Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47474bf9-513f-405d-85c7-d4c59c13b1a7/1/320x400.png)
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
![Photo of Daniel Brockett, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca368fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for visiting my profile. If you are reading this, your suffering has likely reached a point where you are considering professional help. You may be seeking relief from painful emotional symptoms, problems with self-esteem, problems with addictive substances or behaviors. It may be that you would like to improve your relationships or adjust to a physical illness.
Thank you for visiting my profile. If you are reading this, your suffering has likely reached a point where you are considering professional help. You may be seeking relief from painful emotional symptoms, problems with self-esteem, problems with addictive substances or behaviors. It may be that you would like to improve your relationships or adjust to a physical illness.
![Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry San Diego, MD, PMHNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/489396ad-28fa-48f9-851b-9dc8adfae444/3/320x400.jpeg)
Remedy Psychiatry San Diego
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154 (Online Only)
Are you struggling in your day to day? 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. 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 day to day? 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. 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 Mina Sardashti, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9d08d81-e294-47ed-a7f4-710fa66506c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mina works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Mina believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Mina works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Mina believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
![Photo of Margaret Gold, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/996aa429-11af-41f1-b901-88f582633c0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specifically treat unrelenting depression, anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD, otherwise not well treated by traditional psychiatric medications. With a trauma informed, holistic, integrative approach to psychiatric treatment, I offer a safe container for you to explore and heal from the inside. With 1:1 individualized treatment, using Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, unlike other ketamine clinics, I will stay by your side throughout in a safe, home like setting. We believe in your innate ability to heal in a setting of safety, feeling heard and seen, and empathy. If you are looking for a new approach, please let us know.
I specifically treat unrelenting depression, anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD, otherwise not well treated by traditional psychiatric medications. With a trauma informed, holistic, integrative approach to psychiatric treatment, I offer a safe container for you to explore and heal from the inside. With 1:1 individualized treatment, using Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, unlike other ketamine clinics, I will stay by your side throughout in a safe, home like setting. We believe in your innate ability to heal in a setting of safety, feeling heard and seen, and empathy. If you are looking for a new approach, please let us know.
![Photo of Fay M Azad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c1f9b26-098a-42e6-886d-20bc55d3a4dc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I take new patients from anywhere within California and offer telehealth which makes my availability flexible. I have a special interest in treating insomnia, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. My recommended therapy may include over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle modifications, and antidepressant/ antianxiety/ other psychiatric medications. I use the lowest effective dosing and utilize genetic testing when indicated.
I take new patients from anywhere within California and offer telehealth which makes my availability flexible. I have a special interest in treating insomnia, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. My recommended therapy may include over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle modifications, and antidepressant/ antianxiety/ other psychiatric medications. I use the lowest effective dosing and utilize genetic testing when indicated.
![Photo of Milka Galvez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/248fa672-878b-43ed-a793-0b924252b7ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Milka Galvez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master’s Degree from Walden University. I have experience working as a nurse in an acute and outpatient setting. I am passionate in working with adolescents, adults and the geriatric patients by not only caring for them but assisting them to wellness. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, traveling and spending time with my family.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I received my Master’s Degree from Walden University. I have experience working as a nurse in an acute and outpatient setting. I am passionate in working with adolescents, adults and the geriatric patients by not only caring for them but assisting them to wellness. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, traveling and spending time with my family.
![Photo of Kristen Kim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71e90be1-7cda-4bd4-a15c-e1b32a99479f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist based in Southern California. I enjoy helping people of all ages including children, adolescents, and adults live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, and I am able to see patients all over the state of California. Using a patient-centered and holistic approach, I collaborate with my patients and their families to provide comprehensive and personalized mental health treatment involving psychoeducation, medications and/or psychotherapy.
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist based in Southern California. I enjoy helping people of all ages including children, adolescents, and adults live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, and I am able to see patients all over the state of California. Using a patient-centered and holistic approach, I collaborate with my patients and their families to provide comprehensive and personalized mental health treatment involving psychoeducation, medications and/or psychotherapy.
![Photo of Dr. Michael McManus, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a9eab5b-18b7-4299-892a-756c6943f90e/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Michael McManus helps children and adolescents with autism, co-occurring disorders, and developmental disabilities.
Dr. Michael McManus helps children and adolescents with autism, co-occurring disorders, and developmental disabilities.
Penny Greaves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Penny Greaves has over twenty years of Nursing experience and received her bachelor's in nursing in 2007 and a Master of Nursing with a primary care nurse practitioner certificate in 2010 from Ryerson University, in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree in 2021 from National University and is dual certified with the ANCC in psychiatry and the AANP in family practice. She is currently pursuing a psychology doctorate degree (PsyD) to improve health outcomes. She is experienced with adults, adults with addictions, complex mental health problems, geriatrics and dementia.
Penny Greaves has over twenty years of Nursing experience and received her bachelor's in nursing in 2007 and a Master of Nursing with a primary care nurse practitioner certificate in 2010 from Ryerson University, in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree in 2021 from National University and is dual certified with the ANCC in psychiatry and the AANP in family practice. She is currently pursuing a psychology doctorate degree (PsyD) to improve health outcomes. She is experienced with adults, adults with addictions, complex mental health problems, geriatrics and dementia.
