Psychiatrists in 92804

Photo of Jose Banuelos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Jose Banuelos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, bipolar or trauma. They may be navigating challenges unique to the Latino or LGBTQIA+ experience and want a provider who truly understands and affirms their identity. They are looking for compassionate, evidence based care that respects their values and helps them regain balance in daily life. Their goal is to feel heard, supported, and empowered with a personalized plan for lasting mental wellness.
My ideal client is seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, bipolar or trauma. They may be navigating challenges unique to the Latino or LGBTQIA+ experience and want a provider who truly understands and affirms their identity. They are looking for compassionate, evidence based care that respects their values and helps them regain balance in daily life. Their goal is to feel heard, supported, and empowered with a personalized plan for lasting mental wellness.
(415) 630-5319 View (415) 630-5319
Photo of Medard Sison - Orange Coast Psychiatry - ADHD Evals and Treatment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ADHD
Orange Coast Psychiatry - ADHD Evals and Treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ADHD
2 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
Do you suspect you or your loved ones have ADHD? Are you struggling with attention, focus, or hyperactivity? Are your symptoms starting to negatively impact your performance at school, work or even in your relationship with others? Our Board Certified and Doctorate Prepared Providers provide comprehensive ADHD assessments and evaluations, including ADHD testing, and provide treatment options for you and your family. We provide psychiatric assessment and management for Children ages 4+ and Adults. Our Doctorate Prepared Providers also treat other disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, ptsd and more.
Do you suspect you or your loved ones have ADHD? Are you struggling with attention, focus, or hyperactivity? Are your symptoms starting to negatively impact your performance at school, work or even in your relationship with others? Our Board Certified and Doctorate Prepared Providers provide comprehensive ADHD assessments and evaluations, including ADHD testing, and provide treatment options for you and your family. We provide psychiatric assessment and management for Children ages 4+ and Adults. Our Doctorate Prepared Providers also treat other disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, ptsd and more.
(657) 385-8592 View (657) 385-8592
Photo of Juan Rondaeu, Psychiatrist, MD
Juan Rondaeu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Juan Rondeau is a highly experienced and respected psychiatrist, providing a thorough diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of mental, emotional and behavioral health conditions.
Dr. Juan Rondeau is a highly experienced and respected psychiatrist, providing a thorough diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of mental, emotional and behavioral health conditions.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Shaheena Gazipura - Orange Coast Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MD
Orange Coast Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MD
3 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or daily stress and is ready to take back control. You may have tried managing things on your own but need support and practical tools that make a real difference. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges and work toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll focus on building resilience and self-empowerment, creating a path toward stability and wellness that’s tailored to your unique needs and goals. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or daily stress and is ready to take back control. You may have tried managing things on your own but need support and practical tools that make a real difference. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges and work toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll focus on building resilience and self-empowerment, creating a path toward stability and wellness that’s tailored to your unique needs and goals. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
(949) 749-7632 View (949) 749-7632
Photo of Medard Sison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Medard Sison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
(714) 584-6860 View (714) 584-6860
Photo of Samantha Perkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Samantha Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
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
Photo of Veronica Kang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Veronica Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I provide holistic, compassionate mental health care that integrates medication management, therapy, and a collaborative approach. My focus is on building a strong partnership with clients to set realistic goals and promote mental well-being.
I provide holistic, compassionate mental health care that integrates medication management, therapy, and a collaborative approach. My focus is on building a strong partnership with clients to set realistic goals and promote mental well-being.
(657) 385-7580 View (657) 385-7580
Photo of Griselda Hernandez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Griselda Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal patient is an adolescent facing mental health challenges. They struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma and may have co-occurring substance use disorders. They need a supportive, non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings, understand their behaviors, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Their goals include achieving mental stability, overcoming addiction, and building resilience to handle life's challenges. They want to regain control of their lives, improve their relationships, and find hope and motivation for a brighter future.
My ideal patient is an adolescent facing mental health challenges. They struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma and may have co-occurring substance use disorders. They need a supportive, non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings, understand their behaviors, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Their goals include achieving mental stability, overcoming addiction, and building resilience to handle life's challenges. They want to regain control of their lives, improve their relationships, and find hope and motivation for a brighter future.
(714) 437-7033 View (714) 437-7033
Photo of Mina Cheriki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mina Cheriki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulty focusing. They’re seeking relief, clarity, and tools to regain control over their thoughts, emotions, and life. They may be navigating life transitions or feeling stuck despite their efforts. What they want most is to feel balanced, supported, and empowered—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, so they can live more fully and authentically.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulty focusing. They’re seeking relief, clarity, and tools to regain control over their thoughts, emotions, and life. They may be navigating life transitions or feeling stuck despite their efforts. What they want most is to feel balanced, supported, and empowered—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, so they can live more fully and authentically.
(657) 530-5875 View (657) 530-5875
