Psychiatrists in 94904

Photo of Jordan Eipper, Psychiatrist, MD
Jordan Eipper
Psychiatrist, MD
Kentfield, CA 94904
I'm a UCSF-trained psychiatrist working with adults experiencing the full spectrum of mental health challenges. I fit well with people who desire to go deeper than symptom suppression and work together to uncover the root causes beneath emotional suffering. This can include but often goes beyond medication prescribing. True healing requires us to care for all the different elements that make up our lives, from the physical body to the mind and beyond. I place an emphasis on the psychological impact of traumatic experiences and the importance of lifestyle factors like sleep, movement, nutrition, spirituality, and relationships.
I'm a UCSF-trained psychiatrist working with adults experiencing the full spectrum of mental health challenges. I fit well with people who desire to go deeper than symptom suppression and work together to uncover the root causes beneath emotional suffering. This can include but often goes beyond medication prescribing. True healing requires us to care for all the different elements that make up our lives, from the physical body to the mind and beyond. I place an emphasis on the psychological impact of traumatic experiences and the importance of lifestyle factors like sleep, movement, nutrition, spirituality, and relationships.
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Photo of Catherine Theo, Psychiatrist, MD
Catherine Theo
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
We all have concerns that can leave us, well...uncomfortable. Depression, social anxiety, marriage issues, self-doubt, impaired focus...any of these can keep us from living our best lives. At the Couch Psychiatry Group, we treat the spectrum of mental health issues with special focus on anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Our goal is to empower you to recognize the dysfunctional patterns that have kept you stuck in the mire and give you the tools to fix them in the present and avoid them in the future.
We all have concerns that can leave us, well...uncomfortable. Depression, social anxiety, marriage issues, self-doubt, impaired focus...any of these can keep us from living our best lives. At the Couch Psychiatry Group, we treat the spectrum of mental health issues with special focus on anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Our goal is to empower you to recognize the dysfunctional patterns that have kept you stuck in the mire and give you the tools to fix them in the present and avoid them in the future.
(415) 938-5155 View (415) 938-5155
Photo of Marc I Schwartz, Psychiatrist, MD
Marc I Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Greenbrae, CA 94904
I am committed the relief of distress in the mind emotions and difficulty functioning in youth, adults and those in advanced years. A comprehensive evaluation, a treatment plan developed collaboratively attends to the biologic psychic and interpersonal issues present. After training as a pediatrician, my fascination with the development of the brain and mind lead me to retrain as a psychiatrist. I enjoy making the process of therapy feel engaging and safe and attempt to be actively useful in guiding people develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which the mind works. There is a map to how we create our emotional states.
I am committed the relief of distress in the mind emotions and difficulty functioning in youth, adults and those in advanced years. A comprehensive evaluation, a treatment plan developed collaboratively attends to the biologic psychic and interpersonal issues present. After training as a pediatrician, my fascination with the development of the brain and mind lead me to retrain as a psychiatrist. I enjoy making the process of therapy feel engaging and safe and attempt to be actively useful in guiding people develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which the mind works. There is a map to how we create our emotional states.
(628) 212-7676 View (628) 212-7676
Photo of Adam Nelson, Psychiatrist, MD
Adam Nelson
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I currently see patients in my private office, where I specialize in working with a broad spectrum of complex diagnoses and conditions, such as atypical mood disorders, psychoses, and personality disorders. I use an integrative treatment approach to address several possible areas of concern, including genetics, epigenetics, biochemistry, interpersonal skills, current stress, and historical life experiences.
I currently see patients in my private office, where I specialize in working with a broad spectrum of complex diagnoses and conditions, such as atypical mood disorders, psychoses, and personality disorders. I use an integrative treatment approach to address several possible areas of concern, including genetics, epigenetics, biochemistry, interpersonal skills, current stress, and historical life experiences.
(415) 578-9413 View (415) 578-9413
Photo of Mark Schiller, Psychiatrist, MD
Mark Schiller
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
As the founder of Mind Therapy Clinic, a psychiatric center focused on innovative, integrated, and personalized care, I believe in utilizing innovative approaches to treating the most common to the most complicated problems with the latest, scientifically supported psychotherapeutic and medication approaches. The Mind Therapy clinicians supplement traditional approaches with rapidly developing diagnostic technologies to more objectively identify, target, and treat psychiatric problems. An integrated approach to treating the whole person involves integrating mainstream methods with alternative disciplines and fostering collaboration between clinicians with differing backgrounds and training.
As the founder of Mind Therapy Clinic, a psychiatric center focused on innovative, integrated, and personalized care, I believe in utilizing innovative approaches to treating the most common to the most complicated problems with the latest, scientifically supported psychotherapeutic and medication approaches. The Mind Therapy clinicians supplement traditional approaches with rapidly developing diagnostic technologies to more objectively identify, target, and treat psychiatric problems. An integrated approach to treating the whole person involves integrating mainstream methods with alternative disciplines and fostering collaboration between clinicians with differing backgrounds and training.
(650) 209-7943 View (650) 209-7943
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!
(415) 825-8335 View (415) 825-8335