![Photo of Tara Pundiak Toohey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88c50068-6965-4d34-8e25-67d85c062bab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Toohey is board certified in adult psychiatry with extensive experience in emergency psychiatry and reproductive mental health with a boutique psychiatry practice in California. She completed residency at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in New York City and has over 20 years' experience. She served as faculty at UCSD and University of Hawaii. In addition to the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis and ADHD, her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry and management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She is a consultant in hospitals and emergency rooms throughout California.
Dr. Toohey is board certified in adult psychiatry with extensive experience in emergency psychiatry and reproductive mental health with a boutique psychiatry practice in California. She completed residency at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in New York City and has over 20 years' experience. She served as faculty at UCSD and University of Hawaii. In addition to the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis and ADHD, her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry and management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She is a consultant in hospitals and emergency rooms throughout California.
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![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c07494c-9c85-4659-823d-df76ce2ecd30/2/320x400.png)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Eric Tung, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8790efdf-cfdc-4f28-8b64-ad0c583d837e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. My holistic approach includes medication management, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. I use personalized integrative psychiatry methods to help adolescents and working professionals struggling with anxiety, depression, and burnout. Through my process, I help clients reconnect with their friends and family, enjoy alone time without feeling overwhelmed, and find a general sense of purpose and greatness in life.
I am a Board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. My holistic approach includes medication management, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. I use personalized integrative psychiatry methods to help adolescents and working professionals struggling with anxiety, depression, and burnout. Through my process, I help clients reconnect with their friends and family, enjoy alone time without feeling overwhelmed, and find a general sense of purpose and greatness in life.
![Photo of Sydney Karahalios, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f97f9dee-60c9-4124-92ea-aa581c381d39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Karahalios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing a sense of being overwhelmed? Do you find yourself distanced from friends and family following a major life change? Coping with adjustment disorder and trauma can feel incredibly daunting, yet it's not insurmountable. I am here to support you in facing this challenge, guiding you through this struggle, and emerging stronger than ever before.
Are you experiencing a sense of being overwhelmed? Do you find yourself distanced from friends and family following a major life change? Coping with adjustment disorder and trauma can feel incredibly daunting, yet it's not insurmountable. I am here to support you in facing this challenge, guiding you through this struggle, and emerging stronger than ever before.
![Photo of Carla Hammond - Brainpower Wellness Institute, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edd0d745-0f4c-4d8b-83c9-48effeef1017/1/320x400.png)
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
![Photo of Sarah Blue, MD-BC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1375f46-d403-4c9c-88f8-c411fe5e0cae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Heather Saltos, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d620442-6642-4383-b6c1-9ee515e54fbc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Saltos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Child Psychiatrist residing in San Diego, CA. I love working with children, teens and their families. I understand the struggle of finding a good mental health provider and I am here to help. I have my board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Dartmouth University and am Adult certified as well. I am family oriented, have 3 children of my own, and value both therapy and medication management strategies. There is not a one step approach for treatment and I tailor my management on a patient by patient basis.If you or your family member are struggling, please do not hesitate to reach to reach out.
I am a Child Psychiatrist residing in San Diego, CA. I love working with children, teens and their families. I understand the struggle of finding a good mental health provider and I am here to help. I have my board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Dartmouth University and am Adult certified as well. I am family oriented, have 3 children of my own, and value both therapy and medication management strategies. There is not a one step approach for treatment and I tailor my management on a patient by patient basis.If you or your family member are struggling, please do not hesitate to reach to reach out.
![Photo of Brett Larson, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f0aa090-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In-network with most insurances. Brett Larson is a Board Certified Advanced Practitioner and Physician Assistant who specializes in providing care to those affected by a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Brett tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This includes genetic testing, psychological testing and a careful overview of one’s physical health.
In-network with most insurances. Brett Larson is a Board Certified Advanced Practitioner and Physician Assistant who specializes in providing care to those affected by a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Brett tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This includes genetic testing, psychological testing and a careful overview of one’s physical health.
![Photo of Samir Hamed, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2efdaa5b-90cb-4b76-885c-036ec5477821/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Robert Masoner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cf93e12-3638-4c65-8591-524d9fc4d5c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome and thank you for you interest in seeking out care. I have eight years of experience in primary care as well as the experience that I have in Psychiatry. I enjoy integrating my expertise in mental health along with my understanding of physical health in a comprehensive manner. I am open to multiple modalities of treatment but I also recognize that there is no "one size fits all" approach to medicine. I enjoy empowering patients in their care as much as is possible and safe. My ideal patient is therefore someone who is open and honest about their symptoms. I accept insurance and am in the process of signing with more plans.
Welcome and thank you for you interest in seeking out care. I have eight years of experience in primary care as well as the experience that I have in Psychiatry. I enjoy integrating my expertise in mental health along with my understanding of physical health in a comprehensive manner. I am open to multiple modalities of treatment but I also recognize that there is no "one size fits all" approach to medicine. I enjoy empowering patients in their care as much as is possible and safe. My ideal patient is therefore someone who is open and honest about their symptoms. I accept insurance and am in the process of signing with more plans.
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
400+
Average cost per session
$227
Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
39% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Diego?
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.