Psychiatrists in 92708

Photo of Lyleanna Nguyen - Simply Psych Nursing, A Professional Corporation , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Simply Psych Nursing, A Professional Corporation
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fountain Valley, CA 92708  (Online Only)
Hello, welcome to Simply Psych Nursing. My name is Lyleanna Nguyen and I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe the therapeutic relationship between a client and provider is the base of any strong treatment plan.
Hello, welcome to Simply Psych Nursing. My name is Lyleanna Nguyen and I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe the therapeutic relationship between a client and provider is the base of any strong treatment plan.
(714) 947-1878 View (714) 947-1878
Photo of Jill Marie Ridens, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Marie Ridens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fountain Valley, CA 92708  (Online Only)
November 2024: Currently taking new clients with appointments available as early as this week! Insurance accepted: Medicare and Aetna, with more insurance carriers being covered soon. Cash pay/Out of Network is ok and we can provide a super bill upon request. My ideal client is someone who wants to understand their mental health and the different options for managing their symptoms and treating the underlying causes. You want to use the most up-to-date treatment strategies for your mental health. You are interested in building a lasting relationship with your provider.
November 2024: Currently taking new clients with appointments available as early as this week! Insurance accepted: Medicare and Aetna, with more insurance carriers being covered soon. Cash pay/Out of Network is ok and we can provide a super bill upon request. My ideal client is someone who wants to understand their mental health and the different options for managing their symptoms and treating the underlying causes. You want to use the most up-to-date treatment strategies for your mental health. You are interested in building a lasting relationship with your provider.
(831) 291-3540 View (831) 291-3540
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(657) 297-5632 View (657) 297-5632
Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(949) 946-6843 View (949) 946-6843
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92708
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 701-0498 View (844) 701-0498
Photo of Naiga Dohnji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Naiga Dohnji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92708  (Online Only)
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Dr. Anthony D Duk, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anthony D Duk
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fountain Valley, CA 92708  (Online Only)
As an adult psychiatrist for almost 20 years, I help empower patients to find meaning and coach them on changing their lifestyles. Medication, reading self help books, exercising, journaling and social interactions are all vital to changing for the better.
As an adult psychiatrist for almost 20 years, I help empower patients to find meaning and coach them on changing their lifestyles. Medication, reading self help books, exercising, journaling and social interactions are all vital to changing for the better.
(909) 323-0044 View (909) 323-0044
Photo of Dr. Loan Pham, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Loan Pham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92708  (Online Only)
Does it feel like life keeps serving up endless ways to stress you out? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by daily life problems and global crises like climate change, conflicts around the world, racism, homelessness, economic injustice, and so much more. These are all part of the fabric of the human race, but the solutions to all these problems come from the power within. It’s important to draw on your inner strength to help you overcome fear, doubt, shame, negative self talk, feeling like you’re not enough, as well as anxiety and depression.
Does it feel like life keeps serving up endless ways to stress you out? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by daily life problems and global crises like climate change, conflicts around the world, racism, homelessness, economic injustice, and so much more. These are all part of the fabric of the human race, but the solutions to all these problems come from the power within. It’s important to draw on your inner strength to help you overcome fear, doubt, shame, negative self talk, feeling like you’re not enough, as well as anxiety and depression.
(253) 527-6759 View (253) 527-6759
Photo of Priti Bhardwaj - Dr Priti Bhardwaj - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Priti Bhardwaj - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Priti Bhardwaj knows how difficult it can be to seek help, but by doing so you’re taking a step closer to where you want to be. Struggles with anxiety, depression, attention, and insecurity interfere with our emotional and physical well-being as well as our ability to connect with others. Her goal with patients and families is to provide a warm, safe, and accepting environment for them to communicate the difficulties and challenges they face and work on finding solutions that nourish them toward becoming the healthiest and best version of themselves.
Dr. Priti Bhardwaj knows how difficult it can be to seek help, but by doing so you’re taking a step closer to where you want to be. Struggles with anxiety, depression, attention, and insecurity interfere with our emotional and physical well-being as well as our ability to connect with others. Her goal with patients and families is to provide a warm, safe, and accepting environment for them to communicate the difficulties and challenges they face and work on finding solutions that nourish them toward becoming the healthiest and best version of themselves.
(949) 828-2417 View (949) 828-2417
Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(916) 970-3479 View (916) 970-3479
Photo of Jacqueline Constantino, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Constantino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92708  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
(805) 516-5275 View (805) 516-5275
Photo of Dexter Jones - Dexter Jones MSN, PMHN - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MSN, PMHN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dexter Jones MSN, PMHN - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHN, BC
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92708
Dexter has more than 16 years of dedicated experience in the medical field, including three years as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California. Throughout his career, he has cultivated a strong foundation in primary psychiatric care, including acute, inpatient, and outpatient mental health. His many years of experience have equipped him with the knowledge and skills to deliver comprehensive mental healthcare to patients of diverse backgrounds and needs. Dexter uses a combination of medication management and supportive therapy to work towards the goals of decreasing suffering and improving quality of life.
Dexter has more than 16 years of dedicated experience in the medical field, including three years as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California. Throughout his career, he has cultivated a strong foundation in primary psychiatric care, including acute, inpatient, and outpatient mental health. His many years of experience have equipped him with the knowledge and skills to deliver comprehensive mental healthcare to patients of diverse backgrounds and needs. Dexter uses a combination of medication management and supportive therapy to work towards the goals of decreasing suffering and improving quality of life.
(424) 999-0762 View (424) 999-0762
William M Young
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
(657) 837-5758 View (657) 837-5758

