Psychiatrists in 92663

Photo of Gary Dylewski, DO, Psychiatrist
Gary Dylewski
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92663
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.
(949) 482-4344 View (949) 482-4344
Photo of Alexis Meshi, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexis Meshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
(949) 353-6801 View (949) 353-6801
Photo of Alexis Meshi, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexis Meshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
(949) 518-3160 View (949) 518-3160
Photo of Alexis Meshi, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexis Meshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
(949) 541-7692 View (949) 541-7692
Photo of Alexis Meshi, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexis Meshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
(949) 528-4283 View (949) 528-4283
Photo of Joseph Stabley, PA, Physician Assistant
Joseph Stabley
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Joe is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in 2011. Afterwards, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant Program through the Department of Defense and accredited by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and commissioned as an Officer in the US Army.​ As a PA, Joe has worked in variety of settings - including Urgent Care, Emergency Medicine, and has extensive knowledge in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine from years of service in the substance use rehab industry.
Joe is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in 2011. Afterwards, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant Program through the Department of Defense and accredited by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and commissioned as an Officer in the US Army.​ As a PA, Joe has worked in variety of settings - including Urgent Care, Emergency Medicine, and has extensive knowledge in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine from years of service in the substance use rehab industry.
(949) 334-5455 View (949) 334-5455
Photo of Stefani LaFrenierre, MD, Psychiatrist
Stefani LaFrenierre
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
I offer personalized mental health treatment and utilize an integrative and evidence-based approach for the treatment of mental health and addiction conditions. I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I focus on building long-lasting changes and resiliency so you can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. I bring a cautious and conservative approach to medication while considering all aspects of your health in treatment planning. I am therapeutically-oriented, and see Adults.
I offer personalized mental health treatment and utilize an integrative and evidence-based approach for the treatment of mental health and addiction conditions. I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I focus on building long-lasting changes and resiliency so you can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. I bring a cautious and conservative approach to medication while considering all aspects of your health in treatment planning. I am therapeutically-oriented, and see Adults.
(310) 742-9259 View (310) 742-9259
Photo of Elizabeth Whitham, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Elizabeth Whitham
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
Elizabeth Whitham, MD, MA is board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult reproductive psychiatry. She has a master’s degree in the sociology of women’s health and brings this perspective to her work within medicine, examining the intersection of identities affecting disease and wellness in a holistic manner over time. She believes that patients are vulnerable both to over-treatment and under-treatment, and this shapes her practice of psychiatry.
Elizabeth Whitham, MD, MA is board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult reproductive psychiatry. She has a master’s degree in the sociology of women’s health and brings this perspective to her work within medicine, examining the intersection of identities affecting disease and wellness in a holistic manner over time. She believes that patients are vulnerable both to over-treatment and under-treatment, and this shapes her practice of psychiatry.
(949) 979-7678 View (949) 979-7678
Photo of Alexis Meshi-Call Today, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexis Meshi-Call Today
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92663
We offer Telemedicine Services. Receive care from the comfort of your home or work! Follow this link to request: https://superiorpsychiatric.video-visits.com. Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
We offer Telemedicine Services. Receive care from the comfort of your home or work! Follow this link to request: https://superiorpsychiatric.video-visits.com. Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
(949) 647-4436 View (949) 647-4436
Photo of Cat Dang, DO, Psychiatrist
Cat Dang
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92663
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.
(949) 478-0548 View (949) 478-0548
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Kimberley Durr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberley Durr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Kimberley Durr. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in treating mood disorders (i.e. depression and bipolar), anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia but have experience evaluating and providing medication management in other neurodevelopmental, eating, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, compassionate, and gentle approach to patient care and provide evidence-based guidance. I treat each person individually and holistically and will incorporate your life narratives and preferences when developing your treatment plan.
(650) 547-8207 View (650) 547-8207
Photo of Kristine Daugherty, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kristine Daugherty
