Psychiatrists in 90404
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
Mercy Mental Health and Services, Nursing Corp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Master, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm a dedicated and empathetic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a rich background spanning over two decades in the healthcare industry. My passion for mental health and well-being has been the driving force behind my extensive career, where I've honed my skills to provide comprehensive and personalized care to individuals seeking support. I earned my advanced degree to address better the nuanced needs of those grappling with mental health challenges. My qualifications and commitment to ongoing professional development ensure that I stay abreast of the latest advancements in psychiatric care.
Greetings! I'm a dedicated and empathetic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a rich background spanning over two decades in the healthcare industry. My passion for mental health and well-being has been the driving force behind my extensive career, where I've honed my skills to provide comprehensive and personalized care to individuals seeking support. I earned my advanced degree to address better the nuanced needs of those grappling with mental health challenges. My qualifications and commitment to ongoing professional development ensure that I stay abreast of the latest advancements in psychiatric care.
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
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.
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.
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Thomas M Brod
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Waitlist for new clients
Shame and anxiety (hidden or tormentingly on the surface) are key discomforts in each person; however, everyone is miraculously unique. In my practice, we aim to pinpoint the help you need and offer the quickest and most lasting treatment appropriate. Sometimes that is intensive psychotherapy that can be short-term or go on for years if appropriate; sometimes it is a few sessions of a technique like EMDR that sort-of resets the brain after an emotional trauma. Often I recommend brainwave biofeedback (EEG neurofeedback). Always I'm seeking the most naturalistic treatment, with the least amount of medication practical.
Shame and anxiety (hidden or tormentingly on the surface) are key discomforts in each person; however, everyone is miraculously unique. In my practice, we aim to pinpoint the help you need and offer the quickest and most lasting treatment appropriate. Sometimes that is intensive psychotherapy that can be short-term or go on for years if appropriate; sometimes it is a few sessions of a technique like EMDR that sort-of resets the brain after an emotional trauma. Often I recommend brainwave biofeedback (EEG neurofeedback). Always I'm seeking the most naturalistic treatment, with the least amount of medication practical.
Elana Miller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
25 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
To request a consultation, please submit a request via my website at: zenpsychiatry.com/private-practice. I am not able to respond to requests via phone or my Psychology Today profile. Thank you! I am a functional and integrative psychiatrist who will treat you as a whole person— mind, brain, body, and soul. I combine holistic approaches like nutritional supplementation, herbal/plant-based medicine, advanced laboratory testing, and mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric approaches like medication and solution-oriented psychotherapy. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum illness, and PTSD/Trauma.
To request a consultation, please submit a request via my website at: zenpsychiatry.com/private-practice. I am not able to respond to requests via phone or my Psychology Today profile. Thank you! I am a functional and integrative psychiatrist who will treat you as a whole person— mind, brain, body, and soul. I combine holistic approaches like nutritional supplementation, herbal/plant-based medicine, advanced laboratory testing, and mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric approaches like medication and solution-oriented psychotherapy. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum illness, and PTSD/Trauma.
Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD or low self-esteem? Are you stuck in an unwanted repetitive pattern or struggling to find a healthy relationship? I will work with you to shift gears and overcome the obstacles which are holding you back. I use the appropriate treatment for your needs, i.e. psychotherapy and/or medications. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who completed my training at Yale School of Medicine. I provide a comprehensive evaluation using an integrated approach to care, and build on your strengths.
Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD or low self-esteem? Are you stuck in an unwanted repetitive pattern or struggling to find a healthy relationship? I will work with you to shift gears and overcome the obstacles which are holding you back. I use the appropriate treatment for your needs, i.e. psychotherapy and/or medications. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who completed my training at Yale School of Medicine. I provide a comprehensive evaluation using an integrated approach to care, and build on your strengths.
Victoria Omson - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Not accepting new clients
Victoria E. Omson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from California State University, San Bernardino, she received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) from UMass Global. Victoria was born & raised in LA & she loves the environment it has cultivated for her. She has several years of mental health experience working in different inpatient & acute settings. She was drawn to this field during her early nursing days working in an ER. Victoria is a strong believer that mental health is of utmost importance & can determine life trajectory.
Victoria E. Omson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from California State University, San Bernardino, she received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) from UMass Global. Victoria was born & raised in LA & she loves the environment it has cultivated for her. She has several years of mental health experience working in different inpatient & acute settings. She was drawn to this field during her early nursing days working in an ER. Victoria is a strong believer that mental health is of utmost importance & can determine life trajectory.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management and ketamine infusions, my goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care. If you struggle with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain without finding relief I am here to help. Utilizing a holistic approach, we will incorporate innovation (I.e. genetic testing) along with evidence-based treatment plans to address your unique needs.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management and ketamine infusions, my goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care. If you struggle with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain without finding relief I am here to help. Utilizing a holistic approach, we will incorporate innovation (I.e. genetic testing) along with evidence-based treatment plans to address your unique needs.
Let's work together to help you reach your goals. Whether you or your child desire to emerge from the depths of persistent sadness, stabilize your highs and lows, diminish the impact of voices, visions and paranoid thinking, or reduce chronic worry and fear, we'll devise a plan to improve your state of mind. If you or your child have trouble paying attention in school, struggle with social interactions or making friends, display behavioral problems including tantrums and physical aggression or suffer low mood or chronic worry, request an evaluation to begin the treatment process.