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dorrie Swanson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dorrie Swanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience and specialize in working with adults with ADHD. I am passionate about aligning care to individual lifestyles. I strive to empower my patients by creating spaces for them to be heard.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience and specialize in working with adults with ADHD. I am passionate about aligning care to individual lifestyles. I strive to empower my patients by creating spaces for them to be heard.
(415) 842-4036 View (415) 842-4036
Photo of Sara Timtim, Psychiatrist, MD
Sara Timtim
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Direct online booking and accepting new patients. Since my undergrad years at Stanford, psychiatry has been my passion. I specialize in helping women gain agency in their romantic relationships by removing mental health obstacles. Treating conditions like PTSD, various kinds of mood instability, and anxiety, as well as exploring root issues (eg childhood family experiences) empowers people to make sound, thoughtful decisions in choosing partners and nurturing fulfilling relationships. I take a psychodynamic + DBT skills approach alongside evidence-based medicine, grounded in the scientific literature.
Direct online booking and accepting new patients. Since my undergrad years at Stanford, psychiatry has been my passion. I specialize in helping women gain agency in their romantic relationships by removing mental health obstacles. Treating conditions like PTSD, various kinds of mood instability, and anxiety, as well as exploring root issues (eg childhood family experiences) empowers people to make sound, thoughtful decisions in choosing partners and nurturing fulfilling relationships. I take a psychodynamic + DBT skills approach alongside evidence-based medicine, grounded in the scientific literature.
(415) 903-6988 View (415) 903-6988
Photo of Michelle Guchereau, Psychiatrist, MD
Michelle Guchereau
Psychiatrist, MD
10 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist for adults, adolescents and children. I currently lead a diverse team of psychiatry providers and therapists at Well Coast Medical Corporation. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), mood disorders, trauma and anxiety. We provide thorough psychiatric assessments, medications and/or psychotherapy for adults and youth. We also collaborate with other therapists to provide medication evaluations and treatment for patients who are actively in therapy elsewhere.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist for adults, adolescents and children. I currently lead a diverse team of psychiatry providers and therapists at Well Coast Medical Corporation. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), mood disorders, trauma and anxiety. We provide thorough psychiatric assessments, medications and/or psychotherapy for adults and youth. We also collaborate with other therapists to provide medication evaluations and treatment for patients who are actively in therapy elsewhere.
(415) 969-5396 View (415) 969-5396
Photo of Dr. Jordan Wong, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dr. Jordan Wong
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Online Only
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist that completed medical training at Stanford (child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship), Columbia (general psychiatry residency), and Dartmouth (medical school). I opened a private psychiatric practice to provide evidence-based, collaborative, individualized care, and (most importantly) a strong therapeutic relationship with all of my patients. I specialize working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist that completed medical training at Stanford (child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship), Columbia (general psychiatry residency), and Dartmouth (medical school). I opened a private psychiatric practice to provide evidence-based, collaborative, individualized care, and (most importantly) a strong therapeutic relationship with all of my patients. I specialize working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
(415) 417-2091 View (415) 417-2091
Photo of Swapnil Khurana, Psychiatrist, MD
Swapnil Khurana
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94121
Dr. Swapnil Khurana’s ideal clients are individuals navigating the emotional complexities of reproductive transitions, including pregnancy, postpartum, or other significant life changes. Many are managing anxiety, stress, burnout, phobias, or mild depression. They often seek a psychiatrist who understands the unique mental health challenges that can arise from hormonal shifts, identity changes, and the pressures of balancing personal, professional, and family roles. Their goal is to feel more emotionally grounded, physically well, and supported by a professional who values the connection between mind and body.
Dr. Swapnil Khurana’s ideal clients are individuals navigating the emotional complexities of reproductive transitions, including pregnancy, postpartum, or other significant life changes. Many are managing anxiety, stress, burnout, phobias, or mild depression. They often seek a psychiatrist who understands the unique mental health challenges that can arise from hormonal shifts, identity changes, and the pressures of balancing personal, professional, and family roles. Their goal is to feel more emotionally grounded, physically well, and supported by a professional who values the connection between mind and body.
(650) 353-9749 View (650) 353-9749
Photo of Denay Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Denay Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I do believe it’s important to have this in check if there are physical issues to be dealt with as well. I focus on the whole person and practice, holistic care, encompassing, mind, body, and spirit as much as possible. I work with an array of patients, my most favorite patients are attention deficit disorder, and or anxiety disorder and the pre-and post-menopausal woman is my niche. I am very open and honest with the patient and everything's transparent upfront regarding the plan of care. I also like to incorporate, talk therapy and teach at my meetings so the patient feels like they’re getting the full spectrum of care.
