Suzanne Galletly, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62684bbc-0063-4eed-a3b2-41c5834e8b2f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Galletly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in providing high quality psychiatric assessment for children, teens, and adults. I am skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and autism. I strive to make sure my clients feel safe, heard, and validated in treatment. You are the expert in your lived experience; I join my expertise with yours to tailor a plan that helps you live to your full capacity.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in providing high quality psychiatric assessment for children, teens, and adults. I am skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and autism. I strive to make sure my clients feel safe, heard, and validated in treatment. You are the expert in your lived experience; I join my expertise with yours to tailor a plan that helps you live to your full capacity.
![Photo of Dr. Jasbir Virk - Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eb700d9-4618-4f45-a105-4bef30fa117b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pasadena Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011 (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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kimberley Durr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64c9ede0-612f-482f-9666-e3a88a123d85/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
![Photo of Paul Pawlowski - Paul Pawlowski MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c4f51bc-5b47-4e7d-881b-0045475a197a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Paul Pawlowski MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management services for adults. As a psychiatrist, I am uniquely poised to combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in a manner that resonates with a client’s goals and personal experiences. For some people this involves psychotherapy alone, focused on creating a comfortable space to examine and ameliorate the patterns and behaviors which may be inadvertently furthering one’s dissatisfaction. For other individuals, the complementary use of medications or alternative treatments may be indicated.
I am a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management services for adults. As a psychiatrist, I am uniquely poised to combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in a manner that resonates with a client’s goals and personal experiences. For some people this involves psychotherapy alone, focused on creating a comfortable space to examine and ameliorate the patterns and behaviors which may be inadvertently furthering one’s dissatisfaction. For other individuals, the complementary use of medications or alternative treatments may be indicated.
![Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff1810cf-4b23-41e4-b1ae-b2c421a70796/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
![Photo of Dan Begel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5178cabd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Begel received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Yale University, where he also completed his residency in psychiatry. At Yale he studied the conceptual foundations of psychiatry and the core principles of diverse treatment methods. Today he treats people for a wide variety of issues, from the seemingly mild to the severe. He is up to date on psychiatric research and treatment, and utilizes the full range of methods in his work, including genetic analysis, psychotherapy, and medication management.
Dr. Begel received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Yale University, where he also completed his residency in psychiatry. At Yale he studied the conceptual foundations of psychiatry and the core principles of diverse treatment methods. Today he treats people for a wide variety of issues, from the seemingly mild to the severe. He is up to date on psychiatric research and treatment, and utilizes the full range of methods in his work, including genetic analysis, psychotherapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Christopher Fan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4c55dbb-031b-4884-bb7c-a579c760be20/1/320x400.png)
Christopher Fan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Christopher and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christopher has had a passion for treating mental health since his time working as a registered nurse at UCSD in San Diego. His mission is to assist patients in living their best life. He believes having strong mental health is a key to this. Christopher is ready to partner with you on your mental health journey! 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 Christopher and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Christopher has had a passion for treating mental health since his time working as a registered nurse at UCSD in San Diego. His mission is to assist patients in living their best life. He believes having strong mental health is a key to this. Christopher is ready to partner with you on your mental health journey! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - Sheenie Ambardar MD, Concierge Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25bdc135-27f3-4117-84f3-7b49c099dd32/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
![Photo of Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42812b7f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cee61cba-40c8-4efb-beb6-50022f509bf0/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Marianna Chavez, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96be6e5f-c228-4758-a82b-648c03f4852d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marianna Chavez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
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!
![Photo of Joshua Flatow, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/066c46ba-f902-4544-b834-2dc0dda1a0a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
![Photo of Dr. Angela Goddard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437aed1e-eed7-40aa-9919-63ed044d92e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angela Goddard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
Not accepting new clients
JULY 2024: I am not currently accepting new patients. I help adults of all ages work through their problems, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, job loss, bereavement, and coping with illness. I am a psychiatrist that also practices psychotherapy and treatment may consist of talk therapy, medications, or both. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to determine if I am the right person to help you and to answer your questions.
JULY 2024: I am not currently accepting new patients. I help adults of all ages work through their problems, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, job loss, bereavement, and coping with illness. I am a psychiatrist that also practices psychotherapy and treatment may consist of talk therapy, medications, or both. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to determine if I am the right person to help you and to answer your questions.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/667c1013-a717-45f6-ad51-7d08e161f4a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Maxine C Okafor, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2d10cdd-608d-4243-850f-2b84f60a0cac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maxine C Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
I work in CA, AZ, and TX. Dr. Okafor knew from an early age that her purpose in life was to serve, help, and heal others. She received her BSN degree in 2012, Masters of Science degree and license as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2017, then went on to receive her second Masters of Science degree and license as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree in 2019. She completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2020. Dr. O, as many of her clients call her, has worked in almost every area of healthcare. Dr. O has a passion for caring for her clients to reach remission and maintain their quality of life.
I work in CA, AZ, and TX. Dr. Okafor knew from an early age that her purpose in life was to serve, help, and heal others. She received her BSN degree in 2012, Masters of Science degree and license as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2017, then went on to receive her second Masters of Science degree and license as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree in 2019. She completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2020. Dr. O, as many of her clients call her, has worked in almost every area of healthcare. Dr. O has a passion for caring for her clients to reach remission and maintain their quality of life.
![Photo of Julio A. Quijada, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80fdde11-c371-4352-a6cc-6ce8f06e887a/5/320x400.png)
Julio A. Quijada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Accepting new patients. Fear of the unknown is a trait we all share; not knowing what to do or how, when, and where to seek professional help can cause stress, and for people suffering from a mental disorder, that fear and frustration only aggravate their condition more. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult it is to ask for help or find a trustworthy provider. I assist my patients in navigating the confusing and complex road to recovery. My main focus is advocating for my patients, educating them about their condition, and making them feel safe, heard, and at peace.
Accepting new patients. Fear of the unknown is a trait we all share; not knowing what to do or how, when, and where to seek professional help can cause stress, and for people suffering from a mental disorder, that fear and frustration only aggravate their condition more. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult it is to ask for help or find a trustworthy provider. I assist my patients in navigating the confusing and complex road to recovery. My main focus is advocating for my patients, educating them about their condition, and making them feel safe, heard, and at peace.
![Photo of Justin Roberts, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe3359c7-685f-4a09-8ee6-ac02e1938737/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026 (Online Only)
While I am positioned to offer a LGBTQ+ perspective in my practice, I support clients from all backgrounds in reaching their mental health goals through compassionate, patient-centered care. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex-positive counseling, mood disorders, and substance use disorders for adults over 18 years old. I approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, using psychotherapeutic modalities centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment.
While I am positioned to offer a LGBTQ+ perspective in my practice, I support clients from all backgrounds in reaching their mental health goals through compassionate, patient-centered care. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex-positive counseling, mood disorders, and substance use disorders for adults over 18 years old. I approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, using psychotherapeutic modalities centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment.
See more therapy options for La Canada Flintridge
Nearby Searches for La Canada Flintridge
- Alhambra
- Arcadia
- Burbank
- Glendale
- Hollywood
- La Canada
- La Crescenta
- Pasadena
- San Marino
- Silver Lake
- South Pasadena
- Studio City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in La Canada Flintridge, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in La Canada Flintridge, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
80% | Depression |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
60% | Child |
60% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in La Canada Flintridge, CA see their clients
60% | Online Only | |
40% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in La Canada Flintridge?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.