Psychiatrists in 94035

Photo of David Lindley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Lindley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
(650) 412-6170 View (650) 412-6170
Photo of Nicole Miller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.
My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.
(747) 922-5037 View (747) 922-5037
Photo of Danielle Kamis, MD, Psychiatrist
Danielle Kamis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Kamis is a caring, non- judgmental, empathic psychiatrist who practices medicine with an integrative approach. Unifying psychotherapy and medication management, as well as the crucial components of restorative sleep, consistent exercise, healthy diet, stress management, and mind-body practices such as meditation and mindfulness to optimize her patient’s health and performance. Dr. Kamis does not contract or negotiate with any insurance companies in her private practice.
Dr. Kamis is a caring, non- judgmental, empathic psychiatrist who practices medicine with an integrative approach. Unifying psychotherapy and medication management, as well as the crucial components of restorative sleep, consistent exercise, healthy diet, stress management, and mind-body practices such as meditation and mindfulness to optimize her patient’s health and performance. Dr. Kamis does not contract or negotiate with any insurance companies in her private practice.
(650) 770-8806 View (650) 770-8806
Photo of Joshua Flatow, MD, Psychiatrist
Joshua Flatow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(669) 248-8808 View (669) 248-8808
Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
(628) 313-4197 View (628) 313-4197
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(925) 281-4770 View (925) 281-4770
Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed - Mindwell Mental Health Services, PHMNP, APRN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindwell Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
(619) 815-4312 View (619) 815-4312
Photo of Dorrie Swanson, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dorrie Swanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience and specialize in working with adults with ADHD. I am passionate about aligning care to individual lifestyles. I strive to empower my patients by creating spaces for them to be heard.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience and specialize in working with adults with ADHD. I am passionate about aligning care to individual lifestyles. I strive to empower my patients by creating spaces for them to be heard.
(415) 842-4036 View (415) 842-4036

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tameka Dyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(619) 614-7182 View (619) 614-7182
Photo of Sarah Leiderman, PA-C , Physician Assistant
Sarah Leiderman
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at 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 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(650) 649-6285 View (650) 649-6285
Photo of Theresa Bui, DO, Psychiatrist
Theresa Bui
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Dr. Bui completed her General Psychiatry Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Dr. Bui has experience in early identification of mental conditions as well as long term stabilization measures for psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Dr. Bui completed her General Psychiatry Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Dr. Bui has experience in early identification of mental conditions as well as long term stabilization measures for psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
(628) 345-8411 View (628) 345-8411
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(310) 340-7787 View (310) 340-7787
Photo of Dr. Randall Scott Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Randall Scott Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(310) 906-4294 View (310) 906-4294
Photo of Tarun Bhandari, MD, Psychiatrist
Tarun Bhandari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(Please visit:tbhandarimd.com for more information) Dr.Bhandari is Board Certified in both Adult and Child Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. It is his vision that every patient is unique and despite common themes each patient needs a thorough assessment and care that is best suited for them.He specializes in Medication management and evidence based techniques to manage both adult and pediatric conditions .
(Please visit:tbhandarimd.com for more information) Dr.Bhandari is Board Certified in both Adult and Child Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. It is his vision that every patient is unique and despite common themes each patient needs a thorough assessment and care that is best suited for them.He specializes in Medication management and evidence based techniques to manage both adult and pediatric conditions .
(925) 231-1590 View (925) 231-1590
Photo of Kara Ditto, MD, Psychiatrist
Kara Ditto
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Kara Ditto, MD and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to adults. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include bipolar, depression, psychotic disorders, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, and women's issues. I do not prescribe controlled substances or stimulants.
My name is Kara Ditto, MD and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to adults. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include bipolar, depression, psychotic disorders, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, and women's issues. I do not prescribe controlled substances or stimulants.
(213) 699-5721 View (213) 699-5721
Photo of Dileep Shergill, MD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dileep Shergill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I'm deeply committed to making quality mental health care accessible to everyone and emphasizing the importance of mental well-being in overall health. My journey in medicine began with the completion of my Doctorate of Medicine in Poland. With a strong foundation in medical knowledge and a passion for mental health, I provide holistic, compassionate care and evidence-based treatments for individuals across the lifespan facing mental health challenges.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I'm deeply committed to making quality mental health care accessible to everyone and emphasizing the importance of mental well-being in overall health. My journey in medicine began with the completion of my Doctorate of Medicine in Poland. With a strong foundation in medical knowledge and a passion for mental health, I provide holistic, compassionate care and evidence-based treatments for individuals across the lifespan facing mental health challenges.
(510) 902-4993 View (510) 902-4993
Photo of Suragbhai Gohel, MD, Psychiatrist
Suragbhai Gohel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
As a psychiatrist, I am always fascinated by the courage of my patients who seek mental health treatment against the odds of personal and cultural challenges. It inspires me to help my patients achieve the best mental healthcare which we all deserve. As our mental health is impacted by a multitude of factors including biological, psychological, and social, I personalize the treatment plan for each of my patients, so they can have a better outcome to live a quality life. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
As a psychiatrist, I am always fascinated by the courage of my patients who seek mental health treatment against the odds of personal and cultural challenges. It inspires me to help my patients achieve the best mental healthcare which we all deserve. As our mental health is impacted by a multitude of factors including biological, psychological, and social, I personalize the treatment plan for each of my patients, so they can have a better outcome to live a quality life. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
(628) 218-7741 View (628) 218-7741
Photo of Canybec Sulayman, PMHNP, MSN, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Canybec Sulayman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CCRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD and seeks a comprehensive, personalized approach to care. They want to improve their mental and metabolic health, regain balance, and achieve long-term wellness. They seek compassionate, evidence-based treatment that addresses the root causes of their challenges.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD and seeks a comprehensive, personalized approach to care. They want to improve their mental and metabolic health, regain balance, and achieve long-term wellness. They seek compassionate, evidence-based treatment that addresses the root causes of their challenges.
(213) 319-6414 View (213) 319-6414
Photo of Rudy Roque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rudy Roque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
(510) 491-9295 View (510) 491-9295
Photo of Kenneth Etefia, MD, Psychiatrist
Kenneth Etefia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94402
I work best with patients who have a clear idea of their goals and are motivated to learn skills as well as gain deeper insights into themselves that will assist in fulfillment of their potential.
I work best with patients who have a clear idea of their goals and are motivated to learn skills as well as gain deeper insights into themselves that will assist in fulfillment of their potential.
(650) 206-8932 View (650) 206-8932

See more therapy options for 94035

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94035

< 10

Psychiatrists in 94035 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Stress
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 94035 see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94035?

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.