Psychiatrists in 92130

Photo of Matthew Geromi, DO, Psychiatrist
Matthew Geromi
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Matthew Geromi, D.O. is a board-certified physician practicing Psychiatry in the Carmel Valley area of San Diego, CA. He treats adults ages 18 and older including older adults and elders. Dr. Geromi has experience in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Matthew Geromi, D.O. is a board-certified physician practicing Psychiatry in the Carmel Valley area of San Diego, CA. He treats adults ages 18 and older including older adults and elders. Dr. Geromi has experience in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders.
(858) 779-2058 View (858) 779-2058
Photo of Dr. Sanjeev Rally, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sanjeev Rally
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Dr. Rally is particularly passionate about treating mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression, understanding the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life and overall wellbeing. He is committed to helping his patients regain control, find stability, and improve their quality of life through a combination of medication management and supportive therapy. Additionally, Dr. Rally works closely with individuals who are recovering from alcohol and drug use, offering them the tools and support needed to achieve longterm recovery.
Dr. Rally is particularly passionate about treating mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression, understanding the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life and overall wellbeing. He is committed to helping his patients regain control, find stability, and improve their quality of life through a combination of medication management and supportive therapy. Additionally, Dr. Rally works closely with individuals who are recovering from alcohol and drug use, offering them the tools and support needed to achieve longterm recovery.
(855) 419-3254 View (855) 419-3254
Photo of Dr. Matthew Geromi - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 701-0498 View (844) 701-0498
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 Deval A Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Deval A Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
(858) 926-5815 View (858) 926-5815
Photo of Heather Saltos, MD, Psychiatrist
Heather Saltos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a Child Psychiatrist residing in San Diego, CA. I love working with children, teens and their families. I understand the struggle of finding a good mental health provider and I am here to help. I have my board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Dartmouth University and am Adult certified as well. I am family oriented, have 3 children of my own, and value both therapy and medication management strategies. There is not a one step approach for treatment and I tailor my management on a patient by patient basis.If you or your family member are struggling, please do not hesitate to reach to reach out.
I am a Child Psychiatrist residing in San Diego, CA. I love working with children, teens and their families. I understand the struggle of finding a good mental health provider and I am here to help. I have my board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry from Dartmouth University and am Adult certified as well. I am family oriented, have 3 children of my own, and value both therapy and medication management strategies. There is not a one step approach for treatment and I tailor my management on a patient by patient basis.If you or your family member are struggling, please do not hesitate to reach to reach out.
(858) 358-6956 View (858) 358-6956
Photo of Kristen Kim, MD, Psychiatrist
Kristen Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist based in Southern California. I enjoy helping people of all ages including children, adolescents, and adults live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, and I am able to see patients all over the state of California. Using a patient-centered and holistic approach, I collaborate with my patients and their families to provide comprehensive and personalized mental health treatment involving psychoeducation, medications and/or psychotherapy.
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist based in Southern California. I enjoy helping people of all ages including children, adolescents, and adults live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, and I am able to see patients all over the state of California. Using a patient-centered and holistic approach, I collaborate with my patients and their families to provide comprehensive and personalized mental health treatment involving psychoeducation, medications and/or psychotherapy.
(858) 330-5176 View (858) 330-5176
Photo of Al Alam, MD, Psychiatrist
Al Alam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Al works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Al believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Al works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Al believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
(858) 358-5135 View (858) 358-5135
Photo of Tyler E. Morrison, MD, MAS, Psychiatrist
Tyler E. Morrison
Psychiatrist, MD, MAS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Welcome! I am both a psychiatrist (able to prescribe medication) and a talk/behavioral therapist for clients age 3 and older, including adults. Whether you are hoping to improve your relationships, find a sense of peace and stability, or overcome symptoms like depression and anxiety, I have the expertise to support you on your journey. I am also available for forensic evaluations & IME's of people of all ages. I offer a free phone consultation to all new patients. To get started, simply email or leave a voicemail with a few times you'll be available for a 10-minute call.
