Psychiatrists in 90095

Photo of Tameka Dyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
(310) 388-4389 View (310) 388-4389
Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(951) 514-3787 View (951) 514-3787
Photo of Sahib Khalsa, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Sahib Khalsa
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90095
Every journey to wellness begins within. As a board-certified psychiatrist trained at UCLA with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and depression, using a blend of evidence-based medicine and psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. My approach integrates the latest research on the brain-body connection, leveraging our improved understanding of how internal body sensations influence our mental health. This knowledge helps in crafting personalized treatment plans that include mind and body interventions aimed at enhancing overall well-being.
Every journey to wellness begins within. As a board-certified psychiatrist trained at UCLA with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and depression, using a blend of evidence-based medicine and psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. My approach integrates the latest research on the brain-body connection, leveraging our improved understanding of how internal body sensations influence our mental health. This knowledge helps in crafting personalized treatment plans that include mind and body interventions aimed at enhancing overall well-being.
(424) 437-2997 View (424) 437-2997
Photo of Dr. Trung (Jack) Duong, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Trung (Jack) Duong
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90095
Hi! I am Dr. Duong (pronounce yoo-ung), a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for integrating traditional psychiatric practices with holistic and complementary therapies. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental health is a multifaceted journey that requires a comprehensive and personalized approach. My specialty is in mood and personality disorders, complex trauma, anxiety/ADHD, and Asian American/BIPOC & LGTBQ+ mental health. My goal is to empower your authentic self and optimize your mental health journey so that you can lead a more fulfilling life.
Hi! I am Dr. Duong (pronounce yoo-ung), a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for integrating traditional psychiatric practices with holistic and complementary therapies. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental health is a multifaceted journey that requires a comprehensive and personalized approach. My specialty is in mood and personality disorders, complex trauma, anxiety/ADHD, and Asian American/BIPOC & LGTBQ+ mental health. My goal is to empower your authentic self and optimize your mental health journey so that you can lead a more fulfilling life.
(424) 728-4753 View (424) 728-4753
Photo of Edwin Raffi, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Edwin Raffi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Edwin Raffi is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience. Dr. Raffi provides care for all adults and for all ailments including, but not limited to mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, OCD, ADD, PTSD, schizophrenia or other disorders with psychosis, substance use disorders, tic disorders, etc. In addition to general adult psychiatry, Dr. Raffi is recognized as a leading psychiatrist subspecialized in Women’s Mental Health, including issues related to menstrual cycle related mood and anxiety disorders (PMS, PMDD), pregnancy and postpartum, menopause related mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Edwin Raffi is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience. Dr. Raffi provides care for all adults and for all ailments including, but not limited to mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, OCD, ADD, PTSD, schizophrenia or other disorders with psychosis, substance use disorders, tic disorders, etc. In addition to general adult psychiatry, Dr. Raffi is recognized as a leading psychiatrist subspecialized in Women’s Mental Health, including issues related to menstrual cycle related mood and anxiety disorders (PMS, PMDD), pregnancy and postpartum, menopause related mood and anxiety disorders.
(781) 730-7776 View (781) 730-7776
Photo of Sarah Pai, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Pai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90095
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience treating adult patients in San Diego county. I am hoping to connect with clients who are looking for a psychiatric provider who is not only skilled in diganosis and prescribing, but is able to understand your unique needs and build a trusted partnership in your care. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my patients.
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience treating adult patients in San Diego county. I am hoping to connect with clients who are looking for a psychiatric provider who is not only skilled in diganosis and prescribing, but is able to understand your unique needs and build a trusted partnership in your care. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my patients.
(858) 358-6209 View (858) 358-6209
Photo of Lisa Anne Youngblood, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Anne Youngblood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
What sets my practice apart from other providers is my specialty in women mental health needs as they navigate the hormonal changes through each phase of their lives. These transitions and conditions include PMDD, PMS pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. My dual degree as a family nurse practitioner has allowed me the expertise in this area and to offer a unique servce to all my clients. I offer an integrated and holistic approach that is dedicated to helping you create an emotionally balanced life.
What sets my practice apart from other providers is my specialty in women mental health needs as they navigate the hormonal changes through each phase of their lives. These transitions and conditions include PMDD, PMS pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. My dual degree as a family nurse practitioner has allowed me the expertise in this area and to offer a unique servce to all my clients. I offer an integrated and holistic approach that is dedicated to helping you create an emotionally balanced life.
(561) 418-6374 View (561) 418-6374
Photo of Carla Hammond - Brainpower Wellness Institute, Psychiatrist
Brainpower Wellness Institute
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
(805) 552-5878 View (805) 552-5878
Photo of Holly Valerio, MD, Psychiatrist
Holly Valerio
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders including OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, panic disorder, specific phobias, and generalized anxiety. I also have expertise in treating a variety of other psychiatric illnesses including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, and psychotic disorders. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Florida, my medical training at the University of Florida College of Medicine, and my residency training in psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders including OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, panic disorder, specific phobias, and generalized anxiety. I also have expertise in treating a variety of other psychiatric illnesses including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, and psychotic disorders. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Florida, my medical training at the University of Florida College of Medicine, and my residency training in psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania.
(858) 408-6225 View (858) 408-6225
Photo of Ashley Margo Covington, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashley Margo Covington
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I'm dedicated to nourishing strategies that foster healing and empowerment based on what is most important to you. Whether you are on medication, or interested in starting medication I can assist. I also offer alternative and complementary approaches rooted in strengthening the mind-body connection. I view medication, psychotherapy, and holistic modalities like tools compiling a toolbox of coping skills. Sometimes multiple tools are needed for a single project. Other times the same tool can be used for multiple projects. Lets see what's right for you and customize a treatment approach that resonates with your unique self!
I'm dedicated to nourishing strategies that foster healing and empowerment based on what is most important to you. Whether you are on medication, or interested in starting medication I can assist. I also offer alternative and complementary approaches rooted in strengthening the mind-body connection. I view medication, psychotherapy, and holistic modalities like tools compiling a toolbox of coping skills. Sometimes multiple tools are needed for a single project. Other times the same tool can be used for multiple projects. Lets see what's right for you and customize a treatment approach that resonates with your unique self!
(424) 339-0726 View (424) 339-0726
Photo of Brian Noonan - SinclairMethod.org, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SinclairMethod.org
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
You can control your alcohol use with Naltrexone, which has been FDA-approved since 1994. Just take it one hour before your first drink, and the medication will block the "buzz" you would normally get. Without this reward, you can gradually reduce your use and improve your control.
You can control your alcohol use with Naltrexone, which has been FDA-approved since 1994. Just take it one hour before your first drink, and the medication will block the "buzz" you would normally get. Without this reward, you can gradually reduce your use and improve your control.
(415) 799-5667 View (415) 799-5667
Photo of Jordan Rose, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
(805) 774-1934 View (805) 774-1934
Photo of Kendra Butler, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kendra Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Im a graduate of University of Nevada Reno with (MS-PMHNP).
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Im a graduate of University of Nevada Reno with (MS-PMHNP).
View
Photo of Rebecca Bonneville - Resilient Minds, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Resilient Minds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I facilitate rapid transformation in individuals groups and systems. I help you to clear subconscious belief systems, negative frequencies, ancestral and this lifetime traumas that hold you back from inhabiting the frequency of health, wealth or whatever you desire. For resolution of chronic illness, autoimmune, inflammation, struggles with weight, fatigue or psychiatric illness I create a customized biochemical methylation protocol and adjustment based on your unique energy body and genetic variants. I manage Western psychiatric medication when appropriate with ongoing supervision and a commitment to naturopathic treatment.
I facilitate rapid transformation in individuals groups and systems. I help you to clear subconscious belief systems, negative frequencies, ancestral and this lifetime traumas that hold you back from inhabiting the frequency of health, wealth or whatever you desire. For resolution of chronic illness, autoimmune, inflammation, struggles with weight, fatigue or psychiatric illness I create a customized biochemical methylation protocol and adjustment based on your unique energy body and genetic variants. I manage Western psychiatric medication when appropriate with ongoing supervision and a commitment to naturopathic treatment.
(619) 825-1522 View (619) 825-1522
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
(626) 669-4733 View (626) 669-4733

