Psychiatrists in 91709

Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed - Mindwell Mental Health Services, PHMNP, APRN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindwell Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chino Hills, CA 91709
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
(909) 906-9942 View (909) 906-9942
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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!
(310) 879-1097 View (310) 879-1097
Photo of Stephanie Reed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Reed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. My practice focuses on helping people through a combination of medication (if needed) and other lifestyle or behavioral interventions that may help recovery and reaching personal goals. I treat adults of all ages for a broad range of conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I use an eclectic approach to helping people uncover and understand the nature of the struggles they are having and help us come to an effective treatment plan together.
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Reed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. My practice focuses on helping people through a combination of medication (if needed) and other lifestyle or behavioral interventions that may help recovery and reaching personal goals. I treat adults of all ages for a broad range of conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I use an eclectic approach to helping people uncover and understand the nature of the struggles they are having and help us come to an effective treatment plan together.
(760) 823-3041 View (760) 823-3041
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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!
(310) 879-1097 View (310) 879-1097
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(951) 223-7096 View (951) 223-7096
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(951) 470-3671 View (951) 470-3671
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(951) 349-4668 View (951) 349-4668

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90032
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(818) 626-3930 View (818) 626-3930
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(310) 598-3938 View (310) 598-3938
Photo of Karen Rightler, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Rightler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, CA 92630
If you need a provider who takes the time to listen and understand you, contact me. I provide a safe space to explore your mental health concerns, with No shame, blame or judgments. I help clients through accurate diagnosing and targeted symptom management so they can begin to live the lives they want and deserve.
If you need a provider who takes the time to listen and understand you, contact me. I provide a safe space to explore your mental health concerns, with No shame, blame or judgments. I help clients through accurate diagnosing and targeted symptom management so they can begin to live the lives they want and deserve.
(949) 828-0583 View (949) 828-0583
Photo of Shou Wang, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shou Wang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My interest in psychiatry comes from painting as no two paintings are identical just like all people are unique in their way. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a former US Army veteran with more than 6 years of experience in psychiatry. With extensive experience in counseling and medication management, my goal is to provide the best care possible to you or your loved ones.
My interest in psychiatry comes from painting as no two paintings are identical just like all people are unique in their way. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a former US Army veteran with more than 6 years of experience in psychiatry. With extensive experience in counseling and medication management, my goal is to provide the best care possible to you or your loved ones.
(562) 362-4876 View (562) 362-4876
Photo of Bernadette Nkechi Akpengbe, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bernadette Nkechi Akpengbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
A Compassionate Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with expertise in management and supervision of Family through life Span medical care with an additional certification in Psychiatric Mental Health nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With over half a decade years of clinical experience in diverse settings, offering excellent patient assessment skills and a dedication to providing holistic, high-quality care. Skilled in inpatient and outpatient teaching with a strong emphasis in mental health care, medical preventative care, case management and administration.
A Compassionate Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with expertise in management and supervision of Family through life Span medical care with an additional certification in Psychiatric Mental Health nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With over half a decade years of clinical experience in diverse settings, offering excellent patient assessment skills and a dedication to providing holistic, high-quality care. Skilled in inpatient and outpatient teaching with a strong emphasis in mental health care, medical preventative care, case management and administration.
(909) 310-8193 View (909) 310-8193
Photo of Janice Tolentino, PMHNP, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janice Tolentino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with mental health symptoms but have remained silent? Do you feel that there is something not right about you but do not know what to do or who to talk to about it? Are you looking for a compassionate provider who you would want to be heard and understood? I help patients get the best of themselves in a nonjudgmental and empathetic way. At an early age, I gravitated toward mental health and have found myself drawn to understanding the complexities of human emotions and behavior.
Are you struggling with mental health symptoms but have remained silent? Do you feel that there is something not right about you but do not know what to do or who to talk to about it? Are you looking for a compassionate provider who you would want to be heard and understood? I help patients get the best of themselves in a nonjudgmental and empathetic way. At an early age, I gravitated toward mental health and have found myself drawn to understanding the complexities of human emotions and behavior.
(213) 460-2945 View (213) 460-2945
Photo of Alexis Meshi-Call Today, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexis Meshi-Call Today
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
We offer Telemedicine Services. Receive care from the comfort of your home or work! Follow this link to request: https://superiorpsychiatric.video-visits.com. Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