Welcome! I am both a psychiatrist (able to prescribe medication) and a talk/behavioral therapist for clients age 3 and older, including adults. Whether you are hoping to improve your relationships, find a sense of peace and stability, or overcome symptoms like depression and anxiety, I have the expertise to support you on your journey. I am also available for forensic evaluations & IME's of people of all ages. I offer a free phone consultation to all new patients. To get started, simply email or leave a voicemail with a few times you'll be available for a 10-minute call.
(858) 224-2534 View (858) 224-2534
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.
(858) 832-2519 View (858) 832-2519
Photo of Caroline Morin, MD, Psychiatrist
Caroline Morin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Caroline Morin, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed to practice medicine in California. Her areas of expertise are ADHD, panic disorder, general anxiety disorder, and depression. Before moving to California 2014, she spent 12 years training and mentoring new psychiatrists and family physicians at the University of Montreal and the University of Calgary. Dr. Morin treats patients aged 20-60. She speaks English and French.
Caroline Morin, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed to practice medicine in California. Her areas of expertise are ADHD, panic disorder, general anxiety disorder, and depression. Before moving to California 2014, she spent 12 years training and mentoring new psychiatrists and family physicians at the University of Montreal and the University of Calgary. Dr. Morin treats patients aged 20-60. She speaks English and French.
(858) 758-2985 View (858) 758-2985
Photo of Dr. Mina Sardashti, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mina Sardashti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer a modern perspective on mental health care, valuing diverse perspectives and lifestyles as well as patient-centered treatment plans. I will work with you to identify specific goals, provide you with tools and encouragement, and celebrate your successes. I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering therapy sessions, prescription medication management, and psychiatric evaluations. While medications assist with many symptoms, I respect the decision to start with psychotherapy and behavioral goals together first.
I offer a modern perspective on mental health care, valuing diverse perspectives and lifestyles as well as patient-centered treatment plans. I will work with you to identify specific goals, provide you with tools and encouragement, and celebrate your successes. I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering therapy sessions, prescription medication management, and psychiatric evaluations. While medications assist with many symptoms, I respect the decision to start with psychotherapy and behavioral goals together first.
Photo of Dr. Azad Matari, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Azad Matari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Dr. Matari is especially dedicated to helping individuals overcome complex conditions like psychosis, PTSD, and obsessivecompulsive disorder. With expertise in treating psychotic disorders and traumarelated issues, he provides a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients can work through difficult emotions and past experiences. Through techniques like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulnessbased stress reduction, he empowers patients to navigate these challenges, building resilience and restoring hope. In addition to his clinical work, Dr.
Dr. Matari is especially dedicated to helping individuals overcome complex conditions like psychosis, PTSD, and obsessivecompulsive disorder. With expertise in treating psychotic disorders and traumarelated issues, he provides a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients can work through difficult emotions and past experiences. Through techniques like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulnessbased stress reduction, he empowers patients to navigate these challenges, building resilience and restoring hope. In addition to his clinical work, Dr.
(855) 419-3254 View (855) 419-3254
Photo of Dr. Sanjeev Rally - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 701-0498 View (844) 701-0498
Photo of Susan Solimine, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Susan Solimine
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
Aloha! I'm a Hopkins-trained Psychiatrist with over a decade of clinical experience. Life can be challenging and we can all benefit from support. As a mother of two children, I can see the struggles and challenges kids face growing up in a digital world. I provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. I use a combination of therapy techniques, review of lifestyle modifications, and use of medication management in a thoughtful way to help you function at your best. My goal is to help you and your child feel confident and be the best version of themselves.
Aloha! I'm a Hopkins-trained Psychiatrist with over a decade of clinical experience. Life can be challenging and we can all benefit from support. As a mother of two children, I can see the struggles and challenges kids face growing up in a digital world. I provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. I use a combination of therapy techniques, review of lifestyle modifications, and use of medication management in a thoughtful way to help you function at your best. My goal is to help you and your child feel confident and be the best version of themselves.
