Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA
![Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27ba21c3-846d-484f-8d66-87e7b56e1741/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
![Photo of Mandeep Kapur, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17cb202b-fed8-4137-9fdb-66dead68567a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in taking a compassionate and empathetic approach to a patient's history, individual experience, and values. I work with families to create an evidence based, personalized treatment using therapeutic interventions and medications, if and when indicated. My training at Tulane and Stanford provided me experiences with a wide variety of diagnoses, but I am especially interested in depression, anxiety, and disruptive disorders.
I believe in taking a compassionate and empathetic approach to a patient's history, individual experience, and values. I work with families to create an evidence based, personalized treatment using therapeutic interventions and medications, if and when indicated. My training at Tulane and Stanford provided me experiences with a wide variety of diagnoses, but I am especially interested in depression, anxiety, and disruptive disorders.
![Photo of Sarah Blue, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fc26dfe-d31e-4656-99d0-7c72f1ce6b9f/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 Heidi Clark, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c5f387c-b217-4159-8ff7-6250f0373bb0/2/320x400.png)
I help adults achieve an enhanced sense of well being and contentment to manage anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders and environmental stress by evaluating and treating biological, psychological and mind-body imbalances. I offer medication management, supportive therapy, integrative health interventions and practical techniques for clients to manage problematic habits and thought patterns. I have treated adults with psychiatric conditions for 20 years and share my time and knowledge to thoroughly explore one’s concerns, making sure to understand the complexities and nuances of the individual.
I help adults achieve an enhanced sense of well being and contentment to manage anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders and environmental stress by evaluating and treating biological, psychological and mind-body imbalances. I offer medication management, supportive therapy, integrative health interventions and practical techniques for clients to manage problematic habits and thought patterns. I have treated adults with psychiatric conditions for 20 years and share my time and knowledge to thoroughly explore one’s concerns, making sure to understand the complexities and nuances of the individual.
![Photo of Nadege Barbe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce0d2165-72b0-4272-b447-57bf68104003/1/320x400.jpeg)
I was born and raised in South Florida and went on to complete medical school and training in Miami, FL. I developed a passion for working with families early in medical training. I have trained in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency/crisis services. I also have training in DBT and have worked with college students at the University of Miami undergraduate campus.
I was born and raised in South Florida and went on to complete medical school and training in Miami, FL. I developed a passion for working with families early in medical training. I have trained in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency/crisis services. I also have training in DBT and have worked with college students at the University of Miami undergraduate campus.
![Photo of Garrett Watanabe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e34e394-a910-42c8-9599-205cf6924123/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that attaining mental health should be a collaborative process between the child/adolescent, their family, and the clinician. The basis for any successful treatment is a strong and trusting therapeutic alliance or relationship. Together, we will understand your child’s particular strengths and needs and then determine and review the best treatment options available.
I believe that attaining mental health should be a collaborative process between the child/adolescent, their family, and the clinician. The basis for any successful treatment is a strong and trusting therapeutic alliance or relationship. Together, we will understand your child’s particular strengths and needs and then determine and review the best treatment options available.
![Photo of Jessica Vermeulen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a3974e-c9f0-439e-b624-e28b3f2c7b54/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Vermeulen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95113
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of David Balyozian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5a54ea-70d2-443b-82d4-82e83209a17f/1/320x400.jpeg)
When caring for children and their families, I combine my knowledge of pediatrics and psychiatry to fully understand not only the child’s presenting issue, but their current stage of development, social situation and the overall family system. However, my extensive training has taught me that beyond any modality, a doctor’s dedication to their patient is what makes the greatest impact.
When caring for children and their families, I combine my knowledge of pediatrics and psychiatry to fully understand not only the child’s presenting issue, but their current stage of development, social situation and the overall family system. However, my extensive training has taught me that beyond any modality, a doctor’s dedication to their patient is what makes the greatest impact.
