Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eb05e89-2c8e-45c6-8c69-5be22164019a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
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 Ken Wong, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e2e42e0-737d-4a55-a157-14ecc324dc92/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Wong graduated with highest honors from UC Berkeley, where he was named valedictorian of the Cell and Developmental Biology emphasis. After earning his medical degree from the UC San Diego School of Medicine on a merit scholarship, he pursued subspecialty training in psychiatry at Loma Linda University, where he ranked in the 99th percentile nationwide on the annual in-training exam.
Dr. Wong graduated with highest honors from UC Berkeley, where he was named valedictorian of the Cell and Developmental Biology emphasis. After earning his medical degree from the UC San Diego School of Medicine on a merit scholarship, he pursued subspecialty training in psychiatry at Loma Linda University, where he ranked in the 99th percentile nationwide on the annual in-training exam.
![Photo of Hendrick Soh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1031f856-b0f9-4deb-870e-e7babc72d510/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hendrick Soh, MD participates in the evaluation and psychiatric medical management of children and adolescents in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Soh is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is board-certified in General psychiatry with additional specialty training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate education at UCLA and medical school at UC-Irvine. Dr. Soh then finished his residency training at Harbor-UCLA and his fellowship training at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.
Hendrick Soh, MD participates in the evaluation and psychiatric medical management of children and adolescents in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Soh is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is board-certified in General psychiatry with additional specialty training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate education at UCLA and medical school at UC-Irvine. Dr. Soh then finished his residency training at Harbor-UCLA and his fellowship training at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.
![Photo of Genesis Javaherian, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/837be92d-01e2-44bf-95ee-0200305673f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Genesis Javaherian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Gene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, private practice and academic research. I received my degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and specialize in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use.
Hi, I’m Gene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, private practice and academic research. I received my degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and specialize in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use.
![Photo of Alexandra Presler, PA-C, PMHNP, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7de76a8e-d954-4370-a166-9337d15451c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Presler
Physician Assistant, PA-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104 (Online Only)
Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
![Photo of Alysia Cirona-Singh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39c4181f-b0c0-497c-b14a-42d8310d8b1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alysia Cirona-Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people facing a wide range of difficulties. They may be struggling with depression, anxiety, a sense of emptiness or feeling lost. Often, they find themselves having relational problems, such as difficulty developing long lasting relationships or frequently having unsatisfying, confusing, or problematic encounters with friends, colleagues, or family members. I also work with people dealing with major life transitions, including marriage, becoming a parent, significant medical events, and grief following the death of a loved one or pregnancy loss.
I work with people facing a wide range of difficulties. They may be struggling with depression, anxiety, a sense of emptiness or feeling lost. Often, they find themselves having relational problems, such as difficulty developing long lasting relationships or frequently having unsatisfying, confusing, or problematic encounters with friends, colleagues, or family members. I also work with people dealing with major life transitions, including marriage, becoming a parent, significant medical events, and grief following the death of a loved one or pregnancy loss.
![Photo of Theresa Bui, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c82b40b-bf56-4106-83cd-514b29c1bd86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bui completed her General Psychiatry Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Dr. Bui has experience in early identification of mental conditions as well as long term stabilization measures for psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Dr. Bui completed her General Psychiatry Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Dr. Bui has experience in early identification of mental conditions as well as long term stabilization measures for psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
![Photo of Dr. Zohaib Abbasi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03a4c09c-b0b0-46ab-b14f-b8424adbc94b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Zohaib Abbasi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110 (Online Only)
UPDATE: As of 8/18/2024 I am still able to accept new patients + + + Hi! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist offering convenient online video visits throughout California and currently accepting new patients. In addition to traditional psychiatric medications and psychotherapy, I specialize in an integrative patient-centered approach, using lifestyle changes and natural treatments that are supported by scientific evidence. I want you to feel empowered and have control over your treatment. I offer personalized care to individuals who want to get a more accurate diagnosis and minimize unnecessary medications.
UPDATE: As of 8/18/2024 I am still able to accept new patients + + + Hi! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist offering convenient online video visits throughout California and currently accepting new patients. In addition to traditional psychiatric medications and psychotherapy, I specialize in an integrative patient-centered approach, using lifestyle changes and natural treatments that are supported by scientific evidence. I want you to feel empowered and have control over your treatment. I offer personalized care to individuals who want to get a more accurate diagnosis and minimize unnecessary medications.
![Photo of Arjun Gokhale - Mindful Health Solutions - Arjun Gokhale, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93338ccb-8ceb-423c-b759-f3a42ee11267/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Arjun Gokhale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders. Along with psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, I am interested in evidence-based interventions such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders. Along with psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, I am interested in evidence-based interventions such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
![Photo of Dr. John Connor Barnhart, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e50ac667-34ac-4453-85b9-5b400d592b58/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a UCSF and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist specialized in helping you unlock your full potential. I work with adults struggling with mood, anxiety, and focus problems - as well as difficulties in relationships, career, or sense of self - who are invested in developing a deeper understanding of themselves and taking an active role in their self-improvement; those looking to get at the root causes of new or long-festering problems and committed to making positive changes to support their wellbeing.
I am a UCSF and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist specialized in helping you unlock your full potential. I work with adults struggling with mood, anxiety, and focus problems - as well as difficulties in relationships, career, or sense of self - who are invested in developing a deeper understanding of themselves and taking an active role in their self-improvement; those looking to get at the root causes of new or long-festering problems and committed to making positive changes to support their wellbeing.
