Psychiatrists in 96822

Photo of Dr. Taylor Brana, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Taylor Brana
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96822
Every person has a unique set of health factors, circumstances, and way of being. Therefore, every individual requires a tailored approach to make sure that they are well cared for. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of Adults and Teens, I utilize an evidenced-based, holistic approach that integrates medication management and preventative medicine with a wide variety of therapeutic modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, osteopathic holistic care, mindfulness, meditation training, and lifestyle design.
Every person has a unique set of health factors, circumstances, and way of being. Therefore, every individual requires a tailored approach to make sure that they are well cared for. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of Adults and Teens, I utilize an evidenced-based, holistic approach that integrates medication management and preventative medicine with a wide variety of therapeutic modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, osteopathic holistic care, mindfulness, meditation training, and lifestyle design.
(808) 207-8196 View (808) 207-8196
Photo of Dr. Gretchen Gavero- Mindhealthspace, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Gretchen Gavero- Mindhealthspace
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96822  (Online Only)
Tailored care is essential to understand your unique biological, cultural, and psychological makeup to improve your health and develop the skills to overcome your life challenges. Your body and mind change when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Past experiences and anxieties about the future can keep you from living your best life now. I combine expert medical knowledge with real-life talk and individualized treatment to help you feel better and thrive. We'll address your health and emotional needs by working together.
Tailored care is essential to understand your unique biological, cultural, and psychological makeup to improve your health and develop the skills to overcome your life challenges. Your body and mind change when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Past experiences and anxieties about the future can keep you from living your best life now. I combine expert medical knowledge with real-life talk and individualized treatment to help you feel better and thrive. We'll address your health and emotional needs by working together.
(808) 353-4808 View (808) 353-4808

