Psychiatrists in 94120

Photo of Elizabeth A Mayer, Psychiatrist, MD
Elizabeth A Mayer
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
For over 30 years I've been helping people address emotional suffering through psychotherapy and/or medication, with the aim of clarifying the sources of problems and facilitating freer solutions . My style is direct, open and collaborative. I strive with warmth and empathy to foster a discussion where feelings and thoughts may be explored, better understood and practically managed so they're less likely to cause symptoms like sadness, anxiety, loneliness, strained relationships, or physical illness. I also specialize in addressing problems with creativity, low self esteem, emptiness, lack of meaning and sexual concerns.
For over 30 years I've been helping people address emotional suffering through psychotherapy and/or medication, with the aim of clarifying the sources of problems and facilitating freer solutions . My style is direct, open and collaborative. I strive with warmth and empathy to foster a discussion where feelings and thoughts may be explored, better understood and practically managed so they're less likely to cause symptoms like sadness, anxiety, loneliness, strained relationships, or physical illness. I also specialize in addressing problems with creativity, low self esteem, emptiness, lack of meaning and sexual concerns.
(415) 885-6681 View (415) 885-6681

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Photo of Ozioma Enworom, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP, FNP
Ozioma Enworom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello and welcome! As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care is holistic. I truly believe understanding the connection between the mind, body, and spirit is integral to achieving overall wellness. I enjoy working with individuals across the entire human lifespan and carefully take into consideration every individual’s cultural, social, economic, sexual, and religious values when developing a treatment plan. I look forward to collaborating with you on your journey towards mental health.
Hello and welcome! As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care is holistic. I truly believe understanding the connection between the mind, body, and spirit is integral to achieving overall wellness. I enjoy working with individuals across the entire human lifespan and carefully take into consideration every individual’s cultural, social, economic, sexual, and religious values when developing a treatment plan. I look forward to collaborating with you on your journey towards mental health.
(424) 340-5690 View (424) 340-5690
Photo of Keren Friedman, Psychiatrist, MD
Keren Friedman
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94102
I am a board certified psychiatrist and my practice includes the treatment of adults and adolescents ages 16 and older. Having received specialty training in Women's Mental Health, I am experienced with mood and anxiety disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Mental health and psychiatric symptoms are complex, and affected both by brain chemistry and environmental factors. I listen closely to understand the details of a patient's life in order to determine the best course of treatment. When medication is indicated, I strive to develop safe and effective regimens with my patients.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and my practice includes the treatment of adults and adolescents ages 16 and older. Having received specialty training in Women's Mental Health, I am experienced with mood and anxiety disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Mental health and psychiatric symptoms are complex, and affected both by brain chemistry and environmental factors. I listen closely to understand the details of a patient's life in order to determine the best course of treatment. When medication is indicated, I strive to develop safe and effective regimens with my patients.
(323) 716-1224 View (323) 716-1224
Photo of Christianne Zah-Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christianne Zah-Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Christianne Zah-Weber and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I believe that the best outcomes are achieved when treatment outcomes are aimed at wholeness for the whole person: body, mind, spirit, and emotions. I approach patient care from a whole-person perspective and recognize how lifestyle, environment, systems, and situational factors influence individual states of well-being. I enjoy working with a diverse patient population and providing care from an inclusive framework that honors cultures and traditions that are valued by patients.
My name is Christianne Zah-Weber and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I believe that the best outcomes are achieved when treatment outcomes are aimed at wholeness for the whole person: body, mind, spirit, and emotions. I approach patient care from a whole-person perspective and recognize how lifestyle, environment, systems, and situational factors influence individual states of well-being. I enjoy working with a diverse patient population and providing care from an inclusive framework that honors cultures and traditions that are valued by patients.
(619) 367-4753 View (619) 367-4753
Photo of Dr. Lisa Ekeanyanwu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lisa Ekeanyanwu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Lisa Ekeanyanwu, MD is a board eligible Psychiatrist. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Stanford. She has experience providing patients with compassionate psychiatric care. Dr. Ekeanyanwu's practice centers on pharmacotherapy. She offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy, to treat several types of psychiatric conditions. Occasionally she may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Lisa Ekeanyanwu, MD is a board eligible Psychiatrist. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Stanford. She has experience providing patients with compassionate psychiatric care. Dr. Ekeanyanwu's practice centers on pharmacotherapy. She offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy, to treat several types of psychiatric conditions. Occasionally she may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
(415) 966-0668 View (415) 966-0668
Photo of Gol Ara, Psychiatrist, MD
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(424) 526-4198 View (424) 526-4198
Photo of Sara Timtim, Psychiatrist, MD
Sara Timtim
