Psychiatrists in 92008

Photo of Jennifer Kalia-Overlie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Kalia-Overlie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength and motivation that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in holistic treatment, addressing the health of the mind, body and spirit. Through thoughtful use of medication, psychotherapy, and education, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person’s lifestyle and personal beliefs.
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength and motivation that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in holistic treatment, addressing the health of the mind, body and spirit. Through thoughtful use of medication, psychotherapy, and education, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person’s lifestyle and personal beliefs.
(858) 943-2338 View (858) 943-2338
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(424) 361-1958 View (424) 361-1958
Photo of Martina Klein, Psychiatrist, MD
Martina Klein
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Martina Klein is a general adult psychiatrist treating patients with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Dr. Klein also evaluates substance use disorders and treats schizophrenia and eating disorders.
Dr. Martina Klein is a general adult psychiatrist treating patients with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Dr. Klein also evaluates substance use disorders and treats schizophrenia and eating disorders.
(760) 993-3610 View (760) 993-3610
Photo of David Gersten, Psychiatrist, MD
David Gersten
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I practice Integrative Psychiatry.A truly holistic or integrative approach addresses the mind, the body, and the mind-body connection. I utilize amino acid therapy and other nutrients for healing the body. For the mind I use a number of psychotherapy modalities, including mental imagery, breath work, meditation, and paradoxical approaches.I utilize Polyvagal techniques for rebalancing the autonomic nervous system, which is important work when dealing with trauma and is usually helpful in alleviating anxiety and depression.My goal is to provide a safe, accepting, nonjudgmental environment in which you feel you are "not simply a diag
I practice Integrative Psychiatry.A truly holistic or integrative approach addresses the mind, the body, and the mind-body connection. I utilize amino acid therapy and other nutrients for healing the body. For the mind I use a number of psychotherapy modalities, including mental imagery, breath work, meditation, and paradoxical approaches.I utilize Polyvagal techniques for rebalancing the autonomic nervous system, which is important work when dealing with trauma and is usually helpful in alleviating anxiety and depression.My goal is to provide a safe, accepting, nonjudgmental environment in which you feel you are "not simply a diag
(760) 659-5043 View (760) 659-5043
Photo of Charles Robert Davis, Psychiatrist, MD
Charles Robert Davis
Psychiatrist, MD
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I have been a Family Practice M.D. for the last 45 years. Throughout that time, I have always been interested most in Mental Health. In the last 10 years working as a gerontologist and Family Physician,I realized that caring for Mental Health was really more than a field of strong interest; but had become the area where I really wanted to serve. My passion to serve for the last five years. has evolved into starting a private practice devoted only to Mental Heath issues. My goal is to provide care to anyone regardless of insurance or financial status.
I have been a Family Practice M.D. for the last 45 years. Throughout that time, I have always been interested most in Mental Health. In the last 10 years working as a gerontologist and Family Physician,I realized that caring for Mental Health was really more than a field of strong interest; but had become the area where I really wanted to serve. My passion to serve for the last five years. has evolved into starting a private practice devoted only to Mental Heath issues. My goal is to provide care to anyone regardless of insurance or financial status.
(619) 720-2164 View (619) 720-2164
Photo of Linda Blair, Physician Assistant, PA
Linda Blair
Physician Assistant, PA
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Navigating life can feel overwhelming and frustrating without support for your mental health. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD can turn even routine tasks and activities into monumental challenges in the absence of an understanding and compassionate care team. Treatment that helps you overcome these challenges can empower you to learn more about yourself and build the knowledge and skills that form a foundation for holistic mental wellness.
Navigating life can feel overwhelming and frustrating without support for your mental health. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD can turn even routine tasks and activities into monumental challenges in the absence of an understanding and compassionate care team. Treatment that helps you overcome these challenges can empower you to learn more about yourself and build the knowledge and skills that form a foundation for holistic mental wellness.
(858) 630-4362 View (858) 630-4362
Photo of Laurie Costa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Laurie Costa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, an amazing experience for me is to participate and observe an individual improve the quality of their mental health and their life through personalized and collaborative treatment plans that may include medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle educational strategies. I value mental health as a core element in achieving recovery and a meaningful life through the instillation of hope, connection, and empowerment of the individual.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, an amazing experience for me is to participate and observe an individual improve the quality of their mental health and their life through personalized and collaborative treatment plans that may include medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle educational strategies. I value mental health as a core element in achieving recovery and a meaningful life through the instillation of hope, connection, and empowerment of the individual.
(858) 295-7601 View (858) 295-7601
Photo of Laurie Costa - Lilium Psychiatric Nursing Services Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lilium Psychiatric Nursing Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? At our practice, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. We aim to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and improve daily life. Join us in a collaborative approach to achieve personal well-being and life satisfaction. We provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your challenges and progress. Let us support you on your journey to better mental health.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? At our practice, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. We aim to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and improve daily life. Join us in a collaborative approach to achieve personal well-being and life satisfaction. We provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your challenges and progress. Let us support you on your journey to better mental health.
