Psychiatrists in 95123

Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry - San Jose, Psychiatrist
Remedy Psychiatry - San Jose
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Are you struggling in your daily life and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks to get an appointment or pay alot to get personalized medication management? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. We treat adults, teens and children from the comfort of home over video - days, nights and weekends. We take care of you with or without insurance, and our care remains the same for all.
Are you struggling in your daily life and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks to get an appointment or pay alot to get personalized medication management? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. We treat adults, teens and children from the comfort of home over video - days, nights and weekends. We take care of you with or without insurance, and our care remains the same for all.
(408) 692-2178 View (408) 692-2178
Photo of Ilang Guiroy, Psychiatrist, MD
Ilang Guiroy
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Transition from surviving to thriving. Often our struggles can make us feel isolated and alone. Over the last decade patients of all ages have told me, “You made me feel heard. Because you didn’t judge me, I learned how not to judge myself.” I leverage a strong foundation in ten psychotherapy modalities and extensive experience in medication management to help kids, teens, adults, those pregnant and breastfeeding, and families transition from surviving to thriving.
Transition from surviving to thriving. Often our struggles can make us feel isolated and alone. Over the last decade patients of all ages have told me, “You made me feel heard. Because you didn’t judge me, I learned how not to judge myself.” I leverage a strong foundation in ten psychotherapy modalities and extensive experience in medication management to help kids, teens, adults, those pregnant and breastfeeding, and families transition from surviving to thriving.
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Photo of Khalil Sandoval, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Khalil Sandoval
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone seeking a safe, compassionate space to address their mental health challenges, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional or psychological concerns. They may feel overwhelmed or disconnected and are looking for understanding, guidance, and a pathway to healing. Their goals include finding balance in life, improving their well-being, and embracing personal growth. They want to feel heard, respected, and empowered to take steps toward a healthier mind and body.
My ideal client is someone seeking a safe, compassionate space to address their mental health challenges, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional or psychological concerns. They may feel overwhelmed or disconnected and are looking for understanding, guidance, and a pathway to healing. Their goals include finding balance in life, improving their well-being, and embracing personal growth. They want to feel heard, respected, and empowered to take steps toward a healthier mind and body.
(323) 237-8077 View (323) 237-8077
Photo of Tracy Henry - MindFull Balance, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
MindFull Balance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. With a specialized focus on ADHD, depression, anxiety, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and women's health, my goal is to empower patients through personalized treatment plans that promote healing and well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. With a specialized focus on ADHD, depression, anxiety, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and women's health, my goal is to empower patients through personalized treatment plans that promote healing and well-being.
(213) 645-2164 View (213) 645-2164
Photo of Aj Kiefer - AJ Kiefer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
AJ Kiefer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
My clients will gain deeper understanding of self and their mental health challenges. I am committed to help you build resilience, gain insight and guide you towards positive life changes. Our work together should help you feel equipped to navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My focus is to improve quality-of-life & reach optimal well-being with a holistic/integrative approach and to end mental health stigma.
My clients will gain deeper understanding of self and their mental health challenges. I am committed to help you build resilience, gain insight and guide you towards positive life changes. Our work together should help you feel equipped to navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My focus is to improve quality-of-life & reach optimal well-being with a holistic/integrative approach and to end mental health stigma.
(805) 429-8916 View (805) 429-8916
Photo of Kerstin Helgason, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kerstin Helgason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and help people with mental health medication, psychotherapy, and Ketamine. I'm licensed in California, Oregon, and Arizona and can see people over tele-health anywhere in these states. As a nurse practitioner and therapist I have a broad perspective that ranges from the biological and body to the psychological and spiritual. Our bodies and minds naturally want to heal, but we may need some help in doing so. I'd love to help you along in your healing. My website has additional information.
I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and help people with mental health medication, psychotherapy, and Ketamine. I'm licensed in California, Oregon, and Arizona and can see people over tele-health anywhere in these states. As a nurse practitioner and therapist I have a broad perspective that ranges from the biological and body to the psychological and spiritual. Our bodies and minds naturally want to heal, but we may need some help in doing so. I'd love to help you along in your healing. My website has additional information.
(408) 837-4677 View (408) 837-4677
Photo of Samaneh Fanaeian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samaneh Fanaeian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients- Book with me now by clicking on my website. Let's start improving your quality of life. I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over seven years of mental health experience. I utilize a holistic and collaborative approach specializing in treating ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and sleep issues.
Accepting New Patients- Book with me now by clicking on my website. Let's start improving your quality of life. I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over seven years of mental health experience. I utilize a holistic and collaborative approach specializing in treating ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and sleep issues.
(424) 409-5514 View (424) 409-5514
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(408) 680-5334 View (408) 680-5334
Photo of Edgaradrian Yepescorrea - Adrian Yepes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Adrian Yepes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with advanced psychiatry training from UCSF, committed to providing compassionate, individualized care. I offer virtual sessions for adults throughout California, specializing in diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. My expertise spans conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder. By integrating psychogenetic testing with evidence-based treatments, I aim to optimize patient outcomes and provide a truly personalized approach to mental health
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with advanced psychiatry training from UCSF, committed to providing compassionate, individualized care. I offer virtual sessions for adults throughout California, specializing in diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. My expertise spans conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder. By integrating psychogenetic testing with evidence-based treatments, I aim to optimize patient outcomes and provide a truly personalized approach to mental health
(628) 277-9024 View (628) 277-9024
Photo of Brittney Bryant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittney Bryant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, or mood disorders. They seek clarity, stability, and strategies to regain control of their life. Their goal is to manage their symptoms effectively, improve their well-being, and feel more balanced and fulfilled. They want compassionate support and evidence-based solutions to help them move forward.
My ideal client is someone struggling with ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, or mood disorders. They seek clarity, stability, and strategies to regain control of their life. Their goal is to manage their symptoms effectively, improve their well-being, and feel more balanced and fulfilled. They want compassionate support and evidence-based solutions to help them move forward.
(562) 564-6409 View (562) 564-6409
Photo of Regina Olashege, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Regina Olashege
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or schizophrenia, who is ready to take an active role in their mental health journey. They seek a safe, compassionate space where they feel heard and understood. Their goal is to achieve balance and well-being through personalized care that includes psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. They want to regain control of their life, build resilience, and create lasting positive change. Together, we can work toward those goals with empathy and tailored support.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or schizophrenia, who is ready to take an active role in their mental health journey. They seek a safe, compassionate space where they feel heard and understood. Their goal is to achieve balance and well-being through personalized care that includes psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. They want to regain control of their life, build resilience, and create lasting positive change. Together, we can work toward those goals with empathy and tailored support.
(323) 701-0770 View (323) 701-0770
Photo of Stan Mesen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stan Mesen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I realize that most of us could use support, particularly during times of overwhelming challenges within our personal and professional lives. Our lives are complex and come with significant obligations and expectations from our families, friends, and ourselves. If the challenges become overwhelming, we may start to doubt our abilities to manage our affairs and interactions with others. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction remain unaddressed, thoughts and feelings may evolve into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment, understanding we need help.
I realize that most of us could use support, particularly during times of overwhelming challenges within our personal and professional lives. Our lives are complex and come with significant obligations and expectations from our families, friends, and ourselves. If the challenges become overwhelming, we may start to doubt our abilities to manage our affairs and interactions with others. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction remain unaddressed, thoughts and feelings may evolve into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment, understanding we need help.
(323) 616-2865 View (323) 616-2865

