Psychiatrists in 95662

Photo of Dr. Pegah Pajouhi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Pegah Pajouhi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orangevale, CA 95662
Dr. Pegah Pajouhi is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Pajouhi provides medication management and has a compassionate, evidence-based approach, accounting for the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that impact each patient’s mental health.
Dr. Pegah Pajouhi is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Pajouhi provides medication management and has a compassionate, evidence-based approach, accounting for the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that impact each patient’s mental health.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Daniel Chandler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orangevale, CA 95662  (Online Only)
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
(619) 815-2027 View (619) 815-2027
Photo of Penelope Libeu, MD, Psychiatrist
Penelope Libeu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orangevale, CA 95662
Dr. Penelope Libeu is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and has been in practice since 2018. She received her BA from UC Berkeley, earned her medical degree from Rush Medical College, and graduated from Northwestern Memorial Hospital's psychiatry residency program. Dr. Libeu's approach to improving mental health is multidisciplinary and may include combining medication(s) with psychotherapy, group therapy, relationship (couple's) therapy, and making lifestyle changes to improve your overall well-being, e. g.
Dr. Penelope Libeu is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and has been in practice since 2018. She received her BA from UC Berkeley, earned her medical degree from Rush Medical College, and graduated from Northwestern Memorial Hospital's psychiatry residency program. Dr. Libeu's approach to improving mental health is multidisciplinary and may include combining medication(s) with psychotherapy, group therapy, relationship (couple's) therapy, and making lifestyle changes to improve your overall well-being, e. g.
(916) 818-2211 View (916) 818-2211
Photo of Shannon Suo, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Shannon Suo
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangevale, CA 95662
I completed my undergraduate studies at UC Davis with a BS in Zoology, focused on behavior. I attended University of Cincinnati School of Medicine for my medical degree and came back to Sacramento for a combined residency in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I chose the combined practice of Family Medicine and Psychiatry because I saw the impact that psychological concerns had on the health of individuals and how often primary care physicians were not prepared to understand or treat these problems. I maintain Board Certification in both Family Medicine and Adult Psychiatry.
I completed my undergraduate studies at UC Davis with a BS in Zoology, focused on behavior. I attended University of Cincinnati School of Medicine for my medical degree and came back to Sacramento for a combined residency in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I chose the combined practice of Family Medicine and Psychiatry because I saw the impact that psychological concerns had on the health of individuals and how often primary care physicians were not prepared to understand or treat these problems. I maintain Board Certification in both Family Medicine and Adult Psychiatry.
(916) 237-1795 View (916) 237-1795
Photo of Melissa Maxwell, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Maxwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Orangevale, CA 95662
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing from Western Governor's University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship begins with understanding my clients as they see themselves and the goals that they have for themselves.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing from Western Governor's University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship begins with understanding my clients as they see themselves and the goals that they have for themselves.
(916) 269-5354 View (916) 269-5354
Photo of Jeremy Ernst, DO, Psychiatrist
Jeremy Ernst
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Orangevale, CA 95662
Dr. Jeremy Ernst is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Ernst helps clients by taking a holistic and collaborative approach to care. Together they are able to find root causes for mental health concerns and find safe and effective solutions. Outside of work, Dr. Ernst enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with his family.
Dr. Jeremy Ernst is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Ernst helps clients by taking a holistic and collaborative approach to care. Together they are able to find root causes for mental health concerns and find safe and effective solutions. Outside of work, Dr. Ernst enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with his family.
(916) 665-0448 View (916) 665-0448
Photo of Melissa Fisher, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Fisher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Orangevale, CA 95662
Melissa Fisher is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is committed to providing compassionate and empathetic care. She has been practicing medicine since 2003. Melissa is dual-certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. After working several years in hematology/oncology, she transitioned into psychiatry and completed a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been working in psychiatry for 10+ years and has experience treating adults of all ages in inpatient/skilled nursing and outpatient settings.
Melissa Fisher is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is committed to providing compassionate and empathetic care. She has been practicing medicine since 2003. Melissa is dual-certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. After working several years in hematology/oncology, she transitioned into psychiatry and completed a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been working in psychiatry for 10+ years and has experience treating adults of all ages in inpatient/skilled nursing and outpatient settings.
(916) 571-1399 View (916) 571-1399
Photo of Maisha Correia, MD, Psychiatrist
Maisha Correia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orangevale, CA 95662
Dr. Maisha Correia is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She earned her BA in Psychology with a Chemistry correlate from Vassar College, then moved to San Francisco to earn her MD from University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. Dr. Correia provides a thoughtful, complete diagnostic evaluation in addition to well considered medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She has a particular interest in treating chronic trauma symptoms as well as a broad base of experience doing so.
Dr. Maisha Correia is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She earned her BA in Psychology with a Chemistry correlate from Vassar College, then moved to San Francisco to earn her MD from University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. Dr. Correia provides a thoughtful, complete diagnostic evaluation in addition to well considered medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She has a particular interest in treating chronic trauma symptoms as well as a broad base of experience doing so.
(916) 776-5114 View (916) 776-5114
Photo of Dr. Jeremy Ernst - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Orangevale, CA 95662
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 701-0498 View (844) 701-0498

