Psychiatrists in 90045

Photo of Kathleen Isabel Lopez, Psychiatrist, MD
Kathleen Isabel Lopez
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90045
I specialize in treating various forms of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders, especially treatment-resistant cases. I provide innovative therapeutics, such as Ketamine Therapy, TMS Therapy, General Psychiatry, and more. It's important to me to involve clients in decision-making, tailoring treatment plans to align with individual goals and preferences.
I specialize in treating various forms of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders, especially treatment-resistant cases. I provide innovative therapeutics, such as Ketamine Therapy, TMS Therapy, General Psychiatry, and more. It's important to me to involve clients in decision-making, tailoring treatment plans to align with individual goals and preferences.
(424) 380-7240 View (424) 380-7240
Photo of Pascal Daniel Stirnimann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Pascal Daniel Stirnimann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Los Angeles, CA 90045
I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and impulse control disorders across the lifespan. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, including training at a women’s shelter in New York City. I take a holistic approach to treatment, considering the whole individual and family system to create a personalized treatment plan. Using a shared decision-making model, I collaborate closely with clients to provide interventions that improve the key areas of life necessary for overall health and wellness.
I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and impulse control disorders across the lifespan. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, including training at a women’s shelter in New York City. I take a holistic approach to treatment, considering the whole individual and family system to create a personalized treatment plan. Using a shared decision-making model, I collaborate closely with clients to provide interventions that improve the key areas of life necessary for overall health and wellness.
(424) 398-8469 View (424) 398-8469
Photo of Uju Osagie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Uju Osagie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
I am a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with dual board certification: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate. I have over 23 years of extensive nursing experience in critical care, behavioral health, and addiction.
I am a doctoral-prepared nurse practitioner with dual board certification: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate. I have over 23 years of extensive nursing experience in critical care, behavioral health, and addiction.
(424) 378-5904 View (424) 378-5904
Photo of Gina Ameri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gina Ameri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Gina Ameri, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). With extensive experience in mental health care, I treat individuals across the lifespan, from ages 8 to 65, managing a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more. I provide virtual telehealth sessions that are rooted in evidence-based practices, always prioritizing patient safety and comfort. My approach is collaborative, personalized, and holistic. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood, and free to explore their needs without judgment.
My name is Gina Ameri, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). With extensive experience in mental health care, I treat individuals across the lifespan, from ages 8 to 65, managing a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more. I provide virtual telehealth sessions that are rooted in evidence-based practices, always prioritizing patient safety and comfort. My approach is collaborative, personalized, and holistic. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood, and free to explore their needs without judgment.
(424) 799-1058 View (424) 799-1058
Photo of Trish Williams Forde - Trish Williams-Forde Aligned Mind Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Trish Williams-Forde Aligned Mind Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Do you sometimes feel disconnected from yourself and others? Do you have dreams and aspirations but need help reaching those goals or accomplishments? Nowadays, sadness, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, and uncertainty about navigating new or long-term relationships are widespread experiences. At Aligned Mind Health Services, we offer a customized client-focused approach to help you move forward and celebrate your successes along your journey! We meet you where you are and work with you to overcome various challenges. We aim to help you feel better and live the purpose-filled life you deserve!
Do you sometimes feel disconnected from yourself and others? Do you have dreams and aspirations but need help reaching those goals or accomplishments? Nowadays, sadness, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, and uncertainty about navigating new or long-term relationships are widespread experiences. At Aligned Mind Health Services, we offer a customized client-focused approach to help you move forward and celebrate your successes along your journey! We meet you where you are and work with you to overcome various challenges. We aim to help you feel better and live the purpose-filled life you deserve!
(424) 433-3804 View (424) 433-3804
Photo of Sean Tai, Psychiatrist, DO
Sean Tai
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Sean Tai’s approach towards mental health is holistic and integrative, with a focus on biological, psychological, and sociological contributors to psychiatric illness and wellness. He is especially interested in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. He believes in individualized, collaborative treatment plans as well as the importance of psychotherapy to help with recovery.
Dr. Sean Tai’s approach towards mental health is holistic and integrative, with a focus on biological, psychological, and sociological contributors to psychiatric illness and wellness. He is especially interested in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. He believes in individualized, collaborative treatment plans as well as the importance of psychotherapy to help with recovery.
(323) 312-3849 View (323) 312-3849
Photo of Dr. Soroya Bacchus, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Soroya Bacchus
Psychiatrist, MD
11 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Dr. Bacchus is highly-skilled, warm, well-regarded. Empathy, compassion and understanding buttress all evaluations. She is board certified in psychiatry, addiction medicine, psychosomatic medicine and geriatric psychiatry. Integrative psychiatry is a biopsychosocial approach to total health. Functional capability and full mind and body health restoration is the goal. This approach is comprehensive, simple, fast and highly customized for each patient. Dr. Bacchus is able to help you identify the core issues of difficulty and address them with medication assisted treatment and psychotherapy in the quickest and easiest way possible.
