Psychiatrists in 91801

Photo of Dr. Sarah Sicher, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sarah Sicher
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alhambra, CA 91801
Dr. Sicher is board certified in both General Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, she who believes in integrated, whole-person oriented psychiatric care that takes into account an individual's unique circumstances and needs. There are additional associates in the practice, so if Dr. Sicher is unavailable another psychiatrist/provider may be available.
Dr. Sicher is board certified in both General Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, she who believes in integrated, whole-person oriented psychiatric care that takes into account an individual's unique circumstances and needs. There are additional associates in the practice, so if Dr. Sicher is unavailable another psychiatrist/provider may be available.
(323) 894-2256 View (323) 894-2256
Photo of David Chang Min Ha, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Chang Min Ha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alhambra, CA 91801
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(323) 870-6648 View (323) 870-6648
Photo of Nona Lu, MD, Psychiatrist
Nona Lu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you broke your leg, you wouldn’t take an aspirin and skip resetting the bone. Mental health issues are a lot like broken bones and they require a combination of medication management and therapy to treat the symptoms and the underlying issues.
If you broke your leg, you wouldn’t take an aspirin and skip resetting the bone. Mental health issues are a lot like broken bones and they require a combination of medication management and therapy to treat the symptoms and the underlying issues.
(626) 998-3374 View (626) 998-3374
Photo of Mohammad Hussain, RN-MSN, PMHNP, ACAB, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mohammad Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN-MSN, PMHNP, ACAB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You are done getting therapy from a retiring crony and sick of doing the insurance shuffle. You are down to try new things—think therapy and holistic practices instead of JUST popping pills like candy, e.g., Ketamine, LSD—and you want to rediscover that spark lost somewhere between taxes and laundry. In our telepsychiatry lollipop chain, we’ll create a chill, judgment-free zone where you can spill your thoughts, feelings, and realistic-est dreams, like a therapy version of a director's commentary
You are done getting therapy from a retiring crony and sick of doing the insurance shuffle. You are down to try new things—think therapy and holistic practices instead of JUST popping pills like candy, e.g., Ketamine, LSD—and you want to rediscover that spark lost somewhere between taxes and laundry. In our telepsychiatry lollipop chain, we’ll create a chill, judgment-free zone where you can spill your thoughts, feelings, and realistic-est dreams, like a therapy version of a director's commentary
(818) 698-6683 View (818) 698-6683
Photo of Alexander Huang, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexander Huang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
(626) 642-9825 View (626) 642-9825

