Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA
![Photo of Uchenna Okoye, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df9f4114-3209-4c3d-bb45-2f60ee3ee22a/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Akashdeep S Gill, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3efcc814-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified and California-licensed psychiatrist in the Los Angeles area specializing in both addiction and general psychiatry. I have trained and practiced in multiple clinical settings across the Los Angeles area including UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Olive View County Hospital and the Veteran Affairs medical centers. Personally, I have worked with and feel comfortable with patients from any background. Currently I work with the Solstice Clinic seeing private practice patients, and as a consultant at multiple rehabilitation centers around the Los Angeles area specializing in dual diagnosis and addiction treatment.
I am a board certified and California-licensed psychiatrist in the Los Angeles area specializing in both addiction and general psychiatry. I have trained and practiced in multiple clinical settings across the Los Angeles area including UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Olive View County Hospital and the Veteran Affairs medical centers. Personally, I have worked with and feel comfortable with patients from any background. Currently I work with the Solstice Clinic seeing private practice patients, and as a consultant at multiple rehabilitation centers around the Los Angeles area specializing in dual diagnosis and addiction treatment.
![Photo of Sophie Feller, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d27a5f2e-6878-468a-bb8f-89f39169a65d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a board-certified adult psychiatrist experienced in treating people with a range of mental health challenges. I see my work with each person as a partnership intended to foster individual strengths and respect individual preferences. The care I provide is collaborative and trauma-informed utilizing a holistic and evidence-based approach.
I'm a board-certified adult psychiatrist experienced in treating people with a range of mental health challenges. I see my work with each person as a partnership intended to foster individual strengths and respect individual preferences. The care I provide is collaborative and trauma-informed utilizing a holistic and evidence-based approach.
![Photo of Ana Jimenez, PA-C , Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e672a98d-3622-4c1e-b019-b3f2efe8b480/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at 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. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at 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. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of M. Christina Benson, MD, DLFAPA, APC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400249eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a seasoned practitioner who offers comprehensive psychiatric services for young, middle aged, and older adults. Trained in Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychopharmacology, I use a range of approaches as they are needed in helping adults who are experiencing emotional or mental difficulties.
I am a seasoned practitioner who offers comprehensive psychiatric services for young, middle aged, and older adults. Trained in Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychopharmacology, I use a range of approaches as they are needed in helping adults who are experiencing emotional or mental difficulties.
![Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29f415bc-a1e3-4a2b-9488-e78eac0e9cc8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
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 Dr. Ann Woo-Ming Park - Dr. Ann Woo-Ming Park, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d16e157f-0101-4cc4-bea7-f02c6bd154ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ann Woo-Ming Park, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049 (Online Only)
Welcome to my women's telehealth practice. I am Cornell trained and specialize in psychiatry, therapy, and coaching for women. I have an added specialty of working with women of color and the AAPI community. My passion is to help my clients thrive, especially given the unique challenges faced by women and women of color. My sessions often highlight working with clients to help them set healthy boundaries, own and use their voices, and manage conflict confidently. Medication is also prescribed if needed. My practice is based in Los Angeles, and I offer telepsychiatry sessions for women who live in CA and NY.
Welcome to my women's telehealth practice. I am Cornell trained and specialize in psychiatry, therapy, and coaching for women. I have an added specialty of working with women of color and the AAPI community. My passion is to help my clients thrive, especially given the unique challenges faced by women and women of color. My sessions often highlight working with clients to help them set healthy boundaries, own and use their voices, and manage conflict confidently. Medication is also prescribed if needed. My practice is based in Los Angeles, and I offer telepsychiatry sessions for women who live in CA and NY.
![Photo of Abigail Horton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a34335c-9b8b-4634-8a29-5aeb3b501433/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Horton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Abbey is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who graduated from California State University, Long Beach. She has over 20 years of experience working in the field of mental health with children, adolescents, families and adults. Abbey offers a range of assessment and treatment strategies to address mental, emotional and behavioral concerns. Each person is unique and Abbey uses a collaborative approach working as partners to achieve a person's optimal mental wellness, empowering the individual on their healing journey.
Abbey is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who graduated from California State University, Long Beach. She has over 20 years of experience working in the field of mental health with children, adolescents, families and adults. Abbey offers a range of assessment and treatment strategies to address mental, emotional and behavioral concerns. Each person is unique and Abbey uses a collaborative approach working as partners to achieve a person's optimal mental wellness, empowering the individual on their healing journey.
![Photo of Ana Jimenez, PA-C , Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b88fdfc-9f98-4021-83ba-4036df14f120/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at 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. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at 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. Now welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Dr. Grant Meredith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b6a3223-3b32-4793-89d9-d119c7bafec2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently Accepting New Patients (Updated 7/15/24) - I am a California Physician who has a passion for helping people achieve a satisfying and fun life. I have worked locally in SLO and Ventura counties, and see people from across the state. I use a whole life approach, that includes lifestyle and nutritional changes, medication options, and a multidisciplinary mindset. I explore early life experiences that have made us who we are, then link the impact of the past to the present. I believe expanding our connection to the natural world is core to our personal journey to happiness and use this in my care.
