Psychiatrists in 92630

Photo of Karen Rightler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Karen Rightler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Lake Forest, CA 92630
If you need a provider who takes the time to listen and understand you, contact me. I provide a safe space to explore your mental health concerns, with No shame, blame or judgments. I help clients through accurate diagnosing and targeted symptom management so they can begin to live the lives they want and deserve.
If you need a provider who takes the time to listen and understand you, contact me. I provide a safe space to explore your mental health concerns, with No shame, blame or judgments. I help clients through accurate diagnosing and targeted symptom management so they can begin to live the lives they want and deserve.
(949) 828-0583 View (949) 828-0583
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(949) 762-8274 View (949) 762-8274
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(949) 818-2092 View (949) 818-2092
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(415) 870-8862 View (415) 870-8862
Photo of Priti Bhardwaj - Dr Priti Bhardwaj - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr Priti Bhardwaj - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Priti Bhardwaj is an experienced psychiatrist working in collaboration with Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS, our priority is patient care and comfort driven by a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Bhardwaj maintains a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment, ensuring patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
Dr. Priti Bhardwaj is an experienced psychiatrist working in collaboration with Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS, our priority is patient care and comfort driven by a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Bhardwaj maintains a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment, ensuring patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
(949) 828-2417 View (949) 828-2417
Photo of Andrew Morrow, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrew Morrow
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, thought disorders and a multitude of other mental health issues. Having undergone extensive training in medical school, and a psychiatric residency, I am well trained in both psychotherapy and medication managment of mental problems. Whether you are suffering from severe depression or anxiety or if you simply wish to work on a certain aspect of your social, occupational or familial functioning, I can help. Born and raised in Orange County, I am familiar with the stresses of living in this community, and would love to help you reach your potential.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, thought disorders and a multitude of other mental health issues. Having undergone extensive training in medical school, and a psychiatric residency, I am well trained in both psychotherapy and medication managment of mental problems. Whether you are suffering from severe depression or anxiety or if you simply wish to work on a certain aspect of your social, occupational or familial functioning, I can help. Born and raised in Orange County, I am familiar with the stresses of living in this community, and would love to help you reach your potential.
(714) 752-0808 View (714) 752-0808
Photo of Sabrina S Sandoval - Mind Care Services Incorporated, Psychiatrist, MD
Mind Care Services Incorporated
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Mind Care Services provides individualized psychiatric services in a caring, confidential and respectful environment. Our greatest joy comes from helping our clients realize their personal goals and achieve successful outcomes in their lives. We offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services from a diverse team of competent and compassionate providers. We are experienced in treating a wide array of cognitive, behavioral and emotional disorders thru therapy, medication management and other treatment modalities including SpravatoTM (esketamine) for medication resistant depression. We are a certified Spravato treatment center.
Mind Care Services provides individualized psychiatric services in a caring, confidential and respectful environment. Our greatest joy comes from helping our clients realize their personal goals and achieve successful outcomes in their lives. We offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services from a diverse team of competent and compassionate providers. We are experienced in treating a wide array of cognitive, behavioral and emotional disorders thru therapy, medication management and other treatment modalities including SpravatoTM (esketamine) for medication resistant depression. We are a certified Spravato treatment center.
(562) 471-4516 View (562) 471-4516
Photo of Mayowa Adesina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mayowa Adesina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of acute psychiatric nursing experience and 3 years in outpatient psychiatry. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, and more. With expertise in crisis intervention, emergency psychiatric care, and psychosocial assessments, I deliver compassionate, evidence-based treatment that is personalized and culturally competent, restores balance, fosters resilience, and transforms lives.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of acute psychiatric nursing experience and 3 years in outpatient psychiatry. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, and more. With expertise in crisis intervention, emergency psychiatric care, and psychosocial assessments, I deliver compassionate, evidence-based treatment that is personalized and culturally competent, restores balance, fosters resilience, and transforms lives.
(949) 710-5036 View (949) 710-5036
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(424) 339-0390 View (424) 339-0390
Photo of Stephany Lavigne - Stephany Lavigne - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Stephany Lavigne - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Serves Area
Dr. Stephany Lavigne, a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors from the University of South Alabama. With over a decade of experience, she has excelled in forensic psychiatry at Metropolitan State Hospital, caring for patients under penal codes and conservatorship. Dr. Lavigne has also demonstrated her commitment in diverse outpatient settings, providing quality mental health care.
Dr. Stephany Lavigne, a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors from the University of South Alabama. With over a decade of experience, she has excelled in forensic psychiatry at Metropolitan State Hospital, caring for patients under penal codes and conservatorship. Dr. Lavigne has also demonstrated her commitment in diverse outpatient settings, providing quality mental health care.
(714) 477-1076 View (714) 477-1076
Photo of Romy Armiger - Romy Armiger - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Romy Armiger - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Romy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. With four years of experience in psychiatry across diverse settings—including residential, inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and community outreach—Romy brings a collaborative and holistic approach to mental health care.
Romy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. With four years of experience in psychiatry across diverse settings—including residential, inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and community outreach—Romy brings a collaborative and holistic approach to mental health care.
(512) 229-9844 View (512) 229-9844