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Betty King - Ohanapsych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Betty King - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817  (Online Only)
Since 1983 Betty has devoted her life to nursing. Her education includes double Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Since becoming Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Betty has worked with children and adolescents in psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings in Arkansas. Betty has additional training as an Addiction Professional and a Christian Counselor, and she has volunteered at a substance abuse program for homeless adults.
Since 1983 Betty has devoted her life to nursing. Her education includes double Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Since becoming Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Betty has worked with children and adolescents in psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings in Arkansas. Betty has additional training as an Addiction Professional and a Christian Counselor, and she has volunteered at a substance abuse program for homeless adults.
(808) 731-1028 View (808) 731-1028
Photo of LaShaun Perry - Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness , APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
Now Accepting New Patients! Most Major Insurances Accepted Our Clinic offers General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! Most Major Insurances Accepted Our Clinic offers General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
(520) 412-7420 View (520) 412-7420
Photo of Justin Salandanan, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justin Salandanan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96802
Justin Salandanan specializes in medication management of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance in adults. He takes a non-judgmental and collaborative approach with each of his clients. Justin utilizes GeneSight genetic testing when necessary to help guide treatment. To BOOK an Appointment online, visit: sigmund.headway.co, call 201-305-0456, or email.
Justin Salandanan specializes in medication management of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance in adults. He takes a non-judgmental and collaborative approach with each of his clients. Justin utilizes GeneSight genetic testing when necessary to help guide treatment. To BOOK an Appointment online, visit: sigmund.headway.co, call 201-305-0456, or email.
(201) 730-9016 View (201) 730-9016
Photo of Tara Valenzuela, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara Valenzuela
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a mental health enthusiast, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a professor of psychiatric nursing. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, and person-focused. This involves customized strategies for medication management. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a mental health enthusiast, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a professor of psychiatric nursing. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, and person-focused. This involves customized strategies for medication management. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy.
(808) 563-4918 View (808) 563-4918
Photo of Tara Knight - Ohanapsych, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara Knight - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
Tara has completed a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and became nationally board certified as a PMHNP in 2019. Prior to that, she has 12 years of nursing experience including trauma, progressive care nursing, and psychiatric emergencies before graduating with a Master of Science (MSN) advanced training at the University of San Diego. She also served in the United States Air Force as a flight nurse and nursing services instructor and manager.
Tara has completed a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and became nationally board certified as a PMHNP in 2019. Prior to that, she has 12 years of nursing experience including trauma, progressive care nursing, and psychiatric emergencies before graduating with a Master of Science (MSN) advanced training at the University of San Diego. She also served in the United States Air Force as a flight nurse and nursing services instructor and manager.
(808) 378-7113 View (808) 378-7113
Photo of Ethan Pien, MD, Psychiatrist
Ethan Pien
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
I am accepting new patients. I have 17 years of experience serving individuals ages 18+. Common problems I help with include depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, and bipolar disorders. Services may include both psychiatric medications and counseling. I graduated from Punahou and finished medical school at UH in the top 10% of my class there.
I am accepting new patients. I have 17 years of experience serving individuals ages 18+. Common problems I help with include depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, and bipolar disorders. Services may include both psychiatric medications and counseling. I graduated from Punahou and finished medical school at UH in the top 10% of my class there.
(808) 201-6840 View (808) 201-6840
Photo of Amanda Nall - Ohanapsych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Nall - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817  (Online Only)
Amanda has experience treating patients across the lifespan, from toddlers to geriatric patients. She is driven to improve everyday life for those struggling with or affected by mental illness. Amanda’s treatment approach is client-centered and holistic with the goal of reducing or eliminating concerning symptoms.
Amanda has experience treating patients across the lifespan, from toddlers to geriatric patients. She is driven to improve everyday life for those struggling with or affected by mental illness. Amanda’s treatment approach is client-centered and holistic with the goal of reducing or eliminating concerning symptoms.
(808) 353-5979 View (808) 353-5979
Photo of Dr. Jay Nichols, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jay Nichols
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, I invite you to take the first step towards a brighter future! I specialize in helping professionals who are experiencing burnout in their careers due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and have extensive experience working with professionals such as CEO’s, lawyers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to find renewed balance and reconnect with purpose in their lives. I also have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community who might be struggling with sexual identity and are ready to start experiencing their true authentic life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, I invite you to take the first step towards a brighter future! I specialize in helping professionals who are experiencing burnout in their careers due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and have extensive experience working with professionals such as CEO’s, lawyers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to find renewed balance and reconnect with purpose in their lives. I also have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community who might be struggling with sexual identity and are ready to start experiencing their true authentic life.
(808) 736-5912 View (808) 736-5912
Photo of George Mackel - Ohanapsych, MSN, APRN-RX, NP-C, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George Mackel - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-RX, NP-C, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817  (Online Only)
After 38 years of nursing experience, George completed advanced training at North Georgia College and State University where he earned a Master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. George worked for several years with indigenous people on the Cherokee Indian reservation where he found a calling to help people with mental health and addiction issues. He completed a Post-Master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at East Carolina University and a certification as a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advance Practice.
After 38 years of nursing experience, George completed advanced training at North Georgia College and State University where he earned a Master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. George worked for several years with indigenous people on the Cherokee Indian reservation where he found a calling to help people with mental health and addiction issues. He completed a Post-Master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at East Carolina University and a certification as a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advance Practice.
(808) 755-3906 View (808) 755-3906
