Psychiatrists in 90402

Photo of Dr. Alpna Agrawal - Face Together Wellness, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH
Face Together Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Private psychiatry practice committed to helping individuals enjoy meaningful lives. Face Together Wellness is grounded in a person feeling safe and heard. Dr. Agrawal’s treatment approach is personalized, thorough, caring, and forthright.
Private psychiatry practice committed to helping individuals enjoy meaningful lives. Face Together Wellness is grounded in a person feeling safe and heard. Dr. Agrawal’s treatment approach is personalized, thorough, caring, and forthright.
(424) 399-5491 View (424) 399-5491
Photo of Marissa Stridiron - Connected Tele-Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Connected Tele-Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Choosing a psychiatrist is hard. Let me introduce myself. I am a working mother, spouse, and physician. I understand the challenges facing women and men today. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems are likely to emerge. I see adults with Anxiety/Depressive Disorders, Marital/Relationship difficulties and other Life Crises. I focus on present-day coping strategies and on bettering your understanding of the way your difficulties are related to overall life history. I do intensive work with people who want to improve their self-understanding, define goals and lead more productive lives.
Choosing a psychiatrist is hard. Let me introduce myself. I am a working mother, spouse, and physician. I understand the challenges facing women and men today. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems are likely to emerge. I see adults with Anxiety/Depressive Disorders, Marital/Relationship difficulties and other Life Crises. I focus on present-day coping strategies and on bettering your understanding of the way your difficulties are related to overall life history. I do intensive work with people who want to improve their self-understanding, define goals and lead more productive lives.
(973) 544-8653 View (973) 544-8653
Photo of Jennifer Knisely, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Knisely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Jennifer Knisely is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both geriatric and adult populations. Jennifer obtains strong clinical skills, with an intuitive ability to build patient rapport while providing evidence-based care. Jennifer provides collaborative, holistic, and patient-centered care focusing on what matters most to you. I want you to leave your session feeling better than you did. I want you to be the best version of you!
Jennifer Knisely is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both geriatric and adult populations. Jennifer obtains strong clinical skills, with an intuitive ability to build patient rapport while providing evidence-based care. Jennifer provides collaborative, holistic, and patient-centered care focusing on what matters most to you. I want you to leave your session feeling better than you did. I want you to be the best version of you!
(442) 200-2744 View (442) 200-2744
Photo of Sarah Oreck - Mavida Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Mavida Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
(747) 294-4239 View (747) 294-4239
Photo of Jenna Xiao Cheng, Psychiatrist, DO
Jenna Xiao Cheng
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Whatever brought you to this moment, I believe that the first step to healing is compassion. My utmost priority is for you to feel safe in the space we share as we explore what has been challenging for you. Attachment theory and humanistic psychology sit at the foundational core of my work. If we work together, we will explore the truth behind the symptoms, how medications might help, and most importantly, what makes life meaningful for you.
Whatever brought you to this moment, I believe that the first step to healing is compassion. My utmost priority is for you to feel safe in the space we share as we explore what has been challenging for you. Attachment theory and humanistic psychology sit at the foundational core of my work. If we work together, we will explore the truth behind the symptoms, how medications might help, and most importantly, what makes life meaningful for you.
(310) 984-7332 View (310) 984-7332
Photo of Mae Caragay, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Mae Caragay
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
Accepting New Patients - I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
(818) 651-0822 View (818) 651-0822
Photo of Amit Parikh M. D, Psychiatrist, MD
Amit Parikh M. D
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I enjoy building relationships with my patients and working towards creating a personalized treatment plan which may include medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of each. I have an integrative approach, wherein I assess one’s psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to behavior. My style is collaborative, person-centered and warm. I have a special interest in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders and ADHD. I also have an interest in sports psychiatry.
I enjoy building relationships with my patients and working towards creating a personalized treatment plan which may include medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of each. I have an integrative approach, wherein I assess one’s psychological, emotional, medical and environmental contributors to behavior. My style is collaborative, person-centered and warm. I have a special interest in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders and ADHD. I also have an interest in sports psychiatry.
(424) 316-1647 View (424) 316-1647
Photo of Keri Biscoe - Dr. Keri Biscoe | Wildflower Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Keri Biscoe | Wildflower Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am here to help you feel that your experiences are seen and supported, the struggles and the wins. This attentive listening is part of my holistic approach to providing customized, evidence-based psychiatric care designed to help you thrive. We'll start with a comprehensive evaluation and medical workup. From there I create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and is adaptable to progress that we track together.
