Psychiatrists in 94108

Photo of Paul Abramson, Psychiatrist, MD
Paul Abramson
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108
Paul Abramson MD is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine (He is not a Psychiatrist). He specializes in the treatment of addiction, mental health and physical health utilizing his small and expert team - medical doctors and psychotherapists. Our methods are evidence based, outpatient and efficient. Dr. Abramson is a graduate of Stanford and UCSF and has specific expertise in the treatment of opioid addiction, alcohol use disorders, and benzodiazepine dependency (with Ashton-style slow tapers). My Doctor Medical Group is a top concierge medical practice in San Francisco.
Paul Abramson MD is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine (He is not a Psychiatrist). He specializes in the treatment of addiction, mental health and physical health utilizing his small and expert team - medical doctors and psychotherapists. Our methods are evidence based, outpatient and efficient. Dr. Abramson is a graduate of Stanford and UCSF and has specific expertise in the treatment of opioid addiction, alcohol use disorders, and benzodiazepine dependency (with Ashton-style slow tapers). My Doctor Medical Group is a top concierge medical practice in San Francisco.
(415) 483-1528 View (415) 483-1528
Photo of Evangeline Luriz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Evangeline Luriz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Vangie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who cares for patients with different psychiatric disorders. She focuses on mood disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. To her, it is very rewarding to see an acute mentally ill patient improve with a promise of a better life. Vangie believes in a holistic approach and the importance of establishing a therapeutic relationship. She provides accommodating care with empathy and compassion, to foster open communication between herself and her patients.
Vangie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who cares for patients with different psychiatric disorders. She focuses on mood disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. To her, it is very rewarding to see an acute mentally ill patient improve with a promise of a better life. Vangie believes in a holistic approach and the importance of establishing a therapeutic relationship. She provides accommodating care with empathy and compassion, to foster open communication between herself and her patients.
(844) 405-4439 View (844) 405-4439
Photo of Yelice Corea, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Yelice Corea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, insomnia or other mental health challenges? Seeking support can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing compassionate, evidence-based medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re exploring treatment options for the first time or adjusting an existing plan, I’m committed to creating a collaborative and personalized experience. My goal is to ensure you feel empowered, heard, and supported every step of the way.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, insomnia or other mental health challenges? Seeking support can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing compassionate, evidence-based medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re exploring treatment options for the first time or adjusting an existing plan, I’m committed to creating a collaborative and personalized experience. My goal is to ensure you feel empowered, heard, and supported every step of the way.
(415) 360-0855 View (415) 360-0855
Photo of Nikhil Majumdar - Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Majumdar is a psychiatrist, Board-Certified in Psychiatry as well as in Addiction Medicine, who believes in holistic treatment. He creates personalized treatment plans with each patient, drawing on his expertise and their life experience to help them improve their mental, physical, and social health. He considers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. He looks forward to watching TMS grow in its ability to treat other conditions as other areas of the brain are carefully mapped.
Dr. Majumdar is a psychiatrist, Board-Certified in Psychiatry as well as in Addiction Medicine, who believes in holistic treatment. He creates personalized treatment plans with each patient, drawing on his expertise and their life experience to help them improve their mental, physical, and social health. He considers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. He looks forward to watching TMS grow in its ability to treat other conditions as other areas of the brain are carefully mapped.
(650) 686-5706 View (650) 686-5706
Photo of Jennifer Guo - Mindful Health Solutions - Jennifer Guo, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
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 Amal Adbulkadir - Mindful Health Solutions | Amal Adbulkadir PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mindful Health Solutions | Amal Adbulkadir PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Francisco, CA 94108
Amal Adbulkadir is a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Arizona. She specializes in working with individuals facing treatment-resistant depression, trauma-related struggles, and neurodivergent experiences like ADHD and autism. Amal provides compassionate, evidence-based psychotherapy and medication management while considering each person’s unique needs. She is sure to thoughtfully listen and collaborate with all of her adult patients, to address a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Her desire is to help people reconnect with themselves and build lives that feel more whole.
