Psychiatrists in 94029

Photo of Jessica Vermeulen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Vermeulen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(650) 733-2345 View (650) 733-2345
Photo of David Chang Min Ha, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Chang Min Ha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 610-2422 View (650) 610-2422

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nhlanhla Moyo, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nhlanhla Moyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide patient-centered care to children, adolescents, adults and families, my objective always, is to team up with you as we search for a solution for the issues that you are experiencing. betterdayspsychiatricnursing.com
I provide patient-centered care to children, adolescents, adults and families, my objective always, is to team up with you as we search for a solution for the issues that you are experiencing. betterdayspsychiatricnursing.com
(916) 891-1325 View (916) 891-1325
Photo of Vassilis N Panagopoulos, MD, Psychiatrist
Vassilis N Panagopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of... I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician.
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of... I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician.
(650) 594-6525 View (650) 594-6525
Photo of Tara N Valenzuela, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara N Valenzuela
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
(415) 870-3670 View (415) 870-3670
Photo of Thomas Paul Tarshis, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Thomas Paul Tarshis
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I am a Bay Area native thrilled to be living in Berkeley (where I attended college) after being in the South Bay for years. I am passionate about fixing broken systems of care, in using technology as a resource for mental health treatment, and keeping a positive attitude for my patients and their families. I enjoy working with patients to resolve current mental health issues and help youth achieve their full potential.
I am a Bay Area native thrilled to be living in Berkeley (where I attended college) after being in the South Bay for years. I am passionate about fixing broken systems of care, in using technology as a resource for mental health treatment, and keeping a positive attitude for my patients and their families. I enjoy working with patients to resolve current mental health issues and help youth achieve their full potential.
(341) 766-0817 View (341) 766-0817
Photo of Asaf Jacobs, MD, Psychiatrist
Asaf Jacobs
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
1) Double Board Certified: Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine — trained under Dr Anna Lembke at Stanford University, author of Dopamine Nation. I believe in re-sensitizing dopamine receptors through putting in hard work, leading to more energy, focus, and fulfillment.
1) Double Board Certified: Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine — trained under Dr Anna Lembke at Stanford University, author of Dopamine Nation. I believe in re-sensitizing dopamine receptors through putting in hard work, leading to more energy, focus, and fulfillment.
(650) 582-3469 View (650) 582-3469
Photo of Ruth S Rayikanti, MD, Psychiatrist
Ruth S Rayikanti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Dr.Ruth Rayikanti, MD. I am an SF native, resident, & currently working as a Psychiatrist & a consultant. I believe the key to being a solid Psychiatrist is to be a human first before any professional degrees or titles. Hence, my most memorable experiences have been with one-to-one patient interactions and just being in that moment as two human beings above anything else. Evidence based treatment medicine is actively integrated into my practice. Highly tailored care with services are fulfilling and meaningful components of my practice. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, photography, stand up, music & wellness.
Hello! My name is Dr.Ruth Rayikanti, MD. I am an SF native, resident, & currently working as a Psychiatrist & a consultant. I believe the key to being a solid Psychiatrist is to be a human first before any professional degrees or titles. Hence, my most memorable experiences have been with one-to-one patient interactions and just being in that moment as two human beings above anything else. Evidence based treatment medicine is actively integrated into my practice. Highly tailored care with services are fulfilling and meaningful components of my practice. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, photography, stand up, music & wellness.
(415) 691-4254 View (415) 691-4254
Photo of Edward Davis, MD, ABPN, ABAM, ABPM, Psychiatrist
Edward Davis
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABAM, ABPM
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I look for ways to optimize individual treatment and seek opportunities to surpass previous functioning. My goal is to help patients achieve their full potential and self-actualize. I follow a positive strength based approach that is highly individualized. After graduating from the Juilliard School, I prepared for medical studies at the City University of New York. Then completed medical studies at U.C.S.F. and psychiatry residency at Stanford University. I have recently renewed Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology 2020, Addiction Medicine 2019 and Pain Medicine 2017.
I look for ways to optimize individual treatment and seek opportunities to surpass previous functioning. My goal is to help patients achieve their full potential and self-actualize. I follow a positive strength based approach that is highly individualized. After graduating from the Juilliard School, I prepared for medical studies at the City University of New York. Then completed medical studies at U.C.S.F. and psychiatry residency at Stanford University. I have recently renewed Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology 2020, Addiction Medicine 2019 and Pain Medicine 2017.
(415) 799-8592 View (415) 799-8592
Photo of Dr. Kailee Marin, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(408) 549-8110 View (408) 549-8110
Photo of Eilly Yang, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eilly Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
(415) 993-6324 View (415) 993-6324
Photo of Siva Sundaram, MD, Psychiatrist
Siva Sundaram
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I work primarily from a psychodynamic perspective with a focus on the therapeutic relationship and incorporate principles from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I completed my undergraduate degree and medical school at Harvard University, with time in between spent working as a wilderness therapy guide for adolescents. I am currently in my final year of psychiatry residency at UCSF.
