Psychiatrists in 90029

Welcome! I'm Kristine Daugherty, a seasoned Physician Assistant with a passion for patient-centered healthcare. With over 10 years of experience, I've dedicated myself to empowering individuals in achieving their health and wellness goals. My journey in healthcare has been diverse, encompassing areas such as pain management, mental health, functional medicine, and urgent care. Throughout my career, I've cultivated a holistic approach to care, placing emphasis on understanding each patient's unique needs and circumstances.
Welcome! I'm Kristine Daugherty, a seasoned Physician Assistant with a passion for patient-centered healthcare. With over 10 years of experience, I've dedicated myself to empowering individuals in achieving their health and wellness goals. My journey in healthcare has been diverse, encompassing areas such as pain management, mental health, functional medicine, and urgent care. Throughout my career, I've cultivated a holistic approach to care, placing emphasis on understanding each patient's unique needs and circumstances.

Dr. Udo Chukwuocha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients! Have you been feeling down, stressed, or worried lately? Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? You're doing your best, but you have a hard time keeping up with your daily tasks. You have intense emotions, trouble focusing, forgetful, or get easily distracted? Do you find it hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack motivation or have no interest in things you normally enjoy doing, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Or is your sleep pattern consistently disrupted which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? You ARE NOT alone! I would like to help.
Accepting New Patients! Have you been feeling down, stressed, or worried lately? Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? You're doing your best, but you have a hard time keeping up with your daily tasks. You have intense emotions, trouble focusing, forgetful, or get easily distracted? Do you find it hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack motivation or have no interest in things you normally enjoy doing, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Or is your sleep pattern consistently disrupted which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? You ARE NOT alone! I would like to help.

Maria Delia Fortunato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been feeling anxious, hopeless, unmotivated, tired, confused, angry, or discouraged? Do you feel guilty about unintentionally causing pain/hurt towards people you love and care about? Are you feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, or wonder how you even got to where you are now in the first place? I want to hold your hand through the process. You can always choose today as the start of your healing journey towards better health!
Have you been feeling anxious, hopeless, unmotivated, tired, confused, angry, or discouraged? Do you feel guilty about unintentionally causing pain/hurt towards people you love and care about? Are you feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, or wonder how you even got to where you are now in the first place? I want to hold your hand through the process. You can always choose today as the start of your healing journey towards better health!
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Abigail Marie Wolf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to care is rooted in authenticity, curiosity, and respect. I am an active listener and natural empath with strong assessment skills and am most fulfilled working with people who are motivated to feel well, but don't know where to begin. You are the expert on yourself; I can meet you where you're at and be your advocate, guide, and partner on your mental health journey. I will likely be a good fit as a provider for you if you are interested in supportive talk therapy, exploration of lifestyle and nutrition, and a holistic/integrative approach to care versus a 10 minute check in regarding medication.
My approach to care is rooted in authenticity, curiosity, and respect. I am an active listener and natural empath with strong assessment skills and am most fulfilled working with people who are motivated to feel well, but don't know where to begin. You are the expert on yourself; I can meet you where you're at and be your advocate, guide, and partner on your mental health journey. I will likely be a good fit as a provider for you if you are interested in supportive talk therapy, exploration of lifestyle and nutrition, and a holistic/integrative approach to care versus a 10 minute check in regarding medication.

I specialize in the treatment of Men with Anxiety Disorders with over 20 years of experience in treating Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalised Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and Performance/Speech Anxiety. My ideal client is highly motivated and looking for effective techniques that he can apply immediately.
I specialize in the treatment of Men with Anxiety Disorders with over 20 years of experience in treating Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalised Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and Performance/Speech Anxiety. My ideal client is highly motivated and looking for effective techniques that he can apply immediately.

I am passionate about providing comprehensive care & improving the overall health in my patients. I strongly believe in the total body connection & recognizing illnesses are much more than just a “body part.” I am well known for my energy, out of the box thinking & ability to recognize missed health conditions. I am very open minded & considers many options to improve mental health, in addition to medication & therapy. I work hard to get my patients well .
I am passionate about providing comprehensive care & improving the overall health in my patients. I strongly believe in the total body connection & recognizing illnesses are much more than just a “body part.” I am well known for my energy, out of the box thinking & ability to recognize missed health conditions. I am very open minded & considers many options to improve mental health, in addition to medication & therapy. I work hard to get my patients well .