(619) 304-1194 View (619) 304-1194
Photo of Tara Mauro, DO, Psychiatrist
Tara Mauro
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Tara Mauro, DO is a board certified psychiatrist licensed to practice medicine in California. Her core practice is in general psychiatry. Dr. Mauro has served the military for 13 years with a tour to Iraq. She has served as a Medical Director in both Addictions and Psychiatry where she has trained medical students, residents and physician assistants. She has transitioned to the Civilian sector where she has worked both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs to better help patients with anxiety and mood disorders.
Tara Mauro, DO is a board certified psychiatrist licensed to practice medicine in California. Her core practice is in general psychiatry. Dr. Mauro has served the military for 13 years with a tour to Iraq. She has served as a Medical Director in both Addictions and Psychiatry where she has trained medical students, residents and physician assistants. She has transitioned to the Civilian sector where she has worked both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs to better help patients with anxiety and mood disorders.
(858) 648-6104 View (858) 648-6104
Photo of Dr. Mukesh Sanghadia - San Diego Psychiatry, PC, MD, Psychiatrist
San Diego Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience in managing mental health disorders and issues that affect adolescents, adults and older adults, including memory issues, various psychoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My patients find me compassionate and empathetic, with good listening and clinical skills. I believe in a comprehensive assessment of not just your mental health symptoms but also of your entire health, including physical. A good psychiatrist, I firmly believe, is first a good medical doctor.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience in managing mental health disorders and issues that affect adolescents, adults and older adults, including memory issues, various psychoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My patients find me compassionate and empathetic, with good listening and clinical skills. I believe in a comprehensive assessment of not just your mental health symptoms but also of your entire health, including physical. A good psychiatrist, I firmly believe, is first a good medical doctor.
(858) 400-4941 View (858) 400-4941
Photo of Weei . LoAllen, MD, Psychiatrist
Weei . LoAllen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel something is holding you or your loved one back? Many of us can feel stuck or overwhelmed when adjusting to change. When struggling with old and new challenges in our lives, it takes courage to reach out for help. You do not have to venture forth alone. Together, we can work through the issues at hand and rediscover your full potential. I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I am here to help you optimize different aspects of your life and reconnect with the sense of purpose deep within you. It is time to prioritize your wellness and mental health.
Do you feel something is holding you or your loved one back? Many of us can feel stuck or overwhelmed when adjusting to change. When struggling with old and new challenges in our lives, it takes courage to reach out for help. You do not have to venture forth alone. Together, we can work through the issues at hand and rediscover your full potential. I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I am here to help you optimize different aspects of your life and reconnect with the sense of purpose deep within you. It is time to prioritize your wellness and mental health.
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Photo of Nellie Samuel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nellie Samuel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Dr. Nellie Samuel. I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (DNP) from Grand Canyon University and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. For the past 9 years, I have been working with patients across lifespan most especially with children, adolescents, and adults in Clinical settings. During my years of practice, I have gathered hands-on clinical experience working with patients with ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Mood Disorders (including Major depression and bipolar disorder).
My name is Dr. Nellie Samuel. I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (DNP) from Grand Canyon University and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. For the past 9 years, I have been working with patients across lifespan most especially with children, adolescents, and adults in Clinical settings. During my years of practice, I have gathered hands-on clinical experience working with patients with ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Mood Disorders (including Major depression and bipolar disorder).
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Matthew Montgomery, MD, Psychiatrist
Matthew Montgomery
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Matthew Montgomery, M.D. is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His work with complex psychiatric patients in numerous practice settings makes him uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat a broad range of patients. Dr. Montgomery's approach includes a thorough diagnostic assessment which allows for a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan. While he enjoys working with a variety of patients, he has notable experience working with treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (including PTSD and OCD), and ADHD. His practice includes work with the LGBTQ community.
Matthew Montgomery, M.D. is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His work with complex psychiatric patients in numerous practice settings makes him uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat a broad range of patients. Dr. Montgomery's approach includes a thorough diagnostic assessment which allows for a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan. While he enjoys working with a variety of patients, he has notable experience working with treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (including PTSD and OCD), and ADHD. His practice includes work with the LGBTQ community.
(858) 358-7960 View (858) 358-7960
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92130

30+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 92130 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
92% ADHD
82% Trauma and PTSD
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% Bipolar Disorder
77% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 92130 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

54% Female
46% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92130?

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.