Psychiatrists in 95205

Photo of Tameka Dyce, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
(949) 537-2176 View (949) 537-2176
Photo of Trenice Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(951) 467-3066 View (951) 467-3066

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nwankaego Nwandei, Physician Assistant, PA
Nwankaego Nwandei
Physician Assistant, PA
Online Only
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
(310) 526-3404 View (310) 526-3404
Photo of Mehnaz Hyder, Psychiatrist, MD
Mehnaz Hyder
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Please note-cash only practice. Your brain is the most brilliantly designed piece of engineering in the whole universe. It allows you to experience the world. It's where all of your great ideas live. And it's what makes you a unique individual. You are one in billions! You are meant to experience joy and to do spectacular things-according to your best paradigm based on your values. Traumatic life experiences and chronic stress can interfere with your ability to curate your paradigm which may lead to depression, anxiety, and poor functioning. I can help you with these symptoms.
Please note-cash only practice. Your brain is the most brilliantly designed piece of engineering in the whole universe. It allows you to experience the world. It's where all of your great ideas live. And it's what makes you a unique individual. You are one in billions! You are meant to experience joy and to do spectacular things-according to your best paradigm based on your values. Traumatic life experiences and chronic stress can interfere with your ability to curate your paradigm which may lead to depression, anxiety, and poor functioning. I can help you with these symptoms.
(650) 275-6820 View (650) 275-6820
Photo of Kelechi Okwaraji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelechi Okwaraji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
8 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my commitment to your well-being is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health. I recognize the courage it takes to seek help and embark on a journey towards healing, and I am here to provide you with unwavering support. My approach to psychiatric care is founded on the belief that each individual is unique, and their experiences shape their mental health. I am dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. Your concerns will be heard with the utmost respect, and together,
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my commitment to your well-being is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health. I recognize the courage it takes to seek help and embark on a journey towards healing, and I am here to provide you with unwavering support. My approach to psychiatric care is founded on the belief that each individual is unique, and their experiences shape their mental health. I am dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. Your concerns will be heard with the utmost respect, and together,
(747) 335-7094 View (747) 335-7094
Photo of Okey Ofodile, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Okey Ofodile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and adult gerontology NP that specializes in Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, diagnosing, and treatment of individuals needing mental health services.
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and adult gerontology NP that specializes in Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, diagnosing, and treatment of individuals needing mental health services.
(510) 399-2788 View (510) 399-2788
Photo of Ngozi Onyenuforo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ngozi Onyenuforo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Ngozi Onyenuforo, a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) 95022632. My approach to care is holistic, integrating evidence-based treatment with a faith-based, Christian perspective. I specialize in medication management and therapy for mood disorders, anxiety, and co-occurring conditions, and I am committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship. My goal is to empower you on your path to mental wellness while honoring your faith and values.
Hello, I'm Ngozi Onyenuforo, a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) 95022632. My approach to care is holistic, integrating evidence-based treatment with a faith-based, Christian perspective. I specialize in medication management and therapy for mood disorders, anxiety, and co-occurring conditions, and I am committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship. My goal is to empower you on your path to mental wellness while honoring your faith and values.
(747) 207-4569 View (747) 207-4569
Photo of Stephanie Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Reed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. My practice focuses on helping people through a combination of medication (if needed) and other lifestyle or behavioral interventions that may help recovery and reaching personal goals. I treat adults of all ages for a broad range of conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I use an eclectic approach to helping people uncover and understand the nature of the struggles they are having and help us come to an effective treatment plan together.
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Reed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. My practice focuses on helping people through a combination of medication (if needed) and other lifestyle or behavioral interventions that may help recovery and reaching personal goals. I treat adults of all ages for a broad range of conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I use an eclectic approach to helping people uncover and understand the nature of the struggles they are having and help us come to an effective treatment plan together.
(760) 606-2410 View (760) 606-2410
Photo of Dr. Syeda Ray Haider, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Syeda Ray Haider
Psychiatrist, MD
Modesto, CA 95350
Dr. Ray Haider believes in a holistic, trauma-informed, patient-centered approach to mental health care, emphasizing healing through medication management. Dr. Haider has advanced training in geriatric and perinatal psychiatry and provides gender-affirming mental health care to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Ray Haider believes in a holistic, trauma-informed, patient-centered approach to mental health care, emphasizing healing through medication management. Dr. Haider has advanced training in geriatric and perinatal psychiatry and provides gender-affirming mental health care to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Samir Hamed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, 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.
(916) 666-6412 View (916) 666-6412
Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $249, Follow-ups are $99
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $249, Follow-ups are $99
(909) 378-9879 View (909) 378-9879
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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!
(707) 754-0910 View (707) 754-0910
Photo of Shannon Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
(424) 699-4617 View (424) 699-4617
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence based medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence based medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(559) 337-5752 View (559) 337-5752
Photo of Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher is a dual board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Al-Dhaher empowers the family unit and strengthens school and community support when working with children and teenagers. She believes mindfulness, a healthy lifestyle, and strong social connections are crucial to improving mental health.
Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher is a dual board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Al-Dhaher empowers the family unit and strengthens school and community support when working with children and teenagers. She believes mindfulness, a healthy lifestyle, and strong social connections are crucial to improving mental health.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Charles Scribner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Charles Scribner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Charles Scribner, PMHNP-C, is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience, committed to supporting patients and their families through challenging times. He earned his Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Azusa Pacific University, graduating Magna Cum Laude.
Charles Scribner, PMHNP-C, is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience, committed to supporting patients and their families through challenging times. He earned his Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Azusa Pacific University, graduating Magna Cum Laude.
(209) 806-7029 View (209) 806-7029
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(831) 401-4823 View (831) 401-4823
Photo of Michael They, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Michael They
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
He earned his Doctorate in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He provides treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. He speaks fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, and Cambodian.
He earned his Doctorate in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He provides treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. He speaks fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, and Cambodian.
(209) 804-5866 View (209) 804-5866
Photo of Shannon Pereira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Pereira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
(909) 442-4155 View (909) 442-4155
Photo of Michael They, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Michael They
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Modesto, CA 95355
He earned his Doctorate in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He provides treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. He speaks fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Cambodian.
He earned his Doctorate in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He provides treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. He speaks fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Cambodian.
(866) 240-8517 View (866) 240-8517

See more therapy options for 95205

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 95205

< 10

Psychiatrists in 95205 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Coventry

How Psychiatrists in 95205 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 95205?

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.