Psychiatrists in 92024
![Photo of David R. Ruecker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/076951f2-69a2-45cf-a0f8-6383601a8ff6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Thanks for checking out my psychology today website. To start the consultation process click on the " My Website" button. I have medical board certifications in both child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. I'm glad that you are starting down the road towards improvement. I think I can help guide you down that path with my expertise. As a medical doctor, I provide a unique patient opportunity for improvement with pharmaceuticals and can offer a wide perspective on other interventions such as psychotherapy. Working together we can hopefully discover your best possible trajectory towards happier horizons.
Thanks for checking out my psychology today website. To start the consultation process click on the " My Website" button. I have medical board certifications in both child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. I'm glad that you are starting down the road towards improvement. I think I can help guide you down that path with my expertise. As a medical doctor, I provide a unique patient opportunity for improvement with pharmaceuticals and can offer a wide perspective on other interventions such as psychotherapy. Working together we can hopefully discover your best possible trajectory towards happier horizons.
![Photo of Todd Benjamin Young, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423d10d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Young is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the communities of Northern San Diego County, with offices conveniently located in Encinitas. He has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, both in outpatient and acute care settings. Areas of focus include mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, ADHD, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions, behavioral disorders, and many others.Primary treatment modalities include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, using applied principles of psychodynamic psychiatry, functional medicine, nutrition, healthy relationships, personal development and lifestyle design
Dr. Young is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the communities of Northern San Diego County, with offices conveniently located in Encinitas. He has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, both in outpatient and acute care settings. Areas of focus include mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, ADHD, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions, behavioral disorders, and many others.Primary treatment modalities include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, using applied principles of psychodynamic psychiatry, functional medicine, nutrition, healthy relationships, personal development and lifestyle design
![Photo of Marita Grace Dailo - Kaya Mental Health & Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b533cc68-1011-452a-86b2-ae6e1d738991/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kaya Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024 (Online Only)
My name is Marita and I will be one of your guides on your journey to wellness. I bring more than a decade of clinical expertise with me with experience caring for patients at inpatient psychiatric hospitals, crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics and community mental health centers. I’m an expert with psychotropic medications but I believe in partnering with you to create a holistic person centered treatment plan.
My name is Marita and I will be one of your guides on your journey to wellness. I bring more than a decade of clinical expertise with me with experience caring for patients at inpatient psychiatric hospitals, crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics and community mental health centers. I’m an expert with psychotropic medications but I believe in partnering with you to create a holistic person centered treatment plan.
![Photo of Adam Borecky, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db43a63b-c9f5-4fc3-acb6-b4ca51af404f/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Adam Borecky, based in Encinitas, CA, combines expertise and empathy in psychiatry. Trained at Loma Linda University, with over 16,640 hours in patient care, he specializes in diverse mental health disorders. As an out-of-network provider, he dedicates ample time to understand patient needs deeply, crafting creative solutions. Dr. Borecky's work on the 'Connection Index' and 'Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast' showcases his commitment to advancing mental health. Choose him for in-depth, individualized care.
Dr. Adam Borecky, based in Encinitas, CA, combines expertise and empathy in psychiatry. Trained at Loma Linda University, with over 16,640 hours in patient care, he specializes in diverse mental health disorders. As an out-of-network provider, he dedicates ample time to understand patient needs deeply, crafting creative solutions. Dr. Borecky's work on the 'Connection Index' and 'Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast' showcases his commitment to advancing mental health. Choose him for in-depth, individualized care.
![Photo of Frederick Yuh Huang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45a3758f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am direct and respectful in my professional approach to every person I treat. I view our work as a collaborative effort and will do my best to meet you where you are at. Together we will create a treatment plan that will best meet your needs. I specialize in working with patients who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss and grief. I also have expertise studying the emotional strain associated with immigration and growing up the child of immigrants.
I am direct and respectful in my professional approach to every person I treat. I view our work as a collaborative effort and will do my best to meet you where you are at. Together we will create a treatment plan that will best meet your needs. I specialize in working with patients who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss and grief. I also have expertise studying the emotional strain associated with immigration and growing up the child of immigrants.
![Photo of Caroline Paterno, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/507e8a91-ac2c-4c5a-a211-06b2068884b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Stanford-trained psychiatrist who provides high-quality, evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of psychiatric symptoms including those associated with ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I am able to provide both medication and psychotherapeutic support to facilitate overall well-being and flourishing. Using a collaborative model, I works as a team with patients, families and other care providers. Please learn more about my practice at: www.cpaternomd.com
I am a Stanford-trained psychiatrist who provides high-quality, evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of psychiatric symptoms including those associated with ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I am able to provide both medication and psychotherapeutic support to facilitate overall well-being and flourishing. Using a collaborative model, I works as a team with patients, families and other care providers. Please learn more about my practice at: www.cpaternomd.com
![Photo of Dmitry Primak, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c3ab89c-986f-47c2-bbd9-db7fbaefbbd1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dmitry E. Primak, M.D. is Board Certified and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and has been practicing psychiatry since 1973 after graduation from Zaporozhye Medical University, Ukraine. Dr. Primak has completed psychiatry residency training at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY and has extensive experience in treatment of variety of conditions, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, chemical addiction, and other psychological disorders.
