Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA
![Photo of Medy Podliska, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/306e75fd-dd10-433a-a2ae-3e5766c9a13b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Medy Podliska
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care to adolescents and adults. With experience in both clinical and private practice settings, my approach is rooted in evidence-based practices and personalized care. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to achieve their personal mental health goals.
As a dedicated and compassionate Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care to adolescents and adults. With experience in both clinical and private practice settings, my approach is rooted in evidence-based practices and personalized care. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to achieve their personal mental health goals.
![Photo of Peter M Gaffney, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10766de5-0645-4e78-bee8-4957895a30be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi everyone. I'm an analytically-trained psychiatrist with a background in family medical practice and also in Buddhism. At this point my practice is adult psychotherapy and I am no longer treating patients who need medication, nor do I treat children. Although I'm trained in psychoanalytic therapy, my approach varies according to individual needs. I see depressed or anxious patients , those struggling with losses, stress, life events, or in their relationships and other issues as well. I have a particular interest in those with severe depression. I also offer individual training in psychodynamics to adult therapists.
Hi everyone. I'm an analytically-trained psychiatrist with a background in family medical practice and also in Buddhism. At this point my practice is adult psychotherapy and I am no longer treating patients who need medication, nor do I treat children. Although I'm trained in psychoanalytic therapy, my approach varies according to individual needs. I see depressed or anxious patients , those struggling with losses, stress, life events, or in their relationships and other issues as well. I have a particular interest in those with severe depression. I also offer individual training in psychodynamics to adult therapists.
![Photo of Davina Gloria Onyelo Uchegbu - ACE Health and Wellness Solutions INC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b70459e-5f81-44cc-9de1-5432b71319ab/2/320x400.png)
ACE Health and Wellness Solutions INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95829
Dr. Davina Uchegbu DNP is board-certified PMHNP. She began her career in healthcare over twenty years ago and brings in a vast wealth of knowledge in psychiatry and mental health, after devoting most of those years to acquiring advanced knowledge in mental health management.
Dr. Davina Uchegbu DNP is board-certified PMHNP. She began her career in healthcare over twenty years ago and brings in a vast wealth of knowledge in psychiatry and mental health, after devoting most of those years to acquiring advanced knowledge in mental health management.
![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 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 Aderonke Akande, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dd83dea-b657-4c1d-b594-8d487ac51aec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Addie became interested in mental health after encountering a veteran with mental health issues. Addie provides a holistic, evidence-based approach to treating the entire patient instead of individual symptoms.
Addie became interested in mental health after encountering a veteran with mental health issues. Addie provides a holistic, evidence-based approach to treating the entire patient instead of individual symptoms.
![Photo of Sanh Nguyen - Sacramento Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5fd0e53-c9d1-48da-9ac3-a656d3d1ac30/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Sacramento Psychiatry and Psychotherapy. My name is Sanh Nguyen, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 11 years of experience. I am trained in Osteopathic medicine and have a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatry. Let's work together to help you find mastery in your relationships with family, friends, coworkers and yourself. My approach to psychiatry is collaborative and patient centered. I support and empower my patients to have an active role in their mental health care.
Welcome to Sacramento Psychiatry and Psychotherapy. My name is Sanh Nguyen, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 11 years of experience. I am trained in Osteopathic medicine and have a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatry. Let's work together to help you find mastery in your relationships with family, friends, coworkers and yourself. My approach to psychiatry is collaborative and patient centered. I support and empower my patients to have an active role in their mental health care.
![Photo of Tami Zorge - The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04446330-6df2-407c-a8e6-cae6e4633540/1/320x400.png)
The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
![Photo of Orah Mahtov, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc286c80-3169-49b5-a5ea-e511625ac85b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Orah Mahtov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95820 (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.
![Photo of Shawn Hersevoort, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43142818-b5a0-460b-9dce-77af944330a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a very experienced, Board Certified Adult psychiatrist who has worked in a broad range of treatment settings including public, private, and academic medical centers. My approach to treatment can best be understood by following the course of my education. I first studied biochemistry, where I learned to appreciate the importance of rigorous clinical research, ongoing education, and the power of medications. I then studied clinical psychology, where the focus was on understanding relationships, personalities, and cultures.
I am a very experienced, Board Certified Adult psychiatrist who has worked in a broad range of treatment settings including public, private, and academic medical centers. My approach to treatment can best be understood by following the course of my education. I first studied biochemistry, where I learned to appreciate the importance of rigorous clinical research, ongoing education, and the power of medications. I then studied clinical psychology, where the focus was on understanding relationships, personalities, and cultures.
