Psychiatrists in 92039

Photo of Gail Bernstein, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gail Bernstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Facing the challenges of motherhood, ADHD, or OCD can feel deeply overwhelming and isolating. You may find yourself caught in a cycle of worry or self-doubt, wondering if things will ever feel manageable again. Maybe you're struggling with Anxiety or Depression. I truly understand how heavy this can feel, and I’m here to help you regain a sense of balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore holistic solutions, blending medication management with mindfulness practices to support your overall well-being.
Facing the challenges of motherhood, ADHD, or OCD can feel deeply overwhelming and isolating. You may find yourself caught in a cycle of worry or self-doubt, wondering if things will ever feel manageable again. Maybe you're struggling with Anxiety or Depression. I truly understand how heavy this can feel, and I’m here to help you regain a sense of balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore holistic solutions, blending medication management with mindfulness practices to support your overall well-being.
(858) 330-2431 View (858) 330-2431
Photo of Sonya Hintz, MD, Psychiatrist
Sonya Hintz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a psychodynamic psychiatrist, I am committed to help my patients find relief from their suffering and work toward their unique goals. I find that the psychodynamic perspective informs both short-term and long-term treatment collaborations, and encourages respect for the individual. I emphasize the "talk" part of therapy, and I integrate the use of medication where this seems helpful.
As a psychodynamic psychiatrist, I am committed to help my patients find relief from their suffering and work toward their unique goals. I find that the psychodynamic perspective informs both short-term and long-term treatment collaborations, and encourages respect for the individual. I emphasize the "talk" part of therapy, and I integrate the use of medication where this seems helpful.
(858) 240-4467 View (858) 240-4467