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Trisha Paniagua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trisha Paniagua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep disorders, trauma, panic disorders, and personality disorders. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I first worked as an LVN, then a psychiatric RN. I am passionate about educating patients on managing life’s challenges and diminishing the stigma surrounding mental healthcare.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep disorders, trauma, panic disorders, and personality disorders. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I first worked as an LVN, then a psychiatric RN. I am passionate about educating patients on managing life’s challenges and diminishing the stigma surrounding mental healthcare.
(562) 614-4737 View (562) 614-4737
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
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!
(626) 702-3217 View (626) 702-3217
Photo of Benedicta Osuji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(949) 694-7711 View (949) 694-7711
Photo of Dr. Sinat Aleje, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP
Dr. Sinat Aleje
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
My ideal client is someone who’s been carrying invisible struggles like anxiety, sadness, racing thoughts, or feeling emotionally overwhelmed. They might look like they have it all together on the outside but inside feel exhausted, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. They’re seeking answers, relief, and hope—and they want to feel like themselves again. They’re looking for someone who will listen without judgment and help them make sense of what they’re experiencing. They may be open to exploring medication or other tools that can support their mental health, but ultimately, they want to feel understood and empowered. Their
My ideal client is someone who’s been carrying invisible struggles like anxiety, sadness, racing thoughts, or feeling emotionally overwhelmed. They might look like they have it all together on the outside but inside feel exhausted, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. They’re seeking answers, relief, and hope—and they want to feel like themselves again. They’re looking for someone who will listen without judgment and help them make sense of what they’re experiencing. They may be open to exploring medication or other tools that can support their mental health, but ultimately, they want to feel understood and empowered. Their
(562) 539-4091 x90706 View (562) 539-4091 x90706
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
Photo of Mae Caragay, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Mae Caragay
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
Accepting New Patients - I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
(619) 848-3095 View (619) 848-3095
Photo of Alexis Meshi - Alexis Meshi, MD Reproductive Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist, MD
Accepting New Patients! 20+ Years in Practice-I am a general adult psychiatrist with a strong interest in treating women. I have a particular interest in perinatal and reproductive psychiatry and enjoy providing specialized care to women suffering from reproductive associated mood disorders, including PMS, illness during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Accepting New Patients! 20+ Years in Practice-I am a general adult psychiatrist with a strong interest in treating women. I have a particular interest in perinatal and reproductive psychiatry and enjoy providing specialized care to women suffering from reproductive associated mood disorders, including PMS, illness during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
(949) 518-3160 View (949) 518-3160
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(310) 737-8739 View (310) 737-8739
Photo of Asana Aruna, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Asana Aruna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Mental health is a delicate and profoundly personal matter, and I understand the courage it takes to seek support. After years of working in mental health and specialising in integrative psychiatry, I began to realize how strong the link is between the mind and body. As your provider, my job is to guide you to strengthen that link to live a life that's worth living. In my daily practice, I incorporate my expertise in integrative psychiatry into the your lifestyle and treatment plan. I tailor my treatment to integrate traditional medication with complimentary, holistic techniques like supplements, self help books and nutrition.
Mental health is a delicate and profoundly personal matter, and I understand the courage it takes to seek support. After years of working in mental health and specialising in integrative psychiatry, I began to realize how strong the link is between the mind and body. As your provider, my job is to guide you to strengthen that link to live a life that's worth living. In my daily practice, I incorporate my expertise in integrative psychiatry into the your lifestyle and treatment plan. I tailor my treatment to integrate traditional medication with complimentary, holistic techniques like supplements, self help books and nutrition.
(951) 900-3809 View (951) 900-3809

See more therapy options for 92630

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92630

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 92630 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
91% Trauma and PTSD
91% Bipolar Disorder
73% Medication Management
64% ADHD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Optum
89% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 92630 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Male
33% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92630?

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.