Psychiatrists in 92618

Photo of George Tun - Even Better Mood Clinic, Psychiatrist
Even Better Mood Clinic
Psychiatrist
Irvine, CA 92618
At Even Better Mood Clinic, we set higher standards for psychiatry, by rethinking your treatment plan, considering new approaches, and aiming for full remission of your symptoms.
At Even Better Mood Clinic, we set higher standards for psychiatry, by rethinking your treatment plan, considering new approaches, and aiming for full remission of your symptoms.
(949) 569-5985 View (949) 569-5985
Photo of George Tun, Psychiatrist, MD
George Tun
Psychiatrist, MD
Irvine, CA 92618
Dr. Tun is an interventional psychiatrist specializing in mood disorders, Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and TMS. His goal is to raise awareness in the community about the benefits of interventional treatments like TMS and its role in treating depression and disorders that co-occur with depression, such as generalized anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. Prior to founding Even Better Mood Clinic, Dr. Tun has worked as a psychiatrist in the San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Orange County areas. His most recent position was Regional Medical Director of Orange County at Mindful Health Solutions.
Dr. Tun is an interventional psychiatrist specializing in mood disorders, Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and TMS. His goal is to raise awareness in the community about the benefits of interventional treatments like TMS and its role in treating depression and disorders that co-occur with depression, such as generalized anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. Prior to founding Even Better Mood Clinic, Dr. Tun has worked as a psychiatrist in the San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Orange County areas. His most recent position was Regional Medical Director of Orange County at Mindful Health Solutions.
(949) 881-6414 View (949) 881-6414
Photo of Trenice Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(619) 771-0128 View (619) 771-0128
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(949) 676-8149 View (949) 676-8149
Photo of Dr. Ismail Deniz, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ismail Deniz
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychiatrist trained at NYMC and UCLA with a specialized focus in child, adolescent, and addiction psychiatry. My practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, individualized care to a select number of patients. With expertise in behavioral management for ADHD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, I provide care for individuals from childhood through adulthood. I treat diverse pathologies including complex substance use and behavioral addictive disorders such as gaming, sex, and gambling disorders.
I am a psychiatrist trained at NYMC and UCLA with a specialized focus in child, adolescent, and addiction psychiatry. My practice is dedicated to providing high-quality, individualized care to a select number of patients. With expertise in behavioral management for ADHD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, I provide care for individuals from childhood through adulthood. I treat diverse pathologies including complex substance use and behavioral addictive disorders such as gaming, sex, and gambling disorders.
(949) 990-5175 View (949) 990-5175
Photo of Toni Ann Locke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toni Ann Locke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Cal State San Marcos. I obtained my post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from National University. In addition to medication management, I use a combination of CBT and emotionally focused therapy. The theoretical approaches that I use are humanistic and cognitive perspectives.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Cal State San Marcos. I obtained my post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from National University. In addition to medication management, I use a combination of CBT and emotionally focused therapy. The theoretical approaches that I use are humanistic and cognitive perspectives.
(916) 885-5278 View (916) 885-5278
Photo of Holly Ann Olalia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Holly Ann Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and 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!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and 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!
(949) 993-1285 View (949) 993-1285
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/scheduler-ca
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/scheduler-ca
(949) 779-3975 View (949) 779-3975
Photo of Gol Ara, Psychiatrist, MD
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Irvine, CA 92618
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
(949) 264-0216 View (949) 264-0216
Photo of Dr. Waqar Zuberi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
Irvine, CA 92618
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!
(949) 264-5481 View (949) 264-5481
Photo of Lindsey Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Lindsey Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have been in the healthcare field for 10 years. I have experience working in a variety of settings including inpatient, acute care psychiatric rehab, and residential treatment facilities. I use a comprehensive method of caring for patients and realize therapeutic medications work in combination with psychotherapy. I take a non-judgmental and compassionate approach and believe patients should be partners in their care and have choices.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have been in the healthcare field for 10 years. I have experience working in a variety of settings including inpatient, acute care psychiatric rehab, and residential treatment facilities. I use a comprehensive method of caring for patients and realize therapeutic medications work in combination with psychotherapy. I take a non-judgmental and compassionate approach and believe patients should be partners in their care and have choices.
(619) 558-2477 View (619) 558-2477
Photo of Guylene Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
(925) 690-3237 View (925) 690-3237
Photo of Monika Kaniewska, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Monika Kaniewska
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am double-board certified; Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also A Reiki / Karuna Practitioner and Healing Touch Practitioner. I am currently taking one year course in Compassionate Inquiry which a therapy approach addressing root causes of trauma and addictions. I guide patients to connect with their strengths to empower them and install hope as well as witness their healing process, growth, and transformation. These have been the most rewarding and inspiring aspects of working in mental health care.
I am double-board certified; Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also A Reiki / Karuna Practitioner and Healing Touch Practitioner. I am currently taking one year course in Compassionate Inquiry which a therapy approach addressing root causes of trauma and addictions. I guide patients to connect with their strengths to empower them and install hope as well as witness their healing process, growth, and transformation. These have been the most rewarding and inspiring aspects of working in mental health care.
(949) 704-5566 View (949) 704-5566
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist, MD
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(714) 627-4927 View (714) 627-4927
Photo of May Christine Faustino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
May Christine Faustino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
3 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
As a dedicated Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health, I am committed to enhancing patient well-being through compassionate care and evidence-based practices.
As a dedicated Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health, I am committed to enhancing patient well-being through compassionate care and evidence-based practices.
(949) 687-3914 View (949) 687-3914
Photo of Princess McKenzie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and 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!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and 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!
(949) 518-1739 View (949) 518-1739
Photo of Desiree Bonomo, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Desiree Bonomo
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(949) 806-5732 View (949) 806-5732
Photo of Maricela Beltran, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Maricela Beltran
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Irvine, CA 92618
Dr. Beltran specializes in integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy, combining evidence-based approaches with a focus on whole-body wellness. She is currently completing a Fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the UC Irvine Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute to further deepen her expertise in the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Her practice is rooted in compassionate, personalized care that honors each individual’s unique values and lived experience.
Dr. Beltran specializes in integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy, combining evidence-based approaches with a focus on whole-body wellness. She is currently completing a Fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the UC Irvine Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute to further deepen her expertise in the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Her practice is rooted in compassionate, personalized care that honors each individual’s unique values and lived experience.
(949) 274-4941 View (949) 274-4941
Photo of Farnaz Trasandes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Farnaz Trasandes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know that 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 - We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know that 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!
(949) 356-9442 View (949) 356-9442
Photo of Erika Brenda Arias, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erika Brenda Arias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in the field. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I work with patients who struggle with depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine. My approach is supportive, compassion focused, and culturally sensitive while incorporating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in the field. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I work with patients who struggle with depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine. My approach is supportive, compassion focused, and culturally sensitive while incorporating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
(510) 722-5746 View (510) 722-5746

See more therapy options for 92618

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92618

90+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 92618 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
89% ADHD
87% Bipolar Disorder
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Medication Management

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
97% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
94% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 92618 see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92618?

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.