Psychiatrists in 94112

Photo of Orah Mahtov, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orah Mahtov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
(914) 598-8967 View (914) 598-8967
Photo of Eric Nghe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric Nghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
(628) 261-6562 View (628) 261-6562
Photo of Jeffrey L Seal, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeffrey L Seal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I am a psychiatrist specializing in therapy and medication management for adults and late adolescents. My practice provides the time for an in-depth assessment of a patient's needs and the formulation of a detailed treatment plan. The initial assessment usually takes two meetings and forms the foundation for an ongoing therapeutic relationship. I primarily utilize psychodynamic approaches, within a holistic framework that considers diet, exercise, and work-life balance. I provide treatment in a warm, compassionate, and accepting environment.
I am a psychiatrist specializing in therapy and medication management for adults and late adolescents. My practice provides the time for an in-depth assessment of a patient's needs and the formulation of a detailed treatment plan. The initial assessment usually takes two meetings and forms the foundation for an ongoing therapeutic relationship. I primarily utilize psychodynamic approaches, within a holistic framework that considers diet, exercise, and work-life balance. I provide treatment in a warm, compassionate, and accepting environment.
(415) 619-6405 View (415) 619-6405
Photo of Edgaradrian Yepescorrea - Adrian Yepes, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adrian Yepes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with advanced psychiatry training from UCSF, committed to providing compassionate, individualized care. I offer virtual sessions for adults throughout California, specializing in diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. My expertise spans conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder. By integrating psychogenetic testing with evidence-based treatments, I aim to optimize patient outcomes and provide a truly personalized approach to mental health
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with advanced psychiatry training from UCSF, committed to providing compassionate, individualized care. I offer virtual sessions for adults throughout California, specializing in diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. My expertise spans conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder. By integrating psychogenetic testing with evidence-based treatments, I aim to optimize patient outcomes and provide a truly personalized approach to mental health
(628) 277-9024 View (628) 277-9024
Photo of Elham Hamzeh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elham Hamzeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am Elham Hamzeh, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in CA with prescriptive authorities and knowledge in both medication management and therapy, specializes in treating broad variety of mental disorders. Depression, anxiety, mood disorder, panic attacks, ADHD, stress, insomnia, and PTSD are just some examples of compact emotional disturbances that can significantly influence one's quality of life. So, if you feel depressed, anxious, or not on top of your game, struggling with daily life and its challenges, I am here to help.
Hello, I am Elham Hamzeh, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in CA with prescriptive authorities and knowledge in both medication management and therapy, specializes in treating broad variety of mental disorders. Depression, anxiety, mood disorder, panic attacks, ADHD, stress, insomnia, and PTSD are just some examples of compact emotional disturbances that can significantly influence one's quality of life. So, if you feel depressed, anxious, or not on top of your game, struggling with daily life and its challenges, I am here to help.
(818) 221-1382 View (818) 221-1382
Photo of Uju Osagie, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uju Osagie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
I am Uju Osagie, a dedicated healthcare professional with over 25 years of experience in critical care, specializing in thoracic surgery, transplant, coronary care, and behavioral health. As a doctoral-prepared Nurse Practitioner, I am dual board-certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and other mental health challenges. They seek a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based approach to regain control over their emotions and daily life. Their goal is to feel empowered, improve their mental well-being.
I am Uju Osagie, a dedicated healthcare professional with over 25 years of experience in critical care, specializing in thoracic surgery, transplant, coronary care, and behavioral health. As a doctoral-prepared Nurse Practitioner, I am dual board-certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and other mental health challenges. They seek a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based approach to regain control over their emotions and daily life. Their goal is to feel empowered, improve their mental well-being.
(818) 221-1517 View (818) 221-1517
Photo of Jamie Fauth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Fauth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jamie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating women’s issues, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community. During sessions, I use a compassion focused and client centered therapeutic approach. I take a holistic perspective on mental health medication treatment and will carefully evaluate your background, lifestyle, and health history to help you choose the right medication.
Hi, I’m Jamie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating women’s issues, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community. During sessions, I use a compassion focused and client centered therapeutic approach. I take a holistic perspective on mental health medication treatment and will carefully evaluate your background, lifestyle, and health history to help you choose the right medication.
