Psychiatrists in 92603

Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.

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 am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.

Tamara O'Nan is a board-certified psychiatric physician assistant. She graduated with honors from UCLA and proceeded to graduate with honors with a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Western University of Health Sciences. Tamara has 11 years of experience as a primary care PA and has worked in psychiatry since 2022. Tamara is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for patients from all walks of life.
Tamara O'Nan is a board-certified psychiatric physician assistant. She graduated with honors from UCLA and proceeded to graduate with honors with a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Western University of Health Sciences. Tamara has 11 years of experience as a primary care PA and has worked in psychiatry since 2022. Tamara is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for patients from all walks of life.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) offering comprehensive mental health services for individuals seeking support for a variety of psychiatric conditions. With a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from UCLA, a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health from West Coast University, a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration from National University, and a decade of experience across both critical care and mental health settings, I bring a holistic, patient-centered approach to care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) offering comprehensive mental health services for individuals seeking support for a variety of psychiatric conditions. With a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from UCLA, a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health from West Coast University, a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration from National University, and a decade of experience across both critical care and mental health settings, I bring a holistic, patient-centered approach to care.

My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.
My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.

'We do not believe in ourselves until someone reveals that something deep inside us is valuable, worth listening to, worthy of our trust, sacred to our touch.' -E.E. Cummings. Every person has inherent value and deserves individual attention and compassionate care. It is a privilege to assist my patients on the journey to self-discovery, emotional healing and recovery. As a medical doctor, I perform psychotherapy and/or prescribe medications if needed. My passion for mental health is both professional and personal, and I believe this enables me to establish a unique and powerful therapeutic relationship essential for treatment success.
'We do not believe in ourselves until someone reveals that something deep inside us is valuable, worth listening to, worthy of our trust, sacred to our touch.' -E.E. Cummings. Every person has inherent value and deserves individual attention and compassionate care. It is a privilege to assist my patients on the journey to self-discovery, emotional healing and recovery. As a medical doctor, I perform psychotherapy and/or prescribe medications if needed. My passion for mental health is both professional and personal, and I believe this enables me to establish a unique and powerful therapeutic relationship essential for treatment success.

Eric is a doctorally-prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from the California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
Eric is a doctorally-prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from the California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.

Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.

Doctor Mascola is friendly, highly qualified, and works warmly and collaboratively to help persons find resilience and strength when times are challenging. He served previously as the Director of Education and Evidence Based Practices at Stanford University in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. He has expertise in multiple Cognitive Behavioral Therapies as well as expertise in the use of medications and other scientifically supported methods of health promotion. He finds great meaning in helping good persons improve their ability to live in a manner that resonates deeply with their most cherished values.
Doctor Mascola is friendly, highly qualified, and works warmly and collaboratively to help persons find resilience and strength when times are challenging. He served previously as the Director of Education and Evidence Based Practices at Stanford University in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. He has expertise in multiple Cognitive Behavioral Therapies as well as expertise in the use of medications and other scientifically supported methods of health promotion. He finds great meaning in helping good persons improve their ability to live in a manner that resonates deeply with their most cherished values.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an innovative treatment that uses a pulsed magnetic field to stimulate neurotransmitter activity in the regions of your brain that regulate your mood. In studies, TMS provides a clinically meaningful result for up to 60% of patients who haven’t found relief through first-line treatments like antidepressant medication. Most patients begin with a series of treatments. You receive TMS therapy five days a week for 4-6 weeks. Then depending on your needs, you continue to have TMS treatments, but much less frequently.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an innovative treatment that uses a pulsed magnetic field to stimulate neurotransmitter activity in the regions of your brain that regulate your mood. In studies, TMS provides a clinically meaningful result for up to 60% of patients who haven’t found relief through first-line treatments like antidepressant medication. Most patients begin with a series of treatments. You receive TMS therapy five days a week for 4-6 weeks. Then depending on your needs, you continue to have TMS treatments, but much less frequently.

Marianna Chavez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new patients! I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for children, teens, and young adults. Are you suffering from anxiety or anger? Uncontrollable moods or emotions? Depression, trauma, or extreme stress? Are you unable to concentrate or get your work done? You do not have to! I am here to help. You can start healing today!
Accepting new patients! I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for children, teens, and young adults. Are you suffering from anxiety or anger? Uncontrollable moods or emotions? Depression, trauma, or extreme stress? Are you unable to concentrate or get your work done? You do not have to! I am here to help. You can start healing today!

