Psychiatrists in 94707

Photo of Les Tsang - berkeley behavioral health & wellness, Psychiatrist, DO
Life is hard. Relationships are stressful. Welcome to berkeley behavioral health & wellness. We’re here to help. We offer treatment for a full range of behavioral health conditions in an environment that is supportive, collaborative and personalized to each individual. Dr. Tsang is a UCLA-trained, board certified Psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience specializing in Ketamine treatment and medication management.
Life is hard. Relationships are stressful. Welcome to berkeley behavioral health & wellness. We’re here to help. We offer treatment for a full range of behavioral health conditions in an environment that is supportive, collaborative and personalized to each individual. Dr. Tsang is a UCLA-trained, board certified Psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience specializing in Ketamine treatment and medication management.
(510) 462-5510 View (510) 462-5510
Photo of Bianca Best, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bianca Best
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
(213) 261-2301 View (213) 261-2301
Photo of Sauntrice O'Quin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sauntrice O'Quin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
(323) 405-9785 View (323) 405-9785
Photo of Mariam Fazil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
(341) 999-5529 View (341) 999-5529
Photo of Whitney Smith - K. Whitney Smith, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
K. Whitney Smith, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
(415) 275-8280 View (415) 275-8280
Photo of Dr. Emily R Watters, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Emily R Watters
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I have practiced as a licensed psychiatrist for 16 years and have a psychotherapy-based practice. I offer psychiatric care that includes psychodynamic psychotherapy and incorporates Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) concepts and skills. I focus on women's mental health and have expertise in trauma-related issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD and relationships. If you are an adult with ADHD, you are likely dealing with multiple overlapping issues and can find significant relief in working together.
I have practiced as a licensed psychiatrist for 16 years and have a psychotherapy-based practice. I offer psychiatric care that includes psychodynamic psychotherapy and incorporates Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) concepts and skills. I focus on women's mental health and have expertise in trauma-related issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD and relationships. If you are an adult with ADHD, you are likely dealing with multiple overlapping issues and can find significant relief in working together.
(510) 662-0971 View (510) 662-0971
Photo of Ravi Hariprasad, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA
Ravi Hariprasad
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA
Serves Area
I am a Harvard (MGH) trained psychiatrist, an engineer and a serial entrepreneur. As an integrative physician, I am ambidextrous in performing as a psychopharmacologist, an Ayurvedic healer, a therapist, and a mindful life coach. Together we collaborate closely to identify and remove obstacles to wellness, to reduce suffering, and to gain a personal understanding of the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Your personal preferences and strengths guide our approach. Quite simply, I approach problem solving and treatment planning differently.
I am a Harvard (MGH) trained psychiatrist, an engineer and a serial entrepreneur. As an integrative physician, I am ambidextrous in performing as a psychopharmacologist, an Ayurvedic healer, a therapist, and a mindful life coach. Together we collaborate closely to identify and remove obstacles to wellness, to reduce suffering, and to gain a personal understanding of the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Your personal preferences and strengths guide our approach. Quite simply, I approach problem solving and treatment planning differently.
(415) 360-0856 View (415) 360-0856
Photo of Amy Leung, Psychiatrist, MD
Amy Leung
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am board certified and offer diagnostic assessments and treatment with psychotherapy, medication-assisted psychotherapy, and medication management. I completed training at Duke University Medical Center but continue to engage in ongoing studies that deepen my capacity as a provider. I understand that everyone has different needs and I use my facility in multiple modalities to engage in a treatment that is most effective for you. I am especially interested in the experiences of first and second generation Americans, race, intergenerational trauma, and integration of non-ordinary states of consciousness.
I am board certified and offer diagnostic assessments and treatment with psychotherapy, medication-assisted psychotherapy, and medication management. I completed training at Duke University Medical Center but continue to engage in ongoing studies that deepen my capacity as a provider. I understand that everyone has different needs and I use my facility in multiple modalities to engage in a treatment that is most effective for you. I am especially interested in the experiences of first and second generation Americans, race, intergenerational trauma, and integration of non-ordinary states of consciousness.
(510) 254-3237 View (510) 254-3237
Photo of Bradley Engwall, Psychiatrist, MD
Bradley Engwall
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
(510) 296-5086 View (510) 296-5086

