Psychiatrists in 90041

Photo of Shannon Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041  (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.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Ahila Muthaiya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ahila Muthaiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041  (Online Only)
As a compassionate and faith-driven mental health provider, my approach to care is deeply rooted in the belief that healing encompasses more than just the alleviation of symptoms. My name is Ahila, and I am committed to offering holistic support that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
As a compassionate and faith-driven mental health provider, my approach to care is deeply rooted in the belief that healing encompasses more than just the alleviation of symptoms. My name is Ahila, and I am committed to offering holistic support that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
(213) 682-2674 View (213) 682-2674
Photo of Kyle P. Smith, MD, Psychiatrist
Kyle P. Smith
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Dr. Kyle P. Smith is a Harvard-educated, Cornell-educated, UCLA-trained psychiatrist in Los Angeles. He has an office in Los Feliz. He is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). He also offers ketamine therapy for several conditions.
Dr. Kyle P. Smith is a Harvard-educated, Cornell-educated, UCLA-trained psychiatrist in Los Angeles. He has an office in Los Feliz. He is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). He also offers ketamine therapy for several conditions.
(323) 673-3759 View (323) 673-3759
Photo of Jason Jemera, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jason Jemera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041  (Online Only)
Mental health is not one glove fits all. We each have our unique backgrounds, stories, lifestyles, struggles, beliefs, and sources of joy. Together we can navigate through depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), life transitions, career/academic stress, and self esteem issues. My clients have included doctors, nurses, therapists, social workers, lawyers, teachers, diversity and inclusion program directors, engineers, tech specialists, artists, musicians, CEOs, community leaders, parents and more.
Mental health is not one glove fits all. We each have our unique backgrounds, stories, lifestyles, struggles, beliefs, and sources of joy. Together we can navigate through depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), life transitions, career/academic stress, and self esteem issues. My clients have included doctors, nurses, therapists, social workers, lawyers, teachers, diversity and inclusion program directors, engineers, tech specialists, artists, musicians, CEOs, community leaders, parents and more.
(916) 827-4852 View (916) 827-4852
Photo of Catherine Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist
Catherine Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I am a Stanford University trained, board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic, compassionate approach to treating individuals with a variety of conditions. Reasons for seeking treatment can be complex, and I recommend and prescribe medications using evidence-based practices only after a thorough assessment and when my client and I are in agreement with the plan. I am happy to collaborate with outside therapists and other medical professionals as needed to provide comprehensive treatment for clients.
I am a Stanford University trained, board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic, compassionate approach to treating individuals with a variety of conditions. Reasons for seeking treatment can be complex, and I recommend and prescribe medications using evidence-based practices only after a thorough assessment and when my client and I are in agreement with the plan. I am happy to collaborate with outside therapists and other medical professionals as needed to provide comprehensive treatment for clients.
(626) 322-2693 View (626) 322-2693
Photo of Amarachi Igwe, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amarachi Igwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. I am here to listen and help you. Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings ? Do you feel you get anxious easily for nothing in particular ? Do you have fears that lead you to do repetitive behaviors ? I’m here to help you. My practice which is calm corner mental health was founded for the sole purpose of providing a calm and safe place to seek help for mental health needs and treatment.
I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. I am here to listen and help you. Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings ? Do you feel you get anxious easily for nothing in particular ? Do you have fears that lead you to do repetitive behaviors ? I’m here to help you. My practice which is calm corner mental health was founded for the sole purpose of providing a calm and safe place to seek help for mental health needs and treatment.
(858) 648-5861 View (858) 648-5861
Photo of Amarachi Igwe - Calm corner Mental health, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Calm corner Mental health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings, anxiety, depression? I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. At calm corner mental health we understand that seeking mental health care that feels both supportive and culturally sensitive is essential. That's why we are proud to offer a team of experienced and compassionate black psychiatrists in Los Angeles who are committed to providing you with the highest level of mental care.
Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings, anxiety, depression? I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. At calm corner mental health we understand that seeking mental health care that feels both supportive and culturally sensitive is essential. That's why we are proud to offer a team of experienced and compassionate black psychiatrists in Los Angeles who are committed to providing you with the highest level of mental care.
(562) 620-8482 View (562) 620-8482

