Psychiatrists in 90266

Photo of Chinenye Nene Umunnakwe, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinenye Nene Umunnakwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Compassionate accountable , respectful with great communication and interpersonal skills,
Compassionate accountable , respectful with great communication and interpersonal skills,
(562) 662-3557 View (562) 662-3557
Photo of Dr. Kailee Marin, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
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!
(310) 349-3864 View (310) 349-3864
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.
(424) 443-7970 View (424) 443-7970
Photo of Ann Woo-Ming Park - ADHD Psychiatrist and Coach for Women, MD, Psychiatrist
ADHD Psychiatrist and Coach for Women
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and welcome. My name is Dr. Ann Woo-Ming Park and I'm a Board-certified psychiatrist, therapist, and coach who specializes in treating women with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Did you know that ADHD affects 8% of U.S. adults (that's 27 million people) and is often underdiagnosed in women and high achievers? Common barriers include stigma, overworking to compensate, and misguided assumptions about what ADHD should look like. As a result, many people experience anxiety, depression, and interpersonal stress with their significant others before an accurate diagnosis is made.
Hello and welcome. My name is Dr. Ann Woo-Ming Park and I'm a Board-certified psychiatrist, therapist, and coach who specializes in treating women with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Did you know that ADHD affects 8% of U.S. adults (that's 27 million people) and is often underdiagnosed in women and high achievers? Common barriers include stigma, overworking to compensate, and misguided assumptions about what ADHD should look like. As a result, many people experience anxiety, depression, and interpersonal stress with their significant others before an accurate diagnosis is made.
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Photo of Jaspreet Takhar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaspreet Takhar
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!
(657) 837-5585 View (657) 837-5585
Photo of Kelly Maher, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Maher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelly Maher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Arts, Psychology from Boston College, a Bachelor of Science, Nursing from Rutgers University School of Nursing, a Master of Science, Nursing from California State University and a Master of Science, Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work. Kelly possesses 18 years of professional experience in the mental health field, including 10 years as a bedside nurse in a variety of inpatient psychiatric settings.
Kelly Maher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Arts, Psychology from Boston College, a Bachelor of Science, Nursing from Rutgers University School of Nursing, a Master of Science, Nursing from California State University and a Master of Science, Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work. Kelly possesses 18 years of professional experience in the mental health field, including 10 years as a bedside nurse in a variety of inpatient psychiatric settings.
(424) 414-7673 View (424) 414-7673
Photo of Simon Ordonez, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Simon Ordonez
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(949) 751-1607 View (949) 751-1607
Belinda King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm Belinda King, F-PMHNP-BC. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is compassionate, caring, and charismatic. My goal is to partner with you in your journey to well-being by providing you with empathy, respect, and compassion. I bring with me a unique set of skills that have fostered my urge to help those most in need. My focus areas are Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Anxiety, Gender Dysphoria, Major Depression, and OCD. I am committed to becoming your ally in health.
Hi! I'm Belinda King, F-PMHNP-BC. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is compassionate, caring, and charismatic. My goal is to partner with you in your journey to well-being by providing you with empathy, respect, and compassion. I bring with me a unique set of skills that have fostered my urge to help those most in need. My focus areas are Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Anxiety, Gender Dysphoria, Major Depression, and OCD. I am committed to becoming your ally in health.
(925) 940-3334 View (925) 940-3334
Photo of Ana Jimenez | Bonmente, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Ana Jimenez | Bonmente
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
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. Welcome!
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. Welcome!
(310) 807-6694 View (310) 807-6694
Photo of April Bodily, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Bodily
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! My name is April and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 18 years of experience in the nursing field, I am here to help clients of all walks of life. I frequently work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, BPAD, AUD, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, and other mood disorders. I am passionate about providing compassionate, patient-focused mental health care making sure that everyone feels heard, valued, and respected.
Welcome! My name is April and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 18 years of experience in the nursing field, I am here to help clients of all walks of life. I frequently work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, BPAD, AUD, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, and other mood disorders. I am passionate about providing compassionate, patient-focused mental health care making sure that everyone feels heard, valued, and respected.
(323) 498-3122 View (323) 498-3122
Photo of Chinenye N Umunnakwe, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinenye N Umunnakwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
NeNe Umunnakwe is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. Nene offers clients Medication Management and Supportive Therapy. Outside of work, NeNe enjoys sight seeing.
NeNe Umunnakwe is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. Nene offers clients Medication Management and Supportive Therapy. Outside of work, NeNe enjoys sight seeing.
(424) 677-1632 View (424) 677-1632
Photo of Benedicta Osuji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(510) 916-3005 View (510) 916-3005
Photo of Shannon Richmond, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Richmond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
(424) 855-1839 View (424) 855-1839
Photo of Bianca Best, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bianca Best
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
(424) 452-2509 View (424) 452-2509
Photo of Oyebola Oyelade, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
(209) 721-6421 View (209) 721-6421
Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING 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.
ACCEPTING 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.
(424) 232-0739 View (424) 232-0739
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
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) 742-9516 View (310) 742-9516
Photo of Daniel Chandler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(213) 583-2707 View (213) 583-2707
Photo of Young Tae Lee, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Young Tae Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance! During our first visit, we will complete a full mental health assessment and evaluation. There will be lots of questions during this visit, especially regarding your medical and mental health history. Working together to determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is important for your mental health. This may require multiple appointments. Controlled medications may be available from my practice on a limited basis and rarely on the first session.
To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance! During our first visit, we will complete a full mental health assessment and evaluation. There will be lots of questions during this visit, especially regarding your medical and mental health history. Working together to determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is important for your mental health. This may require multiple appointments. Controlled medications may be available from my practice on a limited basis and rarely on the first session.
(424) 484-4562 View (424) 484-4562
Photo of Dr. Quinn Miller-Bedell - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(424) 415-8613 View (424) 415-8613
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90266

70+

Average cost per session

$275

Psychiatrists in 90266 who prioritize treating:

99% Depression
97% Anxiety
85% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Medication Management

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Cigna and Evernorth
97% Aetna
92% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 90266 see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90266?

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.