Psychiatrists in 95014

Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Dr, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, Dr
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(408) 843-5838 View (408) 843-5838
Photo of Kerrie Humbatova - Remedy Psychiatric Services A Nursing Corporation, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Remedy Psychiatric Services A Nursing Corporation
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
If you are tired of meeting with provider after provider and not finding the one that fits, then book with me. Appointments 7A - 7P daily, weekends & holidays! I extend my care to individuals with diverse backgrounds and addressing a range of mental health conditions. Specializing in trauma, serious mental health conditions, geriatrics, and MAT for recovery. I respect and honor each individual’s preferences and values, including their desire to utilize alternative therapies alongside traditional interventions, such as Ketamine. Schedule Today! Text me on my 24 hour HIPAA compliant number 510-439-9985.
If you are tired of meeting with provider after provider and not finding the one that fits, then book with me. Appointments 7A - 7P daily, weekends & holidays! I extend my care to individuals with diverse backgrounds and addressing a range of mental health conditions. Specializing in trauma, serious mental health conditions, geriatrics, and MAT for recovery. I respect and honor each individual’s preferences and values, including their desire to utilize alternative therapies alongside traditional interventions, such as Ketamine. Schedule Today! Text me on my 24 hour HIPAA compliant number 510-439-9985.
(408) 869-5491 View (408) 869-5491
Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed - Mindwell Mental Health Services, PHMNP, APRN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindwell Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
(650) 728-4085 View (650) 728-4085
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(408) 692-9593 View (408) 692-9593
Photo of Angelica Luciano, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angelica Luciano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Angelica Luciano. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I was licensed in 2017. I use a bio-psycho-social framework. Understanding that psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, the effects of certain medications, or genetic predisposition. I incorporate multiple modalities, including medication management, education, and brief supportive therapeutic interventions to treat you as a unique individual and not a textbook. I treat adults, typically between the ages of 18-60, for a broad range of psychiatric conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Angelica Luciano. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I was licensed in 2017. I use a bio-psycho-social framework. Understanding that psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, the effects of certain medications, or genetic predisposition. I incorporate multiple modalities, including medication management, education, and brief supportive therapeutic interventions to treat you as a unique individual and not a textbook. I treat adults, typically between the ages of 18-60, for a broad range of psychiatric conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
(949) 792-4230 View (949) 792-4230
Photo of Taylor Scheller, PA-C , CAQ, Physician Assistant
Taylor Scheller
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Verified Verified
Online Only
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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(650) 547-7835 View (650) 547-7835
Photo of Princess McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(650) 910-6596 View (650) 910-6596
Photo of Chien Shien Yang - Redwood Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Redwood Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a board-certified physician specializing in general psychiatry, I am skilled in medication management. I have worked in the community and university settings in Nebraska and as an outpatient psychiatrist at Oakland Kaiser. Now working in private practice allows me to offer individualized care for my clients. I offer comprehensive and collaborative care. My approach is to provide expert medical advice while we work towards my client’s goals. Medication may not be best for everyone. If you do not want to consider medication at this time, you may consider reaching out to a therapist for weekly sessions first.
As a board-certified physician specializing in general psychiatry, I am skilled in medication management. I have worked in the community and university settings in Nebraska and as an outpatient psychiatrist at Oakland Kaiser. Now working in private practice allows me to offer individualized care for my clients. I offer comprehensive and collaborative care. My approach is to provide expert medical advice while we work towards my client’s goals. Medication may not be best for everyone. If you do not want to consider medication at this time, you may consider reaching out to a therapist for weekly sessions first.
(415) 655-0952 View (415) 655-0952
Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(408) 212-0764 View (408) 212-0764
Photo of Catherine Shir, MD, Psychiatrist
Catherine Shir
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Stanford-trained, Bay Area-based psychiatrist and therapist offering personalized and compassionate care. My practice is devoted to alleviating suffering and helping people live fulfilling and meaningful lives. If you are someone who is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to grapple with difficult thoughts and feelings, I can help guide you toward healing, purpose, and recovery.