Kind and professional care with extensive experience of 45 years in psychiatry, psychopharmacology research (involved in over clinical 900 research trials), family therapy, and psychoanalytic treatment (have a Ph.D. in Psychoanalysis.) My approach is flexible, looking to find what can be understood psychologically, as well as what is best explained in terms of brain function or chemistry. I do not always use medication as true understanding is often enough. When I do use medication my approach is conservative. "I start low and go slow." Try visiting my Website for more details: http://www.dondefrancisco.com/
Kind and professional care with extensive experience of 45 years in psychiatry, psychopharmacology research (involved in over clinical 900 research trials), family therapy, and psychoanalytic treatment (have a Ph.D. in Psychoanalysis.) My approach is flexible, looking to find what can be understood psychologically, as well as what is best explained in terms of brain function or chemistry. I do not always use medication as true understanding is often enough. When I do use medication my approach is conservative. "I start low and go slow." Try visiting my Website for more details: http://www.dondefrancisco.com/

I'm Dr. Piotr Pelc, a double board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I serve the families of Newport Beach, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa and other surrounding Orange County cities. I provide medication management, therapy or both. Telepsychiatry appointments are available. I happily coordinate care with therapists. As an osteopathic physician, I promote prevention and whole-person care, emphasizing good work-life balance, diet, and sleep. Please note: I'm out-of-network for all insurances, but I do provide a superbill for reimbursement if you wish to use your insurance coverage.
I'm Dr. Piotr Pelc, a double board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I serve the families of Newport Beach, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa and other surrounding Orange County cities. I provide medication management, therapy or both. Telepsychiatry appointments are available. I happily coordinate care with therapists. As an osteopathic physician, I promote prevention and whole-person care, emphasizing good work-life balance, diet, and sleep. Please note: I'm out-of-network for all insurances, but I do provide a superbill for reimbursement if you wish to use your insurance coverage.

We know 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. Now welcoming new patients!
We know 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. Now welcoming new patients!

Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD or a mental health concern that is negatively impacting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step towards making a positive change. Anthony is a Master's Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Anthony emphasizes treating each client & their family with respect, comfort, and professionalism. Anthony focuses on needs of his patients and tailors his treatment plan to keep everyone informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD or a mental health concern that is negatively impacting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step towards making a positive change. Anthony is a Master's Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Anthony emphasizes treating each client & their family with respect, comfort, and professionalism. Anthony focuses on needs of his patients and tailors his treatment plan to keep everyone informed.

Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.

This question asks me to describe my ideal client. In truth, I have no "ideal client". My pleasure and privilege is to use all of my skill as a physician/psychiatrist to make accurate and comprehensive diagnosis, and then treat with whatever forms of psychotherapy (and with medications when necessary) that will produce the best results for my clients/patients who genuinely want to be well, healthy, productive, and able to love and to work.
This question asks me to describe my ideal client. In truth, I have no "ideal client". My pleasure and privilege is to use all of my skill as a physician/psychiatrist to make accurate and comprehensive diagnosis, and then treat with whatever forms of psychotherapy (and with medications when necessary) that will produce the best results for my clients/patients who genuinely want to be well, healthy, productive, and able to love and to work.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html

Dr. Maryam Zarrabi is committed to fostering a safe space free of judgment. She understands the value of informed, collaborative, and individual treatment plans. Dr. Zarrabi’s holistic and evidence-based approach incorporates psychopharmacology, biopsychosocial factors, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. She completed her residency in psychiatry at Northwell Health, where she was awarded the Russell T. Joffe Memorial Award and the clinical excellence award.
Dr. Maryam Zarrabi is committed to fostering a safe space free of judgment. She understands the value of informed, collaborative, and individual treatment plans. Dr. Zarrabi’s holistic and evidence-based approach incorporates psychopharmacology, biopsychosocial factors, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. She completed her residency in psychiatry at Northwell Health, where she was awarded the Russell T. Joffe Memorial Award and the clinical excellence award.
See more therapy options for 92603
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 92603
10+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in 92603 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
30 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Oxford |
92% | Anthem |
How Psychiatrists in 92603 see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 92603?
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.