Welcome! I am Dalana Gonzalez. Are you struggling with feelings of sadness, low energy, low motivation, hopelessness, fear, worry, poor focus? And you’re tired of hearing that you just have to try harder, you’re being lazy, and mental illness is just in your head? Well, you come to the right place. As a PMHNP, I have a passion and desire to help and encourage you. I strive to bring hope or restore your hope that has been lost. I will provide a safe place for you to talk about the real things you’ve been struggling with. I see you as a whole person and will provide evidence-based treatment plans to help you achieve the best possible
Welcome! I am Dalana Gonzalez. Are you struggling with feelings of sadness, low energy, low motivation, hopelessness, fear, worry, poor focus? And you’re tired of hearing that you just have to try harder, you’re being lazy, and mental illness is just in your head? Well, you come to the right place. As a PMHNP, I have a passion and desire to help and encourage you. I strive to bring hope or restore your hope that has been lost. I will provide a safe place for you to talk about the real things you’ve been struggling with. I see you as a whole person and will provide evidence-based treatment plans to help you achieve the best possible

Vinessa Gaerlan-Finch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
The ideal client seeks support to overcome anxiety, depression, and ADHD, aiming for emotional balance and overall well-being. They need a personalized approach that acknowledges their emotional and cognitive struggles, requiring a nuanced intervention plan. With a focus on managing symptoms and enhancing daily functioning, they aspire for improved focus and emotional stability through therapy and medication. Driven by the pursuit of a fulfilling life, they actively cultivate coping strategies and resilience, navigating life's challenges with self-awareness and harnessing their strengths.
The ideal client seeks support to overcome anxiety, depression, and ADHD, aiming for emotional balance and overall well-being. They need a personalized approach that acknowledges their emotional and cognitive struggles, requiring a nuanced intervention plan. With a focus on managing symptoms and enhancing daily functioning, they aspire for improved focus and emotional stability through therapy and medication. Driven by the pursuit of a fulfilling life, they actively cultivate coping strategies and resilience, navigating life's challenges with self-awareness and harnessing their strengths.

Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Sumera Chaggan is a board-certified Physician Assistant who specializes in treating mental health conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). As a part of Pacific Pain & Wellness Group, she is dedicated to creating a personalized treatment plan that will guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, Sumera will construct a treatment plan aligned with your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Sumera Chaggan is a board-certified Physician Assistant who specializes in treating mental health conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). As a part of Pacific Pain & Wellness Group, she is dedicated to creating a personalized treatment plan that will guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, Sumera will construct a treatment plan aligned with your current goals towards resiliency and healing.

Dr. Jon, founder of Aveo Wellness, a concierge psychiatry practice, knows all about helping you face challenges and life transitions with medication optimization, therapy, life-coaching, and addiction/overuse management.
Dr. Jon, founder of Aveo Wellness, a concierge psychiatry practice, knows all about helping you face challenges and life transitions with medication optimization, therapy, life-coaching, and addiction/overuse management.

Eric A. Lazcano, M.D. is an ABPN-Board Certified Psychiatrist. He graduated medical school from UT Southwestern and completed psychiatry residency training as Chief Resident from Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. Dr. Lazcano is an adult general psychiatrist who has been overseeing a South Bay Los Angeles private practice since 2018. In addition to offering both in-person and virtual sessions, Dr. Lazcano creates social media content to help his audience achieve lives of less stress.
Eric A. Lazcano, M.D. is an ABPN-Board Certified Psychiatrist. He graduated medical school from UT Southwestern and completed psychiatry residency training as Chief Resident from Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. Dr. Lazcano is an adult general psychiatrist who has been overseeing a South Bay Los Angeles private practice since 2018. In addition to offering both in-person and virtual sessions, Dr. Lazcano creates social media content to help his audience achieve lives of less stress.

Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.

Dr. Eric Michael is a board-certified psychiatrist with a focus on bipolar disorder, insomnia, major depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and schizophrenia. Dr. Michael’s modalities include medication management in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and prolonged exposure therapy. His role is to be a helpful guide for his patients and to provide support, insight, and knowledge. Dr. Michael completed his residency and forensic psychiatry fellowship at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Dr. Eric Michael is a board-certified psychiatrist with a focus on bipolar disorder, insomnia, major depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and schizophrenia. Dr. Michael’s modalities include medication management in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and prolonged exposure therapy. His role is to be a helpful guide for his patients and to provide support, insight, and knowledge. Dr. Michael completed his residency and forensic psychiatry fellowship at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!

