Psychiatrists in 94403

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(650) 881-4012 View (650) 881-4012
Photo of Steven James Pennybaker, MD, Psychiatrist
Steven James Pennybaker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am accepting patients for medication management, ketamine, and TMS. I am not available for weekly therapy. If you are looking to be a new patient, send me a message about your goals, treatment desired, and insurance carrier and if I have availability we will reach out! I am a psychiatrist who works with patients with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and psychotic illness. I enjoy working with patients and finding a treatment plan that works for them.
I am accepting patients for medication management, ketamine, and TMS. I am not available for weekly therapy. If you are looking to be a new patient, send me a message about your goals, treatment desired, and insurance carrier and if I have availability we will reach out! I am a psychiatrist who works with patients with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and psychotic illness. I enjoy working with patients and finding a treatment plan that works for them.
(415) 687-5889 View (415) 687-5889
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
View
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente , MD , Psychiatrist
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(650) 629-0903 View (650) 629-0903
Photo of Sarah Leiderman, PA-C , Physician Assistant
Sarah Leiderman
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(650) 649-6285 View (650) 649-6285
Photo of Sir Norman Melancon, MD, Psychiatrist
Sir Norman Melancon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
There may be parts of your life and your identity that have been undernourished or ignored. Something is going on within you and around you that is causing distress and suffering. Perhaps, that experience is more complicated because of your gender, culture, religion, profession, and you are looking for someone with both the medical tools and the life experience to be able to understand you. People who are drawn to work with me are seeking a doctor who they can connect with, not based on the names of their disorders, but rather because they know that they can share the hidden parts of themselves and receive expert medical care.
There may be parts of your life and your identity that have been undernourished or ignored. Something is going on within you and around you that is causing distress and suffering. Perhaps, that experience is more complicated because of your gender, culture, religion, profession, and you are looking for someone with both the medical tools and the life experience to be able to understand you. People who are drawn to work with me are seeking a doctor who they can connect with, not based on the names of their disorders, but rather because they know that they can share the hidden parts of themselves and receive expert medical care.
(415) 965-8504 View (415) 965-8504
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(909) 415-5237 View (909) 415-5237
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(650) 629-0875 View (650) 629-0875
Photo of Minyang Mao - Minyang Mao, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Minyang Mao, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist whose practice is shaped by three core values: Caring, Comprehensive, and Confidential. Caring - Medical care too often makes patients to feel like they are just a number - dismissed, rushed, not heard, and not understood. One of my core values as a psychiatrist is to establish a caring treatment relationship with my patients that is guided by my patients' priorities and preferences, and is characterized by trust and open dialogue. I believe the quality of my relationship with my patient is the foundation to treatment success.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist whose practice is shaped by three core values: Caring, Comprehensive, and Confidential. Caring - Medical care too often makes patients to feel like they are just a number - dismissed, rushed, not heard, and not understood. One of my core values as a psychiatrist is to establish a caring treatment relationship with my patients that is guided by my patients' priorities and preferences, and is characterized by trust and open dialogue. I believe the quality of my relationship with my patient is the foundation to treatment success.
(650) 539-5581 View (650) 539-5581