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Twanna Davis Arnold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Twanna Davis Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
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.
(650) 383-1831 View (650) 383-1831
Photo of Dr. Richa Bhatia Md Inc, Psychiatrist
Dr. Richa Bhatia Md Inc
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Currently accepting new patients: Dr Richa Bhatia is a double board certified Adult, Child & Adolescent psychiatrist with over 15 years of clinical experience, including working as Medical director at leading academic medical centers such as Dartmouth & in the community. Dedicated to high quality care, she offers empathic individual psychotherapy & judicious medication management when medications are needed. Her practice is accepting patients (ages 5 to 60) in the San Francisco Bay Area who need help with Anxiety, OCD, low self-worth, PTSD, coping with stressors, & relationship challenges. This practice does not accept insurance.
Currently accepting new patients: Dr Richa Bhatia is a double board certified Adult, Child & Adolescent psychiatrist with over 15 years of clinical experience, including working as Medical director at leading academic medical centers such as Dartmouth & in the community. Dedicated to high quality care, she offers empathic individual psychotherapy & judicious medication management when medications are needed. Her practice is accepting patients (ages 5 to 60) in the San Francisco Bay Area who need help with Anxiety, OCD, low self-worth, PTSD, coping with stressors, & relationship challenges. This practice does not accept insurance.
(341) 230-1861 View (341) 230-1861
Photo of Ann Irorere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ann Irorere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Naiga Dohnji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Naiga Dohnji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
(909) 504-2952 View (909) 504-2952
Photo of Ruben Yu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Ruben Yu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Online Only
As a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing caring and complete healthcare. My focus is to respect each person's unique needs and values, emphasizing patient-centered care. I strive to support mental, emotional, and overall well-being, helping clients achieve optimal health. You can trust me to listen with empathy and kindness, always respecting your preferences. It is my honor to assist you on your journey to better mental and emotional wellness.
As a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing caring and complete healthcare. My focus is to respect each person's unique needs and values, emphasizing patient-centered care. I strive to support mental, emotional, and overall well-being, helping clients achieve optimal health. You can trust me to listen with empathy and kindness, always respecting your preferences. It is my honor to assist you on your journey to better mental and emotional wellness.
(408) 610-2241 View (408) 610-2241
Photo of Melinda Cuthbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Melinda Cuthbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
(415) 891-1908 View (415) 891-1908
Photo of Dr. Adam Henderson, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Adam Henderson
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm a board-certified, Harvard-trained, psychiatrist dedicated to helping you find the path to healing through both psychotherapy and personalized medication management. In my confidential private practice, you'll receive individualized care in a safe, non-judgmental space. Whether you're new to therapy or have tried different approaches without finding what you're looking for, I’m here to work collaboratively with you. I specialize in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, unresolved trauma, and BPD.
Welcome! I'm a board-certified, Harvard-trained, psychiatrist dedicated to helping you find the path to healing through both psychotherapy and personalized medication management. In my confidential private practice, you'll receive individualized care in a safe, non-judgmental space. Whether you're new to therapy or have tried different approaches without finding what you're looking for, I’m here to work collaboratively with you. I specialize in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, unresolved trauma, and BPD.
(341) 444-3449 View (341) 444-3449
Photo of Amber Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Amber Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
San Jose, CA 95113
Great to meet you! I am Amber Mitchell. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have over 18 years in the medical field. I practice general adult psychiatry and specializes in major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I am versed in perinatal and reproductive psychiatry including postpartum depression and preconception counseling.
Great to meet you! I am Amber Mitchell. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have over 18 years in the medical field. I practice general adult psychiatry and specializes in major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I am versed in perinatal and reproductive psychiatry including postpartum depression and preconception counseling.
(424) 484-8151 View (424) 484-8151

See more therapy options for 95123

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 95123

10+

Average cost per session

$195

Psychiatrists in 95123 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
92% Anxiety
83% Medication Management
75% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
50% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 95123 see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

56% Female
44% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 95123?

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.