If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help you improve your life. I strive to create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower my patients by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to each individual's unique experiences and aspirations.
If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help you improve your life. I strive to create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower my patients by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to each individual's unique experiences and aspirations.

To request a consultation, please submit a request via my website at: zenpsychiatry.com/private-practice. I am not able to respond to requests via phone or my Psychology Today profile. Thank you! I am a functional and integrative psychiatrist who will treat you as a whole person— mind, brain, body, and soul. I combine holistic approaches like nutritional supplementation, herbal/plant-based medicine, advanced laboratory testing, and mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric approaches like medication and solution-oriented psychotherapy. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum illness, and PTSD/Trauma.
To request a consultation, please submit a request via my website at: zenpsychiatry.com/private-practice. I am not able to respond to requests via phone or my Psychology Today profile. Thank you! I am a functional and integrative psychiatrist who will treat you as a whole person— mind, brain, body, and soul. I combine holistic approaches like nutritional supplementation, herbal/plant-based medicine, advanced laboratory testing, and mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric approaches like medication and solution-oriented psychotherapy. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum illness, and PTSD/Trauma.

I'm the Medical Director of SoCal Youth Center, a mental health treatment center for youths ages 8-18. I supervise a team that provides trauma-informed care in our comprehensive programs offered in-person and via telehealth. Our unique intensive outpatient treatment program consists of services including individual therapy, family therapy, group sessions, and psychiatric medication management. My team collectively has decades of experience in treating a wide range of behavioral and developmental disorders, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and body image issues, gender identity issues, autism, and ADHD.
I'm the Medical Director of SoCal Youth Center, a mental health treatment center for youths ages 8-18. I supervise a team that provides trauma-informed care in our comprehensive programs offered in-person and via telehealth. Our unique intensive outpatient treatment program consists of services including individual therapy, family therapy, group sessions, and psychiatric medication management. My team collectively has decades of experience in treating a wide range of behavioral and developmental disorders, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and body image issues, gender identity issues, autism, and ADHD.

My ideal client is an adult struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or addiction. They seek understanding and support to navigate life’s complexities and improve their well-being. Their goal is to feel empowered, regain balance, and build resilience. They want a compassionate, personalized approach to address their unique needs and a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions. Whether overcoming trauma, managing stress, or improving relationships, they’re looking for guidance to achieve meaningful, lasting change.
My ideal client is an adult struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or addiction. They seek understanding and support to navigate life’s complexities and improve their well-being. Their goal is to feel empowered, regain balance, and build resilience. They want a compassionate, personalized approach to address their unique needs and a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions. Whether overcoming trauma, managing stress, or improving relationships, they’re looking for guidance to achieve meaningful, lasting change.

Stephany Lavigne - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Dr. Stephany Lavigne, a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors from the University of South Alabama. With over a decade of experience, she has excelled in forensic psychiatry at Metropolitan State Hospital, caring for patients under penal codes and conservatorship. Dr. Lavigne has also demonstrated her commitment in diverse outpatient settings, providing quality mental health care.
Dr. Stephany Lavigne, a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors from the University of South Alabama. With over a decade of experience, she has excelled in forensic psychiatry at Metropolitan State Hospital, caring for patients under penal codes and conservatorship. Dr. Lavigne has also demonstrated her commitment in diverse outpatient settings, providing quality mental health care.

Dr. Olusunmade is trained in child and adolescent psychiatry, as well as in adult psychiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Olusunmade has extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations and has particular clinical interests in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and trauma. His practice focuses on medication management along with supportive therapy and psycho-education of patients and families.
Dr. Olusunmade is trained in child and adolescent psychiatry, as well as in adult psychiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Olusunmade has extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations and has particular clinical interests in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and trauma. His practice focuses on medication management along with supportive therapy and psycho-education of patients and families.
See more therapy options for 90029
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 90029
< 10
Psychiatrists in 90029 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
67% | Emotional Disturbance |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Other |
How Psychiatrists in 90029 see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 90029?
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.