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Stephen Seager, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephen Seager
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Together with my team of experienced and compassionate mental health providers, I offer personalized, comprehensive treatment for ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and other mental health concerns. I conduct thorough psychiatric assessments with a highly trained NP or PA, and our small team approach will ensure you always have great access to care with an expert who really knows and cares about you as an individual. While I specialize in psychiatric assessments and medications, I also work closely with highly trained therapists and provide referrals for individual and couples therapy if needed.
Together with my team of experienced and compassionate mental health providers, I offer personalized, comprehensive treatment for ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and other mental health concerns. I conduct thorough psychiatric assessments with a highly trained NP or PA, and our small team approach will ensure you always have great access to care with an expert who really knows and cares about you as an individual. While I specialize in psychiatric assessments and medications, I also work closely with highly trained therapists and provide referrals for individual and couples therapy if needed.
(510) 272-7095 View (510) 272-7095
Photo of Tameka Dyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
(310) 388-4389 View (310) 388-4389
Photo of Torri Taylor-Spencer, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Torri Taylor-Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate prescriber that enjoys helping patients achieve their goals of emotional health and stability. I specialize in treating underserved members of the BIPOC and marginalized communities, young/teen parents, & those who have experienced trauma and other adverse childhood experiences (ACES). I have a welcoming interpersonal style with flexible availability to support your lifestyle.
I am passionate prescriber that enjoys helping patients achieve their goals of emotional health and stability. I specialize in treating underserved members of the BIPOC and marginalized communities, young/teen parents, & those who have experienced trauma and other adverse childhood experiences (ACES). I have a welcoming interpersonal style with flexible availability to support your lifestyle.
(408) 337-9122 View (408) 337-9122
Photo of Adaljiza Tavera, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adaljiza Tavera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am passionately led to psychiatry because I cherish this personal approach to medicine and thrive in the process of building relationships with patients. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to my patients.
I am passionately led to psychiatry because I cherish this personal approach to medicine and thrive in the process of building relationships with patients. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to my patients.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Rachel Vinkey, MD, Psychiatrist
Rachel Vinkey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Not accepting new clients
I completed my residency training at Harvard’s Cambridge Hospital and I am a former UCSF faculty member. I am Board Certified with over twenty-five years experience in psychotherapy and medication management. I see adults who are working their way through life stressors and transitions and may be experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
I completed my residency training at Harvard’s Cambridge Hospital and I am a former UCSF faculty member. I am Board Certified with over twenty-five years experience in psychotherapy and medication management. I see adults who are working their way through life stressors and transitions and may be experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
(510) 405-1934 View (510) 405-1934
Photo of April Clark - Cornerstone Child and Adult Integrative Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cornerstone Child and Adult Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Here for children and adults. Specializing in anxiety, depression. Also treating ADHD and trauma responses. I am passionate about listening to YOUR story and providing specific personalized psychiatric treatments with both natural and evidence based pharmacologic options. I integrate the most up to date psychiatry treatments with natural supplementation along with feasible life style changes that help patients live more peacefully with less symptoms. Through added therapy I am here to help make a way to some normalcy and more peaceful functionings of daily living. Contact directly to verify insurances.
Here for children and adults. Specializing in anxiety, depression. Also treating ADHD and trauma responses. I am passionate about listening to YOUR story and providing specific personalized psychiatric treatments with both natural and evidence based pharmacologic options. I integrate the most up to date psychiatry treatments with natural supplementation along with feasible life style changes that help patients live more peacefully with less symptoms. Through added therapy I am here to help make a way to some normalcy and more peaceful functionings of daily living. Contact directly to verify insurances.
(530) 802-8007 View (530) 802-8007
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(209) 553-6101 View (209) 553-6101
Photo of Adeshewa Adekunbi, MD, Psychiatrist
Adeshewa Adekunbi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a general and child and adolescent trained psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disturbances and substance related and addictive disorders.
I am a general and child and adolescent trained psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disturbances and substance related and addictive disorders.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Michael V Hipolito - Michael Hipolito, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Hipolito, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I'm a UCSF-trained psychiatrist offering both individual psychotherapy and medication management services. Over the past 10 years, I've enjoyed working with patients from diverse backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ community, first generation Americans, immigrants, college and grad students, and professionals across various industries. Patients come to me because they feel stuck professionally or personally. They'd like to have a deeper understanding of themselves and find ways to overcome struggles and past traumas in order to live a life that's best aligned with their values.
I'm a UCSF-trained psychiatrist offering both individual psychotherapy and medication management services. Over the past 10 years, I've enjoyed working with patients from diverse backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ community, first generation Americans, immigrants, college and grad students, and professionals across various industries. Patients come to me because they feel stuck professionally or personally. They'd like to have a deeper understanding of themselves and find ways to overcome struggles and past traumas in order to live a life that's best aligned with their values.
(415) 942-8317 View (415) 942-8317
Photo of Jasbir Virk, MD, Psychiatrist
Jasbir Virk
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
It is a unique privilege to listen and connect with patients, to understand one's story, and to be a part of their healing process. My goal is to help individuals navigate the struggles, by finding comprehensive ways to address their mental health needs.
It is a unique privilege to listen and connect with patients, to understand one's story, and to be a part of their healing process. My goal is to help individuals navigate the struggles, by finding comprehensive ways to address their mental health needs.
(844) 748-2375 View (844) 748-2375
Photo of Simret Nanda, MD, Psychiatrist
Simret Nanda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
My ideal client could be a child, adolescent or an adult that wants and needs to get psychiatric care. I am an open-minded and holistic psychiatrist who takes the whole person into account when I am treating him/her. I practice the biopsychosocial model and I also understand that not all treatment modalities work for all people. I tailor treatment goals and strategies for each individual person. I am also a big believer in combining diet, exercise, acupuncture, reiki, massage, physical therapy, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, psychoeducation, groups into the treatment plan and focusing on wellness as well.
My ideal client could be a child, adolescent or an adult that wants and needs to get psychiatric care. I am an open-minded and holistic psychiatrist who takes the whole person into account when I am treating him/her. I practice the biopsychosocial model and I also understand that not all treatment modalities work for all people. I tailor treatment goals and strategies for each individual person. I am also a big believer in combining diet, exercise, acupuncture, reiki, massage, physical therapy, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, psychoeducation, groups into the treatment plan and focusing on wellness as well.
(925) 744-8449 View (925) 744-8449

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94403

< 10

Psychiatrists in 94403 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
100% Stress
89% Depression
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Sleep or Insomnia
89% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 94403 see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

87% Male
13% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94403?

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.