Psychiatrists in 90024

Photo of Catherine Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catherine Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
HI! My name is Caty Brown, and I am board-certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I have worked with a diverse group of clients with varying diagnoses and concerns. Each person's story is important as it guides the changes they would like to make in their life. I respect how difficult it can be to seek help. I very much enjoy listening to my patients and helping them decide which treatment plan best fits their personality and goals.
HI! My name is Caty Brown, and I am board-certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I have worked with a diverse group of clients with varying diagnoses and concerns. Each person's story is important as it guides the changes they would like to make in their life. I respect how difficult it can be to seek help. I very much enjoy listening to my patients and helping them decide which treatment plan best fits their personality and goals.
(424) 622-1626 View (424) 622-1626
Photo of Gregory Barnett, Psychiatrist, MD
Gregory Barnett
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I have been privileged enough to earn my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Yale University, my medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and complete my psychiatry residency training at the Cambridge Health Alliance which is associated with Harvard Medical School. I am board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and am licensed to practice medicine in both Massachusetts and California where I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy to my patients.
I have been privileged enough to earn my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Yale University, my medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and complete my psychiatry residency training at the Cambridge Health Alliance which is associated with Harvard Medical School. I am board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and am licensed to practice medicine in both Massachusetts and California where I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy to my patients.
(617) 858-8870 View (617) 858-8870
Photo of Talar Sepetjian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Talar Sepetjian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach that focuses on not just managing symptoms but also enhancing overall well-being. I collaborate with patients to understand their unique needs and work together to create a personalized treatment plan that supports mental and emotional health. My goal is to empower individuals to take control of their mental health and lead fulfilling lives.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach that focuses on not just managing symptoms but also enhancing overall well-being. I collaborate with patients to understand their unique needs and work together to create a personalized treatment plan that supports mental and emotional health. My goal is to empower individuals to take control of their mental health and lead fulfilling lives.
(310) 361-9382 View (310) 361-9382
Photo of Roberto Figueroa, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Roberto Figueroa
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Encontrar esperanza es el primer paso para mejorar. Y hay razones para tener esperanza. Las investigaciones han demostrado de manera constante los beneficios de múltiples enfoques en el tratamiento de trastornos del estado de ánimo como la depresión, ansiedad, trastorno bipolar, el trastorno de adaptación y trastorno. También se ha demostrado que el tratamiento más eficaz es la combinación de psicoterapia y medicación. Si sospecha que estás sufriendo alguno de estos trastornos, usted no está solo. Millones de personas en USA y alrededor de medio billón de personas en el mundo padecen de depresión o ansiedad significativa.
Encontrar esperanza es el primer paso para mejorar. Y hay razones para tener esperanza. Las investigaciones han demostrado de manera constante los beneficios de múltiples enfoques en el tratamiento de trastornos del estado de ánimo como la depresión, ansiedad, trastorno bipolar, el trastorno de adaptación y trastorno. También se ha demostrado que el tratamiento más eficaz es la combinación de psicoterapia y medicación. Si sospecha que estás sufriendo alguno de estos trastornos, usted no está solo. Millones de personas en USA y alrededor de medio billón de personas en el mundo padecen de depresión o ansiedad significativa.
(310) 935-4184 View (310) 935-4184
Photo of Roberto Figueroa, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Roberto Figueroa
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Finding hope is the first step in getting better. And there are reasons to be hopeful. Research has consistently demonstrated the benefit of multiple approaches in the treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and OCD. It has also shown that the most effective treatment is the combination of psychotherapy and medication treatment. If you suspect you may be suffering from any of these disorders you should know you are not alone. Millions of people in the US and about half a billion people in the world have significant depression or anxiety alone.
Finding hope is the first step in getting better. And there are reasons to be hopeful. Research has consistently demonstrated the benefit of multiple approaches in the treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and OCD. It has also shown that the most effective treatment is the combination of psychotherapy and medication treatment. If you suspect you may be suffering from any of these disorders you should know you are not alone. Millions of people in the US and about half a billion people in the world have significant depression or anxiety alone.