I am a Stanford-trained, Bay Area-based psychiatrist and therapist offering personalized and compassionate care. My practice is devoted to alleviating suffering and helping people live fulfilling and meaningful lives. If you are someone who is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to grapple with difficult thoughts and feelings, I can help guide you toward healing, purpose, and recovery.
(408) 703-6683 View (408) 703-6683
Photo of Zaakir Yoonas, MD, Psychiatrist
Zaakir Yoonas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Stanford-trained, Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a specialization in Adult ADHD and Mood & Anxiety disorders. My Psychiatry training at Stanford, where I also served as Chief Resident, has equipped me with the most up-to-date treatment strategies to help my clients achieve their goals as soon as possible. Our mission when working together is singularly focused on helping you build neuro-resilience -- the brain’s ability to not only weather the storms of life, but also to grow, change and constantly improve. Learn more at my website: www.DrYoonas.com.
I am a Stanford-trained, Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a specialization in Adult ADHD and Mood & Anxiety disorders. My Psychiatry training at Stanford, where I also served as Chief Resident, has equipped me with the most up-to-date treatment strategies to help my clients achieve their goals as soon as possible. Our mission when working together is singularly focused on helping you build neuro-resilience -- the brain’s ability to not only weather the storms of life, but also to grow, change and constantly improve. Learn more at my website: www.DrYoonas.com.
(650) 490-4735 View (650) 490-4735
Photo of Cinthia Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(650) 648-4886 View (650) 648-4886
Photo of Tiffany Quach, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Quach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(650) 646-7189 View (650) 646-7189
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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!
(310) 340-7787 View (310) 340-7787
Photo of Samir Hamed, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(213) 474-7829 View (213) 474-7829
Photo of Evangeline Luriz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evangeline Luriz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(650) 582-2127 View (650) 582-2127
Photo of Dr. Amie Chen Greene, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Amie Chen Greene
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and thank you for your interest in my practice! I treat each patient as a whole person. Sometimes psychiatric symptoms are only the tip of the iceberg, so I am dedicated to investigating and solving underlying issues rather than provide short-term bandaids. I also understand that active symptoms are not only distressing but can consume valuable time of our lives, so safe and timely relief of symptoms is just as crucial to treatment. I incorporate various therapy elements and medications, with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for anxiety, depression, stress management, and trauma recovery.
Hello and thank you for your interest in my practice! I treat each patient as a whole person. Sometimes psychiatric symptoms are only the tip of the iceberg, so I am dedicated to investigating and solving underlying issues rather than provide short-term bandaids. I also understand that active symptoms are not only distressing but can consume valuable time of our lives, so safe and timely relief of symptoms is just as crucial to treatment. I incorporate various therapy elements and medications, with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for anxiety, depression, stress management, and trauma recovery.
(916) 252-5575 View (916) 252-5575
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(650) 686-5441 View (650) 686-5441
Photo of Holly Ann Olalia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Ann Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(650) 628-6802 View (650) 628-6802
Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - Sheenie Ambardar, MD, Concierge Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Sheenie Ambardar, MD, Concierge Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive psychiatrist and therapist who understands and respects your unique cultural heritage and will genuinely honor your lived experiences, history, and personal journey? Have you been told that psychiatry and therapy are only for those lacking in inner strength and resolve? Are you in need of a supportive environment where you can freely express yourself and get the treatment you need for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Insomnia?
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive psychiatrist and therapist who understands and respects your unique cultural heritage and will genuinely honor your lived experiences, history, and personal journey? Have you been told that psychiatry and therapy are only for those lacking in inner strength and resolve? Are you in need of a supportive environment where you can freely express yourself and get the treatment you need for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Insomnia?
(310) 878-4117 View (310) 878-4117
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 95014

20+

Average cost per session

$325

Psychiatrists in 95014 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
90% Trauma and PTSD
86% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Medication Management
83% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 95014 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 95014?

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.