Psychiatrists in Alameda, CA

Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed - Mindwell MHS - Anxiety, Depression and ADHD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Mindwell MHS - Anxiety, Depression and ADHD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
1 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
(510) 395-8218 View (510) 395-8218
Photo of Abigail Marie Wolf, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Abigail Marie Wolf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
My approach to care is rooted in authenticity, curiosity, and respect. I am an active listener and natural empath with strong assessment skills and am most fulfilled working with people who are motivated to feel well, but don't know where to begin. You are the expert on yourself; I can meet you where you're at and be your advocate, guide, and partner on your mental health journey. I will likely be a good fit as a provider for you if you are interested in supportive talk therapy, exploration of lifestyle and nutrition, and a holistic/integrative approach to care versus a 10 minute check in regarding medication.
My approach to care is rooted in authenticity, curiosity, and respect. I am an active listener and natural empath with strong assessment skills and am most fulfilled working with people who are motivated to feel well, but don't know where to begin. You are the expert on yourself; I can meet you where you're at and be your advocate, guide, and partner on your mental health journey. I will likely be a good fit as a provider for you if you are interested in supportive talk therapy, exploration of lifestyle and nutrition, and a holistic/integrative approach to care versus a 10 minute check in regarding medication.
(415) 936-8088 View (415) 936-8088
Photo of Serina Deen, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Serina Deen
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
I’m not a typical psychiatrist. I don’t just prescribe medications for symptom relief. I want more for my patients. I want them to find deep self-love, fierceness, freedom, and connection to something larger than themselves. Toward that end, I work with all my patients in psychotherapy to discovers unconscious blocks and ways of thinking that hold them back. I encourage a meditation practice. I provide education about psychedelics. I welcome seekers who want to know themselves better and feel more connected to the world around them.
I’m not a typical psychiatrist. I don’t just prescribe medications for symptom relief. I want more for my patients. I want them to find deep self-love, fierceness, freedom, and connection to something larger than themselves. Toward that end, I work with all my patients in psychotherapy to discovers unconscious blocks and ways of thinking that hold them back. I encourage a meditation practice. I provide education about psychedelics. I welcome seekers who want to know themselves better and feel more connected to the world around them.
(510) 400-6670 View (510) 400-6670
Photo of Jennique 'jenn' Simplice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Jennique 'jenn' Simplice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Jenn Simplice is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Jenn received her bachelors on the East Coast from New Jersey City University and is originally from the Bronx, New York. Jenn migrated to the West Coast as a travel RN where she completed her masters and currently continues to reside in southern CA. Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations including adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community.
Jenn Simplice is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master’s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Jenn received her bachelors on the East Coast from New Jersey City University and is originally from the Bronx, New York. Jenn migrated to the West Coast as a travel RN where she completed her masters and currently continues to reside in southern CA. Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations including adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community.
(424) 722-3659 View (424) 722-3659
Photo of Angelica Luciano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angelica Luciano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Angelica Luciano. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I was licensed in 2017. I use a bio-psycho-social framework. Understanding that psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, the effects of certain medications, or genetic predisposition. I incorporate multiple modalities, including medication management, education, and brief supportive therapeutic interventions to treat you as a unique individual and not a textbook. I treat adults, typically between the ages of 18-60, for a broad range of psychiatric conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Angelica Luciano. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I was licensed in 2017. I use a bio-psycho-social framework. Understanding that psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, the effects of certain medications, or genetic predisposition. I incorporate multiple modalities, including medication management, education, and brief supportive therapeutic interventions to treat you as a unique individual and not a textbook. I treat adults, typically between the ages of 18-60, for a broad range of psychiatric conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
(760) 462-0041 View (760) 462-0041
Photo of Theresa Carla Negrido Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Theresa Carla Negrido Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in medication management. I work with individuals dealing with mood dysregulation, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and attention issues. My goal is to support you in understanding and managing your mental health in a compassionate and holistic way.
