Psychiatrists in 94085

Photo of Catherine Shir, MD, Psychiatrist
Catherine Shir
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Stanford-trained, Bay Area-based psychiatrist and therapist offering personalized and compassionate care. My practice is devoted to alleviating suffering and helping people live fulfilling and meaningful lives. If you are someone who is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to grapple with difficult thoughts and feelings, I can help guide you toward healing, purpose, and recovery.
I am a Stanford-trained, Bay Area-based psychiatrist and therapist offering personalized and compassionate care. My practice is devoted to alleviating suffering and helping people live fulfilling and meaningful lives. If you are someone who is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to grapple with difficult thoughts and feelings, I can help guide you toward healing, purpose, and recovery.
(408) 703-6683 View (408) 703-6683
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
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, he 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, he 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.
(415) 630-2542 View (415) 630-2542
Photo of Ogechukwun Ugwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ogechukwun Ugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
(559) 648-9317 View (559) 648-9317
Photo of Dormico Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dormico Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
(442) 239-1268 View (442) 239-1268
Photo of Orah Mahtov, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orah Mahtov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
(914) 598-8967 View (914) 598-8967
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.
(408) 351-8474 View (408) 351-8474
Photo of Martina Nankivell, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant
Martina Nankivell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
(916) 883-0842 View (916) 883-0842
Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
(415) 825-8714 View (415) 825-8714
Photo of Toral Desai, Psychiatrist
Toral Desai
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Lucid Behavioral Health, our providers employ contemporary and holistic methodologies in the assessment and treatment of various mental health challenges.
At Lucid Behavioral Health, our providers employ contemporary and holistic methodologies in the assessment and treatment of various mental health challenges.
(650) 281-0983 View (650) 281-0983
Photo of Sung Park, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Sung Park
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
(916) 656-0437 View (916) 656-0437
Photo of Alexandra Presler, PA-C, PMHNP, Physician Assistant
Alexandra Presler
Physician Assistant, PA-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(949) 208-9864 View (949) 208-9864
Photo of Grace Lee, MD, Psychiatrist
Grace Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I am a Clinical Assistant Professor at Stanford, and I bring expertise and a personalized approach to therapy and medication management in my private practice. My goal is to help you navigate challenges, gain a deeper understanding of how your history shapes your present, and achieve meaningful progress towards your aspirations. My approach is rooted in warmth and honesty, and I strive to build a genuine connection that fosters trust, insight, and healing.
Welcome! I am a Clinical Assistant Professor at Stanford, and I bring expertise and a personalized approach to therapy and medication management in my private practice. My goal is to help you navigate challenges, gain a deeper understanding of how your history shapes your present, and achieve meaningful progress towards your aspirations. My approach is rooted in warmth and honesty, and I strive to build a genuine connection that fosters trust, insight, and healing.
(650) 405-0990 View (650) 405-0990
Photo of Assal Parsa - Pacific Mind Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Pacific Mind Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, 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, 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
(949) 998-4690 View (949) 998-4690

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of J. Andrew Chacko, MD, MSE, FAPA, Psychiatrist
J. Andrew Chacko
Psychiatrist, MD, MSE, FAPA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I provide a unique approach to psychiatric care, one that fully embraces a strengths-based, and personalized approach. While I treat the whole spectrum of mental health conditions, I specialize in ADD/ADHD, Trauma (PTSD), Sexual Health and Intimacy, Anxiety & Depression My work often focusses on professionals who have been successful, but now find themselves struggling, especially clinicians suffering from burnout.
I provide a unique approach to psychiatric care, one that fully embraces a strengths-based, and personalized approach. While I treat the whole spectrum of mental health conditions, I specialize in ADD/ADHD, Trauma (PTSD), Sexual Health and Intimacy, Anxiety & Depression My work often focusses on professionals who have been successful, but now find themselves struggling, especially clinicians suffering from burnout.
(628) 210-8367 View (628) 210-8367
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
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
(408) 357-2634 View (408) 357-2634
Photo of Shannon Jones, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
(213) 583-4247 View (213) 583-4247
Photo of Azmeena Hashem, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Azmeena Hashem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
(562) 784-5583 View (562) 784-5583
Photo of Oyebola Oyelade, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
(760) 334-5100 View (760) 334-5100
Photo of Jennique 'jenn' Simplice, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennique 'jenn' Simplice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Jenn Simplice is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Jenn received her bachelors on the East Coast from New Jersey City University and is originally from the Bronx, New York. Jenn migrated to the West Coast as a travel RN where she completed her masters and currently continues to reside in southern CA. Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations including adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community.
Jenn Simplice is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Jenn received her bachelors on the East Coast from New Jersey City University and is originally from the Bronx, New York. Jenn migrated to the West Coast as a travel RN where she completed her masters and currently continues to reside in southern CA. Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations including adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community.
(424) 722-3659 View (424) 722-3659
Photo of Jordan Rose, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
(831) 231-3324 View (831) 231-3324

See more therapy options for 94085

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94085

10+

Average cost per session

$500

Psychiatrists in 94085 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
85% Trauma and PTSD
85% Medication Management
77% ADHD
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 94085 see their clients

76% Online Only
24% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94085?

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.