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Benedicta Osuji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(949) 998-5039 View (949) 998-5039
Photo of Daniel Brockett, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Brockett
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Thank you for visiting my profile. If you are reading this, your suffering has likely reached a point where you are considering professional help. You may be seeking relief from painful emotional symptoms, problems with self-esteem, problems with addictive substances or behaviors. It may be that you would like to improve your relationships or adjust to a physical illness.
Thank you for visiting my profile. If you are reading this, your suffering has likely reached a point where you are considering professional help. You may be seeking relief from painful emotional symptoms, problems with self-esteem, problems with addictive substances or behaviors. It may be that you would like to improve your relationships or adjust to a physical illness.
(858) 914-4619 View (858) 914-4619
Photo of Fay M Azad, MD, Psychiatrist
Fay M Azad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
I take new patients from anywhere within California and offer telehealth which makes my availability flexible. I have a special interest in treating insomnia, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. My recommended therapy may include over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle modifications, and antidepressant/ antianxiety/ other psychiatric medications. I use the lowest effective dosing and utilize genetic testing when indicated.
I take new patients from anywhere within California and offer telehealth which makes my availability flexible. I have a special interest in treating insomnia, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. My recommended therapy may include over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle modifications, and antidepressant/ antianxiety/ other psychiatric medications. I use the lowest effective dosing and utilize genetic testing when indicated.
(747) 529-7992 View (747) 529-7992
Photo of Young Tae Lee, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Young Tae Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance! During our first visit, we will complete a full mental health assessment and evaluation. There will be lots of questions during this visit, especially regarding your medical and mental health history. Working together to determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is important for your mental health. This may require multiple appointments. Controlled medications may be available from my practice on a limited basis and rarely on the first session.
To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance! During our first visit, we will complete a full mental health assessment and evaluation. There will be lots of questions during this visit, especially regarding your medical and mental health history. Working together to determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is important for your mental health. This may require multiple appointments. Controlled medications may be available from my practice on a limited basis and rarely on the first session.
(858) 786-0589 View (858) 786-0589
Photo of Ruth Ann Powe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruth Ann Powe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
(619) 639-1726 View (619) 639-1726
Photo of Shannon Pereira, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Pereira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
(858) 533-2812 View (858) 533-2812
Photo of Morgan Galipeau, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Morgan Galipeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Trust is the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I understand that seeking help can be a daunting step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is holistic, considering not just the symptoms but also the underlying factors that contribute to your mental health. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
Trust is the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I understand that seeking help can be a daunting step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is holistic, considering not just the symptoms but also the underlying factors that contribute to your mental health. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
(949) 334-5327 View (949) 334-5327
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(858) 567-0658 View (858) 567-0658
Photo of Dr. Cuneyt Tegin, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Cuneyt Tegin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients in person and via video teleconferencing.
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients in person and via video teleconferencing.
(657) 255-6312 View (657) 255-6312
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Rego Kearney, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jennifer Rego Kearney
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Jennifer Rego Kearney is dual board-certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry.
Dr. Jennifer Rego Kearney is dual board-certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Nikkia Wells, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nikkia Wells
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Nikki integrates empathy and compassion into her treatment philosophy, using both person-centered and holistic approaches. She combines mindfulness and wellness strategies with traditional psychiatric treatments to nurture both the mind and body, enhancing her patients' overall well-being. Motivated to positively impact others' lives, Nikki finds it both humbling and rewarding to support individuals during their toughest times and to witness their paths to recovery and resilience.
Nikki integrates empathy and compassion into her treatment philosophy, using both person-centered and holistic approaches. She combines mindfulness and wellness strategies with traditional psychiatric treatments to nurture both the mind and body, enhancing her patients' overall well-being. Motivated to positively impact others' lives, Nikki finds it both humbling and rewarding to support individuals during their toughest times and to witness their paths to recovery and resilience.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(562) 352-2813 View (562) 352-2813
Photo of Brittany Turner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Turner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with psychiatric disorders, whether they are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other mental health challenges. They may feel overwhelmed by their symptoms and unsure of how to move forward. Their primary need is a thorough evaluation to distinguish between psychological and physiological factors affecting their mental health. Their goal is to find relief, stability, and a treatment plan that feels tailored to their unique situation. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered in their mental health journey.
My ideal client is someone struggling with psychiatric disorders, whether they are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other mental health challenges. They may feel overwhelmed by their symptoms and unsure of how to move forward. Their primary need is a thorough evaluation to distinguish between psychological and physiological factors affecting their mental health. Their goal is to find relief, stability, and a treatment plan that feels tailored to their unique situation. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered in their mental health journey.
(909) 264-9882 View (909) 264-9882
Photo of Shannon Pereira, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Pereira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
(805) 941-3431 View (805) 941-3431
Photo of Nelly Duarti - Braincom Advanced , APRN, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Braincom Advanced
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing
(951) 338-6944 View (951) 338-6944
Photo of Dr. Joseph Wurbel, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Joseph Wurbel
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Joseph Wurbel, D.O., attended the University of San Diego for his undergraduate degree prior to matriculating at Midwestern University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Thereafter he moved to Fort Lauderdale to receive residency training in General Adult Psychiatry at University Hospital. Desiring to further specialize his care for children, adolescents, and transitional age youth, he completed his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship and served as Chief Fellow at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC Medical Center.
Joseph Wurbel, D.O., attended the University of San Diego for his undergraduate degree prior to matriculating at Midwestern University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Thereafter he moved to Fort Lauderdale to receive residency training in General Adult Psychiatry at University Hospital. Desiring to further specialize his care for children, adolescents, and transitional age youth, he completed his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship and served as Chief Fellow at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC Medical Center.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Jack Perlov, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jack Perlov
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Jack Perlov, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience as a University professor, psychotherapist and treating all ages and most conditions. He attended medical school at The University of Manitoba and went on to complete his psychiatric residency at the McMaster University Medical Center and University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada. Dr. Perlov completed his Child and Adolescent fellowship at the University of Toronto, where he also served as a Chief Resident at the Hospital for Sick Children.
Jack Perlov, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience as a University professor, psychotherapist and treating all ages and most conditions. He attended medical school at The University of Manitoba and went on to complete his psychiatric residency at the McMaster University Medical Center and University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada. Dr. Perlov completed his Child and Adolescent fellowship at the University of Toronto, where he also served as a Chief Resident at the Hospital for Sick Children.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Shannon Moore-Langston, MD, Psychiatrist
Shannon Moore-Langston
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Shannon Moore-Langston, MD, a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. I welcome patients 18 and over from all backgrounds into my practice and have experience with a range of concerns, including problems related to mood, trauma, substance use, anxiety, and psychosis. I use a combination of medication management, supportive and psychodynamic approaches, somatic tools, and cognitive behavioral interventions to help people understand and work through difficult feelings, thoughts, and situations.
Hello, I'm Shannon Moore-Langston, MD, a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. I welcome patients 18 and over from all backgrounds into my practice and have experience with a range of concerns, including problems related to mood, trauma, substance use, anxiety, and psychosis. I use a combination of medication management, supportive and psychodynamic approaches, somatic tools, and cognitive behavioral interventions to help people understand and work through difficult feelings, thoughts, and situations.
(619) 550-4925 View (619) 550-4925

See more therapy options for 92039

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92039

< 10

Psychiatrists in 92039 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
50% Relationship Issues
50% Addiction
50% ADHD
50% Chronic Pain
50% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

36 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Managed Health Network (MHN)

How Psychiatrists in 92039 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92039?

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.