Amal Adbulkadir is a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Arizona. She specializes in working with individuals facing treatment-resistant depression, trauma-related struggles, and neurodivergent experiences like ADHD and autism. Amal provides compassionate, evidence-based psychotherapy and medication management while considering each person’s unique needs. She is sure to thoughtfully listen and collaborate with all of her adult patients, to address a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Her desire is to help people reconnect with themselves and build lives that feel more whole.
(415) 329-7670 View (415) 329-7670
Photo of Omar Elhaj, Psychiatrist, MD
Omar Elhaj
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94108
Dr. Omar Elhaj is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who provides care to patients with complex clinical presentations, particularly treatment-resistant depression and other mood disorders. He specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive disorders, PTSD, addiction disorders, dual diagnoses, and interventional psychiatry. His approach to patient care is holistic and collaborative. He ensures patients are actively involved in their mental health journey. His empathetic nature and commitment to patient-centered care create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued.
Dr. Omar Elhaj is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who provides care to patients with complex clinical presentations, particularly treatment-resistant depression and other mood disorders. He specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive disorders, PTSD, addiction disorders, dual diagnoses, and interventional psychiatry. His approach to patient care is holistic and collaborative. He ensures patients are actively involved in their mental health journey. His empathetic nature and commitment to patient-centered care create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued.
(650) 686-5706 View (650) 686-5706
Photo of Alexia Lowi-Teng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alexia Lowi-Teng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello everyone! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in California. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for over a year now, however, I have been working with mental health patients for over 5 years! I love helping those whom are new to psychiatric medication management because I have a special ability to explain things thoroughly. I am patient and a great listener! I will make sure you truly understand your diagnosis and treatment plan. I treat all ages, backgrounds and conditions.
Hello everyone! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in California. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for over a year now, however, I have been working with mental health patients for over 5 years! I love helping those whom are new to psychiatric medication management because I have a special ability to explain things thoroughly. I am patient and a great listener! I will make sure you truly understand your diagnosis and treatment plan. I treat all ages, backgrounds and conditions.
(415) 234-5589 View (415) 234-5589
Photo of Nefretiri Abat, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, JD, PMHNPBC, RN, BSN
Nefretiri Abat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, JD, PMHNPBC, RN, BSN
11 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108
My ideal client is a highly ambitious young adult or adult navigating the complexities of ADHD. They face hurdles with concentration, managing time, impulsivity, and social interactions. They need personalized telepsychiatry services, evidence-based therapies, and practical tools to manage their ADHD symptoms. Their ambition is to conquer ADHD-related obstacles, enhance focus, attain their academic and professional objectives, and foster healthier relationships. They are determined to unleash their innate potential and harmonize their aspirations with mental well-being.
My ideal client is a highly ambitious young adult or adult navigating the complexities of ADHD. They face hurdles with concentration, managing time, impulsivity, and social interactions. They need personalized telepsychiatry services, evidence-based therapies, and practical tools to manage their ADHD symptoms. Their ambition is to conquer ADHD-related obstacles, enhance focus, attain their academic and professional objectives, and foster healthier relationships. They are determined to unleash their innate potential and harmonize their aspirations with mental well-being.