We offer Telemedicine Services. Receive care from the comfort of your home or work! Follow this link to request: https://superiorpsychiatric.video-visits.com. Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
(949) 647-4436 View (949) 647-4436
Photo of Jerry F Benzl, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Jerry F Benzl
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
If you are an existing patient at Advanced TMS, please call 949-768-2988 to contact the office. I now also see child, adolescents, and adults at the Behavioral Assessment Center of South County (BACSOC) in Mission Viejo, California. I specialize in ADHD treatments and medication management for most psychiatric problems.
If you are an existing patient at Advanced TMS, please call 949-768-2988 to contact the office. I now also see child, adolescents, and adults at the Behavioral Assessment Center of South County (BACSOC) in Mission Viejo, California. I specialize in ADHD treatments and medication management for most psychiatric problems.
(949) 694-3868 View (949) 694-3868
Photo of Taryn Joyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taryn Joyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Do you struggle with getting your work done on time? Do you feel like if only you had an extra 5 hours in the day, how much more you can get done? Are you struggling at work/school, home, and/or socially with meeting deadlines, completing chores, and showing up for your friends? Do you feel like you avoid certain places/situations because you’ll say or do something wrong? With everything at your fingertips these days, it can become overwhelming when you’re trying to keep up with work/school and maintain a social life while also ensuring that you’re taking care of your needs.
Do you struggle with getting your work done on time? Do you feel like if only you had an extra 5 hours in the day, how much more you can get done? Are you struggling at work/school, home, and/or socially with meeting deadlines, completing chores, and showing up for your friends? Do you feel like you avoid certain places/situations because you’ll say or do something wrong? With everything at your fingertips these days, it can become overwhelming when you’re trying to keep up with work/school and maintain a social life while also ensuring that you’re taking care of your needs.
(657) 571-4128 View (657) 571-4128
Photo of Carmela Zaragoza, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carmela Zaragoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(310) 596-4195 View (310) 596-4195
Photo of Angelica Luciano, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angelica Luciano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Angelica Luciano. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I was licensed in 2017. I use a bio-psycho-social framework. Understanding that psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, the effects of certain medications, or genetic predisposition. I incorporate multiple modalities, including medication management, education, and brief supportive therapeutic interventions to treat you as a unique individual and not a textbook. I treat adults, typically between the ages of 18-60, for a broad range of psychiatric conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Angelica Luciano. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I was licensed in 2017. I use a bio-psycho-social framework. Understanding that psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, the effects of certain medications, or genetic predisposition. I incorporate multiple modalities, including medication management, education, and brief supportive therapeutic interventions to treat you as a unique individual and not a textbook. I treat adults, typically between the ages of 18-60, for a broad range of psychiatric conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Kumbie Madiye, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kumbie Madiye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am multi-lingual and pride myself in giving culturally competent care personalized to each individual. I have extensive experience in child and adolescent psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, integration psychiatry in primary care and acute care settings. Highly competent at managing complex patients with co-occurring disorders / dual diagnoses, multiple medical comorbidities and trauma care.
I am multi-lingual and pride myself in giving culturally competent care personalized to each individual. I have extensive experience in child and adolescent psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, integration psychiatry in primary care and acute care settings. Highly competent at managing complex patients with co-occurring disorders / dual diagnoses, multiple medical comorbidities and trauma care.
(949) 528-8713 View (949) 528-8713
Photo of Rohit Aiyer - Sunny Hills Behavioral Health & Sunny Hills TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Sunny Hills Behavioral Health & Sunny Hills TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92832
Dr. Aiyer is a Double Board Certified and Licensed Physician in Adult Psychiatry. As he was born in England and grew up in Canada, he went back to the UK for medical school at University of Birmingham (Birmingham, England). He then completed internship rotations in Psychiatry in South Thames (London) region, before deciding to move back to North America, New York City. He then completed his Psychiatry residency at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell at Staten Island University Hospital in Staten Island, NY, followed by completing a specialized ACGME fellowship in Pain Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College.
Dr. Aiyer is a Double Board Certified and Licensed Physician in Adult Psychiatry. As he was born in England and grew up in Canada, he went back to the UK for medical school at University of Birmingham (Birmingham, England). He then completed internship rotations in Psychiatry in South Thames (London) region, before deciding to move back to North America, New York City. He then completed his Psychiatry residency at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell at Staten Island University Hospital in Staten Island, NY, followed by completing a specialized ACGME fellowship in Pain Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College.
(657) 237-2019 View (657) 237-2019

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 91709

< 10

Psychiatrists in 91709 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Anger Management

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 91709 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Male
17% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 91709?

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.