Psychiatrists in 95758

Photo of Chinwe Asidanya - Nurturing Minds Mental Health Nursing, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nurturing Minds Mental Health Nursing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care through Nurturing Minds Mental Health Nursing. I specialize in comprehensive assessments, medication management, and supportive therapy tailored to each individual’s needs. At Nurturing Minds, I emphasize empathy, collaboration, and holistic care, creating a safe space where patients feel empowered to address challenges and achieve growth. Working with diverse populations, I am committed to helping individuals build resilience, heal, and improve their quality of life.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care through Nurturing Minds Mental Health Nursing. I specialize in comprehensive assessments, medication management, and supportive therapy tailored to each individual’s needs. At Nurturing Minds, I emphasize empathy, collaboration, and holistic care, creating a safe space where patients feel empowered to address challenges and achieve growth. Working with diverse populations, I am committed to helping individuals build resilience, heal, and improve their quality of life.
(916) 269-5106 View (916) 269-5106
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(916) 776-5519 View (916) 776-5519
Photo of Sharath Puttichanda, MD, Psychiatrist
Sharath Puttichanda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95758
My passion stems from a deep-seated desire to help those in crisis or in need. I believe humans are complicated and not perfect all the time. All of those aspects make the whole person. I use my clinical skills to guide people in the right direction and build treatment plans to help my patients find relief from the suffering they may be experiencing. In working with patients, I meet them where they are emotionally and build a collaborative partnership to help each person live their happiest, best lives.
My passion stems from a deep-seated desire to help those in crisis or in need. I believe humans are complicated and not perfect all the time. All of those aspects make the whole person. I use my clinical skills to guide people in the right direction and build treatment plans to help my patients find relief from the suffering they may be experiencing. In working with patients, I meet them where they are emotionally and build a collaborative partnership to help each person live their happiest, best lives.
(916) 758-9529 View (916) 758-9529
Photo of Veronica Kamau, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica Kamau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95758
I am a board certified PMHNP licensed in California and Arizona. I am dedicated to offering integrative, and personalized adult psychiatric treatments designed to improve your mental and physical health and improve your overall life satisfaction. As an immigrant, I recognize that some clients may experience cultural stigmas related to mental illness, making it difficult to seek help to discuss their concerns. I relate and engage well with young and middle aged adults 18 and above from all cultural and ethnic backgrounds that have difficult talking to strangers about their mental health.
I am a board certified PMHNP licensed in California and Arizona. I am dedicated to offering integrative, and personalized adult psychiatric treatments designed to improve your mental and physical health and improve your overall life satisfaction. As an immigrant, I recognize that some clients may experience cultural stigmas related to mental illness, making it difficult to seek help to discuss their concerns. I relate and engage well with young and middle aged adults 18 and above from all cultural and ethnic backgrounds that have difficult talking to strangers about their mental health.
(916) 776-8660 View (916) 776-8660
Photo of Halee Fullerton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(909) 318-2917 View (909) 318-2917
Photo of Orah Mahtov, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orah Mahtov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
(916) 252-1143 View (916) 252-1143
Photo of Eric Nghe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric Nghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
(916) 909-1807 View (916) 909-1807
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(916) 302-2857 View (916) 302-2857
Photo of Keith Lui - Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95758
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
(916) 758-9109 View (916) 758-9109
Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
(916) 665-0163 View (916) 665-0163