(424) 955-2630 View (424) 955-2630
Photo of Dr. Lydia Liu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lydia Liu
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I grew up in New York and studied Psychology and Economics at NYU. I stayed on for a MA in Economics and worked in finance before leaving the field to pursue my calling in Medicine. I finished my postbac at Columbia University and attended Stonybrook University School of Medicine for medical school. I completed my residency in Psychiatry at Mount Sinai Morningside/West and recently moved to California.
I grew up in New York and studied Psychology and Economics at NYU. I stayed on for a MA in Economics and worked in finance before leaving the field to pursue my calling in Medicine. I finished my postbac at Columbia University and attended Stonybrook University School of Medicine for medical school. I completed my residency in Psychiatry at Mount Sinai Morningside/West and recently moved to California.
(424) 346-9868 View (424) 346-9868
Photo of Adriana Sult, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Adriana Sult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m here to support you on your mental health journey with compassion and expertise. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trouble sleeping, or attention challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that’s as unique as you are—whether that’s therapy, medication, or both—to help you feel more balanced and in control of your life. You deserve to feel better, and I’m ready to walk this path with you. Let’s get started today—reach out, and let’s take that first step toward the life you want and deserve.
I’m here to support you on your mental health journey with compassion and expertise. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trouble sleeping, or attention challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that’s as unique as you are—whether that’s therapy, medication, or both—to help you feel more balanced and in control of your life. You deserve to feel better, and I’m ready to walk this path with you. Let’s get started today—reach out, and let’s take that first step toward the life you want and deserve.
(213) 583-5141 View (213) 583-5141
Photo of Scott Fears - Amae Health, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, LPCC, MSW, PMHNP
Amae Health
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, LPCC, MSW, PMHNP
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Amae Health is a psychiatry-led integrated care provider of mental and physical health services for adults struggling with a severe mental illness such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Amae Health is a psychiatry-led integrated care provider of mental and physical health services for adults struggling with a severe mental illness such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(310) 929-9956 View (310) 929-9956
Photo of Julie M. Hall, Psychiatrist, MD
Julie M. Hall
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Every thousand mile journey begins with one step. Regardless of what you are going through, I am committed to creating the possibility of complete health and well-being for you. Using my expertise as a double board certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist, I am able to flexibly address issues of all ages. In addition, my combined training in both psychotherapy and medication management ensures an integrated approach of both understanding the dynamics of one's individual situation and combining appropriate medication management when necessary.
Every thousand mile journey begins with one step. Regardless of what you are going through, I am committed to creating the possibility of complete health and well-being for you. Using my expertise as a double board certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist, I am able to flexibly address issues of all ages. In addition, my combined training in both psychotherapy and medication management ensures an integrated approach of both understanding the dynamics of one's individual situation and combining appropriate medication management when necessary.
(424) 322-4361 View (424) 322-4361
Photo of Emmanuel Anigwe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Emmanuel Anigwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with anxiety or depression and seeks support to navigate their emotions and challenges. They may feel overwhelmed, experience low self-esteem, or have difficulty managing stress. Their primary needs include a safe, non-judgmental space to express their feelings and effective coping strategies. Their goals are to regain control, improve mental health, and enhance overall well-being. Ultimately, they want to lead a more fulfilling life, establish healthier relationships, and achieve personal growth by addressing the root causes of their struggles.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety or depression and seeks support to navigate their emotions and challenges. They may feel overwhelmed, experience low self-esteem, or have difficulty managing stress. Their primary needs include a safe, non-judgmental space to express their feelings and effective coping strategies. Their goals are to regain control, improve mental health, and enhance overall well-being. Ultimately, they want to lead a more fulfilling life, establish healthier relationships, and achieve personal growth by addressing the root causes of their struggles.
(213) 286-0950 View (213) 286-0950
Photo of Minoo Mahmoudi, Psychiatrist
Minoo Mahmoudi
Psychiatrist
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Mahmoudi spends good amount of time to do a thorough psychiatric evaluation and get to know her patients. She helps patients understand their symptoms and challenges with developing an individualized biopsychosocial formulation. She shares her finding and educate patients about possible diagnosis. She develops an individualized management plan that may include medications, therapy or combination of both. She makes sure to collaborate with patient's therapist if the patient already sees a therapist. She sees a big value in communicating with allied health professionals and other medical doctors involve in a patient's care.