![Photo of Jane Egbufoama, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d7320d8-c89e-493e-8598-1f5cbd7cb69b/1/320x400.png)
Jane is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience.
Jane is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience.
15 Second Videos
Remedy Psychiatry - Sacramento
Ike Uzowulu
Sacramento Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Mindful Health Solutions - Kevin Rosi, MD
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Bettina Ervin
Ronil Shah
Michelle D Brown
Mindful Health Solutions - Jason Garner, MD
Mindful Health Solution - Rhea Singson-Tapang
Jonathan Allotey
Leah Haddad
Jason Jemera
Mottsin Thomas
Ryan Thebo
Jack Mkroyan
Insights Psychiatric - Heather Rosdail
Shantel Escobar
Sauntrice O'Quin
Elena Urbiztondo
Duke Nyarecha
Aaron Padron
Azmeena Hashem
Braincom Advanced Nursing Corp
Carative Psychiatry
![Photo of Angela Yuen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2573ee5b-84bb-4c31-a6b3-0dd987d04800/1/320x400.png)
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. I appreciate the idea of patients having not only access to medication management and psychotherapy but also the latest interventional psychiatric treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. I see TMS and Esketamine as great options for patients to consider when medication management and therapy alone do not provide adequate relief for depression. I am excited to see how these treatments evolve and develop over time as accessibility to these modalities improves.
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. I appreciate the idea of patients having not only access to medication management and psychotherapy but also the latest interventional psychiatric treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. I see TMS and Esketamine as great options for patients to consider when medication management and therapy alone do not provide adequate relief for depression. I am excited to see how these treatments evolve and develop over time as accessibility to these modalities improves.
![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 Keith Lui - Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fdce719-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
![Photo of Jagdeep Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca6e4cc1-c27c-45bf-9f12-4e917b413c41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kaur has special clinical interest in medication management of psychiatric symptoms, treating treatment resistant psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders. Dr. Kaur is experienced in using advanced treatment modalities e.g, ketamine, esketamine ( nasal spray) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression. Please send us referrals to our secure and confidential fax at 866-481-8756. Visit our webpage at www.truistpsychiatrists.com
Dr. Kaur has special clinical interest in medication management of psychiatric symptoms, treating treatment resistant psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders. Dr. Kaur is experienced in using advanced treatment modalities e.g, ketamine, esketamine ( nasal spray) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression. Please send us referrals to our secure and confidential fax at 866-481-8756. Visit our webpage at www.truistpsychiatrists.com
![Photo of Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c1fb425-e8d1-417a-9f47-054de354632b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834 (Online Only)
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
![Photo of Zafar Mohammad Uddin - iPsychiatry inc, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5476abe1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
IPsychiatry inc is a private psychiatry practice dedicated to helping individuals live vital and fulfilling lives. No matter what challenges life serves up. Working collaboratively with you , we identify personalized strategies to produce concrete results so that you can move towards whatever you truly care about.
IPsychiatry inc is a private psychiatry practice dedicated to helping individuals live vital and fulfilling lives. No matter what challenges life serves up. Working collaboratively with you , we identify personalized strategies to produce concrete results so that you can move towards whatever you truly care about.
![Photo of Dr. Rajdeep Ranade, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd9de90d-f028-4388-b65d-7cc00312ce4d/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Rajdeep Ranade has been with Mindpath Health since 2009 and is deeply interested in adolescent and geriatric psychiatry and neuropsychiatry.
Dr. Rajdeep Ranade has been with Mindpath Health since 2009 and is deeply interested in adolescent and geriatric psychiatry and neuropsychiatry.
![Photo of Ifeoma Okwu - Embodied Wellness Psychiatry, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5641f808-8c3a-4995-8b12-ac957c5e184e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834 (Online Only)
Ifeoma Okwu is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington and California. She treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and specializes in mental health, weight management, sexual dysfunction, and thyroid optimization.
Ifeoma Okwu is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington and California. She treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and specializes in mental health, weight management, sexual dysfunction, and thyroid optimization.
![Photo of Kevin Rosi - Mindful Health Solutions - Kevin Rosi, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4412a2e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating patients with Mood Depressive Disorders (MDD), which, according to the Centers for Disease Control, may impact 14-17% of the adult population in their lifetime. Also known as "clinical depression", patients who suffer from this may be treated with medication, interventional psychotherapy, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
I specialize in treating patients with Mood Depressive Disorders (MDD), which, according to the Centers for Disease Control, may impact 14-17% of the adult population in their lifetime. Also known as "clinical depression", patients who suffer from this may be treated with medication, interventional psychotherapy, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
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.