Psychiatrists in 92104

Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.

Dr. Kass believes that optimal psychiatric care begins by hearing a patient’s history and understanding his or her goals for entering treatment. There are no algorithms for mental health care; Dr. Kass believes treating mental illness and optimizing patient well-being depends on formulating patients individually and tailoring treatment to meet their unique goals and needs. Psychological distress, whether it be experienced as depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, insomnia, irritability, or emotional numbness, is often due to multiple environmental, social, and psychological factors.
Dr. Kass believes that optimal psychiatric care begins by hearing a patient’s history and understanding his or her goals for entering treatment. There are no algorithms for mental health care; Dr. Kass believes treating mental illness and optimizing patient well-being depends on formulating patients individually and tailoring treatment to meet their unique goals and needs. Psychological distress, whether it be experienced as depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, insomnia, irritability, or emotional numbness, is often due to multiple environmental, social, and psychological factors.

As a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals navigating the sometimes rocky seas of life. I draw my inspiration for my nursing practice from Jean Watsons’ theory on human caring. I view care interactions as sacred and meaningful. I specialize in working with gay men, offering a safe and affirming space to explore challenges related to mental health, relationships, identity, and overall wellness.
As a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals navigating the sometimes rocky seas of life. I draw my inspiration for my nursing practice from Jean Watsons’ theory on human caring. I view care interactions as sacred and meaningful. I specialize in working with gay men, offering a safe and affirming space to explore challenges related to mental health, relationships, identity, and overall wellness.

Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Bipolar Spectrum disorders can deeply impact daily life, making it difficult to find stability, motivation, or peace of mind. You may feel weighed down by persistent sadness, overwhelming worry, or unpredictable mood shifts, unsure of how to move forward. Yet even in the most challenging moments, transformation is possible. The privilege of walking alongside individuals during these intense times—and witnessing their growth and resilience—is what led me to become a mental health clinician and continues to inspire my work today.
Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Bipolar Spectrum disorders can deeply impact daily life, making it difficult to find stability, motivation, or peace of mind. You may feel weighed down by persistent sadness, overwhelming worry, or unpredictable mood shifts, unsure of how to move forward. Yet even in the most challenging moments, transformation is possible. The privilege of walking alongside individuals during these intense times—and witnessing their growth and resilience—is what led me to become a mental health clinician and continues to inspire my work today.

My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.

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!

I have over 13 years experience in the mental health field ranging from crisis stabilization, acute inpatient, dual diagnosis, substance use, and correctional mental health settings. I work with patients who may be struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
I have over 13 years experience in the mental health field ranging from crisis stabilization, acute inpatient, dual diagnosis, substance use, and correctional mental health settings. I work with patients who may be struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.

healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.

Are you struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, or mood disorders? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you regain stability and well-being. Using medication management and CBT-informed strategies, I tailor treatment to your unique needs. Fluent in Albanian and English, I create a supportive space for adults and older adults to work toward lasting change. You don’t have to navigate this alone—let’s take the next step together.
Are you struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, or mood disorders? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you regain stability and well-being. Using medication management and CBT-informed strategies, I tailor treatment to your unique needs. Fluent in Albanian and English, I create a supportive space for adults and older adults to work toward lasting change. You don’t have to navigate this alone—let’s take the next step together.

healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.

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.

Dr. Troy Kurz MD, MS is a board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in psychopharmacology, ketamine treatment, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy. He sees patients of all ages, but has a keen interest in children and adolescence. He cares for patients with a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and personality disorders. Pertaining to pediatrics and adolescents—he concentrates on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ health, trauma, and mood disorders.
Dr. Troy Kurz MD, MS is a board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in psychopharmacology, ketamine treatment, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy. He sees patients of all ages, but has a keen interest in children and adolescence. He cares for patients with a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and personality disorders. Pertaining to pediatrics and adolescents—he concentrates on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ health, trauma, and mood disorders.

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!

I specialize in helping individuals facing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I offer compassionate guidance and practical strategies to help clients cope effectively and thrive. My goal is to improve mental well-being, gain deeper insight into personal patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and enhance one's overall quality of life. Together, we will address the root causes of distress, fostering a deeper understanding of oneself in a supportive and empowering environment.
I specialize in helping individuals facing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I offer compassionate guidance and practical strategies to help clients cope effectively and thrive. My goal is to improve mental well-being, gain deeper insight into personal patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and enhance one's overall quality of life. Together, we will address the root causes of distress, fostering a deeper understanding of oneself in a supportive and empowering environment.

