Psychiatrists in 90278

Photo of Wenqi Feng, MD, Psychiatrist
Wenqi Feng
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dr. Feng is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who trained at UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Boston University School of Medicine. She is a co-founder of Regeneration Psychiatry, a group psychiatric practice located in Los Angeles, California. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and women's mental health issues. She also specializes in treating Asian and Asian-American patients. Dr. Feng is bilingual in English and Mandarin.
Dr. Feng is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who trained at UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Boston University School of Medicine. She is a co-founder of Regeneration Psychiatry, a group psychiatric practice located in Los Angeles, California. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and women's mental health issues. She also specializes in treating Asian and Asian-American patients. Dr. Feng is bilingual in English and Mandarin.
(424) 232-0460 View (424) 232-0460
Photo of Rebecca Salamo, Psychiatrist
Rebecca Salamo
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
I treat children, adolescents, and adults with the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, and perinatal mental illness. I strive to take a holistic approach to treatment, taking a careful history to ensure all aspects of an individual’s wellbeing are considered, including environmental stressors, physical health, and lifestyle factors. I use medication management in conjunction with therapeutic interventions, utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
I treat children, adolescents, and adults with the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, and perinatal mental illness. I strive to take a holistic approach to treatment, taking a careful history to ensure all aspects of an individual’s wellbeing are considered, including environmental stressors, physical health, and lifestyle factors. I use medication management in conjunction with therapeutic interventions, utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
(424) 243-7361 View (424) 243-7361
Photo of Jobert Poblete, MD, Psychiatrist
Jobert Poblete
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I'm a psychiatrist trained in diagnosing and treating the full spectrum of mental health conditions in adults, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, addiction, sleep problems, bipolar disorder, and borderline and other personality orders. I have special interests in working with trans and gender expansive individuals and other members of the LGBTQ+ community, people struggling with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, and people wtih OCD.
I'm a psychiatrist trained in diagnosing and treating the full spectrum of mental health conditions in adults, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, addiction, sleep problems, bipolar disorder, and borderline and other personality orders. I have special interests in working with trans and gender expansive individuals and other members of the LGBTQ+ community, people struggling with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, and people wtih OCD.
(424) 233-1069 View (424) 233-1069
Photo of Stephanie Sabra, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Stephanie Sabra
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Are you looking for personalized mental health treatment? A psychiatrist who cares, listens, and understands? As a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults, I am experienced in a wide range of psychopathologies including ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and women’s mental health (peripartum and postpartum illness). I work closely with my patients to create a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with their values. My office is based in Redondo Beach and we are happy to serve the Greater Los Angeles area.
Are you looking for personalized mental health treatment? A psychiatrist who cares, listens, and understands? As a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults, I am experienced in a wide range of psychopathologies including ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and women’s mental health (peripartum and postpartum illness). I work closely with my patients to create a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with their values. My office is based in Redondo Beach and we are happy to serve the Greater Los Angeles area.
(424) 226-5857 View (424) 226-5857
Photo of Justin Key, MD, Psychiatrist
Justin Key
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Are you looking for personalized mental health treatment? A psychiatrist who cares, listens, and understands? Then it sounds like your needs are why I became a doctor. I strive to help people take control of their mental health by listening to their experience, coming to a mutual understanding about their struggles, and working together to create a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with their values. My practice, Regeneration Psychiatry, is based in Redondo Beach and we are happy to serve the Greater Los Angeles area.
Are you looking for personalized mental health treatment? A psychiatrist who cares, listens, and understands? Then it sounds like your needs are why I became a doctor. I strive to help people take control of their mental health by listening to their experience, coming to a mutual understanding about their struggles, and working together to create a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with their values. My practice, Regeneration Psychiatry, is based in Redondo Beach and we are happy to serve the Greater Los Angeles area.
(424) 207-1527 View (424) 207-1527
Photo of Alice Wong, DO, Psychiatrist
Alice Wong
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who provides culturally sensitive integrative mental health care by listening with empathy, inquiring with curiosity, and understanding with humility. I have experience in working with diverse cultural backgrounds, with an added focus on Asian Americans, and understand the struggles one may face in wanting to assimilate while retaining their cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety/depression/trauma, managing family expectations, navigating transitions, or striving for a fulfilling life, I'm dedicated to walking this path with you.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who provides culturally sensitive integrative mental health care by listening with empathy, inquiring with curiosity, and understanding with humility. I have experience in working with diverse cultural backgrounds, with an added focus on Asian Americans, and understand the struggles one may face in wanting to assimilate while retaining their cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety/depression/trauma, managing family expectations, navigating transitions, or striving for a fulfilling life, I'm dedicated to walking this path with you.