I specialize in medication management. I work with individuals dealing with mood dysregulation, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and attention issues. My goal is to support you in understanding and managing your mental health in a compassionate and holistic way.
(415) 300-1669 View (415) 300-1669
Photo of Thakkar Hiten Smita - Bay Area Clinical Associates - BACA, Psychiatrist, MD, LMFT, LCSW, MPH, AMFT
Bay Area Clinical Associates - BACA
Psychiatrist, MD, LMFT, LCSW, MPH, AMFT
Serves Area
Bay Area Clinical Associates (BACA) is a physician-owned and operated organization committed to providing integrated, scientific, empathetic mental health treatment for kids, teens, young adults and their families. As a note, we serve only ages 26 years and under. BACA is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of child & adolescent psychiatrists, licensed marriage & family therapists, and licensed clinical social workers. We work to take the "mystery" out of psychiatric care and have a relaxed, fun, caring environment at our clinics. Our Berkeley outpatient clinic is currently impacted but we have openings for our IOPs.
Bay Area Clinical Associates (BACA) is a physician-owned and operated organization committed to providing integrated, scientific, empathetic mental health treatment for kids, teens, young adults and their families. As a note, we serve only ages 26 years and under. BACA is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of child & adolescent psychiatrists, licensed marriage & family therapists, and licensed clinical social workers. We work to take the "mystery" out of psychiatric care and have a relaxed, fun, caring environment at our clinics. Our Berkeley outpatient clinic is currently impacted but we have openings for our IOPs.
(844) 748-2375 View (844) 748-2375
Photo of Pamela Joy Abao - MindFlow Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
MindFlow Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
I understand how challenging it can be to navigate mental health struggles, and I want you to know that you don’t have to face them alone. It takes strength to seek help, and I’m here to provide the support and care you deserve. Together, we can explore solutions that fit your unique needs, helping you regain balance and clarity. If you're ready to take the next step in your healing journey, I encourage you to reach out. Let’s work together to create a path forward. You’re not alone. You deserve to feel better.
I understand how challenging it can be to navigate mental health struggles, and I want you to know that you don’t have to face them alone. It takes strength to seek help, and I’m here to provide the support and care you deserve. Together, we can explore solutions that fit your unique needs, helping you regain balance and clarity. If you're ready to take the next step in your healing journey, I encourage you to reach out. Let’s work together to create a path forward. You’re not alone. You deserve to feel better.
(213) 715-6904 View (213) 715-6904
Photo of Hina Fullar - Hina Fullar, MD | Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatrist, MD
Hina Fullar, MD | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Fullar is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Climate Health Now member specializing in treating individuals with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit, trauma, phase of life emotional turmoil, immigrant identity issues, and social and environmental adversity. She has a special interest in working with individuals from diverse cultural, social, sexual, and ethnic backgrounds, while cultivating cultural humility. Having worked as a psychiatrist for about fourteen years, she understands that emotions, perceptions, and thoughts reflect deeply personal events and circumstances, many of which may not be in our control.
Dr. Fullar is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Climate Health Now member specializing in treating individuals with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit, trauma, phase of life emotional turmoil, immigrant identity issues, and social and environmental adversity. She has a special interest in working with individuals from diverse cultural, social, sexual, and ethnic backgrounds, while cultivating cultural humility. Having worked as a psychiatrist for about fourteen years, she understands that emotions, perceptions, and thoughts reflect deeply personal events and circumstances, many of which may not be in our control.
(925) 483-8515 View (925) 483-8515
Photo of Yuhuan Xie, Psychiatrist, MD
Yuhuan Xie
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mental illnesses not only cause psychological pain, they also prevents you from fully engaging and functioning in daily school/work, personal and family life. You want to restore your previous functioning as soon as possible.
Mental illnesses not only cause psychological pain, they also prevents you from fully engaging and functioning in daily school/work, personal and family life. You want to restore your previous functioning as soon as possible.
(925) 478-3698 View (925) 478-3698
Photo of Vassilis N Panagopoulos, Psychiatrist, MD
Vassilis N Panagopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of... I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician...
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of... I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician...
(650) 664-3093 View (650) 664-3093
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
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.
(415) 484-1642 View (415) 484-1642