Dr. Mahmoudi spends good amount of time to do a thorough psychiatric evaluation and get to know her patients. She helps patients understand their symptoms and challenges with developing an individualized biopsychosocial formulation. She shares her finding and educate patients about possible diagnosis. She develops an individualized management plan that may include medications, therapy or combination of both. She makes sure to collaborate with patient's therapist if the patient already sees a therapist. She sees a big value in communicating with allied health professionals and other medical doctors involve in a patient's care.
(818) 514-7226 View (818) 514-7226
Photo of Philip Blumenshine - Philip Blumenshine, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Philip Blumenshine, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Have you been feeling "stuck?" Do you find yourself repeating the same patterns? In relationships? Work? I'm interested in helping individuals get "un-stuck" from their old ways of responding to anxiety, relating to others, and thinking about themselves. If you are interested in living a fuller, more actualized life, I may be a good fit for you.
Have you been feeling "stuck?" Do you find yourself repeating the same patterns? In relationships? Work? I'm interested in helping individuals get "un-stuck" from their old ways of responding to anxiety, relating to others, and thinking about themselves. If you are interested in living a fuller, more actualized life, I may be a good fit for you.
(310) 928-2272 View (310) 928-2272
Photo of Roberto Figueroa, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Roberto Figueroa
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Finding hope is the first step in getting better. And there are reasons to be hopeful. Research has consistently demonstrated the benefit of multiple approaches in the treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and OCD. It has also shown that the most effective treatment is the combination of psychotherapy and medication treatment. If you suspect you may be suffering from any of these disorders you should know you are not alone. Millions of people in the US and about half a billion people in the world have significant depression or anxiety alone.
Finding hope is the first step in getting better. And there are reasons to be hopeful. Research has consistently demonstrated the benefit of multiple approaches in the treatment of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and OCD. It has also shown that the most effective treatment is the combination of psychotherapy and medication treatment. If you suspect you may be suffering from any of these disorders you should know you are not alone. Millions of people in the US and about half a billion people in the world have significant depression or anxiety alone.
(818) 647-9687 View (818) 647-9687
Photo of Roberto Montenegro, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Roberto Montenegro
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with vast experience in treating children and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in providing mental health services to high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm licensed to see patients in WA, CA, and AK, and I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with vast experience in treating children and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in providing mental health services to high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm licensed to see patients in WA, CA, and AK, and I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
(310) 361-4558 View (310) 361-4558
Photo of Dr. Priti Bhardwaj, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Priti Bhardwaj
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I am triple board certified in Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry as well as in Integrative Medicine (ABIM). My goal with my patients and families is to provide a warm, safe, and accepting environment for them to communicate the difficulties and challenges they face, and work on finding solutions that nourish them towards becoming the most healthy and best version of themselves. Each person is seen as an individual and is encouraged to be an active participant in their own treatment
I am triple board certified in Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry as well as in Integrative Medicine (ABIM). My goal with my patients and families is to provide a warm, safe, and accepting environment for them to communicate the difficulties and challenges they face, and work on finding solutions that nourish them towards becoming the most healthy and best version of themselves. Each person is seen as an individual and is encouraged to be an active participant in their own treatment
(310) 862-0036 View (310) 862-0036
Photo of Helen Ezinne Mettu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Helen Ezinne Mettu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner currently accepting new clients, I've been in clinical practice since 2010. Specializing in understanding the unique challenges patients face. My expertise includes addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, medication management, and more. My goal is to provide the support and guidance necessary for clients to achieve a happier, healthier life.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner currently accepting new clients, I've been in clinical practice since 2010. Specializing in understanding the unique challenges patients face. My expertise includes addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, medication management, and more. My goal is to provide the support and guidance necessary for clients to achieve a happier, healthier life.