![Photo of Weston Ferrer, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ef4fd3d-c288-4981-bdb6-46efdf743725/2/320x400.png)
Struggling with the feeling that things are out of control? Find yourself constantly caught up in worry about the "what if" situations? Diagnosed with OCD, panic, trichotillomania, generalized anxiety, and wanting an assessment to see if medications can help or be changed? I can help you get on the path to a calmer, less out of control feeling life. I don't provide evaluation or treatment for ADHD, and as a subspecialist I focus on OCD/anxiety rather than trauma or depression.
Struggling with the feeling that things are out of control? Find yourself constantly caught up in worry about the "what if" situations? Diagnosed with OCD, panic, trichotillomania, generalized anxiety, and wanting an assessment to see if medications can help or be changed? I can help you get on the path to a calmer, less out of control feeling life. I don't provide evaluation or treatment for ADHD, and as a subspecialist I focus on OCD/anxiety rather than trauma or depression.
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![Photo of Elizabeth Rawson, MD, MHS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a607bb44-746a-4b1f-b81d-d6c77485032b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
![Photo of Nikhil Majumdar - Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e660a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
I work with patients who may be experiencing clinical depression or other psychiatric disorders. I consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. I can use this treatment to stimulate the brain in a specific area to improve symptoms from depression.
![Photo of Manisha Ram Punwani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88770008-47a4-452f-bbbe-a23de6a43b23/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of children, adolescents and their families. I specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of children, adolescents and their families. I specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
![Photo of Bruce W. Scotton, MD, DLFAPA, CJA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e597f1c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am especially interested in working with people who see healing their wounds and problems as only one part of an ongoing effort to develop themselves as far as possible. This effort includes development beyond the personal into familial, community, global, and spiritual realms. Seeking to promote this perspective I am the senior editor of Textbook of Transpersonal Psychiatry and Psychology for which we won the Will Solimene Award for Excellence in Medical Communication. This perspective also values learning the accumulated knowledge of other cultures.
I am especially interested in working with people who see healing their wounds and problems as only one part of an ongoing effort to develop themselves as far as possible. This effort includes development beyond the personal into familial, community, global, and spiritual realms. Seeking to promote this perspective I am the senior editor of Textbook of Transpersonal Psychiatry and Psychology for which we won the Will Solimene Award for Excellence in Medical Communication. This perspective also values learning the accumulated knowledge of other cultures.
![Photo of Lisa DeBrier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/151f83c4-9286-41c6-8730-7524866d9b1b/1/320x400.png)
Lisa DeBrier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132 (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Lisa and I look forward to meeting you! I have been a registered nurse for over 40 years and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for the past 6 years. I have worked with children and adolescents and adults. My specialties are working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I have worked inpatient with children and adults in psychiatric settings and in crisis stabilization settings with adults. I see my clients as uniquely individual and I like meeting them right where they are and learn about what is important for them, their goals, and discover what is meaningful to them.
Hello! I’m Lisa and I look forward to meeting you! I have been a registered nurse for over 40 years and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for the past 6 years. I have worked with children and adolescents and adults. My specialties are working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I have worked inpatient with children and adults in psychiatric settings and in crisis stabilization settings with adults. I see my clients as uniquely individual and I like meeting them right where they are and learn about what is important for them, their goals, and discover what is meaningful to them.
![Photo of Dr. Jacob Moulds, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10888ee2-04b7-48d1-98c9-800466205ca8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jacob Moulds learned to expand his focus beyond the pathology and take account of the entire experience of the patient in his treatment, including family, environment, and life experiences.
Dr. Jacob Moulds learned to expand his focus beyond the pathology and take account of the entire experience of the patient in his treatment, including family, environment, and life experiences.
![Photo of Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13083802-ebc2-47c5-ac55-6474e43820c8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115 (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 J. Andrew Chacko, MD, MSE, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff5e25dd-e8ea-418e-8ff0-fc713a0dcdb5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a unique approach to psychiatric care, one that fully embraces a strengths-based, and personalized approach. While I treat the whole spectrum of mental health conditions, I specialize in ADD/ADHD, Trauma (PTSD), Sexual Health and Intimacy, Anxiety & Depression My work often focusses on professionals who have been successful, but now find themselves struggling, especially clinicians suffering from burnout.
I provide a unique approach to psychiatric care, one that fully embraces a strengths-based, and personalized approach. While I treat the whole spectrum of mental health conditions, I specialize in ADD/ADHD, Trauma (PTSD), Sexual Health and Intimacy, Anxiety & Depression My work often focusses on professionals who have been successful, but now find themselves struggling, especially clinicians suffering from burnout.
![Photo of Kirk Murphy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8312240-f052-492f-a446-564b53f02217/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kirk James Murphy is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1991. Dr. Murphy had the privilege of learning from global experts in human sexuality as well as mood and anxiety disorders in her UCLA residency training and then to complete his fellowship in Consultation-Liaison and Trauma Psychiatry while practicing with experts in those fields. Dr.
Dr. Kirk James Murphy is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 1991. Dr. Murphy had the privilege of learning from global experts in human sexuality as well as mood and anxiety disorders in her UCLA residency training and then to complete his fellowship in Consultation-Liaison and Trauma Psychiatry while practicing with experts in those fields. Dr.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Corte Madera
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Mill Valley
- Oakland
- Piedmont
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA
400+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
76% | Medication Management |
68% | ADHD |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
56% | Female | |
43% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Francisco?
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.