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Direct online booking and accepting new patients. Since my undergrad years at Stanford, psychiatry has been my passion. I specialize in helping women gain agency in their romantic relationships by removing mental health obstacles. Treating conditions like PTSD, various kinds of mood instability, and anxiety, as well as exploring root issues (eg childhood family experiences) empowers people to make sound, thoughtful decisions in choosing partners and nurturing fulfilling relationships. I take a psychodynamic + DBT skills approach alongside evidence-based medicine, grounded in the scientific literature.
Direct online booking and accepting new patients. Since my undergrad years at Stanford, psychiatry has been my passion. I specialize in helping women gain agency in their romantic relationships by removing mental health obstacles. Treating conditions like PTSD, various kinds of mood instability, and anxiety, as well as exploring root issues (eg childhood family experiences) empowers people to make sound, thoughtful decisions in choosing partners and nurturing fulfilling relationships. I take a psychodynamic + DBT skills approach alongside evidence-based medicine, grounded in the scientific literature.
(415) 903-6988 View (415) 903-6988
Photo of Eilly Yang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
Eilly Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. We can delve into integrative psychiatry where lab work and supplements play a role. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. I look forward to providing compassionate psychiatric care, and will aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. We can delve into integrative psychiatry where lab work and supplements play a role. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. I look forward to providing compassionate psychiatric care, and will aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
(415) 993-6324 View (415) 993-6324
Photo of Shannon Wozniak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Shannon Wozniak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Shannon is a provider with 20 years of experience in psychopharmacology and medication management. Her clinical roles have included partnerships with various healthcare startups, hospital and community mental health affiliations, academics and the director of psychiatric services at a Bay Area nonprofit. In her private practice she values a collaborative treatment approach with her clients.
Shannon is a provider with 20 years of experience in psychopharmacology and medication management. Her clinical roles have included partnerships with various healthcare startups, hospital and community mental health affiliations, academics and the director of psychiatric services at a Bay Area nonprofit. In her private practice she values a collaborative treatment approach with her clients.
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Photo of Matthew Campbell, Psychiatrist, MD
Matthew Campbell
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94118
Dr. Matthew Campbell utilizes the most effective medications, evidence-based alternatives, and psychotherapies to help you recover and heal from addictions, trauma, depression, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD. He received his medical degree from the University of Washington. He completed psychiatry residency and an addiction fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein. He accepts commercial insurance, provides telehealth throughout California, In person treatment in Los Angeles, and works with patients 18-64.
Dr. Matthew Campbell utilizes the most effective medications, evidence-based alternatives, and psychotherapies to help you recover and heal from addictions, trauma, depression, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD. He received his medical degree from the University of Washington. He completed psychiatry residency and an addiction fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein. He accepts commercial insurance, provides telehealth throughout California, In person treatment in Los Angeles, and works with patients 18-64.
(213) 497-6778 View (213) 497-6778
Photo of Arman Danielyan, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP
Arman Danielyan
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Dr. Danielyan offers psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment for various psychiatric conditions in youth and young adults. Those include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, psychotic illnesses, autism spectrum conditions and others. Dr. Danielyan's practice covers the East Bay area, including Walnut Creek and Lafayette, CA. For more information, including the testimonials from the patients, please visit www.baypsychiatry.com.
Dr. Danielyan offers psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment for various psychiatric conditions in youth and young adults. Those include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, psychotic illnesses, autism spectrum conditions and others. Dr. Danielyan's practice covers the East Bay area, including Walnut Creek and Lafayette, CA. For more information, including the testimonials from the patients, please visit www.baypsychiatry.com.
(925) 230-9413 View (925) 230-9413
Photo of Dr. Richa Bhatia Md Inc, Psychiatrist
Dr. Richa Bhatia Md Inc
Psychiatrist
Danville, CA 94526
Currently accepting new patients: Dr Richa Bhatia is a double board certified Adult, Child & Adolescent psychiatrist with over 15 years of clinical experience, including working as Medical director at leading academic medical centers such as Dartmouth & in the community. Dedicated to high quality care, she offers empathic individual psychotherapy & judicious medication management when medications are needed. Her practice is accepting patients (ages 5 to 60) in the San Francisco Bay Area who need help with Anxiety, OCD, low self-worth, PTSD, coping with stressors, & relationship challenges. This practice does not accept insurance.
Currently accepting new patients: Dr Richa Bhatia is a double board certified Adult, Child & Adolescent psychiatrist with over 15 years of clinical experience, including working as Medical director at leading academic medical centers such as Dartmouth & in the community. Dedicated to high quality care, she offers empathic individual psychotherapy & judicious medication management when medications are needed. Her practice is accepting patients (ages 5 to 60) in the San Francisco Bay Area who need help with Anxiety, OCD, low self-worth, PTSD, coping with stressors, & relationship challenges. This practice does not accept insurance.
