Psychiatrists in 94560

Photo of Jesika Aboagye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jesika Aboagye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Emphatic, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of exceptional expertise in psychiatric nursing care and mental health services. My goal is to create positive relationships with my clients, provide compassionate care and provide them with results that improve their overall quality of life. I'm a highly eager individual that is invested in my client's well-being and hope to provide impactful transformations.
Emphatic, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of exceptional expertise in psychiatric nursing care and mental health services. My goal is to create positive relationships with my clients, provide compassionate care and provide them with results that improve their overall quality of life. I'm a highly eager individual that is invested in my client's well-being and hope to provide impactful transformations.
(341) 218-3487 View (341) 218-3487
Photo of Arceli Oliva, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Arceli Oliva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Arceli Oliva. You have taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life.
Welcome! I'm Arceli Oliva. You have taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life.
(341) 895-4527 View (341) 895-4527
Photo of Adijat Ligali, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Adijat Ligali
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome, my name is Adijat Ligali. The first step to healing is asking for help when it is required. You are in the right place and with the right provider. I strive to provide a judgment-free and safe place for all my clients to express themselves and be part of a team. In this relationship, I am here to listen and together we make the decision that is best for you and your situation. I work together with clients on different issues ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, and others that might hinder you from being your best version.
Welcome, my name is Adijat Ligali. The first step to healing is asking for help when it is required. You are in the right place and with the right provider. I strive to provide a judgment-free and safe place for all my clients to express themselves and be part of a team. In this relationship, I am here to listen and together we make the decision that is best for you and your situation. I work together with clients on different issues ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, and others that might hinder you from being your best version.
(341) 201-5953 View (341) 201-5953
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
Newark, CA 94560
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
(341) 895-6386 View (341) 895-6386
Photo of Ryan Thebo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
1 Endorsed
Newark, CA 94560
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(341) 888-6209 View (341) 888-6209
Photo of Manpreet Sandhu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Manpreet Sandhu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals achieve better mental health. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, Schizophrenia, insomnia, and more. My approach is compassionate and patient-centered, focusing on creating personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward building balance, confidence, and well-being in your life.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals achieve better mental health. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, Schizophrenia, insomnia, and more. My approach is compassionate and patient-centered, focusing on creating personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward building balance, confidence, and well-being in your life.
(341) 218-3152 View (341) 218-3152
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
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
(341) 895-7354 View (341) 895-7354
Photo of Kyle Lapidus - Journey Clinical - Psychiatry & Therapy, Psychiatrist, PhD
Journey Clinical - Psychiatry & Therapy
Psychiatrist, PhD
Online Only
We offer a range of psychiatric services to meet your needs, including psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for eligible patients. Our psychiatric medication management program includes complete management of all psychiatric medications, on-demand access to our medical team, a personalized mental health treatment plan, an in-depth initial medical intake, and regular medical check-ins and outcome monitoring. Our patients also participate in ongoing therapy through our extensive network of trained psychotherapists, with modalities like EMDR, Couples Therapy, IFS, and more.
We offer a range of psychiatric services to meet your needs, including psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for eligible patients. Our psychiatric medication management program includes complete management of all psychiatric medications, on-demand access to our medical team, a personalized mental health treatment plan, an in-depth initial medical intake, and regular medical check-ins and outcome monitoring. Our patients also participate in ongoing therapy through our extensive network of trained psychotherapists, with modalities like EMDR, Couples Therapy, IFS, and more.
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Photo of Anthony Leslie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Anthony Leslie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master’s in Public Health and Nursing, bringing over a decade of diverse healthcare experience. My advanced clinical training from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, along with hands-on expertise in psychiatric care, public health, and education, enables me to provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health services.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master’s in Public Health and Nursing, bringing over a decade of diverse healthcare experience. My advanced clinical training from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, along with hands-on expertise in psychiatric care, public health, and education, enables me to provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health services.
(949) 334-2174 View (949) 334-2174
Photo of Priscilla Otubuah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Priscilla Otubuah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Priscilla Naamomo Otubuah (Omanye Behavioral Health) is a dually board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She completed her Registered Nursing Degree in 2006 and worked in Emergency Room, Pediatrics, Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics-Adolescents-Adults Behavioral Health and Chemical Dependency Units. She then went on to receive a Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing.
Dr. Priscilla Naamomo Otubuah (Omanye Behavioral Health) is a dually board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She completed her Registered Nursing Degree in 2006 and worked in Emergency Room, Pediatrics, Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics-Adolescents-Adults Behavioral Health and Chemical Dependency Units. She then went on to receive a Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing.
(951) 337-4468 View (951) 337-4468
Photo of May Vang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
May Vang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
(206) 672-7730 View (206) 672-7730
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(707) 986-0487 View (707) 986-0487
Photo of Mitzi Llamas Cabaltica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Mitzi Llamas Cabaltica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in California, committed to providing high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to adults. Fluent in both Tagalog and Cebuano, I strive to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of their mental health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in California, committed to providing high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to adults. Fluent in both Tagalog and Cebuano, I strive to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of their mental health.
(562) 837-2609 View (562) 837-2609
Photo of Veronica Kang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Veronica Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I provide holistic, compassionate mental health care that integrates medication management, therapy, and a collaborative approach. My focus is on building a strong partnership with clients to set realistic goals and promote mental well-being.
I provide holistic, compassionate mental health care that integrates medication management, therapy, and a collaborative approach. My focus is on building a strong partnership with clients to set realistic goals and promote mental well-being.
(657) 385-7580 View (657) 385-7580
Photo of Stephanie Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Reed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. My practice focuses on helping people through a combination of medication (if needed) and other lifestyle or behavioral interventions that may help recovery and reaching personal goals. I treat adults of all ages for a broad range of conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I use an eclectic approach to helping people uncover and understand the nature of the struggles they are having and help us come to an effective treatment plan together.
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Reed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. My practice focuses on helping people through a combination of medication (if needed) and other lifestyle or behavioral interventions that may help recovery and reaching personal goals. I treat adults of all ages for a broad range of conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I use an eclectic approach to helping people uncover and understand the nature of the struggles they are having and help us come to an effective treatment plan together.
(760) 875-0915 View (760) 875-0915

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cris Bissonnette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Cris Bissonnette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Berkeley, CA 94709
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate and competent care to everyone who comes into my office. My belief is that mental and emotional wellness is a nonlinear process, often characterized by periods of stability, growth, and occasional setbacks- and I am here to support clients in whatever stage they are in with compassion and non-judgment.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate and competent care to everyone who comes into my office. My belief is that mental and emotional wellness is a nonlinear process, often characterized by periods of stability, growth, and occasional setbacks- and I am here to support clients in whatever stage they are in with compassion and non-judgment.
View
Photo of Wes Mills, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Wes Mills
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Hi, I’m Wes Mills, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance use, and psychotic disorders. My background includes working in inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as telemedicine, which allows me to meet people where they are—both literally and emotionally.
Hi, I’m Wes Mills, a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance use, and psychotic disorders. My background includes working in inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as telemedicine, which allows me to meet people where they are—both literally and emotionally.
(904) 842-2382 View (904) 842-2382
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
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
(408) 357-2634 View (408) 357-2634
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(925) 267-6937 View (925) 267-6937
Photo of Cinthia Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Now, Welcoming New Patients! We know asking for help is a challenging 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 a challenging 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.
(650) 648-4886 View (650) 648-4886

See more therapy options for 94560

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94560

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 94560 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
80% Depression
73% Medication Management
67% Trauma and PTSD
60% ADHD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Other
67% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 94560 see their clients

86% Online Only
14% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94560?

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.