(619) 826-0863 View (619) 826-0863
Photo of Khalil Sandoval, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khalil Sandoval
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone seeking a safe, compassionate space to address their mental health challenges, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional or psychological concerns. They may feel overwhelmed or disconnected and are looking for understanding, guidance, and a pathway to healing. Their goals include finding balance in life, improving their well-being, and embracing personal growth. They want to feel heard, respected, and empowered to take steps toward a healthier mind and body.
My ideal client is someone seeking a safe, compassionate space to address their mental health challenges, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional or psychological concerns. They may feel overwhelmed or disconnected and are looking for understanding, guidance, and a pathway to healing. Their goals include finding balance in life, improving their well-being, and embracing personal growth. They want to feel heard, respected, and empowered to take steps toward a healthier mind and body.
(323) 237-8077 View (323) 237-8077
Photo of Eric Alcid, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Eric Alcid
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a University of Washington and UCSF-trained addiction and general psychiatrist and scientist. I carry a small panel of patients so that I can best deliver comprehensive and personalized care. I specialize in treating complex addiction issues, dual-diagnoses such as ADHD and depression combined with substance use, and behavioral addictions such as gambling. I tailor treatment based on the individual, and I have expertise with both abstinence and harm-reduction approaches to recovery. In designing a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan, I consider the most up-to-date evidence-based methods and latest research.
I am a University of Washington and UCSF-trained addiction and general psychiatrist and scientist. I carry a small panel of patients so that I can best deliver comprehensive and personalized care. I specialize in treating complex addiction issues, dual-diagnoses such as ADHD and depression combined with substance use, and behavioral addictions such as gambling. I tailor treatment based on the individual, and I have expertise with both abstinence and harm-reduction approaches to recovery. In designing a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan, I consider the most up-to-date evidence-based methods and latest research.
(415) 843-6288 View (415) 843-6288
Photo of Tracy Henry - MindFull Balance, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MindFull Balance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. With a specialized focus on ADHD, depression, anxiety, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and women's health, my goal is to empower patients through personalized treatment plans that promote healing and well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. With a specialized focus on ADHD, depression, anxiety, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and women's health, my goal is to empower patients through personalized treatment plans that promote healing and well-being.
(213) 645-2164 View (213) 645-2164
Photo of Marvelys Jayne Barrio, DNP, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marvelys Jayne Barrio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Jayne Barrio, DNP, FNP-C. With 7 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in patient care and education. My patients come first and I enjoy providing care to individuals from other cultures and all walks of life. I practice evidence based care while supporting a holistic model of care that recognize mind, body and spirit. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or weight loss challenges. They seek compassionate, evidence-based care to regain control of their mental and physical well-being. Their goal is to build resilience, develop healthier habits.
Hello, I'm Jayne Barrio, DNP, FNP-C. With 7 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in patient care and education. My patients come first and I enjoy providing care to individuals from other cultures and all walks of life. I practice evidence based care while supporting a holistic model of care that recognize mind, body and spirit. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or weight loss challenges. They seek compassionate, evidence-based care to regain control of their mental and physical well-being. Their goal is to build resilience, develop healthier habits.
(813) 445-6932 View (813) 445-6932
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(415) 319-9538 View (415) 319-9538
Photo of Shirley Antoinette Remmers-Mesman, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shirley Antoinette Remmers-Mesman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in emergency nursing, I am deeply committed to providing integrative and holistic care. My practice is built on the foundation of treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, which means focusing on both mental and physical well-being.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in emergency nursing, I am deeply committed to providing integrative and holistic care. My practice is built on the foundation of treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, which means focusing on both mental and physical well-being.
(657) 413-5961 View (657) 413-5961
Photo of Yasha Rastgar, MD, Psychiatrist
Yasha Rastgar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an adult and addiction psychiatrist and founder of Elevate Mind and Wellness. I earned my Bachelors Degree with Distinction in Biopsychology from the University of Michigan and my MD Degree from The George Washington University, where I obtained a top-tier medical education in the nation's capital. During residency, I was awarded the coveted Resident of the Year award for distinguished performance and was subsequently granted the title of Chief Resident. My strong interest in education has allowed me to lead conferences in adult and geriatric psychiatry, underscoring my commitment to providing exceptional patient care.