I work primarily from a psychodynamic perspective with a focus on the therapeutic relationship and incorporate principles from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I completed my undergraduate degree and medical school at Harvard University, with time in between spent working as a wilderness therapy guide for adolescents. I am currently in my final year of psychiatry residency at UCSF.
(628) 277-5643 View (628) 277-5643
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(415) 639-3972 View (415) 639-3972
Photo of Wendy Marussich - Wendy Marussich, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendy Marussich, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
If you’re ready to take the first step toward feeling better and finding relief, I’m here to help. You might be facing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or existential distress, or navigating the mental health challenges that come with life-limiting illnesses. Together, we can create a plan that honors your unique experiences and helps you work toward your goals. Whether you’re looking for symptom relief, emotional balance, or greater self-understanding, my approach is rooted in compassion and collaboration. You deserve to feel empowered and supported as you move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward feeling better and finding relief, I’m here to help. You might be facing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or existential distress, or navigating the mental health challenges that come with life-limiting illnesses. Together, we can create a plan that honors your unique experiences and helps you work toward your goals. Whether you’re looking for symptom relief, emotional balance, or greater self-understanding, my approach is rooted in compassion and collaboration. You deserve to feel empowered and supported as you move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(415) 903-0870 View (415) 903-0870
Photo of Dr. Lucy Lan, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Lucy Lan
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Stanford-trained psychiatrist, offering virtual care for patients in CA, MA, and soon NV. I offer a modern approach to mental health, fusing the best of cutting-edge scientific knowledge, evidence-based medicine, holistic practices, and well-established psychotherapy practices to guide your personalized treatment plan, which may include medications, talk therapy, procedural referrals, and integrative health. I practice psychiatry that is tailored for your unique biology, social environment, and belief system. I believe that your mental health is equally as important as, and contributes to your physical health.
I am a Stanford-trained psychiatrist, offering virtual care for patients in CA, MA, and soon NV. I offer a modern approach to mental health, fusing the best of cutting-edge scientific knowledge, evidence-based medicine, holistic practices, and well-established psychotherapy practices to guide your personalized treatment plan, which may include medications, talk therapy, procedural referrals, and integrative health. I practice psychiatry that is tailored for your unique biology, social environment, and belief system. I believe that your mental health is equally as important as, and contributes to your physical health.
(650) 670-4031 View (650) 670-4031
Photo of Sean Tai, DO, Psychiatrist
Sean Tai
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Sean Tai’s approach towards mental health is holistic and integrative, with a focus on biological, psychological, and sociological contributors to psychiatric illness and wellness. He is especially interested in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. He believes in individualized, collaborative treatment plans as well as the importance of psychotherapy to help with recovery.
Dr. Sean Tai’s approach towards mental health is holistic and integrative, with a focus on biological, psychological, and sociological contributors to psychiatric illness and wellness. He is especially interested in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. He believes in individualized, collaborative treatment plans as well as the importance of psychotherapy to help with recovery.
(323) 312-3849 View (323) 312-3849
Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD , Psychiatrist
Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(925) 940-5127 View (925) 940-5127
Photo of Tameka Dyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
(747) 266-1629 View (747) 266-1629
Photo of April Bodily, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Bodily
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! My name is April and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 18 years of experience in the nursing field, I am here to help clients of all walks of life. I frequently work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, BPAD, AUD, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, and other mood disorders. I am passionate about providing compassionate, patient-focused mental health care making sure that everyone feels heard, valued, and respected.
Welcome! My name is April and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 18 years of experience in the nursing field, I am here to help clients of all walks of life. I frequently work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, BPAD, AUD, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, and other mood disorders. I am passionate about providing compassionate, patient-focused mental health care making sure that everyone feels heard, valued, and respected.
(760) 487-7393 View (760) 487-7393
Photo of LaShaunda Renee Jethro - A New Beginning Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A New Beginning Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is providing patient centered care for patients who struggle to be heard and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and a unique focus on holistic care. Working with mental health patients in the unserved and vulnerable communities, where the obstacles affecting adequate healthcare are made worse by financial difficulties, has been the most rewarding aspect my job. There is no greater joy than helping others. My provider/patient relationship is a joint effort to create a treatment plan that's works best for you. You are your own best doctor!
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is providing patient centered care for patients who struggle to be heard and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and a unique focus on holistic care. Working with mental health patients in the unserved and vulnerable communities, where the obstacles affecting adequate healthcare are made worse by financial difficulties, has been the most rewarding aspect my job. There is no greater joy than helping others. My provider/patient relationship is a joint effort to create a treatment plan that's works best for you. You are your own best doctor!
(619) 914-6780 View (619) 914-6780

See more therapy options for 94029

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94029

< 10

Psychiatrists in 94029 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 94029 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94029?

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.