Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA
![Photo of Safir Azam - Safir Azam Tele-Psychiatry Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1b98b7e-a1cf-42a1-90e2-dc6ea60292f2/2/320x400.png)
Safir Azam Tele-Psychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95819 (Online Only)
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NY.
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NY.
![Photo of Sung Park, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a880c21-bf0a-4a86-8e1a-c3247a640dd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
![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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Pilar Laborde-Lahoz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5879a94-8afe-47e0-9158-3189f6c4f901/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patients often feel mixed emotions when first seeing a mental health professional. On the one hand, they may feel relieved that they finally took this important step. On the other hand, they may feel hesitation about having to discuss their most intimate problems with a stranger. It is important to let them take their time to open up when they are ready, and to reassure them that this information is privileged.
Patients often feel mixed emotions when first seeing a mental health professional. On the one hand, they may feel relieved that they finally took this important step. On the other hand, they may feel hesitation about having to discuss their most intimate problems with a stranger. It is important to let them take their time to open up when they are ready, and to reassure them that this information is privileged.
![Photo of Kelsey Salzberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a198bb8-8a7f-40f1-aa34-ea21c7056e87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Salzberg is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist in California practicing since 2012. She obtained her Medical Degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, DC and completed her Adult Psychiatric Residency at UC San Francisco in San Francisco, CA. She served as Chief Resident of Outpatient Services and was awarded an Area of Distinction in Women's Mental Health during residency. Dr. Salzberg uses an integrative approach in care involving medications and psychotherapy as appropriate for each individual.
Kelsey Salzberg is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist in California practicing since 2012. She obtained her Medical Degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, DC and completed her Adult Psychiatric Residency at UC San Francisco in San Francisco, CA. She served as Chief Resident of Outpatient Services and was awarded an Area of Distinction in Women's Mental Health during residency. Dr. Salzberg uses an integrative approach in care involving medications and psychotherapy as appropriate for each individual.
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![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.
Dr. Geetha Reddy graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in Molecular and Cell Biology, and earned her medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. She completed General Psychiatry training at University of California, San Francisco, and fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Northwestern University. She additionally obtained a Masters in Public Health from Harvard University. She is an active member of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
Dr. Geetha Reddy graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in Molecular and Cell Biology, and earned her medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. She completed General Psychiatry training at University of California, San Francisco, and fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Northwestern University. She additionally obtained a Masters in Public Health from Harvard University. She is an active member of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
![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 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 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 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.
![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 Dr. Danielle Alexander, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f59adf45-b3e4-47d9-8fed-8756a8075ba6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist based in Sacramento, California. Virtual appointments available throughout California.
I am a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist based in Sacramento, California. Virtual appointments available throughout California.
![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.
See more therapy options for Sacramento
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
96% | Aetna |
96% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Sacramento, CA see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | 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.