Psychiatrists in 94104

Photo of Dr. Reem Libdeh, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Reem Libdeh
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Francisco, with clinical expertise in eating disorders, addiction medicine, and women’s mental health. I’m passionate about helping patients get to the underlying causes of their distress, using a trauma-informed approach that includes psychotherapy techniques, lifestyle changes, and, when indicated, medications. I also treat mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma disorders, and other psychiatric ailments. I have extensive experience working with high-functioning professionals struggling with their mental health and/or substance use.
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Francisco, with clinical expertise in eating disorders, addiction medicine, and women’s mental health. I’m passionate about helping patients get to the underlying causes of their distress, using a trauma-informed approach that includes psychotherapy techniques, lifestyle changes, and, when indicated, medications. I also treat mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma disorders, and other psychiatric ailments. I have extensive experience working with high-functioning professionals struggling with their mental health and/or substance use.
(415) 876-5583 View (415) 876-5583
Photo of Maricela Beltran, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Maricela Beltran
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
San Francisco, CA 94104
Dr. Beltran specializes in integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy, combining evidence-based approaches with a focus on whole-body wellness. She is currently completing a Fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the UC Irvine Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute to further deepen her expertise in the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Her practice is rooted in compassionate, personalized care that honors each individual’s unique values and lived experience.
Dr. Beltran specializes in integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy, combining evidence-based approaches with a focus on whole-body wellness. She is currently completing a Fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the UC Irvine Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute to further deepen her expertise in the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Her practice is rooted in compassionate, personalized care that honors each individual’s unique values and lived experience.
(415) 915-5491 View (415) 915-5491
Photo of Jasmine Delijani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Jasmine Delijani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, or navigating complex emotions in life? Or are you a woman facing challenges during pregnancy and postpartum periods? Serving adolescents and adults of all genders and cultural backgrounds, my expertise lies in providing compassionate, judgment-free, comprehensive telepsychiatry across California. Seeking relief and a path to wellbeing? My approach combines traditional psychiatry—medications & therapy—with holistic methods like supplementation, genetic/lab testing, and sleep optimization. Let's uncover the root causes and tailor a journey towards your vibrant health.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, or navigating complex emotions in life? Or are you a woman facing challenges during pregnancy and postpartum periods? Serving adolescents and adults of all genders and cultural backgrounds, my expertise lies in providing compassionate, judgment-free, comprehensive telepsychiatry across California. Seeking relief and a path to wellbeing? My approach combines traditional psychiatry—medications & therapy—with holistic methods like supplementation, genetic/lab testing, and sleep optimization. Let's uncover the root causes and tailor a journey towards your vibrant health.
(415) 968-6515 View (415) 968-6515
Photo of Amy Shefftz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy Shefftz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Francisco, CA 94104
My ideal client is a child, adolescent, or young adult struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or behavioral challenges affecting daily functioning. They feel overwhelmed by school pressures, social relationships, or family dynamics. Their parents seek collaborative care including medication management and therapeutic support. They want to develop healthy coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and build confidence. My clients value a warm, non-judgmental approach where they feel heard and understood. Together, we work toward feeling more balanced, successful in school, and connected to their support systems.
My ideal client is a child, adolescent, or young adult struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or behavioral challenges affecting daily functioning. They feel overwhelmed by school pressures, social relationships, or family dynamics. Their parents seek collaborative care including medication management and therapeutic support. They want to develop healthy coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and build confidence. My clients value a warm, non-judgmental approach where they feel heard and understood. Together, we work toward feeling more balanced, successful in school, and connected to their support systems.
(415) 223-8526 View (415) 223-8526
Photo of Rebecca Blakesley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Rebecca Blakesley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
San Francisco, CA 94104
My journey into psychiatry was sparked by a deep-seated curiosity about the complexities of the human psyche and a desire to alleviate the suffering that often accompanies mental illness. I understand psychiatric medications (such as antidepressants and stimulants) is just one avenue of treatment. I engage patients in a shared exploration of the available treatment options, providing comprehensive education about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of each approach. Together, we weigh the evidence and collaboratively decide on a course of action that is tailored to their unique needs, values and lifestyle.
My journey into psychiatry was sparked by a deep-seated curiosity about the complexities of the human psyche and a desire to alleviate the suffering that often accompanies mental illness. I understand psychiatric medications (such as antidepressants and stimulants) is just one avenue of treatment. I engage patients in a shared exploration of the available treatment options, providing comprehensive education about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of each approach. Together, we weigh the evidence and collaboratively decide on a course of action that is tailored to their unique needs, values and lifestyle.
(623) 294-0524 View (623) 294-0524
Photo of Madison Palmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Madison Palmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