Photo of Angie Stanley, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angie Stanley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96801  (Online Only)
I am passionate about behavioral health- both personally and professionally. My superpower is building relationships and using empathy to meet with clients where they are. I believe medication management is part of a three-legged stool. When paired with therapy and self-care the most optimal outcomes can be achieved and the stool will be balanced.
I am passionate about behavioral health- both personally and professionally. My superpower is building relationships and using empathy to meet with clients where they are. I believe medication management is part of a three-legged stool. When paired with therapy and self-care the most optimal outcomes can be achieved and the stool will be balanced.
(320) 373-4446 View (320) 373-4446
Photo of Dr. Susan Magorno, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Susan Magorno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96801  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer in the holistic approach to care and my goal is to work together for a happier, more fulfilled you. I use medications as a bridge for many conditions but most importantly, I focus on lifestyle modifications to ensure continued success. Please call for possible openings outside of listed availability.
I am a firm believer in the holistic approach to care and my goal is to work together for a happier, more fulfilled you. I use medications as a bridge for many conditions but most importantly, I focus on lifestyle modifications to ensure continued success. Please call for possible openings outside of listed availability.
(808) 559-9989 View (808) 559-9989
Photo of Jacob Lee, MD, Psychiatrist
Jacob Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dr. Jacob Lee is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who earned his M.D. and completed Psychiatry Residency at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. He served as Chief Fellow for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Hawai’i John A. Burns School of Medicine. He works with children, teens, adults, and their families to navigate mental illness, life stage transitions, and issues of identity including gender and sexual minority care.
Dr. Jacob Lee is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who earned his M.D. and completed Psychiatry Residency at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. He served as Chief Fellow for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Hawai’i John A. Burns School of Medicine. He works with children, teens, adults, and their families to navigate mental illness, life stage transitions, and issues of identity including gender and sexual minority care.
(808) 666-9686 View (808) 666-9686
Photo of Kourtney Tapnio - Ohana Holistic Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ohana Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96802
November 2024, Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I'm Kourtney Tapnio, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep-seated commitment to providing holistic and empathetic care in the realm of mental health. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in devising comprehensive treatment plans that address the individual needs of my patients, ensuring a balanced approach to mental wellness. My practice is built on the cornerstone of compassion and the relentless pursuit of understanding the unique challenges faced by each person I have the privilege to work with.
November 2024, Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I'm Kourtney Tapnio, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep-seated commitment to providing holistic and empathetic care in the realm of mental health. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in devising comprehensive treatment plans that address the individual needs of my patients, ensuring a balanced approach to mental wellness. My practice is built on the cornerstone of compassion and the relentless pursuit of understanding the unique challenges faced by each person I have the privilege to work with.
(346) 239-8809 View (346) 239-8809
Photo of H. K. Blaisdell Brennan, MD, Psychiatrist
H. K. Blaisdell Brennan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Blaisdell-Brennan is a Board Certified Medical Doctor trained at Harvard, JABSOM, and UCLA (not accepting new patients).
Dr. Blaisdell-Brennan is a Board Certified Medical Doctor trained at Harvard, JABSOM, and UCLA (not accepting new patients).
(808) 427-2589 View (808) 427-2589
Photo of Garrett Milo Halweg, MD, Psychiatrist
Garrett Milo Halweg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dr. Garrett Halweg began a quest for improving brain health at the completion of his residency from University of Hawaii, Queens Medical Center in 2003. He headed up a private practice in Southern California working on common disorders like depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Dr. Halweg survived multi-system organ failure because of a Leptospirosis infection from a local waterfall in November 2013, which prompted a renewed interest in optimizing physical health and mental awareness. This experience taught him lessons that shaped his life and now wants to share his story with others.
Dr. Garrett Halweg began a quest for improving brain health at the completion of his residency from University of Hawaii, Queens Medical Center in 2003. He headed up a private practice in Southern California working on common disorders like depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Dr. Halweg survived multi-system organ failure because of a Leptospirosis infection from a local waterfall in November 2013, which prompted a renewed interest in optimizing physical health and mental awareness. This experience taught him lessons that shaped his life and now wants to share his story with others.
(808) 664-1402 View (808) 664-1402
Photo of Thomas Cook, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas Cook
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
(808) 670-3475 View (808) 670-3475
Photo of Hyesu Shin, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hyesu Shin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813
Aloha! I am Hyesu(HEY-SU), Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Health NP in Hawaii. With over 10 years of dedicated practice, I’ve gained diverse experience, serving the underprivileged population in the Bronx, NY to Medicare Kapuna in Hawaii. I aspire to be an advocate and reduce the stigma surrounding Psychiatry. My goal is to contribute to my community by promoting serene and contented mental health, helping individuals achieve their goals, and fostering meaningful life experiences.
Aloha! I am Hyesu(HEY-SU), Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Health NP in Hawaii. With over 10 years of dedicated practice, I’ve gained diverse experience, serving the underprivileged population in the Bronx, NY to Medicare Kapuna in Hawaii. I aspire to be an advocate and reduce the stigma surrounding Psychiatry. My goal is to contribute to my community by promoting serene and contented mental health, helping individuals achieve their goals, and fostering meaningful life experiences.
(808) 393-6566 View (808) 393-6566
Photo of Henry Lou-Goode - SynCare Behavioral Health, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SynCare Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816
Have you been spending some time in psychotherapy and wondering if medication might help with your progress and wellbeing? Have you recently moved and needed an expert to continue your psychiatric care? Do you feel that your psychiatric provider is not listening to you or rushing through your appointments? Aloha! my name is Henry and I am an experienced board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I invite you to schedule an appointment with me to discuss whether I could be of help with your journey to your best self.
Have you been spending some time in psychotherapy and wondering if medication might help with your progress and wellbeing? Have you recently moved and needed an expert to continue your psychiatric care? Do you feel that your psychiatric provider is not listening to you or rushing through your appointments? Aloha! my name is Henry and I am an experienced board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I invite you to schedule an appointment with me to discuss whether I could be of help with your journey to your best self.
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See more therapy options for 96822

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 96822

< 10

Psychiatrists in 96822 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Other
100% Coping Skills
100% Medication Management
100% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% University Health Alliance
50% Medicaid

How Psychiatrists in 96822 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 96822?

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.