Psychiatrists in 92627
![Photo of Thomas Phan, MA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f64f141-1ac0-4c3d-a621-0e3ac3ccadd5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Thomas Phan is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2017. He graduated from Texas A&M College of Medicine and completed a general psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Dr. Phan's treatment philosophy revolves around evidenced-based holistic treatment of the patient. Often times treatment decisions are a collaboration effort. In his spare time, Dr. Phan enjoys being with his family, traveling and surfing.
Dr. Thomas Phan is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2017. He graduated from Texas A&M College of Medicine and completed a general psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Dr. Phan's treatment philosophy revolves around evidenced-based holistic treatment of the patient. Often times treatment decisions are a collaboration effort. In his spare time, Dr. Phan enjoys being with his family, traveling and surfing.
![Photo of Paul Gatdula - J. Paul Gatdula - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d92a9f2-fe94-4a73-97bb-205d5b588fab/1/320x400.jpeg)
J. Paul Gatdula - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
J. Paul Gatdula is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from West Coast University and achieved Magna Cum Laude. He then earned his Master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. J. Paul started his career as a psychiatric nurse and has 5 years of experience in mental and behavioral health. He has worked in Magnet hospitals in both inpatient and emergency room settings, and is experienced in treating patients of all ages, cultures, and genders.
J. Paul Gatdula is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from West Coast University and achieved Magna Cum Laude. He then earned his Master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. J. Paul started his career as a psychiatric nurse and has 5 years of experience in mental and behavioral health. He has worked in Magnet hospitals in both inpatient and emergency room settings, and is experienced in treating patients of all ages, cultures, and genders.
![Photo of Karissa Chisum, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2189b6b9-6bf1-4dcc-8aa5-fe3c99ca45c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karissa Chisum is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. With a focus on medication management, Karissa seeks to understand each client's individual needs. Client backgrounds, strengths they may already possess, and challenges they are going through are all taken into account . Karissa builds on these factors with an individualized, patient centered approach. Her training and education bring together medicine and the holistic care of nursing. She understands that many things can affect your mental health.
Karissa Chisum is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. With a focus on medication management, Karissa seeks to understand each client's individual needs. Client backgrounds, strengths they may already possess, and challenges they are going through are all taken into account . Karissa builds on these factors with an individualized, patient centered approach. Her training and education bring together medicine and the holistic care of nursing. She understands that many things can affect your mental health.
![Photo of Mahtab K Yousefi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bd2fb53-1c25-4cea-b3c3-afabab669b08/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist graduated from Wayne State University. I, also, completed Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Fellowship at Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute. As a resident, I was awarded Outstanding Empathy with Patients and Fellow Residents Award. As a psychiatrist attending, I was awarded Excellence in Teaching Award. I pride myself on listening closely and getting to know patient goals and preferences in a collaborative, non judgmental, and compassionate environment. I offer evidence-based, collaborative, and affirming mental health care to patients.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist graduated from Wayne State University. I, also, completed Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Fellowship at Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute. As a resident, I was awarded Outstanding Empathy with Patients and Fellow Residents Award. As a psychiatrist attending, I was awarded Excellence in Teaching Award. I pride myself on listening closely and getting to know patient goals and preferences in a collaborative, non judgmental, and compassionate environment. I offer evidence-based, collaborative, and affirming mental health care to patients.
![Photo of Morgan Galipeau, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f83511d7-4c34-4967-87f5-ba93ede91be6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Galipeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (Online Only)
Trust is the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I understand that seeking help can be a daunting step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is holistic, considering not just the symptoms but also the underlying factors that contribute to your mental health. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
Trust is the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I understand that seeking help can be a daunting step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is holistic, considering not just the symptoms but also the underlying factors that contribute to your mental health. Together, we will work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Marina Podlubnaya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16f506fe-ddbe-4be5-8c53-5b60182c21ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
My lifelong dream is to see the stigma related to mental health disappear. My hope is for all people to be free of shame and guilt when talking about their struggles with mental health. I have experience in treating a variety of disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and eating disorders. I strive to create a strong therapeutic and collaborative relationship in order to provide the best quality of care. My passions include working with clients with dual diagnoses and helping support them through their journey of recovery from substance abuse.
