Psychiatrists in 91731

Photo of Sandy Hah, MD, Psychiatrist
Sandy Hah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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!
(818) 412-6880 View (818) 412-6880

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Richard Teves, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Teves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Richard Teves and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing. With four years of experience working in inpatient psychiatric care in Riverside, Southern California, I have gained extensive knowledge in managing a variety of mental health disorders. I am passionate about mental health and its significance in everyday life, believing that mental well-being is a cornerstone of overall health. Now starting at Grow Therapy, I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to help my clients achieve emotional balance and resilience.
My name is Richard Teves and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing. With four years of experience working in inpatient psychiatric care in Riverside, Southern California, I have gained extensive knowledge in managing a variety of mental health disorders. I am passionate about mental health and its significance in everyday life, believing that mental well-being is a cornerstone of overall health. Now starting at Grow Therapy, I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to help my clients achieve emotional balance and resilience.
(213) 642-2494 View (213) 642-2494
Photo of Erica Taylor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
(760) 614-8873 View (760) 614-8873
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(562) 414-6544 View (562) 414-6544
Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed, PHMNP, APRN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacquelyn Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
(661) 463-8510 View (661) 463-8510
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, MD, Psychiatrist
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(562) 457-6784 View (562) 457-6784
Photo of Ferdinand Andy Rimando, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ferdinand Andy Rimando
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Ferdinand Andy Rimando, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Anew Era California since 2024, has an impressive 19-year journey in healthcare reflecting a diverse and accomplished career. His expertise spans various specialties, including sleep medicine, critical care, anesthesia, post-anesthesia care, psychiatry, and mental health. His commitment to excellence was evident during his nursing residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a prestigious institution known for its commitment to healthcare innovation and education.
Ferdinand Andy Rimando, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Anew Era California since 2024, has an impressive 19-year journey in healthcare reflecting a diverse and accomplished career. His expertise spans various specialties, including sleep medicine, critical care, anesthesia, post-anesthesia care, psychiatry, and mental health. His commitment to excellence was evident during his nursing residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a prestigious institution known for its commitment to healthcare innovation and education.
(424) 304-1646 View (424) 304-1646
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(619) 567-1519 View (619) 567-1519
Photo of Jessica Wang, MD, Psychiatrist
Jessica Wang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
I was born and raised on the West Coast but have spent a significant amount of time in the Northeast as well. I did my undergraduate studies at Cornell University and received my medical degree from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. Afterwards, I did my first two years of psychiatry residency at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia before its closure in 2019 and completed the remainder of my training at Temple University Hospital. Throughout the years I have worked in multiple settings including inpatient units, outpatient clinics, consultation-liaison services, and crisis response centers.
I was born and raised on the West Coast but have spent a significant amount of time in the Northeast as well. I did my undergraduate studies at Cornell University and received my medical degree from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. Afterwards, I did my first two years of psychiatry residency at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia before its closure in 2019 and completed the remainder of my training at Temple University Hospital. Throughout the years I have worked in multiple settings including inpatient units, outpatient clinics, consultation-liaison services, and crisis response centers.
(657) 837-3552 View (657) 837-3552
Photo of Adriane Alcalá Moss, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Adriane Alcalá Moss
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
16 Sep 2024: I am accepting clients for formal psychiatric care. I do provide holistic health counseling and coaching for any location. Please go to my website for more details. Services are currently 100% online/virtual via HIPAA-compliant ZOOM platform.
16 Sep 2024: I am accepting clients for formal psychiatric care. I do provide holistic health counseling and coaching for any location. Please go to my website for more details. Services are currently 100% online/virtual via HIPAA-compliant ZOOM platform.
(541) 760-7958 View (541) 760-7958
Photo of Alice Cheng, MD, Psychiatrist
Alice Cheng
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Graduate of USC Keck School of Medicine. Chief Resident of LAC+USC General Psychiatry Residency Program. ABPN Board Certified in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry.
Graduate of USC Keck School of Medicine. Chief Resident of LAC+USC General Psychiatry Residency Program. ABPN Board Certified in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry.
(626) 587-2181 View (626) 587-2181