I am here to help you feel that your experiences are seen and supported, the struggles and the wins. This attentive listening is part of my holistic approach to providing customized, evidence-based psychiatric care designed to help you thrive. We'll start with a comprehensive evaluation and medical workup. From there I create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and is adaptable to progress that we track together.
Photo of Mark McDonald, Psychiatrist, MD
Mark McDonald
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My patients value in-person care outside the now discredited US medical institution, from a doctor whose goal is to guide them toward health, with or without prescription drugs. They are looking for a doctor who is not beholden to any corporate interest and still follows real science and not propaganda. They want the government out of the doctor-patient relationship. They want a mask-free environment. They want the truth. They want to think for themselves. www.dissidentmd.com.
My patients value in-person care outside the now discredited US medical institution, from a doctor whose goal is to guide them toward health, with or without prescription drugs. They are looking for a doctor who is not beholden to any corporate interest and still follows real science and not propaganda. They want the government out of the doctor-patient relationship. They want a mask-free environment. They want the truth. They want to think for themselves. www.dissidentmd.com.
(310) 596-4145 View (310) 596-4145
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
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!
(424) 587-2134 View (424) 587-2134
Photo of Michael Lowenstein, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Lowenstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, want to resolve parenting issues or other relationship problems, as well as create more meaningful interactions and connections with the people you love, relief is available, and I'm here to help. My name is Dr. Michael Lowenstein, and I'm a board certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience providing a wide range of counseling, therapy, psychotherapy and medication treatments for individual adults living in the Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica and Los Angeles area, as well as online throughout the state of California.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, want to resolve parenting issues or other relationship problems, as well as create more meaningful interactions and connections with the people you love, relief is available, and I'm here to help. My name is Dr. Michael Lowenstein, and I'm a board certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience providing a wide range of counseling, therapy, psychotherapy and medication treatments for individual adults living in the Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica and Los Angeles area, as well as online throughout the state of California.
(310) 439-9323 View (310) 439-9323
We're Plus by APN - a team of psychiatry, therapy, and medical providers who have come together to provide real, comprehensive, interventional care for your mental health and well-being. Traditional psychiatry involves diagnosis and medication management. And we certainly do those. But at Plus by APN, we also provide in-depth psychiatric assessments to help you determine the best comprehensive treatment plan for your needs - whether that be therapy, medication, Deep TMS, ketamine-assisted healing, brain mapping, neurofeedback, stellate ganglion block (SGB) or some combination of the above.
We're Plus by APN - a team of psychiatry, therapy, and medical providers who have come together to provide real, comprehensive, interventional care for your mental health and well-being. Traditional psychiatry involves diagnosis and medication management. And we certainly do those. But at Plus by APN, we also provide in-depth psychiatric assessments to help you determine the best comprehensive treatment plan for your needs - whether that be therapy, medication, Deep TMS, ketamine-assisted healing, brain mapping, neurofeedback, stellate ganglion block (SGB) or some combination of the above.
(310) 878-0818 View (310) 878-0818
Photo of Alan Hanft, Psychiatrist, MD
Alan Hanft
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
After college, I attended medical school at McGill University. I then completed a residency in Psychiatry at USC and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Boston Children’s Hospital of Harvard Medical School. After completing these 10 years of training in 1992, I worked mostly for academic centers. I was faculty in the medical schools of Harvard and Tufts universities, and then returned to California where I was faculty at the University of California and USC for many years. For several years I’ve been Board Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, General Adult Psychiatry, and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
After college, I attended medical school at McGill University. I then completed a residency in Psychiatry at USC and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Boston Children’s Hospital of Harvard Medical School. After completing these 10 years of training in 1992, I worked mostly for academic centers. I was faculty in the medical schools of Harvard and Tufts universities, and then returned to California where I was faculty at the University of California and USC for many years. For several years I’ve been Board Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, General Adult Psychiatry, and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
(424) 238-3859 View (424) 238-3859
Photo of Gregory Sayer, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
Gregory Sayer
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Sayer is a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who specializes in medication management and psychotherapy. He is licensed in New York and California. He founded the group private practice, Ficus Psych. In private practice, he sees children, teens, and adults. Dr. Sayer understands that the best outcomes happen when patients and doctors work as a team. It is his mission to use his expertise, in combination with the unique characteristics of each patient, to empower patients to make meaningful progress in their lives.