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90032
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(818) 626-3930 View (818) 626-3930
Photo of Dr. Brianna Thompson, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Brianna Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Brianna is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Brianna is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Veronica Sanchez, MD, Psychiatrist
Veronica Sanchez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Dr. Sanchez, is bilingual in Spanish and English, embodies a rare combination of clinical expertise, cultural understanding, and compassionate care that sets her apart as a psychiatrist. She has extensive experience treating a broad range of mental health disorders. She pursued specialized training in adult psychiatry at the UCLA – Olive View Residency Training Program. Here, she honed her expertise in managing a spectrum of mental health concerns from conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, and helped guide individuals through the intricate process of grief along with end of life transitions.
Dr. Sanchez, is bilingual in Spanish and English, embodies a rare combination of clinical expertise, cultural understanding, and compassionate care that sets her apart as a psychiatrist. She has extensive experience treating a broad range of mental health disorders. She pursued specialized training in adult psychiatry at the UCLA – Olive View Residency Training Program. Here, she honed her expertise in managing a spectrum of mental health concerns from conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, and helped guide individuals through the intricate process of grief along with end of life transitions.
(323) 310-1540 View (323) 310-1540
Photo of Taylor Scheller, PA-C , CAQ, Physician Assistant
Taylor Scheller
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(424) 588-3209 View (424) 588-3209
Photo of Edgaradrian Yepescorrea - Adrian Yepes, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adrian Yepes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with over 8 years of clinical practice as a psychologist and advanced psychiatry training from UCSF. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that integrates therapy and medication management. Their goal is to regain control, improve relationships, and enhance their overall well-being through a holistic, personalized approach that addresses their unique needs.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with over 8 years of clinical practice as a psychologist and advanced psychiatry training from UCSF. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that integrates therapy and medication management. Their goal is to regain control, improve relationships, and enhance their overall well-being through a holistic, personalized approach that addresses their unique needs.
(415) 612-3087 View (415) 612-3087

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90095

10+

Average cost per session

$375

Psychiatrists in 90095 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Bipolar Disorder
67% Trauma and PTSD
60% Medication Management

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in 90095 see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90095?

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.