Dr. Bacchus is highly-skilled, warm, well-regarded. Empathy, compassion and understanding buttress all evaluations. She is board certified in psychiatry, addiction medicine, psychosomatic medicine and geriatric psychiatry. Integrative psychiatry is a biopsychosocial approach to total health. Functional capability and full mind and body health restoration is the goal. This approach is comprehensive, simple, fast and highly customized for each patient. Dr. Bacchus is able to help you identify the core issues of difficulty and address them with medication assisted treatment and psychotherapy in the quickest and easiest way possible.
(844) 616-1616 View (844) 616-1616
Photo of Jeffrey I Cantrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jeffrey I Cantrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Los Angeles, CA 90045
I specialize in treating various forms of depression, especially treatment-resistant cases, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders. I provide innovative therapeutics, such as Ketamine Therapy, TMS Therapy, General Psychiatry, and more. A proud advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, I'm committed to providing inclusive, supportive, and affirming care to individuals of all genders and sexual orientations. I have a client-centered approach, recognizing each person’s unique journey. It's important to me to involve clients in decision-making, tailoring treatment plans to align with individual goals and preferences.
I specialize in treating various forms of depression, especially treatment-resistant cases, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders. I provide innovative therapeutics, such as Ketamine Therapy, TMS Therapy, General Psychiatry, and more. A proud advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, I'm committed to providing inclusive, supportive, and affirming care to individuals of all genders and sexual orientations. I have a client-centered approach, recognizing each person’s unique journey. It's important to me to involve clients in decision-making, tailoring treatment plans to align with individual goals and preferences.
(424) 484-5193 View (424) 484-5193
Photo of Rhonda Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMFT
Rhonda Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMFT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a health care provider with 14 years of experience in behavioral health, I have dedicated my career empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness & lasting emotional resilience. My passion lies in addressing complex & deeply personal challenges, particularly trauma-related mood disorders, such as depression. Over the years I have cultivated an evidenced based approach to care that prioritizes my patients' unique journeys toward healing and balance. My professional focus has expanded to include Integrative psychiatry, medication management, counseling & EMDR. . Professional verification provided by Psychology Today
As a health care provider with 14 years of experience in behavioral health, I have dedicated my career empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness & lasting emotional resilience. My passion lies in addressing complex & deeply personal challenges, particularly trauma-related mood disorders, such as depression. Over the years I have cultivated an evidenced based approach to care that prioritizes my patients' unique journeys toward healing and balance. My professional focus has expanded to include Integrative psychiatry, medication management, counseling & EMDR. . Professional verification provided by Psychology Today
(310) 455-8531 View (310) 455-8531
Photo of Daniel Chandler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Daniel Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
(424) 699-3630 View (424) 699-3630
Photo of Ana Popoca-Logue - Dr Popoca-Logue, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Dr Popoca-Logue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
We cannot escape pain & suffering, as they are part of the human condition; however, we can help alleviate their burden. Emotional pain and physical pain are often intertwined, thus a holistic approach is beneficial when dealing with mental conditions. Much has been written about human suffering, and of our collective quest to help one another; I believe our best tools are a caring brain & listening heart to hear you, understand you, assist you. This is your life. YOU are in the driver's seat; I will be your co-pilot, your guide, your listening ear... depending on YOUR needs. How can I help?
We cannot escape pain & suffering, as they are part of the human condition; however, we can help alleviate their burden. Emotional pain and physical pain are often intertwined, thus a holistic approach is beneficial when dealing with mental conditions. Much has been written about human suffering, and of our collective quest to help one another; I believe our best tools are a caring brain & listening heart to hear you, understand you, assist you. This is your life. YOU are in the driver's seat; I will be your co-pilot, your guide, your listening ear... depending on YOUR needs. How can I help?
(657) 301-4112 View (657) 301-4112
Photo of Eudora Osuala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eudora Osuala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Eudora is board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 15 years in the field of nursing. Her experience ranges from intensive care, cardiovascular care, education to psychiatric mental health nursing.
Eudora is board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 15 years in the field of nursing. Her experience ranges from intensive care, cardiovascular care, education to psychiatric mental health nursing.
(424) 323-4073 View (424) 323-4073
Photo of Nadia Seray-Wurie - Angels Mental Health & Wellness Services PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angels Mental Health & Wellness Services PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Welcome to our practice. I am Nadia Seray-Wurie, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing exceptional psychiatric and medical care to individuals and families. Our mission is to deliver high-quality services to clients across communities and states, offering both in-person and telepsychiatry options to meet your needs. We also accept Employee Assistance Program (EAP) patients to ensure they receive the best possible care. Committed to ongoing learning and the integration of cutting-edge technology, we strive to offer outstanding patient care at all times with having over 18 years of experience.