![Photo of Natalie Artinian, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/206ef517-ad77-42a6-a200-1ca53dbf9e7d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
I decided to become a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist because I believe mental health is deeply connected to our contentment, success, and the achievement of our sense of purpose. Helping others discover a greater sense of self-efficacy and joy for themselves brings me incredible fulfillment and motivates me on a daily basis to do the work that I do. My other passions include spending time in nature, spending time with friends and family, practicing yoga and meditation, enjoying music and art, and learning new information about culture and history.
![Photo of Dr. Jasmine Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55f64dde-c80d-4152-9782-29f37b4d247d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jasmine Kaur is board-certified in child, adolescent, and general psychiatry and treats patients of all ages. Dr. Kaur strives to deliver knowledgeable and compassionate care. She integrates the understanding of neurobiology in her work according to a patient’s situation, needs, and desires.
Dr. Jasmine Kaur is board-certified in child, adolescent, and general psychiatry and treats patients of all ages. Dr. Kaur strives to deliver knowledgeable and compassionate care. She integrates the understanding of neurobiology in her work according to a patient’s situation, needs, and desires.
![Photo of Dr. Farzook Fayyaz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfe8a2c3-9a20-4a72-bb44-9df4291c4cc9/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Farzook Fayyaz treats adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia, and trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. Dr. Fayyaz’s approach is empathetic, compassionate, and focused on active listening and providing patient-guided therapy.
Dr. Farzook Fayyaz treats adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia, and trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. Dr. Fayyaz’s approach is empathetic, compassionate, and focused on active listening and providing patient-guided therapy.
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![Photo of Dr. Julian Lagoy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51d7333a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Julian Lagoy is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Lagoy’s research focuses on post-suicide attempt survival and provider attitudes toward LGBTQIA+ patients, which he has presented at the American Psychiatric Association national meeting and the World Psychiatric Association International Congress in Spirituality and Psychiatry.
Dr. Julian Lagoy is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Lagoy’s research focuses on post-suicide attempt survival and provider attitudes toward LGBTQIA+ patients, which he has presented at the American Psychiatric Association national meeting and the World Psychiatric Association International Congress in Spirituality and Psychiatry.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fa67435-a144-4e74-bfc0-d2d2d50917ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95116 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Dr. Alecia Greenlee, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b877fec9-3a9c-40f8-bdc3-9339d1e6a42b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Performing at work and irritable at home? Or is it vice versa? Lifting your family as you climb toward your professional aspirations. The chase for happiness has left you exhausted. If you are ready to craft a new narrative, then now is the time to connect with a doctor who can help. Let’s work together to identify the destination you want to reach out and a clear roadmap to get there. Read below to learn how to book a consultation today.
Performing at work and irritable at home? Or is it vice versa? Lifting your family as you climb toward your professional aspirations. The chase for happiness has left you exhausted. If you are ready to craft a new narrative, then now is the time to connect with a doctor who can help. Let’s work together to identify the destination you want to reach out and a clear roadmap to get there. Read below to learn how to book a consultation today.
![Photo of Nissa Keyashian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dee4961-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I (she/her) am passionate about working with adults to improve their emotional health and well-being. I have a strong background in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and mindfulness. I believe in treating the whole person and I very much enjoy working collaboratively with my patients on a journey towards a healthy and fulfilling life.
I (she/her) am passionate about working with adults to improve their emotional health and well-being. I have a strong background in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and mindfulness. I believe in treating the whole person and I very much enjoy working collaboratively with my patients on a journey towards a healthy and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Jenna Kuru, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdcfad9e-264c-4e5e-a00f-0e3f01ee8851/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Kuru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128 (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Psychiatric, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I utilize an integrative approach to address root causes of mental health symptoms. My education and background experience in integrative modalities allow me to look at each client’s situation from multiple lenses to offer treatment plans as unique as the person I’m working with. I utilize a collaborative approach, making sure clients leave sessions with a better understanding of their experience, treatment options, and plan for moving toward wellness. I prioritize empathy, respect, and holistic healing for clients.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I utilize an integrative approach to address root causes of mental health symptoms. My education and background experience in integrative modalities allow me to look at each client’s situation from multiple lenses to offer treatment plans as unique as the person I’m working with. I utilize a collaborative approach, making sure clients leave sessions with a better understanding of their experience, treatment options, and plan for moving toward wellness. I prioritize empathy, respect, and holistic healing for clients.