(240) 332-0662 View (240) 332-0662
Photo of Christopher R Thompson - Westside Mind Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Westside Mind Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Westside Mind Health, Inc. is a ketamine clinic in Los Angeles founded and operated by psychiatrists with multiple board certifications from the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (ABPN). Collectively, we have almost six decades of training and experience in treating patients across the lifespan, who may have both simple and complex mental disorders. We believe ketamine is a new paradigm for mental health treatment and work closely with patients to understand their goals and provide careful, active management of their ketamine experience. This creates a safe, personalized treatment program that enhances their recovery.
Westside Mind Health, Inc. is a ketamine clinic in Los Angeles founded and operated by psychiatrists with multiple board certifications from the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (ABPN). Collectively, we have almost six decades of training and experience in treating patients across the lifespan, who may have both simple and complex mental disorders. We believe ketamine is a new paradigm for mental health treatment and work closely with patients to understand their goals and provide careful, active management of their ketamine experience. This creates a safe, personalized treatment program that enhances their recovery.
(424) 484-6350 View (424) 484-6350
Photo of Julie M Pan, Psychiatrist, MD
Julie M Pan
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I am a board certified psychiatrist, practicing in Westwood, who specializes in the evaluation, consultation, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience using evidence-based medicine and psychotherapy to help my patients live more fulfilling lives. I address important lifestyle factors (i.e. sleep, diet, exercise, supplements, substance use), and their effects on one's mental and physical health, to promote healthful living. Throughout my career, I have treated a wide range of conditions. I listen to and work together with my patient to determine the best course of treatment to optimize his/her wellbeing.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, practicing in Westwood, who specializes in the evaluation, consultation, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience using evidence-based medicine and psychotherapy to help my patients live more fulfilling lives. I address important lifestyle factors (i.e. sleep, diet, exercise, supplements, substance use), and their effects on one's mental and physical health, to promote healthful living. Throughout my career, I have treated a wide range of conditions. I listen to and work together with my patient to determine the best course of treatment to optimize his/her wellbeing.
(424) 276-7371 View (424) 276-7371
Photo of Ivana Viani, Psychiatrist, MD
Ivana Viani
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Dr. Ivana Viani is a psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated with honors from Harvard Medical School, completed her psychiatry residency in Boston, and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. She primarily specializes in working with young people with autism and other neurodivergencies, such as ADHD and learning differences, and those who are highly talented or knowledgeable in one or more domains. Dr. Viani is an LGBTQIA+ ally.
Dr. Ivana Viani is a psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated with honors from Harvard Medical School, completed her psychiatry residency in Boston, and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. She primarily specializes in working with young people with autism and other neurodivergencies, such as ADHD and learning differences, and those who are highly talented or knowledgeable in one or more domains. Dr. Viani is an LGBTQIA+ ally.
(310) 582-5823 View (310) 582-5823
Photo of Joshua Freedman - healthPiper, Psychiatrist, MD
healthPiper
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Getting medication treatment for psychiatric symptoms used to require a blind leap, with no idea what treatment you would get, or how much time and money it would take. For over 6 years, healthPiper has made it so that anyone can get the same expertise as the top medical schools, delivered online, with our renowned welcoming service. All for less than clinicians usually charge. We were started by a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA, a graduate of Yale Medical School, and a perennial SuperDoctor and TopDoctor to create a service so that everyone can effortlessly get the best treatment available anywhere.
Getting medication treatment for psychiatric symptoms used to require a blind leap, with no idea what treatment you would get, or how much time and money it would take. For over 6 years, healthPiper has made it so that anyone can get the same expertise as the top medical schools, delivered online, with our renowned welcoming service. All for less than clinicians usually charge. We were started by a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA, a graduate of Yale Medical School, and a perennial SuperDoctor and TopDoctor to create a service so that everyone can effortlessly get the best treatment available anywhere.
(424) 369-0257 View (424) 369-0257

See more therapy options for 90024

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90024

90+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 90024 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
76% Bipolar Disorder
73% ADHD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Medication Management
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
61% Other

How Psychiatrists in 90024 see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90024?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.