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Kristine Daugherty, a seasoned Physician Assistant with a passion for patient-centered healthcare. With over 10 years of experience, I've dedicated myself to empowering individuals in achieving their health and wellness goals. My journey in healthcare has been diverse, encompassing areas such as pain management, mental health, functional medicine, and urgent care. Throughout my career, I've cultivated a holistic approach to care, placing emphasis on understanding each patient's unique needs and circumstances.
Welcome! I'm Kristine Daugherty, a seasoned Physician Assistant with a passion for patient-centered healthcare. With over 10 years of experience, I've dedicated myself to empowering individuals in achieving their health and wellness goals. My journey in healthcare has been diverse, encompassing areas such as pain management, mental health, functional medicine, and urgent care. Throughout my career, I've cultivated a holistic approach to care, placing emphasis on understanding each patient's unique needs and circumstances.
(818) 463-2331 View (818) 463-2331
Photo of Cat Dang, DO, Psychiatrist
Cat Dang
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
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.
(949) 505-9892 View (949) 505-9892
Photo of Cat Dang, DO, Psychiatrist
Cat Dang
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
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.
(949) 200-6817 View (949) 200-6817
Photo of Tanisha Renee Ragland, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tanisha Renee Ragland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
At Bleux Onyx Health and Wellness, we wholeheartedly commit to guiding individuals beyond career standstill, cultivating self-love, and fostering personal growth. Additionally, I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD and many other mental health conditions. Our purpose is to empower you to unveil your passion and purpose, providing adept guidance in life and career coaching. Consider us your catalyst for positive transformation, unlocking your complete potential and guiding you towards fulfillment in both personal and professional realms. In addition to my private practice, I'm also a consult-liaison and career and life coach
At Bleux Onyx Health and Wellness, we wholeheartedly commit to guiding individuals beyond career standstill, cultivating self-love, and fostering personal growth. Additionally, I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD and many other mental health conditions. Our purpose is to empower you to unveil your passion and purpose, providing adept guidance in life and career coaching. Consider us your catalyst for positive transformation, unlocking your complete potential and guiding you towards fulfillment in both personal and professional realms. In addition to my private practice, I'm also a consult-liaison and career and life coach
(424) 353-3064 View (424) 353-3064
Photo of John Anthony Diya - John Diya - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Diya - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** John Anthony Diya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He graduated from Charles R. Drew University. He has over 9 years of experience in providing psychiatric care to patients of all ages. He began his career in healthcare as a Registered Nurse working in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** John Anthony Diya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He graduated from Charles R. Drew University. He has over 9 years of experience in providing psychiatric care to patients of all ages. He began his career in healthcare as a Registered Nurse working in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(949) 446-1134 View (949) 446-1134
Photo of Dawei Wang, DO, Psychiatrist
Dawei Wang
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Have you ever taken time off from your busy job or pulled your child from school mid-day because of a behavioral health appointment? ​ Here at Weekend Behavioral Health, we believe psychiatric appointments don't have to be a disruption to you or your child’s daily life. Weekend Behavioral Health primarily operates on the weekend. However, we also offer evening appointments during weekdays. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments.
Have you ever taken time off from your busy job or pulled your child from school mid-day because of a behavioral health appointment? ​ Here at Weekend Behavioral Health, we believe psychiatric appointments don't have to be a disruption to you or your child’s daily life. Weekend Behavioral Health primarily operates on the weekend. However, we also offer evening appointments during weekdays. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments.
(949) 676-8623 View (949) 676-8623
Photo of Aisha Abbasi, MD, Psychiatrist
Aisha Abbasi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
For over thirty years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with a vast array of emotional issues. I utilize my understanding of my patients’ past and current life situations, and what I see happening within the therapeutic relationship, to help my patients achieve their goals. I believe it is because of my consistent dedication to helping my patients, that other physicians have voted for me (without solicitation) to be among America’s Best Doctors, for twenty years in a row.
For over thirty years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with a vast array of emotional issues. I utilize my understanding of my patients’ past and current life situations, and what I see happening within the therapeutic relationship, to help my patients achieve their goals. I believe it is because of my consistent dedication to helping my patients, that other physicians have voted for me (without solicitation) to be among America’s Best Doctors, for twenty years in a row.
(248) 406-6727 View (248) 406-6727

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92663

10+

Average cost per session

$375

Psychiatrists in 92663 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
95% Depression
95% Medication Management
84% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 92663 see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92663?

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.