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed, PHMNP, APRN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacquelyn Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockton, CA 95212
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
(209) 387-3095 View (209) 387-3095
Photo of Jamie Fauth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Fauth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jamie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating women’s issues, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community. During sessions, I use a compassion focused and client centered therapeutic approach. I take a holistic perspective on mental health medication treatment and will carefully evaluate your background, lifestyle, and health history to help you choose the right medication.
Hi, I’m Jamie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating women’s issues, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community. During sessions, I use a compassion focused and client centered therapeutic approach. I take a holistic perspective on mental health medication treatment and will carefully evaluate your background, lifestyle, and health history to help you choose the right medication.
(619) 826-0982 View (619) 826-0982
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(510) 756-2076 View (510) 756-2076
Photo of Shannon Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(650) 684-1861 View (650) 684-1861
Photo of Dr. Bita Shaghaghi, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Bita Shaghaghi
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Davis, CA 95618
Dr. Bita Shaghaghiis board-certified in psychiatry and specializes in adults suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality, and sleep disorders, as well as co-occurring medical conditions. Dr. Shaghaghi has a patient-centered and recovery-oriented approach that uses elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management. She believes every patient is valuable and worthy of great care. She is passionate about working as a team to create and attain achievable goals.
Dr. Bita Shaghaghiis board-certified in psychiatry and specializes in adults suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality, and sleep disorders, as well as co-occurring medical conditions. Dr. Shaghaghi has a patient-centered and recovery-oriented approach that uses elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management. She believes every patient is valuable and worthy of great care. She is passionate about working as a team to create and attain achievable goals.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Khalil Sandoval, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khalil Sandoval
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Khalil Sandoval, PMHNP-BC, and I want you to know you’re not alone. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and we all need a safe, supportive space to pause, reflect, and be truly heard. My deepest belief is that healing begins the moment you feel heard, and I’m here to create that space for you—a space where you can show up just as you are.
I’m Khalil Sandoval, PMHNP-BC, and I want you to know you’re not alone. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and we all need a safe, supportive space to pause, reflect, and be truly heard. My deepest belief is that healing begins the moment you feel heard, and I’m here to create that space for you—a space where you can show up just as you are.
(628) 282-4134 View (628) 282-4134
Humanity Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have 20 plus years experience in the healthcare industry. My specialty area is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner BC. I conduct patient assessments, evaluations, and diagnoses of various mental health disorders. Treatment of complex, resistant disorders are available. The goal of this practice is to bring about mental health and well-being. I look forward to working with you toward reaching your wellness goals.
I have 20 plus years experience in the healthcare industry. My specialty area is Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner BC. I conduct patient assessments, evaluations, and diagnoses of various mental health disorders. Treatment of complex, resistant disorders are available. The goal of this practice is to bring about mental health and well-being. I look forward to working with you toward reaching your wellness goals.
(530) 607-6714 View (530) 607-6714
Photo of Dr. Clarissa Doi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Clarissa Doi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Quick availability. Stanford-trained. 100% virtual. Dr. Clarissa Doi is a Stanford-trained, double board-certified physician with extensive experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care. She has valuable experience at prestigious academic centers and organizations, including Kaiser Permanente and Lyra Health.
Quick availability. Stanford-trained. 100% virtual. Dr. Clarissa Doi is a Stanford-trained, double board-certified physician with extensive experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care. She has valuable experience at prestigious academic centers and organizations, including Kaiser Permanente and Lyra Health.
(949) 881-5764 View (949) 881-5764
Photo of Succura Davis, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Succura Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner, board certified with the ANCC. I added PMHNP-BC this very Fall. I have worked in many capacities in Mental Health, as an educator and a director. I have over 10 years of experience in mental health. I find my approach to psychiatric medication management to be person centered and highly effective.
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner, board certified with the ANCC. I added PMHNP-BC this very Fall. I have worked in many capacities in Mental Health, as an educator and a director. I have over 10 years of experience in mental health. I find my approach to psychiatric medication management to be person centered and highly effective.
(661) 386-1999 View (661) 386-1999
Photo of Dr. Vivienne Ayomanor, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Vivienne Ayomanor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals struggling with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. They seek compassionate, personalized care to understand their condition, manage symptoms, and regain control of their lives. They want to feel heard, supported, and empowered to live healthier, more fulfilling lives with effective coping strategies, and improved emotional and mental well-being.
My ideal clients are individuals struggling with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. They seek compassionate, personalized care to understand their condition, manage symptoms, and regain control of their lives. They want to feel heard, supported, and empowered to live healthier, more fulfilling lives with effective coping strategies, and improved emotional and mental well-being.
(310) 496-7831 View (310) 496-7831

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 95758

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 95758 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
80% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 95758 see their clients

70% Online Only
30% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 95758?

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.