Photo of Gabrielle Carter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabrielle Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a dedicated healthcare provider, my philosophy centers on compassionate, patient-focused care. I believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. I take the time to listen and understand my patients' unique stories, fostering an environment where they feel comfortable and supported. With expertise in psychiatric mental health, I emphasize personalized treatment plans that cater to individual needs. I utilize evidence-based methods while embracing telehealth to enhance accessibility. Education is key—I empower my patients with knowledge about their health and promote mental wellness. Together, we can navigate their j
As a dedicated healthcare provider, my philosophy centers on compassionate, patient-focused care. I believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. I take the time to listen and understand my patients' unique stories, fostering an environment where they feel comfortable and supported. With expertise in psychiatric mental health, I emphasize personalized treatment plans that cater to individual needs. I utilize evidence-based methods while embracing telehealth to enhance accessibility. Education is key—I empower my patients with knowledge about their health and promote mental wellness. Together, we can navigate their j
(213) 600-7071 View (213) 600-7071
Photo of Ijeoma Nwokoro, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Nwokoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am all about making patient centered goals that are realistic and meet the needs of the patient. I believe in collaborating with the patient while explaining the risks and benefits of the treatment plan we agreed on.
I am all about making patient centered goals that are realistic and meet the needs of the patient. I believe in collaborating with the patient while explaining the risks and benefits of the treatment plan we agreed on.
(919) 769-6048 View (919) 769-6048
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Daniel Mattox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Mattox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Text: (808) 563-4128 for quickest response. As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide high-quality mental healthcare services to patients through telemedicine. With a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, I possess the necessary skills and expertise to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and specialize in ADHD. Please note that I offer medication management for clients as another tool to help improve your mental health. Looking forward to meeting you and making some life improvements.
Text: (808) 563-4128 for quickest response. As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide high-quality mental healthcare services to patients through telemedicine. With a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, I possess the necessary skills and expertise to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and specialize in ADHD. Please note that I offer medication management for clients as another tool to help improve your mental health. Looking forward to meeting you and making some life improvements.
(562) 600-5486 View (562) 600-5486
Photo of Jaspreet Takhar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaspreet Takhar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(626) 702-3093 View (626) 702-3093
Photo of Pamela Joy Abao, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Joy Abao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Many face mental health challenges, especially when raised in environments where emotional struggles are overlooked or stigmatized. It can be hard to open up about feelings due to cultural or personal barriers. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma—particularly in demanding or stressful environments—you're not alone. I offer compassionate, culturally sensitive care tailored to your needs, creating a safe space to help you manage your well-being, break through stigma, and thrive. Let's work together to improve your mental health and help you feel empowered.
Many face mental health challenges, especially when raised in environments where emotional struggles are overlooked or stigmatized. It can be hard to open up about feelings due to cultural or personal barriers. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma—particularly in demanding or stressful environments—you're not alone. I offer compassionate, culturally sensitive care tailored to your needs, creating a safe space to help you manage your well-being, break through stigma, and thrive. Let's work together to improve your mental health and help you feel empowered.
(213) 715-6904 View (213) 715-6904
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(323) 916-6672 View (323) 916-6672
Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bettina Ervin Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
(323) 716-0822 View (323) 716-0822
Photo of Tyisha Renee Fletcher, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tyisha Renee Fletcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
I am a dual-certified in family and psychiatric mental health care as a Nurse Practitioner. I believe in treating patients with respect and compassion. I have practiced for over eight years in a variety of settings, including internal medicine, family medicine, and mental health. I enjoy working with diverse people from different cultures. I specialize in working with people of color by providing a safe space to focus on complete mental health.
I am a dual-certified in family and psychiatric mental health care as a Nurse Practitioner. I believe in treating patients with respect and compassion. I have practiced for over eight years in a variety of settings, including internal medicine, family medicine, and mental health. I enjoy working with diverse people from different cultures. I specialize in working with people of color by providing a safe space to focus on complete mental health.
(562) 554-4967 View (562) 554-4967

See more therapy options for 91731

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 91731

< 10

Psychiatrists in 91731 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Infertility

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Carelon Health IPA of California (CHIPA)

How Psychiatrists in 91731 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 91731?

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.