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Photo of Kim Duc Vu, DNP, MHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kim Duc Vu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner with over 8 years of experience in patient care. I have worked for a concierge internal medicine practice and a pediatric practice, both of which were based in Santa Monica. Most recently, I worked for Johns Hopkins University where I conducted mental health screenings and encouraged lifestyle modifications to under-served patients, which not only facilitated my passion for the mental health care field, but also led to a certification to mental health and a doctorate of nursing practice degree. I believe in a holistic
I am a dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner with over 8 years of experience in patient care. I have worked for a concierge internal medicine practice and a pediatric practice, both of which were based in Santa Monica. Most recently, I worked for Johns Hopkins University where I conducted mental health screenings and encouraged lifestyle modifications to under-served patients, which not only facilitated my passion for the mental health care field, but also led to a certification to mental health and a doctorate of nursing practice degree. I believe in a holistic
(424) 364-2054 View (424) 364-2054
Photo of Volker Nabavi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
(424) 484-8361 View (424) 484-8361
Photo of Celena Pentagulio, MD, Psychiatrist
Celena Pentagulio
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
As an adult psychiatrist, I seek to understand my patients' lives and take a compassionate, thoughtful approach to developing personalized treatment plans. I find purpose in using my expertise to help guide my patients toward achieving their goals and improving their overall well-being. Being attentive to various aspects that may impact my patients' mental health, my treatment plans are tailored and may include psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
As an adult psychiatrist, I seek to understand my patients' lives and take a compassionate, thoughtful approach to developing personalized treatment plans. I find purpose in using my expertise to help guide my patients toward achieving their goals and improving their overall well-being. Being attentive to various aspects that may impact my patients' mental health, my treatment plans are tailored and may include psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
(424) 484-8583 View (424) 484-8583
Photo of Samuel Sanders, MD, Psychiatrist
Samuel Sanders
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Working closely with the patient, I believe in using the biopsychosocial model to address mental health problems. Through examination of the interconnection between biology, psychology, and socio-environmental factors, an individualized treatment plan can be created to best address targets to improve quality of life. I am comfortable treating a broad spectrum of diagnoses including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and ADHD. I have a specific interest in the management of ADHD through my training experience.
Working closely with the patient, I believe in using the biopsychosocial model to address mental health problems. Through examination of the interconnection between biology, psychology, and socio-environmental factors, an individualized treatment plan can be created to best address targets to improve quality of life. I am comfortable treating a broad spectrum of diagnoses including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and ADHD. I have a specific interest in the management of ADHD through my training experience.
(424) 788-1683 View (424) 788-1683
Photo of Susan Magorno, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse
Susan Magorno
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Dr. Susan Magorno, PMHNP is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2018 and a registered nurse since 1996. She graduated from the University of San Diego with a doctorate in nursing practice and advanced practice in psychiatry. She also graduated from Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing for her bachelors of science in nursing. Susan does not offer neuropsychological testing and treatment requiring controlled substances such as stimulants or benzodiazepines are limited only to the Los Angeles metropolitan area due to Drug Enforcement Agency restrictions.
Dr. Susan Magorno, PMHNP is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2018 and a registered nurse since 1996. She graduated from the University of San Diego with a doctorate in nursing practice and advanced practice in psychiatry. She also graduated from Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing for her bachelors of science in nursing. Susan does not offer neuropsychological testing and treatment requiring controlled substances such as stimulants or benzodiazepines are limited only to the Los Angeles metropolitan area due to Drug Enforcement Agency restrictions.
(424) 374-3639 View (424) 374-3639
Photo of Shanna Darling, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shanna Darling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
I'm here to improve your quality of life and help you become the best version of yourself. After 14 years, I've found success through 1) really listening, 2) having empathy, and 3) offering the best evidence-based and personalized tools to match the individual needs of each client. My specialties include depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, trauma, eating disorders, and ADHD. I hold a master’s degree from UCLA, where I learned the value of evidence-based practice and striving for the utmost quality of care. I am dual-certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner.
I'm here to improve your quality of life and help you become the best version of yourself. After 14 years, I've found success through 1) really listening, 2) having empathy, and 3) offering the best evidence-based and personalized tools to match the individual needs of each client. My specialties include depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, trauma, eating disorders, and ADHD. I hold a master’s degree from UCLA, where I learned the value of evidence-based practice and striving for the utmost quality of care. I am dual-certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner.