![Photo of Chien Shien Yang - Redwood Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/491d8721-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified physician specializing in general psychiatry, I am skilled in medication management. I have worked in the community and university settings in Nebraska and as an outpatient psychiatrist at Oakland Kaiser. Now working in private practice allows me to offer individualized care for my clients. I offer comprehensive and collaborative care. My approach is to provide expert medical advice while we work towards my client’s goals. Medication may not be best for everyone. If you do not want to consider medication at this time, you may consider reaching out to a therapist for weekly sessions first.
As a board-certified physician specializing in general psychiatry, I am skilled in medication management. I have worked in the community and university settings in Nebraska and as an outpatient psychiatrist at Oakland Kaiser. Now working in private practice allows me to offer individualized care for my clients. I offer comprehensive and collaborative care. My approach is to provide expert medical advice while we work towards my client’s goals. Medication may not be best for everyone. If you do not want to consider medication at this time, you may consider reaching out to a therapist for weekly sessions first.
![Photo of Michael Quach - Michael Quach MD | Willow Glen Psychiatry For Men, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d57ba6c0-167c-49f1-a84d-1e58c8334f7f/2/320x400.png)
Michael Quach MD | Willow Glen Psychiatry For Men
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
You deserve more. More control over your mood. More focus and direction. More meaning in every pursuit. I offer a confidential, judgment-free zone where men like you can finally tackle those emotional challenges head-on. My focus is laser-sharp – Men's Mental Health. I understand the unique pressures you face, the biological and cultural currents that shape your experiences. I'm here to listen, strategize, and equip you with the tools you need to conquer whatever you're facing.
You deserve more. More control over your mood. More focus and direction. More meaning in every pursuit. I offer a confidential, judgment-free zone where men like you can finally tackle those emotional challenges head-on. My focus is laser-sharp – Men's Mental Health. I understand the unique pressures you face, the biological and cultural currents that shape your experiences. I'm here to listen, strategize, and equip you with the tools you need to conquer whatever you're facing.
![Photo of Smita Thakkar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f605bc93-a631-40e5-8dbd-fbd4d586a216/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience. I completed my child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of Southern California. I received my general psychiatry training at the University of Los Angeles where I served as Chief Resident and was recognized with the Outstanding Resident Award two years in a row. I was an Attending psychiatrist in India. I am fluent in major Indian sub-continent languages. I currently reside in the Bay Area and enjoy spending time with my son.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience. I completed my child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of Southern California. I received my general psychiatry training at the University of Los Angeles where I served as Chief Resident and was recognized with the Outstanding Resident Award two years in a row. I was an Attending psychiatrist in India. I am fluent in major Indian sub-continent languages. I currently reside in the Bay Area and enjoy spending time with my son.
![Photo of Akash Jaggi, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd54c938-e553-4a47-b8db-de46989e1da2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Akash Jaggi is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2020. He completed his psychiatry training at the University of Central Florida and at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Jaggi offers compassionate and patient centered care that is informed by the highest quality medical and clinical data. He offers individualized treatments based on a comprehensive mental health history and evaluation that allows him to suggest medications and therapy that will be most specific for the client's symptoms.
Dr. Akash Jaggi is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2020. He completed his psychiatry training at the University of Central Florida and at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Jaggi offers compassionate and patient centered care that is informed by the highest quality medical and clinical data. He offers individualized treatments based on a comprehensive mental health history and evaluation that allows him to suggest medications and therapy that will be most specific for the client's symptoms.
See more therapy options for San Jose
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$295
Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
81% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA see their clients
57% | Online Only | |
43% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
54% | Female | |
46% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Jose?
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.