Psychiatrists in 92781

Photo of Alexandra Cao, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexandra Cao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or attention issues? Alex is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP. She helps people improve their mental wellness and productivity. She specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. She provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or attention issues? Alex is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP. She helps people improve their mental wellness and productivity. She specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. She provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more.
(714) 582-5037 View (714) 582-5037
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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) 387-8810 View (657) 387-8810
Photo of Casey Cortes, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Casey Cortes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue? Casey is board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP. She helps people improve their mental wellness and productivity. She specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. She provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue? Casey is board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP. She helps people improve their mental wellness and productivity. She specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. She provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more.
(949) 991-5639 View (949) 991-5639

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(951) 223-7096 View (951) 223-7096
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, 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.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, 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.
(657) 571-1378 View (657) 571-1378
Photo of Ann My Huynh, PHMNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ann My Huynh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Hello, I'm Ann Huynh, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner , Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in inpatient/ outpatient psychiatry, community mental health, urgent care. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including 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 Ann Huynh, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner , Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in inpatient/ outpatient psychiatry, community mental health, urgent care. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including 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.
(951) 592-8528 View (951) 592-8528
Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bettina Ervin Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
(323) 716-0822 View (323) 716-0822
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(657) 837-2126 View (657) 837-2126
Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(424) 232-0778 View (424) 232-0778
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(657) 356-8562 View (657) 356-8562
Photo of Omotola T'sarumi, MD, Psychiatrist
Omotola T'sarumi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Omotola T'sarumi, MD is a psychiatrist and accepts multiple insurance plans.
Dr. Omotola T'sarumi, MD is a psychiatrist and accepts multiple insurance plans.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Alexander Sanchez - Nu Leaf Mental Health Group, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nu Leaf Mental Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Our mission at Nu Leaf is to provide quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care services to all clients in our community. We believe in empowering individuals to take charge of their own mental health, and strive to create a safe and supportive environment that promotes self-determination and growth. We are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care through evidence-based practices and individualized treatment plans, while respecting the dignity and diversity of all individuals.
Our mission at Nu Leaf is to provide quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care services to all clients in our community. We believe in empowering individuals to take charge of their own mental health, and strive to create a safe and supportive environment that promotes self-determination and growth. We are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care through evidence-based practices and individualized treatment plans, while respecting the dignity and diversity of all individuals.
(714) 886-3894 View (714) 886-3894
Photo of Samantha Perkins, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have over nine years of experience in psychiatry. I have honed my skills under the guidance of leading psychiatrists in California, specializing in psychiatric medication management for psychiatric diagnosis's . I am double board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and in Adult/Geriatric Primary Care, allowing me to provide comprehensive mental health support across various age groups. My passion lies in functional psychiatry and wellness coaching.
I have over nine years of experience in psychiatry. I have honed my skills under the guidance of leading psychiatrists in California, specializing in psychiatric medication management for psychiatric diagnosis's . I am double board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and in Adult/Geriatric Primary Care, allowing me to provide comprehensive mental health support across various age groups. My passion lies in functional psychiatry and wellness coaching.
(657) 441-1033 View (657) 441-1033
Hyunjib Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an experienced nurse practitioner who is specialized in Psych/Mental Health. I am providing a full range of primary mental health care services, including biopsychosocial assessment and diagnosis of patients with mental health issues and co-occurring disorders.
I am an experienced nurse practitioner who is specialized in Psych/Mental Health. I am providing a full range of primary mental health care services, including biopsychosocial assessment and diagnosis of patients with mental health issues and co-occurring disorders.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Shilpa Diwan, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Shilpa Diwan
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Accepting new patients. Compassionate, non-judgmental and individualized care is what I believe in. Good mental health treatment is a partnership between a doctor and a patient towards achieving the best possible outcome. I have worked in different clinical settings before transitioning to private practice which gives me the time and flexibility truly needed to address a person's mental health needs. I like to look at the big picture and go to the root of issues rather than superficially treating symptoms alone. This approach has led to wonderful clinical outcomes. I look forward to working with you.
Accepting new patients. Compassionate, non-judgmental and individualized care is what I believe in. Good mental health treatment is a partnership between a doctor and a patient towards achieving the best possible outcome. I have worked in different clinical settings before transitioning to private practice which gives me the time and flexibility truly needed to address a person's mental health needs. I like to look at the big picture and go to the root of issues rather than superficially treating symptoms alone. This approach has led to wonderful clinical outcomes. I look forward to working with you.
(949) 468-5186 View (949) 468-5186
Photo of Aaron Newman, MSN, ARNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aaron Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're struggling with your mental health, you don't have to face it alone. I'm here to help you every step of the way. In our first sessions, we’ll discuss your challenges and create a personalized plan that works for you. Many of my patients start seeing positive changes in just the first month, with lasting improvement over time. I help people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, weight loss, and more. I also treat mold illness and CIRS condition.
If you're struggling with your mental health, you don't have to face it alone. I'm here to help you every step of the way. In our first sessions, we’ll discuss your challenges and create a personalized plan that works for you. Many of my patients start seeing positive changes in just the first month, with lasting improvement over time. I help people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, weight loss, and more. I also treat mold illness and CIRS condition.
(503) 751-8662 View (503) 751-8662
Photo of Rudy Roque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rudy Roque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
(619) 304-9639 View (619) 304-9639
Photo of Hadi Estakhri, MD, Psychiatrist
Hadi Estakhri
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
(949) 426-7874 View (949) 426-7874
Photo of Moorea Pugliese, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Moorea Pugliese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or attention issues? She is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP helping people improve their mental wellness and productivity. She specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. She provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or attention issues? She is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP helping people improve their mental wellness and productivity. She specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. She provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more.
(949) 919-7033 View (949) 919-7033
Photo of Surendra Chaganti, MD, Psychiatrist
Surendra Chaganti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Suren Chaganti and I'm a member of the Grow Therapy prescribers team. I am currently based in MO. I am licensed in CA, FL, GA, and MO. I am currently practicing in CA and MO. I am relocating to Florida. I completed my Psychiatry residency at UMKC School of Medicine, and J.D. from Saint Louis University School of Law. I have been in practice since 1995.
My name is Suren Chaganti and I'm a member of the Grow Therapy prescribers team. I am currently based in MO. I am licensed in CA, FL, GA, and MO. I am currently practicing in CA and MO. I am relocating to Florida. I completed my Psychiatry residency at UMKC School of Medicine, and J.D. from Saint Louis University School of Law. I have been in practice since 1995.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113

See more therapy options for 92781

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92781

< 10

Psychiatrists in 92781 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Testing and Evaluation

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Magellan

How Psychiatrists in 92781 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92781?

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.