Psychiatrists in 90263

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.
(747) 836-4606 View (747) 836-4606
Photo of Vassilis N Panagopoulos, Psychiatrist, MD
Vassilis N Panagopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of...I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician...
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of...I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician...
(747) 337-4674 View (747) 337-4674
Photo of Jordan Blaine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jordan Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(424) 677-0413 View (424) 677-0413
Photo of Maricela Tonie Beltran, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Maricela Tonie Beltran
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my integrative and functional psychiatry practice, where whole-body health and wellness are at the heart of everything I do. Growing up in Paramount, California, as the child of Mexican immigrants, I developed a deep understanding of how culture shapes our mental health and well-being. I’m passionate about creating a warm, supportive space where you feel safe, valued, and empowered to explore your unique path to healing. Through the Direct Specialty Care (DSC) model, I offer a simple, insurance-free approach to mental health care with flexible membership plans tailored to your needs.
Welcome to my integrative and functional psychiatry practice, where whole-body health and wellness are at the heart of everything I do. Growing up in Paramount, California, as the child of Mexican immigrants, I developed a deep understanding of how culture shapes our mental health and well-being. I’m passionate about creating a warm, supportive space where you feel safe, valued, and empowered to explore your unique path to healing. Through the Direct Specialty Care (DSC) model, I offer a simple, insurance-free approach to mental health care with flexible membership plans tailored to your needs.
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Photo of Arastou Aminzadeh, Psychiatrist, MD
Arastou Aminzadeh
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Aminzadeh or Dr. A as most teens refer to him, has been working in variety of clinical settings for the last 20 years. He is well respected nationally for his expertise in Addiction medicine and treating adolescents. Dr. A is a triple board certified physician in psychiatry, Child and Adolescent psychiatry and Addiction medicine.
Dr. Aminzadeh or Dr. A as most teens refer to him, has been working in variety of clinical settings for the last 20 years. He is well respected nationally for his expertise in Addiction medicine and treating adolescents. Dr. A is a triple board certified physician in psychiatry, Child and Adolescent psychiatry and Addiction medicine.
(818) 646-5841 View (818) 646-5841
Photo of Michael Brian Mantz, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Brian Mantz
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. I practice an integrative style that uses a wide range of treatment options with a focus on addressing root cause issues. I have received training in psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, nutrition, supplements, and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Before going to medical school, I obtained a masters degree in herbal medicine. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make significant changes in their life and is open to addressing their issues with the help of empathic and knowledgeable guide to help them achieve optimal health.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. I practice an integrative style that uses a wide range of treatment options with a focus on addressing root cause issues. I have received training in psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, nutrition, supplements, and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Before going to medical school, I obtained a masters degree in herbal medicine. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make significant changes in their life and is open to addressing their issues with the help of empathic and knowledgeable guide to help them achieve optimal health.
(805) 332-4770 View (805) 332-4770
Photo of Arastou Aminzadeh - BNI Treatment Centers For Teens, Psychiatrist
BNI Treatment Centers For Teens
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
BNI Treatment Centers offers inpatient and residential substance abuse and mental health treatment programs that are physician owned and operated. BNI provides acute stabilization and 24/7 monitoring by an experienced medical team for conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, oppositional defiance, bipolar disorder, and most other mental health conditions.. For substance abuse and dual diagnosis conditions, BNI offers a medically monitored detoxification and rehabilitation program. The residential setting provides a safe and comfortable environment which helps the healing and recovery process.
BNI Treatment Centers offers inpatient and residential substance abuse and mental health treatment programs that are physician owned and operated. BNI provides acute stabilization and 24/7 monitoring by an experienced medical team for conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, oppositional defiance, bipolar disorder, and most other mental health conditions.. For substance abuse and dual diagnosis conditions, BNI offers a medically monitored detoxification and rehabilitation program. The residential setting provides a safe and comfortable environment which helps the healing and recovery process.