Dmitry E. Primak, M.D. is Board Certified and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and has been practicing psychiatry since 1973 after graduation from Zaporozhye Medical University, Ukraine. Dr. Primak has completed psychiatry residency training at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY and has extensive experience in treatment of variety of conditions, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, chemical addiction, and other psychological disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Theodore Germanos, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/313be45b-289e-446c-ab6a-5bd239b3913d/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to work with each patient and each family as a team when identifying how I may be helpful, determining areas of concern or diagnoses, and developing a comprehensive treatment plan. Common diagnoses in those that I work with include ADHD, autism, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, behavioral concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance use, addiction, and emotional dysregulation.
My goal is to work with each patient and each family as a team when identifying how I may be helpful, determining areas of concern or diagnoses, and developing a comprehensive treatment plan. Common diagnoses in those that I work with include ADHD, autism, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, behavioral concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance use, addiction, and emotional dysregulation.
![Photo of Dr. Adarezza Ferrer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4917dda2-684c-4197-960d-c78934e8a5f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist committed to providing compassionate mental health care. I have extensive experience working with young and older adult populations, treating mood disorders and behavioral problems. Common conditions I work with include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist committed to providing compassionate mental health care. I have extensive experience working with young and older adult populations, treating mood disorders and behavioral problems. Common conditions I work with include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
![Photo of Mariel Janowsky, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b26a2704-8b21-46e5-910b-3544e7f7134e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a physician trained in Family Medicine and Psychiatry, with a focus in Integrative Wellness and Trauma-Informed Care. I see myself as a partner to help guide you to your destination. In doing so, I use a variety of modalities including therapy and mind-body techniques. I have had training in multiple types of treatment, including hypnosis, inte
Welcome! I am a physician trained in Family Medicine and Psychiatry, with a focus in Integrative Wellness and Trauma-Informed Care. I see myself as a partner to help guide you to your destination. In doing so, I use a variety of modalities including therapy and mind-body techniques. I have had training in multiple types of treatment, including hypnosis, inte
![Photo of Brooke Marino, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c8abffd-0058-4721-90ce-d576c5302f20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Marino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
The best part of what I do is getting to meet individuals from all different walks of life. No matter where your journey began or where you currently are, I acknowledge that in this life, we all could use a little support sometimes. When it comes to your mental health, I recognize that your needs are specific to you; treatment is not one-size-fits-all. My goal is to be the best advocate I can be for my patients and to provide holistic care, addressing patient concerns from all angles. I am passionate about the relationship between mental and physical health. I firmly believe that they must work together to promote overall wellbeing.
The best part of what I do is getting to meet individuals from all different walks of life. No matter where your journey began or where you currently are, I acknowledge that in this life, we all could use a little support sometimes. When it comes to your mental health, I recognize that your needs are specific to you; treatment is not one-size-fits-all. My goal is to be the best advocate I can be for my patients and to provide holistic care, addressing patient concerns from all angles. I am passionate about the relationship between mental and physical health. I firmly believe that they must work together to promote overall wellbeing.
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![Photo of Dr. Paul Sargent, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/146c14aa-2187-4e1a-b86c-6ccdbc4dcb6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy helping people to persevere, adapt, and GROW through the challenges they face. As a creative problem solver, I take the time to listen and understand the unique factors affecting each of my patients. This personalized and holistic approach starts with a thorough evaluation, which then informs a treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy, mind-body interventions, and medication management. Most of my clients are professionals who appreciate a treatment plan that optimizes both symptom reduction and high mental performance both at home and on the job. I am dedicated to helping you improve your health and resilience!
I enjoy helping people to persevere, adapt, and GROW through the challenges they face. As a creative problem solver, I take the time to listen and understand the unique factors affecting each of my patients. This personalized and holistic approach starts with a thorough evaluation, which then informs a treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy, mind-body interventions, and medication management. Most of my clients are professionals who appreciate a treatment plan that optimizes both symptom reduction and high mental performance both at home and on the job. I am dedicated to helping you improve your health and resilience!
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cda7dc7-74d2-40ac-bca0-34d796deb4ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Dr. David Joel Printz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33df2aea-566b-4ee6-8bff-7667a93a9a9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
After discussing your symptoms and issues, within the context of your life story, I will provide you with a clinical assessment and a range of treatment options for us to consider together. These will usually include a range of medication options (with side effects and risks discussed), psychotherapies and other somatic treatment (e.g., ketamine, TMS.)