(628) 345-8464 View (628) 345-8464
Photo of Neha Nayyar, Psychiatrist, MD
Neha Nayyar
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94108
Dr. Nayyar is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who prides herself on being compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative, making sure to always worki in the best interest of the patient. Her philosophy brought her to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. Determined to help each patient find what works best for them, she offers in-person and telehealth appointments. Her specialties include: Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
Dr. Nayyar is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who prides herself on being compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative, making sure to always worki in the best interest of the patient. Her philosophy brought her to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. Determined to help each patient find what works best for them, she offers in-person and telehealth appointments. Her specialties include: Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
(650) 686-5706 View (650) 686-5706
Photo of Wendy Marussich - Wendy Marussich, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wendy Marussich, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Francisco, CA 94108
If you’re ready to take the first step toward feeling better and finding relief, I’m here to help. You might be facing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or existential distress, or navigating the mental health challenges that come with life-limiting illnesses. Together, we can create a plan that honors your unique experiences and helps you work toward your goals. Whether you’re looking for symptom relief, emotional balance, or greater self-understanding, my approach is rooted in compassion and collaboration. You deserve to feel empowered and supported as you move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward feeling better and finding relief, I’m here to help. You might be facing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or existential distress, or navigating the mental health challenges that come with life-limiting illnesses. Together, we can create a plan that honors your unique experiences and helps you work toward your goals. Whether you’re looking for symptom relief, emotional balance, or greater self-understanding, my approach is rooted in compassion and collaboration. You deserve to feel empowered and supported as you move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(415) 903-0870 View (415) 903-0870
Photo of Genesis Javaherian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Genesis Javaherian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Online Only
Hi, I’m Gene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, private practice and academic research. I received my degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and specialize in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use.
Hi, I’m Gene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, private practice and academic research. I received my degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and specialize in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use.
(415) 417-1929 View (415) 417-1929
Photo of David Roth, Psychiatrist, MD
David Roth
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. David Roth is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a focus in patients with a wide range of behavioral, neurological, medical, and mental health disorders and issues. He loves working with youth, and the young at heart. When managing a chronic condition, he tries to educate patients about how their condition cycles, how to identify changes in acuity, and how to use booster medications and other interventions.
Dr. David Roth is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a focus in patients with a wide range of behavioral, neurological, medical, and mental health disorders and issues. He loves working with youth, and the young at heart. When managing a chronic condition, he tries to educate patients about how their condition cycles, how to identify changes in acuity, and how to use booster medications and other interventions.
(844) 405-4439 View (844) 405-4439
Photo of Irina Filip - Mindful Health Solutions - Irina Filip, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Mindful Health Solutions - Irina Filip, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Filip is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. She has an extensive background and training in psychopharmacology and, in addition to her Doctor of Medicine, has completed her Doctor of Health Sciences. Understanding that people come to see a psychiatrist for a variety of reasons, Dr. Filip meets her patients in that vulnerable spot in a caring and sensitive way, helping them find their strengths, feel more confident, and recognize they are not alone in their struggles.
Dr. Filip is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. She has an extensive background and training in psychopharmacology and, in addition to her Doctor of Medicine, has completed her Doctor of Health Sciences. Understanding that people come to see a psychiatrist for a variety of reasons, Dr. Filip meets her patients in that vulnerable spot in a caring and sensitive way, helping them find their strengths, feel more confident, and recognize they are not alone in their struggles.
(844) 405-4439 View (844) 405-4439
Photo of Aarti Chhatlani - Mindful Health Solutions - Aarti Chhatlani, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
I treat patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. My individualized patient plans provide evidence-based treatment options, including medication management. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who has a collaborative and empathetic approach based on mindfulness principles. For me, telepsychiatry is the modern equivalent to a home visit, where a patient can have their video appointment in a familiar environment such as their home or office. Our practice, founded in 2007, provides innovative, patient-centric care and accepts most major insurance plans.
I treat patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. My individualized patient plans provide evidence-based treatment options, including medication management. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who has a collaborative and empathetic approach based on mindfulness principles. For me, telepsychiatry is the modern equivalent to a home visit, where a patient can have their video appointment in a familiar environment such as their home or office. Our practice, founded in 2007, provides innovative, patient-centric care and accepts most major insurance plans.
(415) 908-1486 View (415) 908-1486
Photo of Dr. Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Dr. Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
San Francisco, CA 94108
Introducing Dr. Sim: Your Partner in Mental Health and Well-being! Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Oladiran-Adighije, affectionately known as Dr. Sim! With over 14 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer.