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mitzi Llamas Cabaltica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Mitzi Llamas Cabaltica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in California, committed to providing high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to adults. Fluent in both Tagalog and Cebuano, I strive to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of their mental health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in California, committed to providing high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health care to adults. Fluent in both Tagalog and Cebuano, I strive to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of their mental health.
(562) 837-2609 View (562) 837-2609
Photo of David Scott May, Psychiatrist, MD
David Scott May
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I am a board certified child and adult psychiatrist in private practice for 30 years. I am highly trained to do psychiatric evaluations, various types of psychotherapy and medication consultations for psychiatric conditions. My approach varies depending on the need of the individual, the couple or the family. I work collaboratively with my patients. I attempt as broad of a view of each individual as possible. I look at environmental, social, psychological, and biological forces; and use this holistic view when considering the designing of a course of treatment for an individual.
I am a board certified child and adult psychiatrist in private practice for 30 years. I am highly trained to do psychiatric evaluations, various types of psychotherapy and medication consultations for psychiatric conditions. My approach varies depending on the need of the individual, the couple or the family. I work collaboratively with my patients. I attempt as broad of a view of each individual as possible. I look at environmental, social, psychological, and biological forces; and use this holistic view when considering the designing of a course of treatment for an individual.
(415) 895-2362 View (415) 895-2362
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 895-7292 View (341) 895-7292
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(408) 676-5193 View (408) 676-5193
Photo of Christopher E Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Christopher E Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Online Only
Over the past 20 years working in mental healthcare, I have enjoyed the great opportunity to serve patients and their families. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I worked first at the San Francisco VA Medical Center, through their post-graduate residency program, and then for the past several years, I worked with medically underserved populations throughout New Mexico, first in person and then via telehealth.
Over the past 20 years working in mental healthcare, I have enjoyed the great opportunity to serve patients and their families. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I worked first at the San Francisco VA Medical Center, through their post-graduate residency program, and then for the past several years, I worked with medically underserved populations throughout New Mexico, first in person and then via telehealth.
(669) 322-8228 View (669) 322-8228
Photo of Dr. David Finkelstein, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. David Finkelstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Dr. David Finkelstein has been with Mindpath Health since 2013. Dr. Finkelstein has an insight-oriented approach, providing a warm, engaging therapeutic environment. He values active listening, curiosity, compassion, and humor. Dr. Finkelstein acts as a guide to help patients explore how unconscious influences from past experiences may shape current challenges and behaviors.
Dr. David Finkelstein has been with Mindpath Health since 2013. Dr. Finkelstein has an insight-oriented approach, providing a warm, engaging therapeutic environment. He values active listening, curiosity, compassion, and humor. Dr. Finkelstein acts as a guide to help patients explore how unconscious influences from past experiences may shape current challenges and behaviors.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Jaime Jimenez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Jaime Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Are you frustrated with clinicians not calling you back or whose costs are prohibitive? Have you been wondering if medications may be an appropriate treatment for your persistent mental health symptoms? I will listen carefully and patiently to you and reflect not only your concerns, but also the strengths and motivations you bring to improving your mental health. I will work “with” you to develop a holistic assessment of your needs, suggest evidence-based treatments, and explain how these address the goals we establish collaboratively.
Are you frustrated with clinicians not calling you back or whose costs are prohibitive? Have you been wondering if medications may be an appropriate treatment for your persistent mental health symptoms? I will listen carefully and patiently to you and reflect not only your concerns, but also the strengths and motivations you bring to improving your mental health. I will work “with” you to develop a holistic assessment of your needs, suggest evidence-based treatments, and explain how these address the goals we establish collaboratively.
(831) 215-5738 View (831) 215-5738
Photo of Marjory Frederic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marjory Frederic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Board-Certified Case Manager (CCM), licensed in California and Nevada. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care through psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief psychotherapy, with a focus on mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related concerns. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with personalized treatment plans to help individuals achieve lasting well-being.
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Board-Certified Case Manager (CCM), licensed in California and Nevada. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care through psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief psychotherapy, with a focus on mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related concerns. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with personalized treatment plans to help individuals achieve lasting well-being.
(341) 208-7418 View (341) 208-7418

See more therapy options for Alameda

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Alameda, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Alameda, CA who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
82% Trauma and PTSD
64% ADHD
64% Medication Management
64% Stress
55% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
86% Blue Cross
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Alameda, CA see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Alameda?

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.