(760) 392-7623 View (760) 392-7623
Photo of Jennifer Kalia-Overlie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Kalia-Overlie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in learning about each individual and what kind of treatment aligns with them. Through thoughtful use of medication, newer emerging treatments such as Spravato, and brief psychotherapy, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person's lifestyle and personal beliefs.
I continue to become inspired by witnessing the amazing strength that each person holds in bettering their lives. I take pride in supporting clients in their journey to wellness and improved mental health. I firmly believe in learning about each individual and what kind of treatment aligns with them. Through thoughtful use of medication, newer emerging treatments such as Spravato, and brief psychotherapy, I aspire to design a treatment plan that fits each person's lifestyle and personal beliefs.
(760) 821-8137 View (760) 821-8137
Photo of Chandra Rogers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chandra Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
(760) 824-3841 View (760) 824-3841
Photo of Farnaz Trasandes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Farnaz Trasandes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(760) 474-4495 View (760) 474-4495
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(424) 363-4298 View (424) 363-4298
Photo of Tina Barton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tina Barton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Depression, anxiety, and mood disorders can show up in ways that quietly shape every part of a person’s life—making it harder to connect with others, manage responsibilities, or trust moments of peace when they come. Small tasks can feel heavier, emotions harder to predict, and self-judgment often grows quietly in the background. I was drawn to psychiatry because it offers a way to meet people in these real, complicated spaces with care that is personal, meaningful, and responsive to the whole person—not just their symptoms.
Depression, anxiety, and mood disorders can show up in ways that quietly shape every part of a person’s life—making it harder to connect with others, manage responsibilities, or trust moments of peace when they come. Small tasks can feel heavier, emotions harder to predict, and self-judgment often grows quietly in the background. I was drawn to psychiatry because it offers a way to meet people in these real, complicated spaces with care that is personal, meaningful, and responsive to the whole person—not just their symptoms.
(760) 314-8349 View (760) 314-8349
Photo of Joy Melhado, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joy Melhado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carlsbad, CA 92008
During our first visit I want to get to know you, to assist you on a journey to achieve optimal wellness. I will be an attentive listener, provide an empathic therapeutic approach by partnering with you to achieve your ultimate lifetime goals. I am a strong advocate for mental health and will assist you to navigate the healthcare system that can be confusing at times.
During our first visit I want to get to know you, to assist you on a journey to achieve optimal wellness. I will be an attentive listener, provide an empathic therapeutic approach by partnering with you to achieve your ultimate lifetime goals. I am a strong advocate for mental health and will assist you to navigate the healthcare system that can be confusing at times.
(858) 946-4378 View (858) 946-4378
Photo of Dr. Jamila Harris, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jamila Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(760) 452-9830 View (760) 452-9830
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(760) 957-8987 View (760) 957-8987
Photo of Jennifer Kalia Overlie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Kalia Overlie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I am a Doctorate prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I started working in behavioral health in 2005 and continued my education until I earned my doctorate. Throughout this time, I have worked in various settings & with all ages, spending time helping those with eating disorders, substance abuse, treatment resistant depression, anxiety, impulse control disorders, psychosis, and adolescent mental health. I truly feel called to this profession and appreciate being a part of each person's journey in their progression towards improved mental wellbeing.
I am a Doctorate prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I started working in behavioral health in 2005 and continued my education until I earned my doctorate. Throughout this time, I have worked in various settings & with all ages, spending time helping those with eating disorders, substance abuse, treatment resistant depression, anxiety, impulse control disorders, psychosis, and adolescent mental health. I truly feel called to this profession and appreciate being a part of each person's journey in their progression towards improved mental wellbeing.
(760) 280-9427 View (760) 280-9427
Photo of Laurie Costa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Laurie Costa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Helping individuals achieve optimal health and happiness is my greatest calling. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a strong nursing foundation and specialized psychiatric training, I offer a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care. My goal is to empower those struggling with mental health challenges through a holistic, patient-centered approach.
Helping individuals achieve optimal health and happiness is my greatest calling. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a strong nursing foundation and specialized psychiatric training, I offer a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care. My goal is to empower those struggling with mental health challenges through a holistic, patient-centered approach.
(760) 624-3182 View (760) 624-3182
Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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!
(760) 249-7568 View (760) 249-7568
Photo of Paige Schaeper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Paige Schaeper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(760) 407-3837 View (760) 407-3837

See more therapy options for 92008

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92008

60+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 92008 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
90% Anxiety
79% Bipolar Disorder
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% ADHD
69% Trauma and PTSD
64% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
96% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 92008 see their clients

50% Online Only
50% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92008?

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.