My lifelong dream is to see the stigma related to mental health disappear. My hope is for all people to be free of shame and guilt when talking about their struggles with mental health. I have experience in treating a variety of disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and eating disorders. I strive to create a strong therapeutic and collaborative relationship in order to provide the best quality of care. My passions include working with clients with dual diagnoses and helping support them through their journey of recovery from substance abuse.
![Photo of Victoria Hughes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b4be9c-ea3f-4cb2-9baa-3e5ecc8fede1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Hughes is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. She has a BSN from Saint Mary's-Samuel Merritt an MSN, PMHNP from Maryville University and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau: International honor society for academic excellence and leadership in nursing. The most powerful healing medicine is caring. Victoria believes health is finding balance in all areas of your life. She offers a holistic, thoughtful, and collaborative approach to care. She is adept at aligning with your needs and respecting your philosophy of health to empower you toward your desired outcome.
Victoria Hughes is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. She has a BSN from Saint Mary's-Samuel Merritt an MSN, PMHNP from Maryville University and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau: International honor society for academic excellence and leadership in nursing. The most powerful healing medicine is caring. Victoria believes health is finding balance in all areas of your life. She offers a holistic, thoughtful, and collaborative approach to care. She is adept at aligning with your needs and respecting your philosophy of health to empower you toward your desired outcome.
![Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b42753ad-1c0b-449b-9572-3600397f4571/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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.
![Photo of Rudy Roque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e7f5e3-15e0-4019-bf56-1c9f9842b5c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rudy Roque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (Online Only)
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
![Photo of Sarah Graff, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8b03ec5-a8b1-42cd-84fc-02729c4438ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board certified Adult Psychiatrist educated at Princeton University, Stanford University, UCSF, and Harvard Medical School, in practice over 20 years. I treat a wide range of problems, including mood, anxiety, OCD, addiction, trauma, ADHD, marital, identity, and interpersonal disorders. You don't need to suffer alone. I have the expertise to help you. With good treatment, you will feel and function better. I offer you warmth, insight, honesty, intelligence, and my promise to help you find a path to wellness.
I am a Board certified Adult Psychiatrist educated at Princeton University, Stanford University, UCSF, and Harvard Medical School, in practice over 20 years. I treat a wide range of problems, including mood, anxiety, OCD, addiction, trauma, ADHD, marital, identity, and interpersonal disorders. You don't need to suffer alone. I have the expertise to help you. With good treatment, you will feel and function better. I offer you warmth, insight, honesty, intelligence, and my promise to help you find a path to wellness.
![Photo of Gary Dylewski, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7c424b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I would rather teach a skill than prescribe a pill, but I will. In other words, if you or someone you know is on or in need of psychiatric medications, yet would prefer to explore other ways to address their current circumstances, my practice is a great fit. This may include those who have tried multiple medications in the past and have had less then optimal success, found that they are very sensitive to medication effects, or wish to explore alternatives such as; learning mind/emotion/stress management skills, herbal or supplement alternatives (orthomolecular medicine), and spiritual practices to support their healing process.
I would rather teach a skill than prescribe a pill, but I will. In other words, if you or someone you know is on or in need of psychiatric medications, yet would prefer to explore other ways to address their current circumstances, my practice is a great fit. This may include those who have tried multiple medications in the past and have had less then optimal success, found that they are very sensitive to medication effects, or wish to explore alternatives such as; learning mind/emotion/stress management skills, herbal or supplement alternatives (orthomolecular medicine), and spiritual practices to support their healing process.
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![Photo of Cat Dang, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d18c7ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice the most important person is you, my client. I will take the time to listen to you, to understand your unique situation, and to review available medical information. I will look beyond obvious symptoms and will try to uncover other medical and behavioral issues. Then, we will discuss a variety of recommendation that, in my experience, provide the greatest likelihood of improvement for your condition. It is your choice to decide which recommendation to move forward with. These may include medication options, therapy options, and other lifestyle changes.