San Francisco, CA 94104
Madison is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After receiving her master’s degree and Family Nurse Practitioner certification from Simmons University, she continued her education at University of Cincinnati receiving a post graduate certificate in psychiatric mental health. Madison’s journey in healthcare began treating both acute physical and mental health conditions as a registered nurse in hospital settings. She soon found the importance of mental health as an integral part of overall well-being and the need for increased access to care at all levels.
Madison is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. After receiving her master’s degree and Family Nurse Practitioner certification from Simmons University, she continued her education at University of Cincinnati receiving a post graduate certificate in psychiatric mental health. Madison’s journey in healthcare began treating both acute physical and mental health conditions as a registered nurse in hospital settings. She soon found the importance of mental health as an integral part of overall well-being and the need for increased access to care at all levels.
(415) 599-8656 View (415) 599-8656
Photo of Rebecca Blakesley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Rebecca Blakesley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
San Francisco, CA 94104
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
(510) 988-5401 View (510) 988-5401
Photo of Esther Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Esther Lee is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and a post-master’s certificate from West Coast University. She brings extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with a background in critical care, including cardiac and pre/post-transplant care. Her diverse clinical experience allows her to provide compassionate, evidence-based care across the lifespan.
Esther Lee is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and a post-master’s certificate from West Coast University. She brings extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with a background in critical care, including cardiac and pre/post-transplant care. Her diverse clinical experience allows her to provide compassionate, evidence-based care across the lifespan.
(415) 289-5712 View (415) 289-5712
Photo of Juliano Innocenti, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Juliano Innocenti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Francisco, CA 94104
Juliano Innocenti is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. Juliano offers trauma-informed, patient-centered care that may include options for medication management for conditions like depression and anxiety, substance abuse, PTSD, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, OCD, hoarding, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Gender dysphoria. He also has experience with grief and bereavement, and can help you plan for, or come to terms with your own mortality and existential fears.
Juliano Innocenti is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2022. Juliano offers trauma-informed, patient-centered care that may include options for medication management for conditions like depression and anxiety, substance abuse, PTSD, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, OCD, hoarding, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Gender dysphoria. He also has experience with grief and bereavement, and can help you plan for, or come to terms with your own mortality and existential fears.
(628) 313-4625 View (628) 313-4625
Photo of Rebecca Wu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Rebecca Wu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
San Francisco, CA 94104
Rebecca Wu, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping adults across California navigate their mental health challenges with empathy and expertise. She provides a patientcentered, nonjudgmental approach that empowers clients to take an active role in their healing journey. With a focus on creating a safe and inclusive space, Rebecca ensures her clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward their mental wellness goals. Offering services such as medication management, she supports clients in addressing anxiety, depression, and obsessivecompulsive disorder, tailoring her care to meet individual needs and priorities.
Rebecca Wu, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping adults across California navigate their mental health challenges with empathy and expertise. She provides a patientcentered, nonjudgmental approach that empowers clients to take an active role in their healing journey. With a focus on creating a safe and inclusive space, Rebecca ensures her clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward their mental wellness goals. Offering services such as medication management, she supports clients in addressing anxiety, depression, and obsessivecompulsive disorder, tailoring her care to meet individual needs and priorities.
(510) 945-1523 View (510) 945-1523
Photo of Nancy Chuksorji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Chuksorji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
San Francisco, CA 94104
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience, I am dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care for adults. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and psychosis, using an evidence-based approach that integrates medication management, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. I believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—while respecting each individual’s cultural background, values, and lived experiences.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience, I am dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care for adults. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and psychosis, using an evidence-based approach that integrates medication management, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. I believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—while respecting each individual’s cultural background, values, and lived experiences.
(415) 728-0948 View (415) 728-0948
Photo of Dr. Anoopinder Singh, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anoopinder Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94104
Dr. Anoopinder Singh has been with Mindpath Health since 2014. Originally from Punjab, India, Dr. Singh has a holistic, collaborative, and culturally competent approach to mental health care. He emphasizes wellness and quality of life by integrating conventional and complementary treatments. He has a special interest in working with transitional-age youth, biological treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and providing gender-affirming and LGBTQIA+ mental health care. Dr. Singh’s research focuses on the efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine in mental health.
