Psychiatrists in 90034

Photo of Roberto Figueroa, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Roberto Figueroa
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
El doctor Figueroa tiene una extensa formación, especialización y experiencia en psicofarmacología. Después de completar su residencia en el año 2003, obtuvo una beca para especializarse en psicofarmacología en Mount Sinai School of Medicine en Nueva York. Desde entonces ha participado en docenas de ensayos clínicos de investigación, dirigidos a evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de los medicamentos que están siendo estudiados para el tratamiento de la ansiedad, depresión, trastorno bipolar y trastornos psicóticos. También ha liderado proyectos de investigación para estudiar la seguridad a largo plazo de la exposición a antidepresivos
El doctor Figueroa tiene una extensa formación, especialización y experiencia en psicofarmacología. Después de completar su residencia en el año 2003, obtuvo una beca para especializarse en psicofarmacología en Mount Sinai School of Medicine en Nueva York. Desde entonces ha participado en docenas de ensayos clínicos de investigación, dirigidos a evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de los medicamentos que están siendo estudiados para el tratamiento de la ansiedad, depresión, trastorno bipolar y trastornos psicóticos. También ha liderado proyectos de investigación para estudiar la seguridad a largo plazo de la exposición a antidepresivos
(310) 935-4184 View (310) 935-4184
Photo of Mark Aganya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Aganya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health issues, I’m here to help you feel more balanced and in control. My focus is on understanding your unique experiences and finding treatment options that really work for you. Through a mix of medication management and a caring approach, I help people 13 and older make meaningful changes for a better quality of life.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health issues, I’m here to help you feel more balanced and in control. My focus is on understanding your unique experiences and finding treatment options that really work for you. Through a mix of medication management and a caring approach, I help people 13 and older make meaningful changes for a better quality of life.
(530) 489-4616 View (530) 489-4616
Photo of Azmeena Hashem, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Azmeena Hashem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
(424) 484-8616 View (424) 484-8616
Photo of Jennique 'jenn' Simplice, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennique 'jenn' Simplice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Jenn Simplice is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Jenn received her bachelors on the East Coast from New Jersey City University and is originally from the Bronx, New York. Jenn migrated to the West Coast as a travel RN where she completed her masters and currently continues to reside in southern CA. Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations including adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community.
Jenn Simplice is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Jenn received her bachelors on the East Coast from New Jersey City University and is originally from the Bronx, New York. Jenn migrated to the West Coast as a travel RN where she completed her masters and currently continues to reside in southern CA. Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations including adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community.
(424) 722-3659 View (424) 722-3659
Photo of Dr. David J Hermiz, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. David J Hermiz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist trained at UCLA, I focus on psychoanalysis, dementia assessment, personality disorders, mood disorders, organic psychotic disorders, and forensic psychiatry. My practice combines psychoanalytic psychotherapy with medication management, creating a supportive environment for profound emotional insight and effective symptom management. I offer extensive forensic evaluation services, specializing in competency and capacity assessments. I provide long-term psychotherapy-focused treatment in addition to evaluations, rather than solely offering medication management.
As an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist trained at UCLA, I focus on psychoanalysis, dementia assessment, personality disorders, mood disorders, organic psychotic disorders, and forensic psychiatry. My practice combines psychoanalytic psychotherapy with medication management, creating a supportive environment for profound emotional insight and effective symptom management. I offer extensive forensic evaluation services, specializing in competency and capacity assessments. I provide long-term psychotherapy-focused treatment in addition to evaluations, rather than solely offering medication management.
(424) 799-3667 View (424) 799-3667
Photo of Ingrid Suazo, DHA, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Ingrid Suazo
Psychiatric Nurse, DHA, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Ingrid Suazo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has an extensive 10-year involvement working with severely mentally ill individuals. Her great passion is bringing out the fullest potential, and guiding healing to clients across the life span.
Ingrid Suazo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has an extensive 10-year involvement working with severely mentally ill individuals. Her great passion is bringing out the fullest potential, and guiding healing to clients across the life span.
(424) 375-7529 View (424) 375-7529
Photo of Uchenna Okoye, MD , Psychiatrist
Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(424) 610-9948 View (424) 610-9948
Photo of Benedicta Osuji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(949) 785-2966 View (949) 785-2966
Photo of Khadeer Khan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadeer Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Each patient may represent a variety of mental health concerns and requiring a comprehensive and individualized approach to care. A thorough assessment of their mental health, a personalized treatment plan, therapeutic support, holistic approach and providing the patient with the knowledge and tools they need to understand their condition, participate actively in their care and make informed decisions.
Each patient may represent a variety of mental health concerns and requiring a comprehensive and individualized approach to care. A thorough assessment of their mental health, a personalized treatment plan, therapeutic support, holistic approach and providing the patient with the knowledge and tools they need to understand their condition, participate actively in their care and make informed decisions.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Ronald St Hill, MD, Psychiatrist
Ronald St Hill
