Psychiatrists in 90262

Photo of Eudora Osuala, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eudora Osuala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(831) 576-5998 View (831) 576-5998
Photo of Zainob Jenmi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zainob Jenmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(415) 463-3215 View (415) 463-3215
Photo of Sandy Hah, MD, Psychiatrist
Sandy Hah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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!
(818) 412-6880 View (818) 412-6880

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Anna Shudzeka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna Shudzeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorders, or addiction. They seek compassionate, personalized care to manage symptoms and regain control of their life. Their goals include understanding their condition, developing effective coping strategies, and achieving emotional and mental well-being. They want a supportive provider who listens, empowers them with knowledge, and collaborates to create a treatment plan that fosters lasting health and resilience.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorders, or addiction. They seek compassionate, personalized care to manage symptoms and regain control of their life. Their goals include understanding their condition, developing effective coping strategies, and achieving emotional and mental well-being. They want a supportive provider who listens, empowers them with knowledge, and collaborates to create a treatment plan that fosters lasting health and resilience.
(319) 214-2139 View (319) 214-2139
Photo of Joshua Freedman - healthPiper, MD, Psychiatrist
healthPiper
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Getting medication treatment for psychiatric symptoms used to require a blind leap, with no idea what treatment you would get, or how much time and money it would take. For over 6 years, healthPiper has made it so that anyone can get the same expertise as the top medical schools, delivered online, with our renowned welcoming service. All for less than clinicians usually charge. We were started by a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA, a graduate of Yale Medical School, and a perennial SuperDoctor and TopDoctor to create a service so that everyone can effortlessly get the best treatment available anywhere.
Getting medication treatment for psychiatric symptoms used to require a blind leap, with no idea what treatment you would get, or how much time and money it would take. For over 6 years, healthPiper has made it so that anyone can get the same expertise as the top medical schools, delivered online, with our renowned welcoming service. All for less than clinicians usually charge. We were started by a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA, a graduate of Yale Medical School, and a perennial SuperDoctor and TopDoctor to create a service so that everyone can effortlessly get the best treatment available anywhere.
(424) 369-0257 View (424) 369-0257
Photo of Esther Lee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Esther Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Esther Lee is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and post master’s degree from West Coast University. She received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology at University of California, San Diego and Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Mount St. Mary’s University. Esther has extensive experience in inpatient and outpatient care of all ages. She has worked in a variety of settings with a strong critical care background, working with cardiac and pre/post transplant patients.
Esther Lee is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and post master’s degree from West Coast University. She received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology at University of California, San Diego and Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Mount St. Mary’s University. Esther has extensive experience in inpatient and outpatient care of all ages. She has worked in a variety of settings with a strong critical care background, working with cardiac and pre/post transplant patients.
(747) 349-3134 View (747) 349-3134
Photo of Salina Lum, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Salina Lum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92614
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master's Degree at Cal State LA, Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences at UC-Irvine, and my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing at West Coast University. I see clients ages 6 and above for medication management. I am passionate about providing quality and compassionate care and recognize the importance of building a trusting relationship.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master's Degree at Cal State LA, Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences at UC-Irvine, and my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing at West Coast University. I see clients ages 6 and above for medication management. I am passionate about providing quality and compassionate care and recognize the importance of building a trusting relationship.
(949) 993-1301 View (949) 993-1301
Photo of Laurice Haycraft, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laurice Haycraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
The complexities of life can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. In some instances, emotional pain can be just as debilitating as physical pain which can impact one’s ability to function mentally, socially, and professionally. One of the greatest rewards for me is witnessing the positive outcomes of providing holistic care for patients who have suffered from various mental disorders. My greatest strength as a provider is treating my patients with compassion, empathy, dignity, and respect.
The complexities of life can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. In some instances, emotional pain can be just as debilitating as physical pain which can impact one’s ability to function mentally, socially, and professionally. One of the greatest rewards for me is witnessing the positive outcomes of providing holistic care for patients who have suffered from various mental disorders. My greatest strength as a provider is treating my patients with compassion, empathy, dignity, and respect.
(909) 787-1399 View (909) 787-1399
Photo of Sarah Leiderman, PA-C , Physician Assistant
Sarah Leiderman
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(424) 321-8038 View (424) 321-8038
Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bettina Ervin Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
(619) 304-9843 View (619) 304-9843
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 Ali Najafian Jazi, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Ali Najafian Jazi
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Jazi is a double-board certified Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist. Dr. Jazi can help you or your loved one dealing with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, different types of dementia, and especially caregiver burden in those who take care of dementia patients. Dr. Jazi practices dynamic psychotherapy alone or combined with medications to treat his patients. Combination of psychotherapy and medications results the most successful outcome in many patients.