Dr. Anoopinder Singh has been with Mindpath Health since 2014. Originally from Punjab, India, Dr. Singh has a holistic, collaborative, and culturally competent approach to mental health care. He emphasizes wellness and quality of life by integrating conventional and complementary treatments. He has a special interest in working with transitional-age youth, biological treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and providing gender-affirming and LGBTQIA+ mental health care. Dr. Singh’s research focuses on the efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine in mental health.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Jacob Moulds, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Jacob Moulds
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Jacob Moulds learned to expand his focus beyond the pathology and take account of the entire experience of the patient in his treatment, including family, environment, and life experiences.
Dr. Jacob Moulds learned to expand his focus beyond the pathology and take account of the entire experience of the patient in his treatment, including family, environment, and life experiences.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Alexandra Presler, Physician Assistant, PA-C, PMHNP
Alexandra Presler
Physician Assistant, PA-C, PMHNP
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 Karin Leslie Hastik - Karin Hastik, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Karin Hastik, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94104
My practice utilizes a personalized approach to the psychiatric treatment of adolescents and adults. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder and post traumatic stress related conditions as well as work related interpersonal challenges and coaching. I work with adolescents and adults to ensure your best care through behavioral interventions, psychotherapy, nutritional analysis, and medication management. Genetic testing and functional medicine are an integral part of my practice and patient care.
My practice utilizes a personalized approach to the psychiatric treatment of adolescents and adults. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder and post traumatic stress related conditions as well as work related interpersonal challenges and coaching. I work with adolescents and adults to ensure your best care through behavioral interventions, psychotherapy, nutritional analysis, and medication management. Genetic testing and functional medicine are an integral part of my practice and patient care.
(415) 408-7009 View (415) 408-7009
Photo of Shira Crohn, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Shira Crohn
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Shira Crohn is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatric care. She earned her Master’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology after completing rigorous training. Shira takes a holistic approach to treatment, guiding patients to understand how physical health and lifestyle choices impact brain function and mental well-being. She values building relationships with her patients by taking the time to get to know them and understand their unique needs.
Shira Crohn is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatric care. She earned her Master’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology after completing rigorous training. Shira takes a holistic approach to treatment, guiding patients to understand how physical health and lifestyle choices impact brain function and mental well-being. She values building relationships with her patients by taking the time to get to know them and understand their unique needs.
(415) 818-0635 View (415) 818-0635
Photo of Ryan Vidrine - Ryan Vidrine, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Ryan Vidrine, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94104
I offer Specialized Psychiatric Services for OCD & Anxiety Disorders.
I offer Specialized Psychiatric Services for OCD & Anxiety Disorders.
(415) 548-9221 View (415) 548-9221
Photo of Maddie Asghari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Maddie Asghari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
San Francisco, CA 94104
My ideal client is a motivated individual seeking mental wellness. Behind their successful exterior, they struggle with anxiety and depression affecting daily life. Their self-awareness makes them ready for treatment. They desire understanding of their mental health and evidence-based solutions. Their goals include breaking generational patterns and developing coping skills. Their commitment to treatment and openness to collaboration enables effective use of my expertise in medication management and psychoeducation to achieve lasting positive outcomes.
My ideal client is a motivated individual seeking mental wellness. Behind their successful exterior, they struggle with anxiety and depression affecting daily life. Their self-awareness makes them ready for treatment. They desire understanding of their mental health and evidence-based solutions. Their goals include breaking generational patterns and developing coping skills. Their commitment to treatment and openness to collaboration enables effective use of my expertise in medication management and psychoeducation to achieve lasting positive outcomes.
(415) 968-6515 View (415) 968-6515
Photo of Assal Parsa - Pacific Mind Health, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Pacific Mind Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
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
Photo of Hendrick Soh, Psychiatrist, MD
Hendrick Soh
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Soh is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is board-certified in general adult psychiatry with additional specialty training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate education at UCLA and medical school at UC-Irvine. Dr. Soh then finished his residency training at Harbor-UCLA and his fellowship training at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.
Dr. Soh is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is board-certified in general adult psychiatry with additional specialty training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate education at UCLA and medical school at UC-Irvine. Dr. Soh then finished his residency training at Harbor-UCLA and his fellowship training at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.
(415) 855-7612 View (415) 855-7612

See more therapy options for 94104

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94104

80+

Average cost per session

$215

Psychiatrists in 94104 who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
89% Medication Management
81% ADHD
80% Bipolar Disorder
77% Trauma and PTSD
68% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
87% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 94104 see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
32% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94104?

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.