I do believe it’s important to have this in check if there are physical issues to be dealt with as well. I focus on the whole person and practice, holistic care, encompassing, mind, body, and spirit as much as possible. I work with an array of patients, my most favorite patients are attention deficit disorder, and or anxiety disorder and the pre-and post-menopausal woman is my niche. I am very open and honest with the patient and everything's transparent upfront regarding the plan of care. I also like to incorporate, talk therapy and teach at my meetings so the patient feels like they’re getting the full spectrum of care.
(510) 721-3651 View (510) 721-3651
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(805) 456-1538 View (805) 456-1538
Photo of Trenice Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(951) 514-3787 View (951) 514-3787
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 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.
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Photo of Dr. Mohammadmehdi Omidvari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Mohammadmehdi Omidvari
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I am committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment where my clients can explore new horizons about their lives. My ideal practice setting is one where clients feel comfortable and empowered to share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process, where both the patient and therapist are actively involved in the healing journey.
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I am committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment where my clients can explore new horizons about their lives. My ideal practice setting is one where clients feel comfortable and empowered to share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process, where both the patient and therapist are actively involved in the healing journey.
(914) 359-2273 View (914) 359-2273
Photo of Dr. Maxine Zhou, Psychiatrist
Dr. Maxine Zhou
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Dr. Zhou is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience practicing in various clinical settings with an emphasis on mental health care in outpatient settings. She practices a holistic approach in developing an individualized plan to work towards a patient's goals. Dr. Zhou is experienced in treating depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder along with generalized anxiety and other related psychiatric disorders. Dr. Zhou received her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and completed her adult psychiatric residency at LSU Health Shreveport.
Dr. Zhou is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience practicing in various clinical settings with an emphasis on mental health care in outpatient settings. She practices a holistic approach in developing an individualized plan to work towards a patient's goals. Dr. Zhou is experienced in treating depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder along with generalized anxiety and other related psychiatric disorders. Dr. Zhou received her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and completed her adult psychiatric residency at LSU Health Shreveport.
(332) 322-2475 View (332) 322-2475
Photo of Haleh Nekoorad-Long, Psychiatrist, MD
Haleh Nekoorad-Long
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Haleh Nekoorad-Long, M.D., a certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist has been in practice for more than 26 years. She is board certified in adult and geriatric psychiatry and is a member of the American Medical Association and American Association of Geriatric Psychiatrists.
Haleh Nekoorad-Long, M.D., a certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist has been in practice for more than 26 years. She is board certified in adult and geriatric psychiatry and is a member of the American Medical Association and American Association of Geriatric Psychiatrists.
(415) 326-1921 x1 View (415) 326-1921 x1
J Christine Schneider
Psychiatrist, MD, ABIHM
Nicasio, CA 94946
Not accepting new clients
I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, currently working only with adults. My range of experience includes working with Mood disorders, Anxiety and Panic disorders, OCD, AD/HD, and PTSD. I utilize both conventional Western medical approaches, and non-conventional treatments, and welcome individuals who are interested in considering a range of approaches, depending on their current needs. Whether with me or someone else, I consider psychotherapy an important part of most psychiatric treatment. I have trained in psychedelic-assisted therapy and offer ketamine-assisted therapy when appropriate.
I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, currently working only with adults. My range of experience includes working with Mood disorders, Anxiety and Panic disorders, OCD, AD/HD, and PTSD. I utilize both conventional Western medical approaches, and non-conventional treatments, and welcome individuals who are interested in considering a range of approaches, depending on their current needs. Whether with me or someone else, I consider psychotherapy an important part of most psychiatric treatment. I have trained in psychedelic-assisted therapy and offer ketamine-assisted therapy when appropriate.
(628) 227-5964 View (628) 227-5964

See more therapy options for 94904

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 94904

< 10

Psychiatrists in 94904 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
83% ADHD
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Medication Management

Average years in practice

35 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Other
50% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 94904 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 94904?

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.