Psychiatrists in 90038

Photo of Shannon Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
(213) 463-4605 View (213) 463-4605
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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!
(424) 396-0572 View (424) 396-0572
Photo of Joshua Flatow, MD, Psychiatrist
Joshua Flatow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(424) 369-7982 View (424) 369-7982
Photo of Rebecca Chae, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Chae
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm an ANCC-accredited board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in a variety of settings. My extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds enables me to provide personalized and empathic care that is suited to each individual's requirements and treatment goals. I approach patient treatment from a comprehensive, whole-person perspective. This involves a combination of supportive therapy, complemented by pharmaceutical management when indicated. A holistic approach requires acknowledging the multifaceted character of each person.
I'm an ANCC-accredited board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in a variety of settings. My extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds enables me to provide personalized and empathic care that is suited to each individual's requirements and treatment goals. I approach patient treatment from a comprehensive, whole-person perspective. This involves a combination of supportive therapy, complemented by pharmaceutical management when indicated. A holistic approach requires acknowledging the multifaceted character of each person.
(626) 699-8010 View (626) 699-8010
Photo of Steven Khoubian, MD, Psychiatrist
Steven Khoubian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Khoubian’s goal is to create a safe and respectful environment to share with his patients. He is passionate about working with individuals who are invested in their mental health and are motivated to work with a partner to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with the patient's preferences. It is a priority for Dr. Khoubian to collaborate with the patient’s therapists for the best care possible.
Dr. Khoubian’s goal is to create a safe and respectful environment to share with his patients. He is passionate about working with individuals who are invested in their mental health and are motivated to work with a partner to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with the patient's preferences. It is a priority for Dr. Khoubian to collaborate with the patient’s therapists for the best care possible.
(310) 986-3822 View (310) 986-3822
Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
(818) 740-6729 View (818) 740-6729
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy 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.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy 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.
(661) 215-8879 View (661) 215-8879