(341) 230-1861 View (341) 230-1861
Photo of Markus Ploesser - Open Mind Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Open Mind Health
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. We at Open Mind Health offer a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. We at Open Mind Health offer a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
(619) 949-0858 View (619) 949-0858
Photo of Lois Parkison, Psychiatrist, MD
Lois Parkison
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94122
Waitlist for new clients
I bring empathy as well as experience to every new client, thinking with you about your symptoms and how best to address them with a comprehensive treatment plan.
I bring empathy as well as experience to every new client, thinking with you about your symptoms and how best to address them with a comprehensive treatment plan.
(415) 824-1448 View (415) 824-1448
Heidemarie Ernst
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Welcome to my profile in Psychology Today. I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who has provided mental health care to a variety of populations over the last 18 years. In my private practice, I see adults over 18 years old, and I have expertise with diagnoses, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When I first meet new patients, they are frequently unsure what kind of treatment they might benefit from. By providing a warm and collaborative environment, I help the patients understand their needs and identify treatment options, such a medications, therapy, or a combination of both. I strongly believe that ‘no patient is a diagnosis’ – instead, we are all a complex combination of genetic predisposition, upbringing, and other influences that make us the people we are.
Welcome to my profile in Psychology Today. I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who has provided mental health care to a variety of populations over the last 18 years. In my private practice, I see adults over 18 years old, and I have expertise with diagnoses, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When I first meet new patients, they are frequently unsure what kind of treatment they might benefit from. By providing a warm and collaborative environment, I help the patients understand their needs and identify treatment options, such a medications, therapy, or a combination of both. I strongly believe that ‘no patient is a diagnosis’ – instead, we are all a complex combination of genetic predisposition, upbringing, and other influences that make us the people we are.
(650) 282-3962 View (650) 282-3962
Photo of Ann Irorere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ann Irorere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues.
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues.
(650) 977-2248 View (650) 977-2248
Photo of Mehri Brown, Psychiatrist, MD
Mehri Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94115
Working together to achieve attainable goals. Everyone deserves peace of mind and a sense of self-worth. Psychotherapy is very effective for some. Medications are sometimes necessary. Sometimes both.
Working together to achieve attainable goals. Everyone deserves peace of mind and a sense of self-worth. Psychotherapy is very effective for some. Medications are sometimes necessary. Sometimes both.
(415) 649-1832 View (415) 649-1832
Photo of Cecilia Gonzalez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cecilia Gonzalez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for working with vulnerable populations. My extensive background as a Mental Health Registered Nurse includes experience in urgent care, inpatient acute settings, and providing care for Veterans with conditions such as PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). I am bilingual, which enables me to connect deeply with diverse communities, particularly the Hispanic population, where I aspire to educate and empower individuals about mental health.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for working with vulnerable populations. My extensive background as a Mental Health Registered Nurse includes experience in urgent care, inpatient acute settings, and providing care for Veterans with conditions such as PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). I am bilingual, which enables me to connect deeply with diverse communities, particularly the Hispanic population, where I aspire to educate and empower individuals about mental health.
(510) 761-3961 View (510) 761-3961
Photo of Dr. Marlynn Wei - Dr. Marlynn Wei, MD, JD, Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Dr. Marlynn Wei, MD, JD
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a holistic and compassionate approach to reducing anxiety and stress? I am a Harvard- and Yale-trained integrative psychiatrist, therapist, anxiety expert, and author of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Yoga. I specialize in working with professionals across industries, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives in finance, tech, startups, law, medicine, and innovative fields. We will work together toward your goals, whether it is to improve life-work balance, reduce stress, improve relationships, envision your career, or find a fulfilling future.
Are you looking for a holistic and compassionate approach to reducing anxiety and stress? I am a Harvard- and Yale-trained integrative psychiatrist, therapist, anxiety expert, and author of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Yoga. I specialize in working with professionals across industries, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives in finance, tech, startups, law, medicine, and innovative fields. We will work together toward your goals, whether it is to improve life-work balance, reduce stress, improve relationships, envision your career, or find a fulfilling future.
(415) 855-7654 View (415) 855-7654
Photo of Halee Fullerton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
(510) 455-5646 View (510) 455-5646

See more therapy options for 94120

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94120

< 10

Psychiatrists in 94120 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Infertility
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Parenting

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in 94120 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94120?

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.