Psychiatrists in 92868

Photo of Catvy Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catvy Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
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 Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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-Bonmente knows 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.
(657) 256-5949 View (657) 256-5949
Photo of Ani Balabegian, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ani Balabegian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I am a nurse practitioner based in California.
Hi! I am a nurse practitioner based in California.
(657) 837-3558 View (657) 837-3558
Photo of May Vang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
May Vang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
(657) 571-3754 View (657) 571-3754
Photo of Cathy Nguyen, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cathy Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Kathy Nguyen, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence based medication treatment strategy, she places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatme
Kathy Nguyen, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence based medication treatment strategy, she places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatme
(657) 306-5445 View (657) 306-5445
Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Dr. Terry Eagan brings to Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry an extensive body of professional experience in the field of psychiatry, encompassing both his clinical private practice and multiple Medical Director positions where he provides medical and psychiatric oversight of mental health treatment centers. Dr. Eagan’s diverse background includes the founding of various institutes that focus on providing specialized and innovative treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders.
Dr. Terry Eagan brings to Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry an extensive body of professional experience in the field of psychiatry, encompassing both his clinical private practice and multiple Medical Director positions where he provides medical and psychiatric oversight of mental health treatment centers. Dr. Eagan’s diverse background includes the founding of various institutes that focus on providing specialized and innovative treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders.
(657) 366-5804 View (657) 366-5804
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
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) 341-0676 View (657) 341-0676
Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyn Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, MFT
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
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) 530-5700 View (657) 530-5700
Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
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.
(951) 467-4838 View (951) 467-4838
Photo of Namju Seong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Namju Seong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Christina Seong is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing in psychiatry since 2015. She graduated from Yale University with a Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. She works in partnership with her clients and colleagues to determine goals for treatment based on their needs to maximize their mental health and happiness. Her main areas of focus include Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar disorder. In her spare time, Christina enjoys camping, traveling, hiking and watching movies.
Christina Seong is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing in psychiatry since 2015. She graduated from Yale University with a Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. She works in partnership with her clients and colleagues to determine goals for treatment based on their needs to maximize their mental health and happiness. Her main areas of focus include Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar disorder. In her spare time, Christina enjoys camping, traveling, hiking and watching movies.
(657) 530-6484 View (657) 530-6484
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
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
Photo of Andrew Dang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrew Dang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm Andrew, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to help you manage anxiety, depression, stress, and various other mental health issues. Here, you'll find a supportive space where we can work together to achieve your mental wellness goals.
Hi! I'm Andrew, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to help you manage anxiety, depression, stress, and various other mental health issues. Here, you'll find a supportive space where we can work together to achieve your mental wellness goals.
(657) 571-3160 View (657) 571-3160
Photo of Martine Senatus - VIP Integrative Health Care , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VIP Integrative Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I create a safe, supportive and non‑judgmental environment for every client and understand the importance of empathy, trust, and kindness. My sympathetic, kindhearted and caring approaches to each individual patients make me capable of reaching the core of each of my patients’ issues and empowers them to enhance their awareness of their potentials in dealing with treatment and recovery. Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! Call us for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, prescriptions, addiction, anxiety/depression/bipolar/. We are here for you !
I create a safe, supportive and non‑judgmental environment for every client and understand the importance of empathy, trust, and kindness. My sympathetic, kindhearted and caring approaches to each individual patients make me capable of reaching the core of each of my patients’ issues and empowers them to enhance their awareness of their potentials in dealing with treatment and recovery. Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! Call us for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, prescriptions, addiction, anxiety/depression/bipolar/. We are here for you !
(657) 530-6371 View (657) 530-6371
Photo of Reri Uku, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reri Uku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Reri Uku is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC).
Dr. Reri Uku is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC).
(657) 315-6599 View (657) 315-6599