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Britton Ashley Arey - South Coast Psychiatry, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
South Coast Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
South Coast Psychiatry is a Concierge Psychiatry Outpatient Group Practice with adult psychiatrists who all offer personalized, comprehensive care to help support you and your family through every stage of life. We provide full-time administrative support, an upscale, beautiful office suite, and top-trained clinicians who can offer psychotherapy and medication management to patients with a wide variety of issues. Our clinicians are available to their patients 24/7, and our administrative team is available to our patients throughout the day. Patients thrive in our warm, caring, supportive environment.
South Coast Psychiatry is a Concierge Psychiatry Outpatient Group Practice with adult psychiatrists who all offer personalized, comprehensive care to help support you and your family through every stage of life. We provide full-time administrative support, an upscale, beautiful office suite, and top-trained clinicians who can offer psychotherapy and medication management to patients with a wide variety of issues. Our clinicians are available to their patients 24/7, and our administrative team is available to our patients throughout the day. Patients thrive in our warm, caring, supportive environment.
(714) 598-0828 View (714) 598-0828
Photo of Kimberley Durr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberley Durr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
(650) 547-3912 View (650) 547-3912
Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92804
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
(657) 571-4627 View (657) 571-4627
Photo of Isaac Berlin, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Isaac Berlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
My ideal client may be struggling with mood dysregulation, anxiety, depression, ADHD, or insomnia. They may also be part of the LGBTQIA+ community seeking gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy or HIV prevention and management (PrEP). They want compassionate, comprehensive care in a safe, non-judgmental space that addresses both their mental health and physical wellness. Caring for individuals since 2017, current UCI primary care psychiatry fellow.
My ideal client may be struggling with mood dysregulation, anxiety, depression, ADHD, or insomnia. They may also be part of the LGBTQIA+ community seeking gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy or HIV prevention and management (PrEP). They want compassionate, comprehensive care in a safe, non-judgmental space that addresses both their mental health and physical wellness. Caring for individuals since 2017, current UCI primary care psychiatry fellow.
(424) 728-4793 View (424) 728-4793
Photo of Ashley Benjamin, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashley Benjamin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Benjamin has an extensive background in multiple areas of psychiatry, his emphasis on holistic care including exercise, nutrition, herbal options, and mindfulness. For those patients who are under the care of a primary care doctor, he provides consultation services and will not take over the prescriber role. For a cost effective option, TLC also has an experienced/skilled (PA-C) who sees patients and prescribes under the TLC consortium. Dr. Benjamin consults with our closely in a collaborative manner. Are you experiencing medication side effects? Ask about Genesight.
Dr. Benjamin has an extensive background in multiple areas of psychiatry, his emphasis on holistic care including exercise, nutrition, herbal options, and mindfulness. For those patients who are under the care of a primary care doctor, he provides consultation services and will not take over the prescriber role. For a cost effective option, TLC also has an experienced/skilled (PA-C) who sees patients and prescribes under the TLC consortium. Dr. Benjamin consults with our closely in a collaborative manner. Are you experiencing medication side effects? Ask about Genesight.
(310) 779-6171 View (310) 779-6171
Photo of Calvin T Yang - Clarity Mental Health, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Clarity Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
What are your goals? What would you like to achieve? Imagine that you could feel different: less tired, less down, or less stressed. Perhaps you wish you could sleep better, have more energy, or concentrate better. Or maybe you are struggling in your life in other ways and need some help. I am comfortable working in all areas including anxiety, mood, thought, addiction, attention, and pain disorders. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve success, wellness, and newfound clarity.
What are your goals? What would you like to achieve? Imagine that you could feel different: less tired, less down, or less stressed. Perhaps you wish you could sleep better, have more energy, or concentrate better. Or maybe you are struggling in your life in other ways and need some help. I am comfortable working in all areas including anxiety, mood, thought, addiction, attention, and pain disorders. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve success, wellness, and newfound clarity.
(626) 887-1404 View (626) 887-1404
Photo of Dr. Chidinma G Nwankwo, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Chidinma G Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Chidinma is a skilled Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Los Angeles, California. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University and a Master’s in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health specialization from Walden University. With experience caring for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, she provides compassionate, evidence-based mental health care.
Chidinma is a skilled Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Los Angeles, California. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University and a Master’s in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health specialization from Walden University. With experience caring for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, she provides compassionate, evidence-based mental health care.
(310) 272-5049 View (310) 272-5049
Photo of Thasanee Fong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thasanee Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for adults (18 – 65 years old). I have 6 years of experience in mental health working in various settings.
Hi there, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for adults (18 – 65 years old). I have 6 years of experience in mental health working in various settings.
(909) 324-4606 View (909) 324-4606
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 Sauntrice O'Quin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sauntrice O'Quin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
(818) 740-6744 View (818) 740-6744
Photo of Paul Hartman, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul Hartman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Paul E. Hartman, MD is a Psychiatry & Neurology Child & Adolescent Psychiatry specialty provider based out of Los Angeles, California.
Paul E. Hartman, MD is a Psychiatry & Neurology Child & Adolescent Psychiatry specialty provider based out of Los Angeles, California.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Young Tae Lee, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Young Tae Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance! During our first visit, we will complete a full mental health assessment and evaluation. There will be lots of questions during this visit, especially regarding your medical and mental health history. Working together to determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is important for your mental health. This may require multiple appointments. Controlled medications may be available from my practice on a limited basis and rarely on the first session.
To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance! During our first visit, we will complete a full mental health assessment and evaluation. There will be lots of questions during this visit, especially regarding your medical and mental health history. Working together to determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is important for your mental health. This may require multiple appointments. Controlled medications may be available from my practice on a limited basis and rarely on the first session.
(818) 698-2286 View (818) 698-2286
Photo of Stacy Lyons, PMHNP, LPC, NP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Lyons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, NP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Stacy promises you will be heard! She is dually certified in medication management and therapy and specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, PTSD, medication management, and more. Stacy is highly sought for her psychiatry, medication management, and therapy expertise. She has been recognized with awards such as The Zocdoc Most Loyal Patients Award and the WebMD 2023 Highest Patient Satisfaction Rating. Stacy has helped many patients achieve success in their mental health journey. Start your journey to living the life you deserve.
Stacy promises you will be heard! She is dually certified in medication management and therapy and specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, PTSD, medication management, and more. Stacy is highly sought for her psychiatry, medication management, and therapy expertise. She has been recognized with awards such as The Zocdoc Most Loyal Patients Award and the WebMD 2023 Highest Patient Satisfaction Rating. Stacy has helped many patients achieve success in their mental health journey. Start your journey to living the life you deserve.
(747) 252-5716 View (747) 252-5716

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90038

< 10

Psychiatrists in 90038 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% TRICARE
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 90038 see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90038?

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.