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Ronald G. St. Hill. I received my medical degree from University of the West Indies Faculty of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 20 years.
I am Dr. Ronald G. St. Hill. I received my medical degree from University of the West Indies Faculty of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 20 years.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Karine Setyan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karine Setyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and earned a Master of Science with National Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice, also from Azusa Pacific University. I hold National Certification for Independent Practice in Group Settings in Psychiatric Mental Health across the lifespan
I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and earned a Master of Science with National Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice, also from Azusa Pacific University. I hold National Certification for Independent Practice in Group Settings in Psychiatric Mental Health across the lifespan
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Teresa Hug, MSN, PMHNP-C, ACNP-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Hug
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, ACNP-c
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Teresa Hug. I am dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and acute care practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, excessive worrying, panic, and dealing with life stressors. Life stressors can include relationships, divorce, raising children, jobs, school, or coping with a chronic illness. In today's world, it is easy to struggle in our minds and feel we have no control of our thoughts but there's a way for you to regain control. I offer remote computerized testing for ADHD evaluation and genetic testing for response of medication.
Hello, my name is Teresa Hug. I am dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and acute care practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, excessive worrying, panic, and dealing with life stressors. Life stressors can include relationships, divorce, raising children, jobs, school, or coping with a chronic illness. In today's world, it is easy to struggle in our minds and feel we have no control of our thoughts but there's a way for you to regain control. I offer remote computerized testing for ADHD evaluation and genetic testing for response of medication.
(727) 205-5111 View (727) 205-5111
Photo of Taylor Scheller, PA-C , CAQ, Physician Assistant
Taylor Scheller
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(424) 435-1284 View (424) 435-1284
Photo of Ingrid L Montgomery - Ingrid L. Montgomery, MD, MPH, PLLC, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Ingrid L. Montgomery, MD, MPH, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I am a board certified psychiatrist treating adolescents and adults suffering from stress related issues that are causing dysfunction in your life. Some issues are as simple as learning healthy coping skills and having a support system that understands you. If you are suffering from a new onset or chronic illness such as bipolar, depression, substance use disorder, or anxiety, our practice will provide both medication and therapy to help in certain cases. You will receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We provide concierge service (travel) to you in the comfort of your home or office-(postponed).
I am a board certified psychiatrist treating adolescents and adults suffering from stress related issues that are causing dysfunction in your life. Some issues are as simple as learning healthy coping skills and having a support system that understands you. If you are suffering from a new onset or chronic illness such as bipolar, depression, substance use disorder, or anxiety, our practice will provide both medication and therapy to help in certain cases. You will receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We provide concierge service (travel) to you in the comfort of your home or office-(postponed).
(347) 658-1169 View (347) 658-1169
Photo of Muud Health Care - MUUD Health, MD, PhD, LCSW, Psychiatrist
MUUD Health
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Our program is ideal for those seeking a mental health care team that’s connected and wants to help you find the best in you.
Our program is ideal for those seeking a mental health care team that’s connected and wants to help you find the best in you.
(310) 510-6336 View (310) 510-6336
Photo of Heather Walsh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Heather Walsh is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who sees patients for anxiety, depression, hyperactive disorders (ADD/ADHD), psychiatric consultations, and sleep issues.
Heather Walsh is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who sees patients for anxiety, depression, hyperactive disorders (ADD/ADHD), psychiatric consultations, and sleep issues.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Julie M. Hall, MD, Psychiatrist
Julie M. Hall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
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 Mark McDonald, MD, Psychiatrist
Mark McDonald
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
My patients value in-person care outside the now discredited US medical institution, from a doctor whose goal is to guide them toward health, with or without prescription drugs. They are looking for a doctor who is not beholden to any corporate interest and still follows real science and not propaganda. They want the government out of the doctor-patient relationship. They want a mask-free environment. They want the truth. They want to think for themselves. www.dissidentmd.com.
My patients value in-person care outside the now discredited US medical institution, from a doctor whose goal is to guide them toward health, with or without prescription drugs. They are looking for a doctor who is not beholden to any corporate interest and still follows real science and not propaganda. They want the government out of the doctor-patient relationship. They want a mask-free environment. They want the truth. They want to think for themselves. www.dissidentmd.com.
(310) 596-4145 View (310) 596-4145
Photo of Lalaine Otadoy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lalaine Otadoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(424) 380-5024 View (424) 380-5024
Photo of Taylor Alexander, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taylor Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(747) 302-6786 View (747) 302-6786
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90034

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 90034 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
88% Bipolar Disorder
88% Medication Management
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Trauma and PTSD
75% ADHD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 90034 see their clients

62% Online Only
38% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90034?

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.