Dr. Sayer is a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who specializes in medication management and psychotherapy. He is licensed in New York and California. He founded the group private practice, Ficus Psych. In private practice, he sees children, teens, and adults. Dr. Sayer understands that the best outcomes happen when patients and doctors work as a team. It is his mission to use his expertise, in combination with the unique characteristics of each patient, to empower patients to make meaningful progress in their lives.
(323) 746-1030 View (323) 746-1030
Photo of Moorea Pugliese, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Moorea Pugliese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or attention issues? She is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP helping people improve their mental wellness and productivity. She specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. She provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or attention issues? She is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP helping people improve their mental wellness and productivity. She specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. She provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more.
(949) 919-7033 View (949) 919-7033
Photo of Lauren Toneck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lauren Toneck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We 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!
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We 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!
(310) 361-3080 View (310) 361-3080
Photo of Samir Hamed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, 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.
(949) 506-3724 View (949) 506-3724
Photo of Minoo Mahmoudi, Psychiatrist
Minoo Mahmoudi
Psychiatrist
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Mahmoudi spends good amount of time to do a thorough psychiatric evaluation and get to know her patients. She helps patients understand their symptoms and challenges with developing an individualized biopsychosocial formulation. She shares her finding and educate patients about possible diagnosis. She develops an individualized management plan that may include medications, therapy or combination of both. She makes sure to collaborate with patient's therapist if the patient already sees a therapist. She sees a big value in communicating with allied health professionals and other medical doctors involve in a patient's care.
Dr. Mahmoudi spends good amount of time to do a thorough psychiatric evaluation and get to know her patients. She helps patients understand their symptoms and challenges with developing an individualized biopsychosocial formulation. She shares her finding and educate patients about possible diagnosis. She develops an individualized management plan that may include medications, therapy or combination of both. She makes sure to collaborate with patient's therapist if the patient already sees a therapist. She sees a big value in communicating with allied health professionals and other medical doctors involve in a patient's care.
(818) 514-7226 View (818) 514-7226
Photo of Gabor Vari, Psychiatrist, MD
Gabor Vari
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting New Patients / Appointments by telepsychiatry only / Out of network provider (no insurance accepted). I am an adult psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience. As a board certified psychiatrist trained at Brown, University of Pennsylvania, and UCLA, I work diligently to support your needs through medications, therapy, or both, as appropriate. If you already have a therapist, I will be glad to work closely with your therapist as a team.
Accepting New Patients / Appointments by telepsychiatry only / Out of network provider (no insurance accepted). I am an adult psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience. As a board certified psychiatrist trained at Brown, University of Pennsylvania, and UCLA, I work diligently to support your needs through medications, therapy, or both, as appropriate. If you already have a therapist, I will be glad to work closely with your therapist as a team.
(310) 340-0942 View (310) 340-0942
Photo of Harcharan J Bains - BiBi Psych, Psychiatrist, MD
BiBi Psych
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Availability—-only through TELEHEALTH/ ZOOM/ SKYPE/ FACETIME/WHATSAPP. Appointments are available within 48- 72 hours. Focus—MEDICATION MANAGEMENT & THERAPY. My clinic is all about you, making you feel better and productive in your life.Daily grind of life can bring anyone down and our goal is to make you go up and stay there. Each treatment is customized to your needs utilizing the latest scientific knowledge with minimal medication side effects. We treat vast spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Your privacy and safety is extremely important to me and we monitor it very closely aided by a professional staff.
Availability—-only through TELEHEALTH/ ZOOM/ SKYPE/ FACETIME/WHATSAPP. Appointments are available within 48- 72 hours. Focus—MEDICATION MANAGEMENT & THERAPY. My clinic is all about you, making you feel better and productive in your life.Daily grind of life can bring anyone down and our goal is to make you go up and stay there. Each treatment is customized to your needs utilizing the latest scientific knowledge with minimal medication side effects. We treat vast spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Your privacy and safety is extremely important to me and we monitor it very closely aided by a professional staff.
(417) 815-3605 View (417) 815-3605

See more therapy options for 90402

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 90402

20+

Average cost per session

$287

Psychiatrists in 90402 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
88% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
73% Cigna and Evernorth
73% TRICARE

How Psychiatrists in 90402 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 90402?

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.