Let's work together to help you reach your goals. Whether you or your child desire to emerge from the depths of persistent sadness, stabilize your highs and lows, diminish the impact of voices, visions and paranoid thinking, or reduce chronic worry and fear, we'll devise a plan to improve your state of mind. If you or your child have trouble paying attention in school, struggle with social interactions or making friends, display behavioral problems including tantrums and physical aggression or suffer low mood or chronic worry, request an evaluation to begin the treatment process.
Altitude Wellness's Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
Altitude Wellness's Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
What motivates someone to see a psychiatrist? While some of us may need someone to listen and understand what it's like to be in our shoes, others may need a professional to help them tap into their highest potential. Or maybe they are convinced that their current medications are no longer working for them. Or, perhaps, they are currently on a complicated medication regimen that they wish to simplify. Whatever the reason may be that brings us together, you can rest assured that you will be in good hands. Moreover, I have a special interest in working with adult professionals who are struggling with substance use disorders.
What motivates someone to see a psychiatrist? While some of us may need someone to listen and understand what it's like to be in our shoes, others may need a professional to help them tap into their highest potential. Or maybe they are convinced that their current medications are no longer working for them. Or, perhaps, they are currently on a complicated medication regimen that they wish to simplify. Whatever the reason may be that brings us together, you can rest assured that you will be in good hands. Moreover, I have a special interest in working with adult professionals who are struggling with substance use disorders.
My approach is to build on a person's strengths and positive aspects of mental health. I believe in collaborating with my clients to determine their goals, both in terms of symptom relief and through self- understanding. I aim to achieve results quickly by giving them the tools they need to deal with life's challenges. In addition to individuals, my practice also provides counseling to couples and families through psychotherapy and medication management, as well as a combination of the two. I believe in a conservative and personalized approach to the use of medication.
My approach is to build on a person's strengths and positive aspects of mental health. I believe in collaborating with my clients to determine their goals, both in terms of symptom relief and through self- understanding. I aim to achieve results quickly by giving them the tools they need to deal with life's challenges. In addition to individuals, my practice also provides counseling to couples and families through psychotherapy and medication management, as well as a combination of the two. I believe in a conservative and personalized approach to the use of medication.
One of Mojan’s primary passions is supporting patients dealing with PTSD, trauma, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. She also has a strong focus on helping individuals with sleep disorders, including insomnia, recognizing the critical impact of healthy sleep on overall mental health. Her expertise in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and medication-based interventions like Spravato and TMS ensures that patients have access to diverse and effective treatments for their conditions.
One of Mojan’s primary passions is supporting patients dealing with PTSD, trauma, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. She also has a strong focus on helping individuals with sleep disorders, including insomnia, recognizing the critical impact of healthy sleep on overall mental health. Her expertise in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and medication-based interventions like Spravato and TMS ensures that patients have access to diverse and effective treatments for their conditions.
Leah Silver is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who started practicing in 2022. She earned an Undergraduate Degree in Nursing from the University of Arizona and a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from the University of Washington. Leah believes it is a privilege to positively impact her patients and help improve their mental health. Her hope is to empower individuals, families, groups, and communities to achieve their health goals.
Leah Silver is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who started practicing in 2022. She earned an Undergraduate Degree in Nursing from the University of Arizona and a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from the University of Washington. Leah believes it is a privilege to positively impact her patients and help improve their mental health. Her hope is to empower individuals, families, groups, and communities to achieve their health goals.
APN Malibu - Psychiatry, Deep TMS, & Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
As a mental health provider at At Plus by APN, we provide neurotechnology and integrative psychiatry services, including dTMS, Ketamine-Assisted Healing, Stellate Ganglion Block, and Neurofeedback. Traditional healthcare holds a significant line between physical healthcare and mental healthcare. We don’t. A fulfilling, healthy life requires well-being for both your mind and your body. It shouldn’t be so rare for healthcare providers to integrate the two. We set out to help people everywhere pursue mental and physical health at the same time, under the same umbrella – All Points North.
As a mental health provider at At Plus by APN, we provide neurotechnology and integrative psychiatry services, including dTMS, Ketamine-Assisted Healing, Stellate Ganglion Block, and Neurofeedback. Traditional healthcare holds a significant line between physical healthcare and mental healthcare. We don’t. A fulfilling, healthy life requires well-being for both your mind and your body. It shouldn’t be so rare for healthcare providers to integrate the two. We set out to help people everywhere pursue mental and physical health at the same time, under the same umbrella – All Points North.
Dr. Whisenhunt believes in the value of spirituality and the humanities in maximizing each patient's potential beyond what can be achieved through neuroscience and chemistry alone. Dr. Whisenhunt specializes in the treatment of adults with psychiatric and substance use disorders. He has worked in emergency, inpatient, residential, outpatient, intensive outpatient, detoxification, and correctional settings. He completed his residency training at the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine and LAC+USC Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, serving as chief resident in his fourth year.
Dr. Whisenhunt believes in the value of spirituality and the humanities in maximizing each patient's potential beyond what can be achieved through neuroscience and chemistry alone. Dr. Whisenhunt specializes in the treatment of adults with psychiatric and substance use disorders. He has worked in emergency, inpatient, residential, outpatient, intensive outpatient, detoxification, and correctional settings. He completed his residency training at the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine and LAC+USC Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, serving as chief resident in his fourth year.
See more therapy options for 90404
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 90404
20+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 90404 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
84% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
84% | Trauma and PTSD |
84% | Medication Management |
80% | ADHD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | Aetna |
84% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 90404 see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
57% | Male | |
43% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 90404?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.