I am an adult and addiction psychiatrist and founder of Elevate Mind and Wellness. I earned my Bachelors Degree with Distinction in Biopsychology from the University of Michigan and my MD Degree from The George Washington University, where I obtained a top-tier medical education in the nation's capital. During residency, I was awarded the coveted Resident of the Year award for distinguished performance and was subsequently granted the title of Chief Resident. My strong interest in education has allowed me to lead conferences in adult and geriatric psychiatry, underscoring my commitment to providing exceptional patient care.
(424) 424-7534 View (424) 424-7534
Photo of Sidney A Edsall, MD, DABMA, Psychiatrist
Sidney A Edsall
Psychiatrist, MD, DABMA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Balancing the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing of each of my clients in relationship to others and within community is essential for whole-being health and holistic healing. I work with individuals who are willing to take an active role in their health and recovery, to not just survive but to thrive in living more fully, reaching their goals and fullest potentials in life.
Balancing the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing of each of my clients in relationship to others and within community is essential for whole-being health and holistic healing. I work with individuals who are willing to take an active role in their health and recovery, to not just survive but to thrive in living more fully, reaching their goals and fullest potentials in life.
(415) 903-1898 View (415) 903-1898
Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry San Francisco, MD, Psychiatrist
Remedy Psychiatry San Francisco
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling in your day to day? With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatric appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. Our services include an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or your comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
Are you struggling in your day to day? With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatric appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. Our services include an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or your comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
(310) 943-1267 View (310) 943-1267
Photo of Isaac Kuffour, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Isaac Kuffour
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, often compounded by trauma or substance abuse. They feel misunderstood and struggle with daily life. They need compassionate, trauma-informed care, personalized treatment, and support with coping skills and medication management. Their goals include regaining emotional stability, improving relationships, and rebuilding self-worth. They want to feel heard and empowered, seeking lasting recovery and a fulfilling, balanced life.
My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, often compounded by trauma or substance abuse. They feel misunderstood and struggle with daily life. They need compassionate, trauma-informed care, personalized treatment, and support with coping skills and medication management. Their goals include regaining emotional stability, improving relationships, and rebuilding self-worth. They want to feel heard and empowered, seeking lasting recovery and a fulfilling, balanced life.
(323) 372-9796 View (323) 372-9796
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Dr, Psychiatrist
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, Dr
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(628) 277-8106 View (628) 277-8106
Photo of Katia Garcia, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katia Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult facing anxiety, depression, or addiction, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They struggle with managing their emotions, finding balance, and maintaining healthy habits. Their goals are to regain control, reduce symptoms, and improve overall well-being. They want a compassionate, personalized approach that empowers them to heal and grow. They seek tools to build resilience, manage stress, and lead a more fulfilling, balanced life, free from their struggles.
My ideal client is an adult facing anxiety, depression, or addiction, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They struggle with managing their emotions, finding balance, and maintaining healthy habits. Their goals are to regain control, reduce symptoms, and improve overall well-being. They want a compassionate, personalized approach that empowers them to heal and grow. They seek tools to build resilience, manage stress, and lead a more fulfilling, balanced life, free from their struggles.
(323) 372-9496 View (323) 372-9496
Photo of Joy Nnebe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joy Nnebe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, and Welcome to PillarPoint Wellness. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience, I create a safe, compassionate space where healing begins with trust and understanding. My goal is to help you feel empowered, supported, and seen. Together, we’ll design a tailored plan with therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes to guide you toward balance, resilience, and thriving
Hi, and Welcome to PillarPoint Wellness. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience, I create a safe, compassionate space where healing begins with trust and understanding. My goal is to help you feel empowered, supported, and seen. Together, we’ll design a tailored plan with therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes to guide you toward balance, resilience, and thriving
(916) 957-2344 View (916) 957-2344
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94112

20+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in 94112 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
95% Depression
90% Medication Management
81% Bipolar Disorder
76% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 94112 see their clients

61% Online Only
39% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94112?

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.