Welcome to our practice. I am Nadia Seray-Wurie, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing exceptional psychiatric and medical care to individuals and families. Our mission is to deliver high-quality services to clients across communities and states, offering both in-person and telepsychiatry options to meet your needs. We also accept Employee Assistance Program (EAP) patients to ensure they receive the best possible care. Committed to ongoing learning and the integration of cutting-edge technology, we strive to offer outstanding patient care at all times with having over 18 years of experience.
(323) 977-6971 View (323) 977-6971
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - Wellpsyche Medical Group Inc, Psychiatrist, MD
Wellpsyche Medical Group Inc
Psychiatrist, MD
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) 866-8018 View (424) 866-8018
Photo of Haiyan Wang, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Haiyan Wang
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist specialized in OCD and anxiety. Over the years, I've been severed as an expert in such areas by providing care to patients throughout U.S. due to their severe OCD and anxiety symptoms. I provide complex medication management and guidance for behavioral interventions such as ERP and CBT. In addition, I am actively involved in mentoring the next generations of mental health providers and provides peer consults for OCD and anxiety treatment for children, adolescents and adults. I also treat all mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar PTSD, ADHD and psychosis.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist specialized in OCD and anxiety. Over the years, I've been severed as an expert in such areas by providing care to patients throughout U.S. due to their severe OCD and anxiety symptoms. I provide complex medication management and guidance for behavioral interventions such as ERP and CBT. In addition, I am actively involved in mentoring the next generations of mental health providers and provides peer consults for OCD and anxiety treatment for children, adolescents and adults. I also treat all mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar PTSD, ADHD and psychosis.
(424) 238-3900 View (424) 238-3900
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - Wellpsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
Wellpsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
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) 484-5385 View (424) 484-5385
Photo of Victor Torres-Collazo, Psychiatrist, MD
Victor Torres-Collazo
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Victor Torres-Collazo, MD provides specialty psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultations for adults. He specializes in assessments and treatment of patients with comorbid medical and psychiatric issues. Dr. Torres-Collazo is ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Consult-Liaison Psychiatry/CLP. He completed fellowship at Georgetown, during which he also trained at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He is very experienced with pharmacogenetic testing, neuropsychiatric issues, complex medical issues and medication management. He is fluent in both English and Spanish.
Victor Torres-Collazo, MD provides specialty psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultations for adults. He specializes in assessments and treatment of patients with comorbid medical and psychiatric issues. Dr. Torres-Collazo is ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Consult-Liaison Psychiatry/CLP. He completed fellowship at Georgetown, during which he also trained at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He is very experienced with pharmacogenetic testing, neuropsychiatric issues, complex medical issues and medication management. He is fluent in both English and Spanish.
(415) 943-8248 View (415) 943-8248
Photo of Kirk Alan Tjaas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Kirk Alan Tjaas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Los Angeles, CA 90045
I am straight to the point, patient, and persistent. I will encourage you to be a participant in your health, wellness, and recovery and am deeply dedicated to helping people develop new habits and personal accountability. This is a journey and you must show up and be ready to walk forward. I will support you and encourage you but I cannot do the work for you. So, let's get ready for the journey to a new you!
I am straight to the point, patient, and persistent. I will encourage you to be a participant in your health, wellness, and recovery and am deeply dedicated to helping people develop new habits and personal accountability. This is a journey and you must show up and be ready to walk forward. I will support you and encourage you but I cannot do the work for you. So, let's get ready for the journey to a new you!
(520) 376-8792 View (520) 376-8792
Photo of Alfredo Bimbela - Psychological Behavioral Health Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychological Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Locations: California. To make an appointment, please visit our website and complete "Start Services". If you have questions, please visit our website and submit your questions online.
Locations: California. To make an appointment, please visit our website and complete "Start Services". If you have questions, please visit our website and submit your questions online.
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Photo of Oyinloye Nayin, Psychiatrist, MD
Oyinloye Nayin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I chose the field of psychiatry with the goal of empowering patients and equipping them with the skills to improve their mental health. I strive to destigmatize mental illness and normalize seeking help when struggling. My passion for psychiatry stems from my interest in connecting with people and understanding their unique stories. I strongly believe the patient-physician relationship should be a partnership with the mutual task of achieving the desired treatment goal. I take a careful clinical medical and psychiatric history to determine the diagnosis and medication that will be the best fit for you.
I chose the field of psychiatry with the goal of empowering patients and equipping them with the skills to improve their mental health. I strive to destigmatize mental illness and normalize seeking help when struggling. My passion for psychiatry stems from my interest in connecting with people and understanding their unique stories. I strongly believe the patient-physician relationship should be a partnership with the mutual task of achieving the desired treatment goal. I take a careful clinical medical and psychiatric history to determine the diagnosis and medication that will be the best fit for you.
(341) 217-9018 View (341) 217-9018

See more therapy options for 90045

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90045

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 90045 who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
95% Bipolar Disorder
86% ADHD
86% Trauma and PTSD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 90045 see their clients

64% Online Only
36% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90045?

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.