After discussing your symptoms and issues, within the context of your life story, I will provide you with a clinical assessment and a range of treatment options for us to consider together. These will usually include a range of medication options (with side effects and risks discussed), psychotherapies and other somatic treatment (e.g., ketamine, TMS.)
![Photo of Kathryn Hirst, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00c8b32d-703a-44a1-88b0-47501b059137/1/320x400.jpeg)
My relationships with patients are built on trust and authenticity. I seek to create a sacred space in which I can help people discover and become their true selves, using all the resources available. These include mindfulness-based psychotherapy, anxiety regulation, community support, and (when indicated) medication. My work in the field of psychiatry has transitioned from a large, university-based practice of mostly medication management to its current state: a small, personalized practice in which I can provide individual psychotherapy, support and treatment as each person needs and desires.
My relationships with patients are built on trust and authenticity. I seek to create a sacred space in which I can help people discover and become their true selves, using all the resources available. These include mindfulness-based psychotherapy, anxiety regulation, community support, and (when indicated) medication. My work in the field of psychiatry has transitioned from a large, university-based practice of mostly medication management to its current state: a small, personalized practice in which I can provide individual psychotherapy, support and treatment as each person needs and desires.
![Photo of Marita Dailo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60802186-7c1d-4715-865b-71fbd15b746c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to LifeStance! My name is Marita and I will be one of your guides on your journey to wellness. I bring more than a decade of clinical expertise with me with experience caring for patients at inpatient psychiatric hospitals, crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics and community mental health centers. I'm an expert with psychotropic medications but I believe in partnering with you to create a holistic person centered treatment plan. My plans incorporate complementary and alternative therapies in concert with conventional psychiatry, exercise, and a diet designed for a healthy body and mind.
Welcome to LifeStance! My name is Marita and I will be one of your guides on your journey to wellness. I bring more than a decade of clinical expertise with me with experience caring for patients at inpatient psychiatric hospitals, crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics and community mental health centers. I'm an expert with psychotropic medications but I believe in partnering with you to create a holistic person centered treatment plan. My plans incorporate complementary and alternative therapies in concert with conventional psychiatry, exercise, and a diet designed for a healthy body and mind.
![Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e3ed7dd-ee5c-4967-ac9b-50ca5d762dcd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024 (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!
![Photo of Todd Benjamin Young - Paxina Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5027d56-3885-47ee-aa0b-cc8eb66da191/1/320x400.jpeg)
You feel like you've tried everything. Meds. Therapy. It has helped some, maybe, but not enough. Your struggle with depression is still very much there. TMS can help.
You feel like you've tried everything. Meds. Therapy. It has helped some, maybe, but not enough. Your struggle with depression is still very much there. TMS can help.
![Photo of Kristy A Lamb, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54eeda44-903b-4ae6-8472-e0b54821ccc4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lamb's treatment philosophy starts with creating "sacred space" - a physical and mental place, where each patient feels safe and emotionally supported in order to achieve their wellness goals. Dr. Lamb focuses on the art of emotional healing by using compassion, coupled with her clinical expertise, to guide her patients toward unlocking their full potential. At the heart of each clinical encounter is a personal relationship founded in respect and individualized care.
Dr. Lamb's treatment philosophy starts with creating "sacred space" - a physical and mental place, where each patient feels safe and emotionally supported in order to achieve their wellness goals. Dr. Lamb focuses on the art of emotional healing by using compassion, coupled with her clinical expertise, to guide her patients toward unlocking their full potential. At the heart of each clinical encounter is a personal relationship founded in respect and individualized care.
![Photo of Shawn Barnes, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7bf7107-e4c1-4441-b49f-206e619f0922/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients. I practice integrative psychiatry emphasizing wellness over medications. Do you feel like doctors have been medicating you, but not understanding you? Have you been disappointed with psychiatric medications and are seeking a different path, without the risks that may come with medications? Do you worry that you may have become dependent on sleeping pills or medications for mood/anxiety and hope to live a full, meaningful life without them? Are you seeking a psychiatrist who is comfortable with alternative, complementary, and holistic treatments? If these questions resonate with you, perhaps we should meet.
Accepting new patients. I practice integrative psychiatry emphasizing wellness over medications. Do you feel like doctors have been medicating you, but not understanding you? Have you been disappointed with psychiatric medications and are seeking a different path, without the risks that may come with medications? Do you worry that you may have become dependent on sleeping pills or medications for mood/anxiety and hope to live a full, meaningful life without them? Are you seeking a psychiatrist who is comfortable with alternative, complementary, and holistic treatments? If these questions resonate with you, perhaps we should meet.
See more therapy options for 92024
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 92024
30+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in 92024 who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
68% | Sleep or Insomnia |
65% | Self Esteem |
61% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | Medication Management |
58% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 92024 see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
61% | Male | |
39% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 92024?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.