In my practice the most important person is you, my client. I will take the time to listen to you, to understand your unique situation, and to review available medical information. I will look beyond obvious symptoms and will try to uncover other medical and behavioral issues. Then, we will discuss a variety of recommendation that, in my experience, provide the greatest likelihood of improvement for your condition. It is your choice to decide which recommendation to move forward with. These may include medication options, therapy options, and other lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Lalaine Otadoy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ba5750b-db02-4cc4-b8d7-bf321026b312/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lalaine Otadoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (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!
![Photo of Kailee Marin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea9c68f1-f945-4e2c-8dab-25a8e9ece4e7/1/320x400.png)
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!
![Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d49e7f9d-2944-4945-b8fb-6fe220c8a0ee/1/320x400.png)
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!
![Photo of Catalina Villa, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25c5fbda-4e0f-4bb2-ba9e-7830ea60ad91/1/320x400.png)
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!
![Photo of Alejandra Suzuki - Americas TMS Center, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f23c430-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Americas TMS Center in Irvine, California, helps children, adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of mental health conditions. We specialize in TMS therapy, medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Suzuki and her team have extensive experience assisting clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, developmental disorders, behavioral issues, school issues and much more. Drawing on in-depth knowledge and clinical expertise, Americas TMS Center treats clients' underlying conditions in order to help them live better, more fulfilling lives.
Americas TMS Center in Irvine, California, helps children, adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of mental health conditions. We specialize in TMS therapy, medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Suzuki and her team have extensive experience assisting clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, developmental disorders, behavioral issues, school issues and much more. Drawing on in-depth knowledge and clinical expertise, Americas TMS Center treats clients' underlying conditions in order to help them live better, more fulfilling lives.
![Photo of Scott Irwin - Renewed ADHD Treatment Center, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4bfd68a-86ee-4950-ae61-e155474001da/1/320x400.png)
Renewed ADHD Treatment Center
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Do you suspect you or your loved ones have ADHD? Are you struggling with attention, focus, or hyperactivity? Are your symptoms starting to negatively impact your performance at school, work or even in your relationship with others? Our Board Certified Doctorate Prepared Providers provide comprehensive ADHD assessments and evaluations, including ADHD testing, and provide treatment options for you and your family. We provide psychiatric assessment and management for Children ages 4+ and Adults. Our Doctorate Prepared Providers also treat other disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, ptsd and more.
Do you suspect you or your loved ones have ADHD? Are you struggling with attention, focus, or hyperactivity? Are your symptoms starting to negatively impact your performance at school, work or even in your relationship with others? Our Board Certified Doctorate Prepared Providers provide comprehensive ADHD assessments and evaluations, including ADHD testing, and provide treatment options for you and your family. We provide psychiatric assessment and management for Children ages 4+ and Adults. Our Doctorate Prepared Providers also treat other disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, ptsd and more.
![Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45c65b4c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
![Photo of Abidemi Oladele - Abidemi Oladele - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edb14d34-f5dd-4ab5-9e12-95c79acb7388/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abidemi Oladele - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Abi Oladele is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked as a nurse for about 10 years in different settings including Critical care, Surgical services, Medical Surgical and Psychiatry. She is passionate about improving patient outcomes in the mental health population by providing comprehensive and individualized mental health care to her patients. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas Health Science Houston and a master’s degree from Northern Kentucky University. Abi enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and doing DIY projects.
Abi Oladele is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked as a nurse for about 10 years in different settings including Critical care, Surgical services, Medical Surgical and Psychiatry. She is passionate about improving patient outcomes in the mental health population by providing comprehensive and individualized mental health care to her patients. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas Health Science Houston and a master’s degree from Northern Kentucky University. Abi enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and doing DIY projects.
See more therapy options for 92627
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 92627
20+
Average cost per session
$165
Psychiatrists in 92627 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
95% | Medication Management |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
21 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 92627 see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 92627?
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.