I help children, teens, and adults who feel stuck in anxiety, ADHD, depression, and other mental health challenges. Rooted in my Christian faith, I partner with patients who are ready to get to the root, not just manage symptoms.
While medication can be a helpful tool, it’s never my only approach. I take a holistic view of healing—addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being to support lasting change. I'm intentional about who I work with because I care deeply about results and long-term transformation.
If you're ready to do the work, I’m ready to walk with you.
I help children, teens, and adults who feel stuck in anxiety, ADHD, depression, and other mental health challenges. Rooted in my Christian faith, I partner with patients who are ready to get to the root, not just manage symptoms.
While medication can be a helpful tool, it’s never my only approach. I take a holistic view of healing—addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being to support lasting change. I'm intentional about who I work with because I care deeply about results and long-term transformation.
If you're ready to do the work, I’m ready to walk with you.

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.

Do you know what you’re capable of but struggle to summon the motivation or focus to follow through? If ADHD, anxiety, or overwhelm leave you feeling “stuck,” you’re not alone—and there is hope. I help individuals who feel easily distracted, have difficulty starting or completing tasks, or struggle with organization. Together, we can create a plan to help you move forward with confidence.
I specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD and related conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and gender dysphoria. When appropriate, I provide medication management to support your overall well-being.
Do you know what you’re capable of but struggle to summon the motivation or focus to follow through? If ADHD, anxiety, or overwhelm leave you feeling “stuck,” you’re not alone—and there is hope. I help individuals who feel easily distracted, have difficulty starting or completing tasks, or struggle with organization. Together, we can create a plan to help you move forward with confidence.
I specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD and related conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and gender dysphoria. When appropriate, I provide medication management to support your overall well-being.

All that a we are, is a result of what we have thought- Gautama Buddha. Change is possible and we all have the capabilities to become who we imagine. It indeed isn't easy, especially if we have ongoing anxiety, depression, anger, etc. but whatever it is you may struggling with it isn't the end. Together we can help navigate through these difficulties, developing coping skills as a team to find our true inner self that is yearning to be free.
All that a we are, is a result of what we have thought- Gautama Buddha. Change is possible and we all have the capabilities to become who we imagine. It indeed isn't easy, especially if we have ongoing anxiety, depression, anger, etc. but whatever it is you may struggling with it isn't the end. Together we can help navigate through these difficulties, developing coping skills as a team to find our true inner self that is yearning to be free.

A real, caring relationship with a doctor that knows you as a person is the most important aspect of care. To facilitate these relationships, my practice is small, responsive and high-touch. A concierge practice means I work for you, not an insurance company, and put personalized care over patient volume. In my practice, you will get a high level of individual attention. In terms of real-world delivery of care, I designed my practice so that it is flexible to your needs and accessible based on your schedule.
A real, caring relationship with a doctor that knows you as a person is the most important aspect of care. To facilitate these relationships, my practice is small, responsive and high-touch. A concierge practice means I work for you, not an insurance company, and put personalized care over patient volume. In my practice, you will get a high level of individual attention. In terms of real-world delivery of care, I designed my practice so that it is flexible to your needs and accessible based on your schedule.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with your mental health? Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, or insomnia for the first time, or you’ve tried multiple treatments without success, I’m here to help.
I’m Nuri Alberga, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the founder of Harmonia Integrative Psychiatry. My approach is personalized, evidence-based, and integrative, combining medication management, functional psychiatry, and holistic strategies to create lasting change.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with your mental health? Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, or insomnia for the first time, or you’ve tried multiple treatments without success, I’m here to help.
I’m Nuri Alberga, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the founder of Harmonia Integrative Psychiatry. My approach is personalized, evidence-based, and integrative, combining medication management, functional psychiatry, and holistic strategies to create lasting change.
See more therapy options for 92104
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 92104
10+
Average cost per session
$187
Psychiatrists in 92104 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
84% | Trauma and PTSD |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
64% | Magellan |
How Psychiatrists in 92104 see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 92104?
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.