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Karen Rightler, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Rightler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MFT
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92801
Are you seeking a new mental health provider? If so, I am happy to help. I provide a safe space and personalized treatment for anyone who is struggling to manage their anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, and more. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with additional education and training in marriage and family therapy, my approach is tailored to your specific needs. I am trained to provide individual psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management.
Are you seeking a new mental health provider? If so, I am happy to help. I provide a safe space and personalized treatment for anyone who is struggling to manage their anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, and more. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with additional education and training in marriage and family therapy, my approach is tailored to your specific needs. I am trained to provide individual psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management.
(714) 924-3028 View (714) 924-3028
Photo of Alison Mitchell, MD, Psychiatrist
Alison Mitchell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I practice an integrative approach to psychiatry that evaluates all biological, social, and psychological factors contributing to a patient's mental health and well-being.
I practice an integrative approach to psychiatry that evaluates all biological, social, and psychological factors contributing to a patient's mental health and well-being.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Isaac Pro, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Isaac Pro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Isaac Pro is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to your mental well-being. With extensive education and more than 8 years of hands-on experience in the mental health field, he is committed to providing patient-centered care that places your unique needs and concerns at the heart of your therapeutic journey. Isaac began his nursing career at Mount Saint Mary's University, earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Isaac Pro is a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to your mental well-being. With extensive education and more than 8 years of hands-on experience in the mental health field, he is committed to providing patient-centered care that places your unique needs and concerns at the heart of your therapeutic journey. Isaac began his nursing career at Mount Saint Mary's University, earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
(562) 573-8189 View (562) 573-8189
Photo of Eugene Kimn, MD, Psychiatrist
Eugene Kimn
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I am dedicated to compassionate, thoughtful, and collaborative patient care for all ages, genders, orientations, and cultures. I believe the best care can be provided when viewing the client from a combination of biological, psychological, social, and cultural perspectives. It is my goal to have the client / family come out of session feeling they have been heard and their opinions valued. While I am experienced working with individuals with different needs and backgrounds, I have special interest in minority mental health, childhood mood and anxiety disorders, transitional age / college youth, trauma, and substance use disorders.
I am dedicated to compassionate, thoughtful, and collaborative patient care for all ages, genders, orientations, and cultures. I believe the best care can be provided when viewing the client from a combination of biological, psychological, social, and cultural perspectives. It is my goal to have the client / family come out of session feeling they have been heard and their opinions valued. While I am experienced working with individuals with different needs and backgrounds, I have special interest in minority mental health, childhood mood and anxiety disorders, transitional age / college youth, trauma, and substance use disorders.
(424) 622-4584 View (424) 622-4584
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 Dr. Simon Faynboym - Neuro Wellness Spa, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Simon Faynboym - Neuro Wellness Spa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Dr. Simon Faynboym was born in Ukraine and immigrated to California at a very young age. Growing up in California, he had a drive to serve the underprivileged and decided to become a physician. Dr. Faynboym currently practices Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Dr. Faynboym earned two Bachelor of Science Degrees, his first in Genetics and the second in Food Biochemistry. He graduated in the top of his class and continued thereafter to get his masters training in Biomedical Sciences at Midwestern University for a year, before heading off to Medical School.
Dr. Simon Faynboym was born in Ukraine and immigrated to California at a very young age. Growing up in California, he had a drive to serve the underprivileged and decided to become a physician. Dr. Faynboym currently practices Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Dr. Faynboym earned two Bachelor of Science Degrees, his first in Genetics and the second in Food Biochemistry. He graduated in the top of his class and continued thereafter to get his masters training in Biomedical Sciences at Midwestern University for a year, before heading off to Medical School.
(424) 328-6528 View (424) 328-6528
Photo of Lalaine Otadoy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lalaine Otadoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. 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 a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. 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!
(747) 335-2283 View (747) 335-2283
Photo of Roberto Figueroa, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Roberto Figueroa
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I use an integrated approach that combines cognitive behavioral (CBT) and psychodynamic psychotherapy with medication treatment when indicated. I have 15 years of experience and advanced specialization in psychopharmacology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and in psychodynamic psychotherapy at Columbia University.
I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I use an integrated approach that combines cognitive behavioral (CBT) and psychodynamic psychotherapy with medication treatment when indicated. I have 15 years of experience and advanced specialization in psychopharmacology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and in psychodynamic psychotherapy at Columbia University.
(310) 928-9548 View (310) 928-9548
Photo of Kathleen Hunter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Rula! My name is Kathy Hunter and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience in subacute detox, inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, a university counseling center, and inpatient pediatric psychiatry liaison. I am passionate about removing mental health stigma and focusing on health disparities in marginalized populations. I seek to have a strong working relationship with my patients, with a primary focus on autonomy, respect, relationships, and a deep understanding of how one's environment will have an impact on goals and progress.
Welcome to Rula! My name is Kathy Hunter and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience in subacute detox, inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, a university counseling center, and inpatient pediatric psychiatry liaison. I am passionate about removing mental health stigma and focusing on health disparities in marginalized populations. I seek to have a strong working relationship with my patients, with a primary focus on autonomy, respect, relationships, and a deep understanding of how one's environment will have an impact on goals and progress.
(424) 496-4039 View (424) 496-4039
Photo of Ronald Blustein, MD, Psychiatrist
Ronald Blustein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Ronald Blustein is a caring and compassionate psychiatrist. Dr. Blustein obtained his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He brings extensive experience to his role at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA, across Gardena, Van Nuys, Fullerton, CA.
Dr. Ronald Blustein is a caring and compassionate psychiatrist. Dr. Blustein obtained his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He brings extensive experience to his role at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA, across Gardena, Van Nuys, Fullerton, CA.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(949) 356-5114 View (949) 356-5114
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) 875-0915 View (760) 875-0915
Photo of Jessica Vermeulen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Vermeulen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
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.
(562) 564-6096 View (562) 564-6096
Photo of Erica Taylor, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
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.
(858) 842-5149 View (858) 842-5149
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(805) 909-4647 View (805) 909-4647

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 91801

< 10

Psychiatrists in 91801 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
80% Depression
80% Medication Management
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana
100% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in 91801 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 91801?

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.