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Khadija Hamisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
San Rafael, CA 94901
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(559) 404-6296 View (559) 404-6296
Photo of Teresa Lee, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, CGP
Teresa Lee
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, CGP
Albany, CA 94706
Feeling "stuck" in your career, daily life, or relationships can be overwhelming - yet reading these words means there is an opportunity for change. Together, we’ll explore how your experiences and emotions shape who you are and work toward growth and clarity. Using psychodynamic and relational approaches, with touches of CBT and DBT, I aim to foster lasting change. If needed, thoughtfully prescribed medications can ease pain and support progress. Let’s create a path that feels right for you.
Feeling "stuck" in your career, daily life, or relationships can be overwhelming - yet reading these words means there is an opportunity for change. Together, we’ll explore how your experiences and emotions shape who you are and work toward growth and clarity. Using psychodynamic and relational approaches, with touches of CBT and DBT, I aim to foster lasting change. If needed, thoughtfully prescribed medications can ease pain and support progress. Let’s create a path that feels right for you.
(925) 690-1891 View (925) 690-1891
Photo of Jaime Jimenez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Jaime Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Are you frustrated with clinicians not calling you back or whose costs are prohibitive? Have you been wondering if medications may be an appropriate treatment for your persistent mental health symptoms? I will listen carefully and patiently to you and reflect not only your concerns, but also the strengths and motivations you bring to improving your mental health. I will work “with” you to develop a holistic assessment of your needs, suggest evidence-based treatments, and explain how these address the goals we establish collaboratively.
Are you frustrated with clinicians not calling you back or whose costs are prohibitive? Have you been wondering if medications may be an appropriate treatment for your persistent mental health symptoms? I will listen carefully and patiently to you and reflect not only your concerns, but also the strengths and motivations you bring to improving your mental health. I will work “with” you to develop a holistic assessment of your needs, suggest evidence-based treatments, and explain how these address the goals we establish collaboratively.
(831) 215-5738 View (831) 215-5738
Photo of Sara K Sheriff, Psychiatrist, MD
Sara K Sheriff
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a private practice based in Oakland. I obtained my medical degree from the University of California, Irvine, and completed my psychiatry residency training at the California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, which has a strong emphasis on psychodynamic psychotherapy in addition to medication management for patients struggling with psychiatric disorders and other mental health issues. After completing psychiatry residency, I pursued additional psychotherapy training through the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a private practice based in Oakland. I obtained my medical degree from the University of California, Irvine, and completed my psychiatry residency training at the California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, which has a strong emphasis on psychodynamic psychotherapy in addition to medication management for patients struggling with psychiatric disorders and other mental health issues. After completing psychiatry residency, I pursued additional psychotherapy training through the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis.
(510) 953-4802 View (510) 953-4802
Photo of Miriam Lundy, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, NP
Miriam Lundy
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, NP
Berkeley, CA 94704
Not accepting new clients
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive experience in individual psychotherapy and medication management. I believe in healing and growth through self-knowledge and that care must be individualized to suit each client's needs. I work with clients suffering from depression & mood disturbance, anxiety and addiction. My other specialties include young adult issues/college students, relationship issues, eating issues, women's health and perinatal mental health concerns.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive experience in individual psychotherapy and medication management. I believe in healing and growth through self-knowledge and that care must be individualized to suit each client's needs. I work with clients suffering from depression & mood disturbance, anxiety and addiction. My other specialties include young adult issues/college students, relationship issues, eating issues, women's health and perinatal mental health concerns.
(510) 254-3506 View (510) 254-3506
Photo of Mavis Efuetngu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Mavis Efuetngu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
Mavis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in California. She obtained her master's degree in nursing from Walden University in 2020. Mavis has been a healthcare practitioner for over 20 years, starting her nursing career as a CNA in 2003. She advanced her nursing career by obtaining her psychiatric technician license and practicing as a psych. tech. for over 6 years, then as an RN for over 8 years, and now as a board certified PMHNP.
Mavis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in California. She obtained her master's degree in nursing from Walden University in 2020. Mavis has been a healthcare practitioner for over 20 years, starting her nursing career as a CNA in 2003. She advanced her nursing career by obtaining her psychiatric technician license and practicing as a psych. tech. for over 6 years, then as an RN for over 8 years, and now as a board certified PMHNP.
(951) 477-5573 View (951) 477-5573
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
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 Tameka Dyce, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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.
(909) 402-1346 View (909) 402-1346
Photo of Lance Middleton, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Lance Middleton
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Sausalito, CA 94965
A universe stranger than we can suppose gave us personhood. We are thrown into this life where we remain a mystery unto ourselves. For many, the mystery of self becomes foregrounded only when life proves more complex, tragic, or disappointing than expected. During these times, people stumble backwards into a crisis of premise causing them to wonder: How did I become so alone and can anything be done about it? How did I come to lead a life that has so little to do with me? Why is it so hard to know how I feel and what I want? These questions bring people to psychotherapy seeking a way forward.
A universe stranger than we can suppose gave us personhood. We are thrown into this life where we remain a mystery unto ourselves. For many, the mystery of self becomes foregrounded only when life proves more complex, tragic, or disappointing than expected. During these times, people stumble backwards into a crisis of premise causing them to wonder: How did I become so alone and can anything be done about it? How did I come to lead a life that has so little to do with me? Why is it so hard to know how I feel and what I want? These questions bring people to psychotherapy seeking a way forward.
(415) 226-4572 View (415) 226-4572
Photo of William Huggett, Psychiatrist, MD
William Huggett
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94114
You've noticed how it's getting more difficult to get through the day? Sometimes life can feel heavy, like you’re just going through the motions. By this point, you’ve probably already tried a few things to help yourself. But don’t give up. Because underneath the anxiety and depression, there is another part of you that’s waiting to emerge. Of course, it can be hard to turn things around on your own. So it's OK to reach out for help.
You've noticed how it's getting more difficult to get through the day? Sometimes life can feel heavy, like you’re just going through the motions. By this point, you’ve probably already tried a few things to help yourself. But don’t give up. Because underneath the anxiety and depression, there is another part of you that’s waiting to emerge. Of course, it can be hard to turn things around on your own. So it's OK to reach out for help.
(415) 527-5617 View (415) 527-5617
Photo of Jan B Weber - Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry®, Psychiatrist, Jan Weber, MD
Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry®
Psychiatrist, Jan Weber, MD
Online Only
Welcome to Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry! As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with subspecialty in child and adolescent psychiatry and additional training in complementary medicine, I provide holistic mental health treatment for children, teenagers and adults with a particular focus on nutrition and homeopathy. I have more than 20 years of clinical experience, as well as a track record of excellent clinical outcomes.
Welcome to Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry! As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with subspecialty in child and adolescent psychiatry and additional training in complementary medicine, I provide holistic mental health treatment for children, teenagers and adults with a particular focus on nutrition and homeopathy. I have more than 20 years of clinical experience, as well as a track record of excellent clinical outcomes.
(650) 275-6152 View (650) 275-6152

See more therapy options for 94707

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94707

< 10

Psychiatrists in 94707 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Relationship Issues
67% Grief
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

23 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Anthem
100% Blue Cross

How Psychiatrists in 94707 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94707?

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.