Psychiatrists in 94106

Photo of Mimi Winsberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Mimi Winsberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94106
As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with 25 years of clinical experience, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual's particular needs and goals. Psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness based approaches are used, along with medication. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, relationship problems, women's issues, disordered eating, and adjustments such as divorce, loss, medical problems, career changes. Medication is best managed in the context of a therapeutic relationship. I believe in the role lifestyle and physical health can play on emotional health, and I incorporate these principles into my therapy practice.
As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with 25 years of clinical experience, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual's particular needs and goals. Psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness based approaches are used, along with medication. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, relationship problems, women's issues, disordered eating, and adjustments such as divorce, loss, medical problems, career changes. Medication is best managed in the context of a therapeutic relationship. I believe in the role lifestyle and physical health can play on emotional health, and I incorporate these principles into my therapy practice.
(628) 888-1161 View (628) 888-1161
Photo of Jacqueline Chan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Chan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94106
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 910-1659 View (650) 910-1659
Photo of Sunni Erika Gessel, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sunni Erika Gessel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94106
I treat mild to moderate mental health conditions through therapeutic interventions and medication monitoring.
I treat mild to moderate mental health conditions through therapeutic interventions and medication monitoring.
(209) 896-9516 View (209) 896-9516
Photo of David Ha, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Ha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94106
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
(909) 281-7303 View (909) 281-7303