Introducing Dr. Sim: Your Partner in Mental Health and Well-being! Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Oladiran-Adighije, affectionately known as Dr. Sim! With over 14 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer.
(310) 388-9342 View (310) 388-9342
Photo of Jang E Cho, Psychiatrist, MD
Jang E Cho
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Now accepting appointments for patients in WA, NY, CA, VA, MD &DC. I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who uses both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions- depression, anxiety, panic disorders, ADHD, behavioral dysregulation and school difficulties.
Now accepting appointments for patients in WA, NY, CA, VA, MD &DC. I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who uses both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions- depression, anxiety, panic disorders, ADHD, behavioral dysregulation and school difficulties.
(332) 286-3779 View (332) 286-3779
Photo of Benjamin Cheyette - Mindful Health Solutions - Benjamin Cheyette, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Mindful Health Solutions - Benjamin Cheyette
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
Dr. Cheyette is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over twenty years of practice treating a wide variety of patients, including those with depression. He loves general psychiatry and has a clinical interest and expertise in adult ADHD. Dr. Cheyette is passionate about helping people overcome emotional challenges and is very interested in cutting-edge innovations, such as esketamine nasal spray and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to help patients. He has a collaborative approach in which he shares his formal expertise and clinical experience to help patients make well-informed decisions.
Dr. Cheyette is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over twenty years of practice treating a wide variety of patients, including those with depression. He loves general psychiatry and has a clinical interest and expertise in adult ADHD. Dr. Cheyette is passionate about helping people overcome emotional challenges and is very interested in cutting-edge innovations, such as esketamine nasal spray and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to help patients. He has a collaborative approach in which he shares his formal expertise and clinical experience to help patients make well-informed decisions.
(707) 657-5317 View (707) 657-5317
Photo of Nicolas Salazar, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicolas Salazar
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I was born in Colombia and the passion for psychiatry has driven my life. I went to medical school in Bogota- Colombia, following my interest in Transcultural Psychiatry worked for the University of Guadalajara in Mexico and assisted to McGill University in Montreal. I completed residency in general psychiatry in the University of Virginia, while collaborating with the International Rescue Committee as mental health provider. I have centered my practice in the development of interventions congruent with people's environment and advocating for parity in the delivery and access to services.
I was born in Colombia and the passion for psychiatry has driven my life. I went to medical school in Bogota- Colombia, following my interest in Transcultural Psychiatry worked for the University of Guadalajara in Mexico and assisted to McGill University in Montreal. I completed residency in general psychiatry in the University of Virginia, while collaborating with the International Rescue Committee as mental health provider. I have centered my practice in the development of interventions congruent with people's environment and advocating for parity in the delivery and access to services.
(628) 288-2601 View (628) 288-2601
Rachel Kigano
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Rachel Kigano, NP, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing compassionate, expert mental health care for patients across California. With years of experience treating adolescents, adults, and seniors, Rachel helps individuals navigate a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Her practice emphasizes creating a safe and supportive space, particularly for those facing complex co-occurring conditions or seeking innovative treatment approaches like Ketamine-Assisted Therapy KAT. Rachel is particularly passionate about addressing trauma, substance use disorders, and anxiety.
Rachel Kigano, NP, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing compassionate, expert mental health care for patients across California. With years of experience treating adolescents, adults, and seniors, Rachel helps individuals navigate a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Her practice emphasizes creating a safe and supportive space, particularly for those facing complex co-occurring conditions or seeking innovative treatment approaches like Ketamine-Assisted Therapy KAT. Rachel is particularly passionate about addressing trauma, substance use disorders, and anxiety.
(415) 360-1247 View (415) 360-1247

See more therapy options for 94108

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94108

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 94108 who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
90% Medication Management
76% Bipolar Disorder
67% Trauma and PTSD
60% ADHD
48% Psychosis

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
92% Magellan
90% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 94108 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94108?

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.