Dr. Jazi is a double-board certified Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist. Dr. Jazi can help you or your loved one dealing with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, different types of dementia, and especially caregiver burden in those who take care of dementia patients. Dr. Jazi practices dynamic psychotherapy alone or combined with medications to treat his patients. Combination of psychotherapy and medications results the most successful outcome in many patients.
(805) 219-7094 View (805) 219-7094
Photo of Sahar Douek, MD, Psychiatrist
Sahar Douek
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tarzana, CA 91356
I am a board certified psychiatrist, with sub-speciality in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I treat children, adolescents and adults. I have an empathetic and non-judgment approach and am committed to providing the highest quality of care for my patients. I use psychotropic medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In my practice, I empower my patients to improve their coping skills and interpersonal skills in order to achieve their optimal mental health.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, with sub-speciality in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I treat children, adolescents and adults. I have an empathetic and non-judgment approach and am committed to providing the highest quality of care for my patients. I use psychotropic medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In my practice, I empower my patients to improve their coping skills and interpersonal skills in order to achieve their optimal mental health.
(818) 654-4989 View (818) 654-4989
Photo of Joy Nnebe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joy Nnebe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, and Welcome to PillarPoint Wellness. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience, I create a safe, compassionate space where healing begins with trust and understanding. My goal is to help you feel empowered, supported, and seen. Together, we’ll design a tailored plan with therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes to guide you toward balance, resilience, and thriving
Hi, and Welcome to PillarPoint Wellness. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience, I create a safe, compassionate space where healing begins with trust and understanding. My goal is to help you feel empowered, supported, and seen. Together, we’ll design a tailored plan with therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes to guide you toward balance, resilience, and thriving
(916) 957-2344 View (916) 957-2344
Photo of Timothy C. Van Deusen, MD, Psychiatrist
Timothy C. Van Deusen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I'm board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry focusing on the complex issues of adolescents and young adults ages 13-29. These years of development can be complicated and confusing, and the time for the emergence of many psychiatric disorders. My areas of interests include anxiety, depression, and the transitioning to college. I also help college students return back to school when they have had to take a break due to stress leading to poor grades, family issues, relationship conflicts, or other emotional hardships.. I provide weekly psychotherapy and prescribe medications when indicated.
I'm board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry focusing on the complex issues of adolescents and young adults ages 13-29. These years of development can be complicated and confusing, and the time for the emergence of many psychiatric disorders. My areas of interests include anxiety, depression, and the transitioning to college. I also help college students return back to school when they have had to take a break due to stress leading to poor grades, family issues, relationship conflicts, or other emotional hardships.. I provide weekly psychotherapy and prescribe medications when indicated.
(203) 779-6313 View (203) 779-6313
Photo of Tam Do, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tam Do
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I look forward to partnering with you on a transformative journey, focused on enhancing both your mental and physical health. As a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, my commitment lies in providing integrative and personalized care that encompasses all aspects of your wellbeing. I aim to support you throughout your wellness journey, partnering with you to foster lasting health. By meeting you where you are now, I believe we can collaboratively identify your goals and develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
I look forward to partnering with you on a transformative journey, focused on enhancing both your mental and physical health. As a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, my commitment lies in providing integrative and personalized care that encompasses all aspects of your wellbeing. I aim to support you throughout your wellness journey, partnering with you to foster lasting health. By meeting you where you are now, I believe we can collaboratively identify your goals and develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
(657) 300-5375 View (657) 300-5375
Photo of Brittnai Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
(424) 496-4319 View (424) 496-4319
Photo of Carmela Zaragoza, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carmela Zaragoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(310) 596-4195 View (310) 596-4195
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(310) 340-0368 View (310) 340-0368
Photo of Keri Biscoe - Dr. Keri Biscoe | Wildflower Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Keri Biscoe | Wildflower Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I am here to help you feel that your experiences are seen and supported, the struggles and the wins. This attentive listening is part of my holistic approach to providing customized, evidence-based psychiatric care designed to help you thrive. We'll start with a comprehensive evaluation and medical workup. From there I create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and is adaptable to progress that we track together.
I am here to help you feel that your experiences are seen and supported, the struggles and the wins. This attentive listening is part of my holistic approach to providing customized, evidence-based psychiatric care designed to help you thrive. We'll start with a comprehensive evaluation and medical workup. From there I create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and is adaptable to progress that we track together.

See more therapy options for 90262

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90262

< 10

Psychiatrists in 90262 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Carelon Health IPA of California (CHIPA)

How Psychiatrists in 90262 see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90262?

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.