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(415) 301-4583 View (415) 301-4583
Photo of Theresa Bui, DO, Psychiatrist
Theresa Bui
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
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 Desanne Gonsalves, PA-C , Physician Assistant
Desanne Gonsalves
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I am committed to helping and supporting individuals in reaching their mental health objectives using evidence-based methods, a holistic perspective, and humor. I am certified in both medication management and therapy, and I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, stress, and trauma. Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may involve psychiatric medications (if appropriate), psychotherapy, and other strategies to reduce your symptoms, enhance your mood, and help you conquer challenges.
I am committed to helping and supporting individuals in reaching their mental health objectives using evidence-based methods, a holistic perspective, and humor. I am certified in both medication management and therapy, and I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, stress, and trauma. Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may involve psychiatric medications (if appropriate), psychotherapy, and other strategies to reduce your symptoms, enhance your mood, and help you conquer challenges.
(323) 402-5680 View (323) 402-5680
Photo of Chika Agulanna - Light Care Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Light Care Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105
Chika is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Fresno Ca, who works with children and adults and provides care for patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, sleep difficulties etc. Chika has experience with medication management and use of psychotherapy and has been a board certified PMHNP for over 2 years. Chika’s treatment approach is rooted in evidence based practice utilizing medication and psychotherapy. Chika studied at Walden University, where she obtained a Masters in Nursing science. She has also worked as an RN for more than 8 years which has been helpful in providing care
Chika is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Fresno Ca, who works with children and adults and provides care for patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, sleep difficulties etc. Chika has experience with medication management and use of psychotherapy and has been a board certified PMHNP for over 2 years. Chika’s treatment approach is rooted in evidence based practice utilizing medication and psychotherapy. Chika studied at Walden University, where she obtained a Masters in Nursing science. She has also worked as an RN for more than 8 years which has been helpful in providing care
(559) 423-7076 View (559) 423-7076
Photo of Karin Leslie Hastik - Karin Hastik, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Karin Hastik, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Nishi Bhopal, MD, Psychiatrist
Nishi Bhopal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94133  (Online Only)
Exhausted. You want just one night of deep sleep, instead of tossing and turning, trying one ineffective medication or supplement after another, and listening to guided meditations that make you feel more stressed out. Your bedroom has become a battlefield. Insomnia has taken over your life and it feels like nobody gets what you’re going through. You have the best sleep hygiene of everyone you know, sleeping pills make you feel like a zombie, and hearing another podcast on why sleep is important makes you want to scream. You know you’re not on your A game and that bad sleep is holding you back from living your life to the fullest.
Exhausted. You want just one night of deep sleep, instead of tossing and turning, trying one ineffective medication or supplement after another, and listening to guided meditations that make you feel more stressed out. Your bedroom has become a battlefield. Insomnia has taken over your life and it feels like nobody gets what you’re going through. You have the best sleep hygiene of everyone you know, sleeping pills make you feel like a zombie, and hearing another podcast on why sleep is important makes you want to scream. You know you’re not on your A game and that bad sleep is holding you back from living your life to the fullest.
(415) 942-5037 View (415) 942-5037
Photo of Assal Parsa - Pacific Mind Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Pacific Mind Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (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 Chau Le, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chau Le
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Chau, a psychiatric nurse practitioner on a mission to help women achieve mental and physical wellness. As a mother myself, I understand the complexities of juggling multiple roles and the toll it can take on your well-being. Having gone through postpartum depression & anxiety, I get the joys and struggles that come with motherhood and prioritizing self-care. My personal experience shapes my deep understanding of what you may be going through.
Hi, I'm Chau, a psychiatric nurse practitioner on a mission to help women achieve mental and physical wellness. As a mother myself, I understand the complexities of juggling multiple roles and the toll it can take on your well-being. Having gone through postpartum depression & anxiety, I get the joys and struggles that come with motherhood and prioritizing self-care. My personal experience shapes my deep understanding of what you may be going through.
(415) 689-4882 View (415) 689-4882
Photo of Hendrick Soh, MD, Psychiatrist
Hendrick Soh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Hendrick Soh, MD participates in the evaluation and psychiatric medical management of children and adolescents in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Soh is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is board-certified in General 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.
Hendrick Soh, MD participates in the evaluation and psychiatric medical management of children and adolescents in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Soh is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is board-certified in General 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
Photo of Victor Torres-Collazo, MD, Psychiatrist
Victor Torres-Collazo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Victor Torres-Collazo, MD provides specialty psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultations for adults. He specializes in assessments and treatment of patients with comorbid medical and psychiatric issues. Dr. Torres-Collazo is ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Consult-Liaison Psychiatry/CLP. He completed fellowship at Georgetown, during which he also trained at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He is very experienced with pharmacogenetic testing, neuropsychiatric issues, complex medical issues and medication management. He is fluent in both English and Spanish.
Victor Torres-Collazo, MD provides specialty psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultations for adults. He specializes in assessments and treatment of patients with comorbid medical and psychiatric issues. Dr. Torres-Collazo is ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Consult-Liaison Psychiatry/CLP. He completed fellowship at Georgetown, during which he also trained at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He is very experienced with pharmacogenetic testing, neuropsychiatric issues, complex medical issues and medication management. He is fluent in both English and Spanish.
(415) 943-8248 View (415) 943-8248
Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (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 Jennifer Guo - Mindful Health Solutions - Jennifer Guo, MD, PhD, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Mindful Health Solutions - Jennifer Guo, MD, PhD
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I am focused on treating patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. I am particularly interested in using interventional psychiatric approaches including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
I am focused on treating patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. I am particularly interested in using interventional psychiatric approaches including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
(415) 338-9307 View (415) 338-9307
Photo of Taiane Ferrari, MD, Psychiatrist
Taiane Ferrari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
Dr. Ferrari is a highly regarded psychiatrist with a strong background in both clinical practice and research. She attended NYU School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Tennessee. She is an expert in treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and adult ADHD. She is dedicated to providing patient-centered, evidence-based care with a holistic and compassionate approach.
Dr. Ferrari is a highly regarded psychiatrist with a strong background in both clinical practice and research. She attended NYU School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Tennessee. She is an expert in treatment-resistant depression, anxiety and adult ADHD. She is dedicated to providing patient-centered, evidence-based care with a holistic and compassionate approach.
(510) 880-3543 View (510) 880-3543
Photo of Dr. Adam Frey - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 701-0498 View (844) 701-0498
Photo of Dr. Anoopinder Singh, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anoopinder Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Dr. Anoopinder Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Singh uses a holistic approach to treat college and university students and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, co-morbid disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and trauma. He has worked in disaster psychiatry outreach, the Medical Reserve Corps, and foreign and local governments, providing psychological first-aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India.
Dr. Anoopinder Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Singh uses a holistic approach to treat college and university students and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, co-morbid disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and trauma. He has worked in disaster psychiatry outreach, the Medical Reserve Corps, and foreign and local governments, providing psychological first-aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Kristin Ratz, MD, Psychiatrist
Kristin Ratz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
Dr. Kristin Ratz is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who is an expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. She specializes in medication management combined with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up sessions. A California local, Dr. Ratz obtained her undergraduate education at University of California, Davis, graduating magna cum laude.t. She then attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, obtaining her Medical Doctorate. Following this, she completed her adult psychiatry residency training at the University of California, Irvine.
Dr. Kristin Ratz is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who is an expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. She specializes in medication management combined with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up sessions. A California local, Dr. Ratz obtained her undergraduate education at University of California, Davis, graduating magna cum laude.t. She then attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, obtaining her Medical Doctorate. Following this, she completed her adult psychiatry residency training at the University of California, Irvine.
(415) 818-0355 View (415) 818-0355

See more therapy options for 94106

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94106

< 10

Psychiatrists in 94106 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Medication Management
50% Depression
50% Addiction

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 94106 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94106?

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.