(818) 717-7413 View (818) 717-7413
Photo of Dr. Jason E. Parad, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBE
Dr. Jason E. Parad
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBE
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I support patients who are seeking responsive, highly confidential, and totally non-judgmental treatment for any isolating, worrying, or otherwise troubling mental health symptoms. I am also open to ordering any tests or prescribing any psychiatric medications that may be right for you.
I support patients who are seeking responsive, highly confidential, and totally non-judgmental treatment for any isolating, worrying, or otherwise troubling mental health symptoms. I am also open to ordering any tests or prescribing any psychiatric medications that may be right for you.
(323) 927-1287 View (323) 927-1287
Photo of Hripsime Kalanderian, Psychiatrist, MD
Hripsime Kalanderian
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe that your mental health treatment should be as unique and individualized as you are. We are far more than just a group of symptoms that make up diagnoses, only to be treated with a generic list of medications. In my practice, I aim to incorporate evidence-based treatments while also considering the different factors that impact your mental health while working in collaboration with you. I limit my caseload to optimize availability for my established patients along with providing flexibility in scheduling and appointment times.
I believe that your mental health treatment should be as unique and individualized as you are. We are far more than just a group of symptoms that make up diagnoses, only to be treated with a generic list of medications. In my practice, I aim to incorporate evidence-based treatments while also considering the different factors that impact your mental health while working in collaboration with you. I limit my caseload to optimize availability for my established patients along with providing flexibility in scheduling and appointment times.
(310) 910-9612 View (310) 910-9612
Photo of Michael Kang - Nerdy Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist, MD
Nerdy Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Los Angeles based board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. I treat a variety of age ranges and diagnoses, and although primarily a telehealth provider, I am open to arranging home visits as well. Transitions are hard across age ranges, whether that is middle school into high school, change of jobs, change in romance, etc. Of importance to me are the changes in childhood and their long-term impact on social and academic development. I believe that early intervention can have major impacts later in life which led to me pursuing my child and adolescent fellowship.
I am a Los Angeles based board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. I treat a variety of age ranges and diagnoses, and although primarily a telehealth provider, I am open to arranging home visits as well. Transitions are hard across age ranges, whether that is middle school into high school, change of jobs, change in romance, etc. Of importance to me are the changes in childhood and their long-term impact on social and academic development. I believe that early intervention can have major impacts later in life which led to me pursuing my child and adolescent fellowship.
(310) 361-0067 View (310) 361-0067
Photo of Jamie Plaxco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jamie Plaxco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Jamie is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, substance abuse, OCD and mood disorders. She works closely with a residential treatment center in West Los Angeles that offers more intensive treatment for trauma and OCD.
Jamie is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, substance abuse, OCD and mood disorders. She works closely with a residential treatment center in West Los Angeles that offers more intensive treatment for trauma and OCD.
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Photo of Dr. Ani Tokat, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ani Tokat
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Welcome to Psychiatry 4 Women, where YOU matter! Hello, I am Dr. Ani Tokat, a mother, doctor, educator, and an entrepreneur. I focus on women's mental health needs in all stages of their lives, with emphasis on moms. If you like hole-in-the-wall, little gem type places, then search no further. I created this solo practice with you in mind, without any corporate influence. I brought old school Psychiatry into modern times, where you have direct access to your doctor, where you are not a number in a busy clinic, where you are seen as a human being rather than as a symptom, where your voice is heard without judgement.
Welcome to Psychiatry 4 Women, where YOU matter! Hello, I am Dr. Ani Tokat, a mother, doctor, educator, and an entrepreneur. I focus on women's mental health needs in all stages of their lives, with emphasis on moms. If you like hole-in-the-wall, little gem type places, then search no further. I created this solo practice with you in mind, without any corporate influence. I brought old school Psychiatry into modern times, where you have direct access to your doctor, where you are not a number in a busy clinic, where you are seen as a human being rather than as a symptom, where your voice is heard without judgement.
(559) 337-5921 View (559) 337-5921