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92605  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(805) 439-6055 View (805) 439-6055
Photo of Kailee Marin, DO, Psychiatrist
Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(949) 506-2306 View (949) 506-2306
Photo of Steve Park, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Steve Park
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
(619) 853-2640 View (619) 853-2640
Photo of Dr. Tina Allee, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tina Allee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Not accepting new clients
Hello! My name is Tina Allee, MD and I’m excited to introduce myself. I went to UCLA for an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and a master’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology. I earned an MD from Stanford University, School of Medicine and completed specialty training in Psychiatry at UC Irvine School of Medicine.
Hello! My name is Tina Allee, MD and I’m excited to introduce myself. I went to UCLA for an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and a master’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology. I earned an MD from Stanford University, School of Medicine and completed specialty training in Psychiatry at UC Irvine School of Medicine.
(657) 500-0517 View (657) 500-0517
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(657) 837-3236 View (657) 837-3236
Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
(424) 577-3650 View (424) 577-3650
Photo of Gail R Raphael, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Gail R Raphael
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
'We do not believe in ourselves until someone reveals that something deep inside us is valuable, worth listening to, worthy of our trust, sacred to our touch.' -E.E. Cummings. Every person has inherent value and deserves individual attention and compassionate care. It is a privilege to assist my patients on the journey to self-discovery, emotional healing and recovery. As a medical doctor, I perform psychotherapy and/or prescribe medications if needed. My passion for mental health is both professional and personal, and I believe this enables me to establish a unique and powerful therapeutic relationship essential for treatment success.
'We do not believe in ourselves until someone reveals that something deep inside us is valuable, worth listening to, worthy of our trust, sacred to our touch.' -E.E. Cummings. Every person has inherent value and deserves individual attention and compassionate care. It is a privilege to assist my patients on the journey to self-discovery, emotional healing and recovery. As a medical doctor, I perform psychotherapy and/or prescribe medications if needed. My passion for mental health is both professional and personal, and I believe this enables me to establish a unique and powerful therapeutic relationship essential for treatment success.
(949) 245-6698 View (949) 245-6698

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92708

10+

Average cost per session

$312

Psychiatrists in 92708 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Medication Management
62% ADHD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
75% Optum
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 92708 see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92708?

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.