More Psychiatrists Nearby

LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 701-0498 View (844) 701-0498
Photo of Cheryl Hendricks, MD, Psychiatrist
Cheryl Hendricks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90065
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a rich background of specialized training and experience. I completed my clinical training at the prestigious UCLA Semel Institute where I was chief resident of the adult psychiatry residency program. While at UCLA I received additional training in reproductive psychiatry, including the treatment of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period through the Women's Life Center. This expertise is complemented by my extensive experience working with creative professionals, understanding the unique challenges they may face in their mental health journey.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a rich background of specialized training and experience. I completed my clinical training at the prestigious UCLA Semel Institute where I was chief resident of the adult psychiatry residency program. While at UCLA I received additional training in reproductive psychiatry, including the treatment of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period through the Women's Life Center. This expertise is complemented by my extensive experience working with creative professionals, understanding the unique challenges they may face in their mental health journey.
(323) 210-4065 View (323) 210-4065
Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Remedy Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Are you struggling in your daily life and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks to get an appointment or pay alot to get personalized medication management? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
Are you struggling in your daily life and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks to get an appointment or pay alot to get personalized medication management? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
(424) 232-0801 View (424) 232-0801
Photo of Nida Kichkla, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nida Kichkla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Hello, I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who works in a wide variety of settings. My unique experience with patients of all walks of life allow me to provide empathetic and individualized planning when it comes to patient care and achieving treatment goals. I base my care on a whole person centered model that includes supportive and motivational therapy as well as medication management when indicated.
Hello, I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who works in a wide variety of settings. My unique experience with patients of all walks of life allow me to provide empathetic and individualized planning when it comes to patient care and achieving treatment goals. I base my care on a whole person centered model that includes supportive and motivational therapy as well as medication management when indicated.
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Photo of David Ha, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Ha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(323) 870-6648 View (323) 870-6648
Photo of Richard Mesco, DO, Psychiatrist
Richard Mesco
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205
Richard works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Richard believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Richard works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Richard believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
(323) 990-8305 View (323) 990-8305
Photo of Shelly Cohen, MD, JD, Psychiatrist
Shelly Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health/reproductive psychiatry, licensed in both NY and CA. I have advanced training in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders related to infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and PMDD. I also treat the general adult population with mood, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar and psychotic disorders. With a holistic and patient centered approach, I combine an understanding of psychopharmacology and psychodynamic psychiatry to both alleviate symptoms and further, to help patients strive towards achieving meaning, balance and well-being in their lives.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health/reproductive psychiatry, licensed in both NY and CA. I have advanced training in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders related to infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and PMDD. I also treat the general adult population with mood, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar and psychotic disorders. With a holistic and patient centered approach, I combine an understanding of psychopharmacology and psychodynamic psychiatry to both alleviate symptoms and further, to help patients strive towards achieving meaning, balance and well-being in their lives.
(917) 970-1222 View (917) 970-1222
Photo of Zubin Zehtab, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zubin Zehtab
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205
Zubin Zehtab is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. Zubin can help a client by conducting a thorough assessment to gather information about the client's mental health status, history, and treatment goals. Then he would provide evidence-based treatments such as psychotherapy, medication management, and referrals to other healthcare providers as needed, and regularly monitor the client's progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Zubin believes in educating the client and their family about their mental health condition, the treatment plan, and any side effects of medications.
Zubin Zehtab is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. Zubin can help a client by conducting a thorough assessment to gather information about the client's mental health status, history, and treatment goals. Then he would provide evidence-based treatments such as psychotherapy, medication management, and referrals to other healthcare providers as needed, and regularly monitor the client's progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Zubin believes in educating the client and their family about their mental health condition, the treatment plan, and any side effects of medications.
(323) 870-6195 View (323) 870-6195
Photo of Patryce Bak - Transcend Psychiatric, PMHNP, MSN, MFA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Transcend Psychiatric
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90065
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and certified holistic health coach with over ten years of collective professional experience working with adults and children. I am currently accepting clients for psychiatric services from California and Arizona. I provide psychedelic journey integration coaching and holistic health coaching for any location. For AZ clients, I offer services 100% virtually via HIPAA compliant platforms including Doximity, Doxy.me or ZOOM. For clients located in Los Angeles, I offer in person sessions in Silverlake. For more information please visit: www.transcendpsychiatric.com
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and certified holistic health coach with over ten years of collective professional experience working with adults and children. I am currently accepting clients for psychiatric services from California and Arizona. I provide psychedelic journey integration coaching and holistic health coaching for any location. For AZ clients, I offer services 100% virtually via HIPAA compliant platforms including Doximity, Doxy.me or ZOOM. For clients located in Los Angeles, I offer in person sessions in Silverlake. For more information please visit: www.transcendpsychiatric.com
(323) 312-3210 View (323) 312-3210
Photo of Julio Quijada, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julio Quijada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Julio Quijada is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has extensive experience working with people suffering from mental health disorders. Julio started his nursing career in the mid-1990s. He completed his nursing education in 1997 and earned his ASN from Los Angeles Trade-Technical College. Then he completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Phoenix and earned his BSN in 2010. Lastly, he completed his MSN and post-master education as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University in 2022.
Julio Quijada is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has extensive experience working with people suffering from mental health disorders. Julio started his nursing career in the mid-1990s. He completed his nursing education in 1997 and earned his ASN from Los Angeles Trade-Technical College. Then he completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Phoenix and earned his BSN in 2010. Lastly, he completed his MSN and post-master education as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University in 2022.
(323) 879-8373 View (323) 879-8373
Photo of Paul Pawlowski - Paul Pawlowski MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul Pawlowski MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management services for adults. As a psychiatrist, I am uniquely poised to combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in a manner that resonates with a client’s goals and personal experiences.  For some people this involves psychotherapy alone, focused on creating a comfortable space to examine and ameliorate the patterns and behaviors which may be inadvertently furthering one’s dissatisfaction.  For other individuals, the complementary use of medications or alternative treatments may be indicated. 
I am a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management services for adults. As a psychiatrist, I am uniquely poised to combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in a manner that resonates with a client’s goals and personal experiences.  For some people this involves psychotherapy alone, focused on creating a comfortable space to examine and ameliorate the patterns and behaviors which may be inadvertently furthering one’s dissatisfaction.  For other individuals, the complementary use of medications or alternative treatments may be indicated. 
(323) 968-7316 View (323) 968-7316
Photo of Matthew White, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matthew White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Matthew White is a Psychiatric, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. Matt graduated from Cal State, Long Beach with a master's degree in clinical Psychiatry. Matt believes in an honest and straight forward approach to care, taking the time required to appropriately help those in need. Matt's areas of focus include Bipolar disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Schizophrenia. In his spare time, Matt enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and hiking in the Hollywood Hills.
Matthew White is a Psychiatric, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. Matt graduated from Cal State, Long Beach with a master's degree in clinical Psychiatry. Matt believes in an honest and straight forward approach to care, taking the time required to appropriately help those in need. Matt's areas of focus include Bipolar disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Schizophrenia. In his spare time, Matt enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and hiking in the Hollywood Hills.
(323) 897-8475 View (323) 897-8475
Photo of Gene Vasconez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gene Vasconez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90041

< 10

Psychiatrists in 90041 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
71% Medication Management
57% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 90041 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90041?

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.