Currently Accepting New Patients (Updated 7/15/24) - I am a California Physician who has a passion for helping people achieve a satisfying and fun life. I have worked locally in SLO and Ventura counties, and see people from across the state. I use a whole life approach, that includes lifestyle and nutritional changes, medication options, and a multidisciplinary mindset. I explore early life experiences that have made us who we are, then link the impact of the past to the present. I believe expanding our connection to the natural world is core to our personal journey to happiness and use this in my care.
![Photo of Sarah Taylor - Complete Health Clinic, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34a2c5d4-cd06-4578-a91e-2f414f38ed64/1/320x400.png)
Complete Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
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![Photo of Keerthan Somanath, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/833be0b9-5c07-465a-a5a4-9c435f38a3ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Somanath graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with honors, completing a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and a minor in Mathematics. He subsequently worked as a software engineer at National Instruments in Austin, Texas, where he developed an interest in neuroscience, and eventually medicine after working with one of the company's clients.
Dr. Somanath graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with honors, completing a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and a minor in Mathematics. He subsequently worked as a software engineer at National Instruments in Austin, Texas, where he developed an interest in neuroscience, and eventually medicine after working with one of the company's clients.
![Photo of Volker Nabavi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9f3ac4b-65d3-4365-b9e3-5a285dbf0976/1/320x400.jpeg)
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019 (Online Only)
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
![Photo of Eric C Li - Eric C. Li, MD, Inc., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f203c3c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board certified child & adolescent psychiatrist who is Stanford and Columbia University educated, received my MD from USC Keck School of Medicine, and completed my residency and fellowship training in Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatry from UCLA Resnik Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital. Most importantly, I am thorough, compassionate, and results oriented with every patient I see in my private practice. I have successfully treated patients of all ages for over 20 years as a well seasoned and caring cognitive behavioral therapist in the West Los Angeles area.
Hello! I am a board certified child & adolescent psychiatrist who is Stanford and Columbia University educated, received my MD from USC Keck School of Medicine, and completed my residency and fellowship training in Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatry from UCLA Resnik Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital. Most importantly, I am thorough, compassionate, and results oriented with every patient I see in my private practice. I have successfully treated patients of all ages for over 20 years as a well seasoned and caring cognitive behavioral therapist in the West Los Angeles area.
![Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31c0f210-ee45-475b-8df8-043ee76cfd0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
![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
Los Angeles, CA 90036
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 Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d7d4a23-0087-4cdd-8881-6bd9b71ad0e3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling in your daily life and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks to get an appointment or pay alot to get personalized medication management? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
Are you struggling in your daily life and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks to get an appointment or pay alot to get personalized medication management? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
![Photo of Terrance Ito, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2b33bdd-b555-4339-b228-4cafed070be6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Terrance Ito
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management and ketamine infusions, my goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care. If you struggle with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain without finding relief I am here to help. Utilizing a holistic approach, we will incorporate innovation (I.e. genetic testing) along with evidence-based treatment plans to address your unique needs.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management and ketamine infusions, my goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care. If you struggle with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain without finding relief I am here to help. Utilizing a holistic approach, we will incorporate innovation (I.e. genetic testing) along with evidence-based treatment plans to address your unique needs.
![Photo of Candyce DeLoatch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc1fd1bb-37b7-4d66-b9a0-4e864bb946f6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Let's work together to help you reach your goals. Whether you or your child desire to emerge from the depths of persistent sadness, stabilize your highs and lows, diminish the impact of voices, visions and paranoid thinking, or reduce chronic worry and fear, we'll devise a plan to improve your state of mind. If you or your child have trouble paying attention in school, struggle with social interactions or making friends, display behavioral problems including tantrums and physical aggression or suffer low mood or chronic worry, request an evaluation to begin the treatment process.
Let's work together to help you reach your goals. Whether you or your child desire to emerge from the depths of persistent sadness, stabilize your highs and lows, diminish the impact of voices, visions and paranoid thinking, or reduce chronic worry and fear, we'll devise a plan to improve your state of mind. If you or your child have trouble paying attention in school, struggle with social interactions or making friends, display behavioral problems including tantrums and physical aggression or suffer low mood or chronic worry, request an evaluation to begin the treatment process.
![Photo of Safir Azam Md Telepsychiatry Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37319566-a092-4112-8012-abffdd3dae2d/1/320x400.png)
Safir Azam Md Telepsychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046 (Online Only)
I am passionate about quickly identifying and implementing strategies to help you notice results soon. I completed 8 years of Psychiatric training including 4 years at Royal London Hospital UK followed by Residency at SUNY Downstate Hospital , New York and a fellowship year at UF Gainesville . I treat most Paychiatric issues and specialize in Moor disorders, ADHD, Anxiety and depressive issues . I provide care in a confidential and caring manner . I formulate a treatment plan that is tailored to the needs and wishes of each patient. I help my patients achieve their goals and aspirations and bring positive changes in their lives .
I am passionate about quickly identifying and implementing strategies to help you notice results soon. I completed 8 years of Psychiatric training including 4 years at Royal London Hospital UK followed by Residency at SUNY Downstate Hospital , New York and a fellowship year at UF Gainesville . I treat most Paychiatric issues and specialize in Moor disorders, ADHD, Anxiety and depressive issues . I provide care in a confidential and caring manner . I formulate a treatment plan that is tailored to the needs and wishes of each patient. I help my patients achieve their goals and aspirations and bring positive changes in their lives .
See more therapy options for Los Angeles
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA
700+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
61% | Female | |
38% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Los Angeles?
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.