(310) 868-2360 View (310) 868-2360
Photo of Pascal Stirnimann, DNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse
Pascal Stirnimann
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Dr. Pascal Stirnimann is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has a BA in Psychology from University of Miami, a Master of Science in Nursing from Columbia University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Columbia University. Dr. Stirnimann specializes in the treatment of young adults, adolescents, and children, as well as other vulnerable populations including those in foster care and emancipated minors. He has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including training at a women’s shelter. Dr.
Dr. Pascal Stirnimann is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has a BA in Psychology from University of Miami, a Master of Science in Nursing from Columbia University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Columbia University. Dr. Stirnimann specializes in the treatment of young adults, adolescents, and children, as well as other vulnerable populations including those in foster care and emancipated minors. He has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including training at a women’s shelter. Dr.
(424) 688-1269 View (424) 688-1269
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) 392-7765 View (424) 392-7765
Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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-Bonmente knows 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.
(310) 861-2581 View (310) 861-2581
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(310) 361-1066 View (310) 361-1066
Photo of Khadeer Khan, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadeer Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I want to remind you of something incredibly important: your journey towards mental wellness is a courageous one. Every step you take, no matter how small it may seem, is a triumph worth celebrating. In the midst of life's challenges, it's easy to lose sight of your own strength and resilience. But I'm here to remind you that you possess an inner power that can overcome any obstacle. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of your mind with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support. Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Take the time to nurture your mind,
As your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I want to remind you of something incredibly important: your journey towards mental wellness is a courageous one. Every step you take, no matter how small it may seem, is a triumph worth celebrating. In the midst of life's challenges, it's easy to lose sight of your own strength and resilience. But I'm here to remind you that you possess an inner power that can overcome any obstacle. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of your mind with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support. Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Take the time to nurture your mind,
(323) 688-4748 View (323) 688-4748
Photo of Veronica Arres, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica Arres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Veronica Arres is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats mental health conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). As a part of Pacific Pain & Wellness Group, her mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, she will construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Veronica Arres is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who treats mental health conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). As a part of Pacific Pain & Wellness Group, her mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, she will construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
(310) 340-6936 View (310) 340-6936
Photo of Daniel Waldman, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Waldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Adult, Child, Adolescent, Psychiatrist focusing on neurodivergence, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, and depression. I use a holistic approach when working with patients and work closely with therapists. By collaborating with patients and families, I incorporate therapeutic strategies to complement medication management.
I am a board-certified Adult, Child, Adolescent, Psychiatrist focusing on neurodivergence, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, and depression. I use a holistic approach when working with patients and work closely with therapists. By collaborating with patients and families, I incorporate therapeutic strategies to complement medication management.
(424) 487-6250 View (424) 487-6250

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cristian Cuevas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cristian Cuevas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience, primarily working with children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I understand the unique challenges young people face and collaborate closely with families to create personalized treatment plans. While my passion is in pediatric and adolescent care, I’ve also successfully applied my expertise to adults, helping clients of all ages achieve emotional stability and improved mental health.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience, primarily working with children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I understand the unique challenges young people face and collaborate closely with families to create personalized treatment plans. While my passion is in pediatric and adolescent care, I’ve also successfully applied my expertise to adults, helping clients of all ages achieve emotional stability and improved mental health.
(714) 462-1806 View (714) 462-1806

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90278

10+

Average cost per session

$275

Psychiatrists in 90278 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
95% ADHD
89% Trauma and PTSD
84% Bipolar Disorder
79% Sleep or Insomnia
74% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
59% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 90278 see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

53% Female
47% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90278?

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.