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ifeoma Okwu - Embodied Wellness Psychiatry, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834  (Online Only)
Ifeoma Okwu is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington and California. She treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and specializes in mental health, weight management, sexual dysfunction, and thyroid optimization.
Ifeoma Okwu is a dually board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington and California. She treats a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and specializes in mental health, weight management, sexual dysfunction, and thyroid optimization.
(916) 713-7773 View (916) 713-7773
Photo of Halee Fullerton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95758  (Online Only)
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Nelly Duarti - Braincom Advanced Nursing Corp, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Braincom Advanced Nursing Corp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing.
(661) 486-5190 View (661) 486-5190
Photo of Isaac Kuffour, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Isaac Kuffour
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95835  (Online Only)
My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, often compounded by trauma or substance abuse. They feel misunderstood and struggle with daily life. They need compassionate, trauma-informed care, personalized treatment, and support with coping skills and medication management. Their goals include regaining emotional stability, improving relationships, and rebuilding self-worth. They want to feel heard and empowered, seeking lasting recovery and a fulfilling, balanced life.
My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, often compounded by trauma or substance abuse. They feel misunderstood and struggle with daily life. They need compassionate, trauma-informed care, personalized treatment, and support with coping skills and medication management. Their goals include regaining emotional stability, improving relationships, and rebuilding self-worth. They want to feel heard and empowered, seeking lasting recovery and a fulfilling, balanced life.
(323) 372-9796 View (323) 372-9796
Photo of Emeka Anosike, NP, MSN, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emeka Anosike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN, MPH
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95678
My focus is on using medication management to improve quality of life. I treat adolescent and adult patients.
My focus is on using medication management to improve quality of life. I treat adolescent and adult patients.
(916) 507-1732 View (916) 507-1732
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95747
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-bas 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-bas 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.
(949) 368-0778 View (949) 368-0778
Photo of Halima Lawal - Open Minds Psychiatry, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Open Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95834  (Online Only)
Halima Lawal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained and experienced in treating patients with mental health conditions across the lifespan. She graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in Psychiatry from the University of South Alabama in 2020. During the span of her career, she has served as a mentor and is enthusiastic about learning and teaching. She completed her training for psychiatry in the inpatient, outpatient, and telepsychiatry settings. She is passionate about what she does and is invested in positive patient outcomes and overall wellbeing.
Halima Lawal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained and experienced in treating patients with mental health conditions across the lifespan. She graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in Psychiatry from the University of South Alabama in 2020. During the span of her career, she has served as a mentor and is enthusiastic about learning and teaching. She completed her training for psychiatry in the inpatient, outpatient, and telepsychiatry settings. She is passionate about what she does and is invested in positive patient outcomes and overall wellbeing.
(530) 771-6624 View (530) 771-6624
Photo of Fabiola Sweet, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fabiola Sweet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Is it hard for you to go to sleep and function every day? Are you noticiing it's difficult to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night? Is this affecting your self esteem, school grades, work, or achieving your goals? You are welcome here and you don't have to continue to suffer.
Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Is it hard for you to go to sleep and function every day? Are you noticiing it's difficult to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night? Is this affecting your self esteem, school grades, work, or achieving your goals? You are welcome here and you don't have to continue to suffer.
(279) 205-7678 View (279) 205-7678
Photo of Dr. Paul Damian Cox, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Paul Damian Cox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Davis, CA 95618
Paul Damian Cox, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist. He graduated from UC Davis Medical School, which he attended as a Regents' Scholar. Dr. Cox completed his internship and residency at UC San Francisco, where he developed several psychotherapy groups and in 1995 served as Chief Resident. His professional areas of expertise and interest include comprehensive management combining medication and therapy, as well as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). Dr. Cox is an experienced teacher drawing from interpersonal neurobiology and social cognitive learning theory.
Paul Damian Cox, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist. He graduated from UC Davis Medical School, which he attended as a Regents' Scholar. Dr. Cox completed his internship and residency at UC San Francisco, where he developed several psychotherapy groups and in 1995 served as Chief Resident. His professional areas of expertise and interest include comprehensive management combining medication and therapy, as well as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). Dr. Cox is an experienced teacher drawing from interpersonal neurobiology and social cognitive learning theory.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Ogechukwun Ugwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ogechukwun Ugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94203  (Online Only)
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
(559) 744-4265 View (559) 744-4265
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95828  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 95662

< 10

Psychiatrists in 95662 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
89% Trauma and PTSD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Psychosis
78% Medication Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 95662 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 95662?

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.