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Dorne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Rebecca Dorne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Outstanding psychiatric care is catered to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
Outstanding psychiatric care is catered to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
(310) 361-3903 View (310) 361-3903
Photo of Arjun Kumar, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Arjun Kumar
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Dr. Kumar is an adult and geriatric psychiatrist seeing patients at his Los Angeles office and virtually. Dr. Kumar believes in a humane and comprehensive approach to mental health care across the lifespan. He emphasizes the impact of past experiences on emotional well-being, practicing trauma-informed care that draws from his work with military veterans. He enjoys helping patients through major life transitions like graduation and career changes, aging and retirement, and relationship conflict. He is also experienced at helping older adults confront late-life challenges like chronic disease, memory loss, and grief.
Dr. Kumar is an adult and geriatric psychiatrist seeing patients at his Los Angeles office and virtually. Dr. Kumar believes in a humane and comprehensive approach to mental health care across the lifespan. He emphasizes the impact of past experiences on emotional well-being, practicing trauma-informed care that draws from his work with military veterans. He enjoys helping patients through major life transitions like graduation and career changes, aging and retirement, and relationship conflict. He is also experienced at helping older adults confront late-life challenges like chronic disease, memory loss, and grief.
(424) 766-1972 View (424) 766-1972
Photo of Anne Winfrey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anne Winfrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello there, my name is Anne. My professional training as a Doctoral prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner as well as years of experience as a Nurse has taught me to be empathetic. I provide care to patients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder to mention but a few.
Hello there, my name is Anne. My professional training as a Doctoral prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner as well as years of experience as a Nurse has taught me to be empathetic. I provide care to patients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder to mention but a few.
(657) 571-1954 View (657) 571-1954
Photo of William F Stubbeman, Psychiatrist, MD
William F Stubbeman
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of refractory psychiatric conditions. My treatment approach includes psychopharmacology (medications), psychodynamic psychotherapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). I have successfully treated hundreds of patients in my private practice in West LA since 1999. My areas of focus include mood disorders (major depression, bipolar, mania), anxiety disorders (social phobia, OCD, generalized anxiety, panic), trauma (PTSD, grief & loss), as well as tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and its associated neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of refractory psychiatric conditions. My treatment approach includes psychopharmacology (medications), psychodynamic psychotherapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). I have successfully treated hundreds of patients in my private practice in West LA since 1999. My areas of focus include mood disorders (major depression, bipolar, mania), anxiety disorders (social phobia, OCD, generalized anxiety, panic), trauma (PTSD, grief & loss), as well as tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and its associated neuropsychiatric symptoms.
(424) 358-3483 View (424) 358-3483
Photo of Kristina Lou, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MS
Kristina Lou
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MS
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Kristina provides thoughtful and supportive care tailored to the needs of each patient. She listens carefully and compassionately with an open mind to the individual’s story to better understand their goals, values, and motivations for seeking help. Kristina cultivates trust and mutual respect through honesty, empathy, and sincerity. In order to provide the most meaningful and effective treatment possible, Kristina takes into account the ways in which biological, psychosocial, and environmental factors can influence both health and well- being.
Kristina provides thoughtful and supportive care tailored to the needs of each patient. She listens carefully and compassionately with an open mind to the individual’s story to better understand their goals, values, and motivations for seeking help. Kristina cultivates trust and mutual respect through honesty, empathy, and sincerity. In order to provide the most meaningful and effective treatment possible, Kristina takes into account the ways in which biological, psychosocial, and environmental factors can influence both health and well- being.
(424) 772-4878 View (424) 772-4878
Photo of Eudora Osuala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eudora Osuala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Guylene Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
(213) 205-4806 View (213) 205-4806
Photo of Ann Irorere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ann Irorere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues.
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues.
(562) 573-7203 View (562) 573-7203

See more therapy options for 90263

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90263

10+

Average cost per session

$350

Psychiatrists in 90263 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
92% Medication Management
92% Stress
83% ADHD
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 90263 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

55% Male
45% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90263?

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.