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-based medication treatment strategy, she places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-based medication treatment strategy, she places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(657) 530-6613 View (657) 530-6613
Photo of Diana Bush - Diana Bush, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diana Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am deeply committed to promoting the well-being of individuals by preventing and treating psychiatric disorders. My utmost priority is to provide comprehensive care that encompasses both mental and physical health. Collaborating with psychiatrists and other mental health professionals, I believe in a team-based approach that integrates non-pharmacological interventions, psychotherapy, and medication management to achieve optimal outcomes for my patients. In my practice, I firmly believe in the power of listening and respecting each person's unique story.
I am deeply committed to promoting the well-being of individuals by preventing and treating psychiatric disorders. My utmost priority is to provide comprehensive care that encompasses both mental and physical health. Collaborating with psychiatrists and other mental health professionals, I believe in a team-based approach that integrates non-pharmacological interventions, psychotherapy, and medication management to achieve optimal outcomes for my patients. In my practice, I firmly believe in the power of listening and respecting each person's unique story.
(657) 366-5916 View (657) 366-5916
Photo of Anthony Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions find hope and healing. I’ve had the privilege of working with patients experiencing ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I understand how incredibly isolating it may feel and the challenges you face. But together, we can work to improve your quality of life and develop strategies that empower you.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions find hope and healing. I’ve had the privilege of working with patients experiencing ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I understand how incredibly isolating it may feel and the challenges you face. But together, we can work to improve your quality of life and develop strategies that empower you.
(657) 571-2527 View (657) 571-2527
Photo of Amber Whitlatch, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Whitlatch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat all mental health conditions for those 18 years and older, ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also specialize in trauma and integrative psychiatry. I am a trained crisis counselor, SAFE-EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). After graduating from UC, I completed a residency in geriatric psychiatry, eventually created a dementia support program, now a part of the CMS Guide model in Ohio.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat all mental health conditions for those 18 years and older, ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also specialize in trauma and integrative psychiatry. I am a trained crisis counselor, SAFE-EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). After graduating from UC, I completed a residency in geriatric psychiatry, eventually created a dementia support program, now a part of the CMS Guide model in Ohio.
(786) 981-0204 View (786) 981-0204
Photo of Nnenna Chimdi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nnenna Chimdi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you having difficulty with anxiety and you don't know how to go about it? You have reached the right place which is a place where your anxiety will be addressed and the different ways we can go about it with you feeling much better. Are you feeling depressed which is usually complicated with anxiety? Are you struggling with your job? Are you having problems coping with your daily activities? What is it that you have that is too difficult to handle at this time? I am glad that you're reaching out because you are at the right place where you will learn new coping skills and different ways to maneuver what is weighing down.
Are you having difficulty with anxiety and you don't know how to go about it? You have reached the right place which is a place where your anxiety will be addressed and the different ways we can go about it with you feeling much better. Are you feeling depressed which is usually complicated with anxiety? Are you struggling with your job? Are you having problems coping with your daily activities? What is it that you have that is too difficult to handle at this time? I am glad that you're reaching out because you are at the right place where you will learn new coping skills and different ways to maneuver what is weighing down.
(657) 837-5746 View (657) 837-5746
Photo of Peter Pham - Peter Pham, PMHNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peter Pham, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I strive to provide compassionate care to all of my patients, and will work diligently to develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to their unique needs and goals. My goal is to help my patients build resilience and foster a sense of well-being through evidence-based interventions and strategies that are designed to address their personal challenges. I understand the importance of creating a safe and trusting relationship, and have strong communication skills that allow me to effectively collaborate with my patients in order to achieve successful outcomes.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I strive to provide compassionate care to all of my patients, and will work diligently to develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to their unique needs and goals. My goal is to help my patients build resilience and foster a sense of well-being through evidence-based interventions and strategies that are designed to address their personal challenges. I understand the importance of creating a safe and trusting relationship, and have strong communication skills that allow me to effectively collaborate with my patients in order to achieve successful outcomes.
(949) 806-3550 View (949) 806-3550
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 92868

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 92868 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
84% Bipolar Disorder
73% ADHD
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Trauma and PTSD
62% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
70% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 92868 see their clients

65% Online Only
35% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 92868?

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.