Photo of Cristian Cuevas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cristian Cuevas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience, primarily working with children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I understand the unique challenges young people face and collaborate closely with families to create personalized treatment plans. While my passion is in pediatric and adolescent care, I’ve also successfully applied my expertise to adults, helping clients of all ages achieve emotional stability and improved mental health.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience, primarily working with children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I understand the unique challenges young people face and collaborate closely with families to create personalized treatment plans. While my passion is in pediatric and adolescent care, I’ve also successfully applied my expertise to adults, helping clients of all ages achieve emotional stability and improved mental health.
(714) 462-1806 View (714) 462-1806
Photo of Richard Samedra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Richard Samedra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
The ideal clients that I would love to help and collaborate with are clients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, bipolar, and schizophrenia. This client population needs a knowledgeable clinician who provides patient-centered care and is willing and able to listen to clients with genuine care and empathy. The client’s goal is to be a functional member of our society via volunteering in our community, working and providing for themselves and their family, to be emotionally present with their family and friends, and have the necessary coping skills to utilize when faced with adversities.
The ideal clients that I would love to help and collaborate with are clients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, bipolar, and schizophrenia. This client population needs a knowledgeable clinician who provides patient-centered care and is willing and able to listen to clients with genuine care and empathy. The client’s goal is to be a functional member of our society via volunteering in our community, working and providing for themselves and their family, to be emotionally present with their family and friends, and have the necessary coping skills to utilize when faced with adversities.
(657) 566-5904 View (657) 566-5904
Photo of May Faustino - Orange Coast Psychiatry and ADHD Treatment Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Orange Coast Psychiatry and ADHD Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions, seeking support to regain balance and clarity. They desire a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their feelings, improve focus, and build resilience. Their goals are to develop healthier coping strategies, improve mental well-being, and achieve personal growth. I am committed to helping them overcome barriers and thrive through a holistic, culturally sensitive approach that combines therapy and medication management.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions, seeking support to regain balance and clarity. They desire a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their feelings, improve focus, and build resilience. Their goals are to develop healthier coping strategies, improve mental well-being, and achieve personal growth. I am committed to helping them overcome barriers and thrive through a holistic, culturally sensitive approach that combines therapy and medication management.
(657) 317-3923 View (657) 317-3923
Photo of Medard Sison - Orange Coast Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Orange Coast Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Anaheim, CA 92804
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Orange Coast Psychiatry and the team of Psychiatric Mental Health Providers specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. OCP believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. OCP focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Orange Coast Psychiatry and the team of Psychiatric Mental Health Providers specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. OCP believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. OCP focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
(657) 837-1965 View (657) 837-1965
Photo of May Christine Faustino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
May Christine Faustino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions, seeking support to regain balance and clarity. They desire a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their feelings, improve focus, and build resilience. Their goals are to develop healthier coping strategies, improve mental well-being, and achieve personal growth. I am committed to helping them overcome barriers and thrive through a holistic, culturally sensitive approach that combines therapy and medication management.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions, seeking support to regain balance and clarity. They desire a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their feelings, improve focus, and build resilience. Their goals are to develop healthier coping strategies, improve mental well-being, and achieve personal growth. I am committed to helping them overcome barriers and thrive through a holistic, culturally sensitive approach that combines therapy and medication management.
(657) 244-2031 View (657) 244-2031
Photo of Samir Hamed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Anaheim, CA 92804
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) 571-2996 View (657) 571-2996
Photo of Mariam Fazil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Anaheim, CA 92804
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
(657) 571-4627 View (657) 571-4627
Photo of Catvy Nguyen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catvy Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
(657) 837-6325 View (657) 837-6325
Photo of May Faustino - Orange Coast Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Orange Coast Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions, seeking support to regain balance and clarity. They desire a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their feelings, improve focus, and build resilience. Their goals are to develop healthier coping strategies, improve mental well-being, and achieve personal growth. I am committed to helping them overcome barriers and thrive through a holistic, culturally sensitive approach that combines therapy and medication management.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions, seeking support to regain balance and clarity. They desire a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their feelings, improve focus, and build resilience. Their goals are to develop healthier coping strategies, improve mental well-being, and achieve personal growth. I am committed to helping them overcome barriers and thrive through a holistic, culturally sensitive approach that combines therapy and medication management.
(657) 722-7215 View (657) 722-7215
Photo of Carolyn Love, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, LMFT
Carolyn Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
(657) 300-9986 View (657) 300-9986
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
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) 255-8197 View (657) 255-8197

See more therapy options for 92804

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92804

30+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 92804 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
93% Depression
83% ADHD
83% Bipolar Disorder
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Medication Management
73% Stress

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 92804 see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

61% Female
39% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92804?

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.