Psychiatrists in 95036

Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 895-7354 View (341) 895-7354
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 895-6386 View (341) 895-6386
Photo of Jacqueline Chan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Chan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 217-7447 View (341) 217-7447

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Paul Hartman, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul Hartman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Paul E. Hartman, MD is a Psychiatry & Neurology Child & Adolescent Psychiatry specialty provider based out of Los Angeles, California.
Paul E. Hartman, MD is a Psychiatry & Neurology Child & Adolescent Psychiatry specialty provider based out of Los Angeles, California.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Alison Mitchell, MD, Psychiatrist
Alison Mitchell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I practice an integrative approach to psychiatry that evaluates all biological, social, and psychological factors contributing to a patient's mental health and well-being.
I practice an integrative approach to psychiatry that evaluates all biological, social, and psychological factors contributing to a patient's mental health and well-being.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
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) 872-9016 View (408) 872-9016
Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyn Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95051
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
(657) 530-5700 View (657) 530-5700
Photo of Oluwafunmilola Sulaimon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oluwafunmilola Sulaimon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Oluwafunmilola Sulaimon is a mindful adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner.
Oluwafunmilola Sulaimon is a mindful adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Simret Nanda, MD, Psychiatrist
Simret Nanda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client could be a child, adolescent or an adult that wants and needs to get psychiatric care. I am an open-minded and holistic psychiatrist who takes the whole person into account when I am treating him/her. I practice the biopsychosocial model and I also understand that not all treatment modalities work for all people. I tailor treatment goals and strategies for each individual person. I am also a big believer in combining diet, exercise, acupuncture, reiki, massage, physical therapy, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, psychoeducation, groups into the treatment plan and focusing on wellness as well.
My ideal client could be a child, adolescent or an adult that wants and needs to get psychiatric care. I am an open-minded and holistic psychiatrist who takes the whole person into account when I am treating him/her. I practice the biopsychosocial model and I also understand that not all treatment modalities work for all people. I tailor treatment goals and strategies for each individual person. I am also a big believer in combining diet, exercise, acupuncture, reiki, massage, physical therapy, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, psychoeducation, groups into the treatment plan and focusing on wellness as well.
(925) 744-8449 View (925) 744-8449
Photo of Dr. Alexander Nguyen Ali Malekzadeh, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Alexander Nguyen Ali Malekzadeh
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist hearing out others and understanding what symptoms they consider most impairing to them is an important part of my personal practice. Helping people develop insight, cultivate resilience and nurture a healthier self-inner monologue through a combination of time-limited psychotherapy and medication management, if indicated, are my main modalities of treatment.
As a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist hearing out others and understanding what symptoms they consider most impairing to them is an important part of my personal practice. Helping people develop insight, cultivate resilience and nurture a healthier self-inner monologue through a combination of time-limited psychotherapy and medication management, if indicated, are my main modalities of treatment.
(925) 940-4425 View (925) 940-4425
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 444-3304 View (341) 444-3304
Photo of Catalina Villa, MD , Psychiatrist
Catalina Villa
Psychiatrist, MD
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!
(925) 940-7004 View (925) 940-7004
Photo of Neil Rajdev, MD, Psychiatrist
Neil Rajdev
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
I am a general adult psychiatrist with experience treating a variety of conditions and a special interest in OCD, student-athlete mental health, mood and anxiety disorders. I employ a holistic view of mental health that first requires being curious about the unique dynamics that might be affecting your well-being. While medications are often important, I also believe in addressing aspects of one’s lifestyle (sleep, exercise, diet) and examining interpersonal, occupational, among other stressors in a judgement-free, supportive environment.
I am a general adult psychiatrist with experience treating a variety of conditions and a special interest in OCD, student-athlete mental health, mood and anxiety disorders. I employ a holistic view of mental health that first requires being curious about the unique dynamics that might be affecting your well-being. While medications are often important, I also believe in addressing aspects of one’s lifestyle (sleep, exercise, diet) and examining interpersonal, occupational, among other stressors in a judgement-free, supportive environment.
(669) 338-4216 View (669) 338-4216
Photo of Farah Khan, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Farah Khan
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583
Welcome! I am pleased to have you consider my practice for your psychiatric health care needs. I am licensed to practice medicine by the California State Medical Board, and am board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After receiving my medical degree from Sindh Medical College, I completed my Psychiatry Residency from Bergen Regional Medical Center in Paramus, NJ. I have been practicing psychiatry in California since 2003.
Welcome! I am pleased to have you consider my practice for your psychiatric health care needs. I am licensed to practice medicine by the California State Medical Board, and am board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After receiving my medical degree from Sindh Medical College, I completed my Psychiatry Residency from Bergen Regional Medical Center in Paramus, NJ. I have been practicing psychiatry in California since 2003.
(925) 393-0274 View (925) 393-0274
Photo of Jessica Vermeulen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Vermeulen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(341) 234-2952 View (341) 234-2952
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(949) 881-4180 View (949) 881-4180
Photo of Gregory McGowan, MD, Psychiatrist
Gregory McGowan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Gregory McGowan is a licensed psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from Marshall University and then completed his residency in psychiatry at the University of California. Dr. McGowan currently practices at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA and sees patients at various locations, including Los Angeles, Van Nuys, Culver City, CA.
Dr. Gregory McGowan is a licensed psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from Marshall University and then completed his residency in psychiatry at the University of California. Dr. McGowan currently practices at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA and sees patients at various locations, including Los Angeles, Van Nuys, Culver City, CA.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
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 David Lindley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Lindley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
(650) 239-7016 View (650) 239-7016
Photo of Haoyu Lee, MD, Psychiatrist
Haoyu Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
One thing that inspires me is our ability as humans to change our own circumstances with the help of family and community using self-awareness, imagination, and our own unique strengths. I believe that achieving this integrity is a worthy result that can accompany treatment. It takes risk, energy, and investment to pursue this and it is a privilege for me to be a part of one’s journey.
One thing that inspires me is our ability as humans to change our own circumstances with the help of family and community using self-awareness, imagination, and our own unique strengths. I believe that achieving this integrity is a worthy result that can accompany treatment. It takes risk, energy, and investment to pursue this and it is a privilege for me to be a part of one’s journey.
(844) 748-2375 View (844) 748-2375

See more therapy options for 95036

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 95036

< 10

Psychiatrists in 95036 who prioritize treating:

100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 95036 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 95036?

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.