Psychiatrists in 95053

Photo of Sarah Leiderman, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Sarah Leiderman
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know 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. Now welcoming new patients!
We know 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(650) 649-6285 View (650) 649-6285
Photo of Dr. Kailee Marin, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now, welcoming new patients! We know that 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 that 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.
(925) 966-2264 View (925) 966-2264
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente , Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know 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. Now welcoming new patients!
We know 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(650) 629-0903 View (650) 629-0903

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kathryn Kinasz, Psychiatrist, MD
Kathryn Kinasz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
I am a double-board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I graduated medical school at the University of Chicago and completed my training at UCSF for adult residency and Stanford University for child and adolescent fellowship. Taking a holistic, individualized approach, I see children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and eating disorders. I have additional expertise in women’s mental health related issues such as infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause. I am committed to compassionate, comprehensive, and evidenced-based care.
I am a double-board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I graduated medical school at the University of Chicago and completed my training at UCSF for adult residency and Stanford University for child and adolescent fellowship. Taking a holistic, individualized approach, I see children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and eating disorders. I have additional expertise in women’s mental health related issues such as infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause. I am committed to compassionate, comprehensive, and evidenced-based care.
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Photo of Omar Elhaj, Psychiatrist, MD
Omar Elhaj
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Omar Elhaj is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who provides care to patients with complex clinical presentations, particularly treatment-resistant depression and other mood disorders. He specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive disorders, PTSD, addiction disorders, dual diagnoses, and interventional psychiatry. His approach to patient care is holistic and collaborative. He ensures patients are actively involved in their mental health journey. His empathetic nature and commitment to patient-centered care create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued.
Dr. Omar Elhaj is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who provides care to patients with complex clinical presentations, particularly treatment-resistant depression and other mood disorders. He specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive disorders, PTSD, addiction disorders, dual diagnoses, and interventional psychiatry. His approach to patient care is holistic and collaborative. He ensures patients are actively involved in their mental health journey. His empathetic nature and commitment to patient-centered care create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued.
(650) 686-5706 View (650) 686-5706
Photo of Brigitte Apfel, Psychiatrist, MD
Brigitte Apfel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatrist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of emotional well-being and mental health. With 30 years of clinical experience, I offer personalized, evidence-based treatment for a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and bipolar disorder. My approach is holistic, integrating psychotherapy with medication management to ensure the care is tailored to your unique needs.
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatrist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of emotional well-being and mental health. With 30 years of clinical experience, I offer personalized, evidence-based treatment for a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and bipolar disorder. My approach is holistic, integrating psychotherapy with medication management to ensure the care is tailored to your unique needs.
(650) 551-9374 View (650) 551-9374
Photo of Gregory Barnett, Psychiatrist, MD
Gregory Barnett
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have been privileged enough to earn my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Yale University, my medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and complete my psychiatry residency training at the Cambridge Health Alliance which is associated with Harvard Medical School. I am board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and am licensed to practice medicine in both Massachusetts and California where I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy to my patients.
I have been privileged enough to earn my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Yale University, my medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and complete my psychiatry residency training at the Cambridge Health Alliance which is associated with Harvard Medical School. I am board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and am licensed to practice medicine in both Massachusetts and California where I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy to my patients.
(617) 858-8870 View (617) 858-8870
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newark, CA 94560
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 895-6386 View (341) 895-6386
Photo of Azmeena Hashem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Azmeena Hashem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
(858) 365-8033 View (858) 365-8033
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist, MD
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) 340-7661 View (310) 340-7661
Photo of Daniel Smeester, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Smeester
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583
There IS immediate help for those who are battling substance use disorder. You do not need to wait in the emergency room for help with withdrawal symptoms, or to find help to stop using. We have an outpatient program that provides everything you need, including in-person group counseling and an outpatient detox center. Personalized care. We also have a Telehealth program for those who prefer this. If you are battling pain, our addiction-free pain management program provides expert spine and musculoskeletal care as well as care for neuropathic pain- all non-surgical procedures performed, and of course primarily non-opiate based.
There IS immediate help for those who are battling substance use disorder. You do not need to wait in the emergency room for help with withdrawal symptoms, or to find help to stop using. We have an outpatient program that provides everything you need, including in-person group counseling and an outpatient detox center. Personalized care. We also have a Telehealth program for those who prefer this. If you are battling pain, our addiction-free pain management program provides expert spine and musculoskeletal care as well as care for neuropathic pain- all non-surgical procedures performed, and of course primarily non-opiate based.
(925) 267-6853 View (925) 267-6853
Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed - Mindwell MHS - Anxiety, Depression and Addiction, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Mindwell MHS - Anxiety, Depression and Addiction
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95133
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.
(669) 322-7756 View (669) 322-7756
Photo of Ann Irorere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ann Irorere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues.
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues.
(562) 573-7732 View (562) 573-7732
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(408) 692-9593 View (408) 692-9593
Photo of Alex Dimitriu, Psychiatrist, MD
Alex Dimitriu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Over 10 years of proven expertise in performance psychiatry and sleep medicine. We take a holistic approach that allows us to fine tune psychological, biological, and lifestyle interventions to achieve peace, peak performance and longevity.
Over 10 years of proven expertise in performance psychiatry and sleep medicine. We take a holistic approach that allows us to fine tune psychological, biological, and lifestyle interventions to achieve peace, peak performance and longevity.
(650) 326-5888 View (650) 326-5888
Photo of Erica Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
(760) 614-8873 View (760) 614-8873
Photo of Richard Liu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Richard Liu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with challenges related to anxiety, depression, or attention? Meet Richard, a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP, ensuring you receive care from a qualified professional grounded in psychiatric nursing. Specializing in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more, Richard offers extensive experience in addressing various mental health issues. His broad expertise allows for a customized approach to meet your unique needs.
Are you struggling with challenges related to anxiety, depression, or attention? Meet Richard, a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP, ensuring you receive care from a qualified professional grounded in psychiatric nursing. Specializing in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more, Richard offers extensive experience in addressing various mental health issues. His broad expertise allows for a customized approach to meet your unique needs.
(949) 991-4897 View (949) 991-4897
Photo of Dr. Andrea Mann, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Andrea Mann
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy to adults as well as medication when indicated. I have a special interest in helping individuals with anxiety disorders, difficulty with professional and personal relationships, and those going through life transitions.
I'm a psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy to adults as well as medication when indicated. I have a special interest in helping individuals with anxiety disorders, difficulty with professional and personal relationships, and those going through life transitions.
(415) 689-7190 View (415) 689-7190
Photo of Waqar Zuberi, Psychiatrist, MD
Waqar Zuberi
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!
(408) 413-4826 View (408) 413-4826
Photo of Dr. Jasmine Kaur, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jasmine Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Dr. Jasmine Kaur is board-certified in child, adolescent, and general psychiatry and treats patients of all ages. Dr. Kaur strives to deliver knowledgeable and compassionate care. She integrates the understanding of neurobiology in her work according to a patient’s situation, needs, and desires.
Dr. Jasmine Kaur is board-certified in child, adolescent, and general psychiatry and treats patients of all ages. Dr. Kaur strives to deliver knowledgeable and compassionate care. She integrates the understanding of neurobiology in her work according to a patient’s situation, needs, and desires.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006

See more therapy options for 95053

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 95053

< 10

Psychiatrists in 95053 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 95053 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 95053?

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.