Psychiatrists in Anaheim, CA

Photo of Medard Sison - Orange Coast Psychiatry - ADHD Evals and Treatment, DNP, PMHNP, ADHD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orange Coast Psychiatry - ADHD Evals and Treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ADHD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
Do you suspect you or your loved ones have ADHD? Are you struggling with attention, focus, or hyperactivity? Are your symptoms starting to negatively impact your performance at school, work or even in your relationship with others? Our Board Certified and Doctorate Prepared Providers provide comprehensive ADHD assessments and evaluations, including ADHD testing, and provide treatment options for you and your family. We provide psychiatric assessment and management for Children ages 4+ and Adults. Our Doctorate Prepared Providers also treat other disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, ptsd and more.
Do you suspect you or your loved ones have ADHD? Are you struggling with attention, focus, or hyperactivity? Are your symptoms starting to negatively impact your performance at school, work or even in your relationship with others? Our Board Certified and Doctorate Prepared Providers provide comprehensive ADHD assessments and evaluations, including ADHD testing, and provide treatment options for you and your family. We provide psychiatric assessment and management for Children ages 4+ and Adults. Our Doctorate Prepared Providers also treat other disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, ptsd and more.
(657) 385-8592 View (657) 385-8592
Photo of Eilly Yang - Renewed Mental Health Group, MD, PMHNP, LMFT, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renewed Mental Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, PMHNP, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
At Renewed Mental Health Group, we strive to provide high-quality, patient-centered, psychiatric and mental health services utilizing up to date, evidence-based treatment solutions. We are a group comprised of experienced professional consisting of Board-Certified Psychiatrists, Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Mental Health Associates, Nurses, and Medical Assistants. We provide mental health care through psychotherapy, medication management, ADHD testing, and other treatment modalities for individuals ages 6 years old and above.
At Renewed Mental Health Group, we strive to provide high-quality, patient-centered, psychiatric and mental health services utilizing up to date, evidence-based treatment solutions. We are a group comprised of experienced professional consisting of Board-Certified Psychiatrists, Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Mental Health Associates, Nurses, and Medical Assistants. We provide mental health care through psychotherapy, medication management, ADHD testing, and other treatment modalities for individuals ages 6 years old and above.
(714) 769-8423 View (714) 769-8423
Photo of Armine Hakopyan - Renewed Mental Health Group, MD, PMHNP, LMFT, ADHD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renewed Mental Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, PMHNP, LMFT, ADHD
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92801
Are you or your loved ones struggling with sadness, anxiety, concentration or another mental health concern that is negatively impacting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step towards making a positive change. At Renewed Mental Health Group, we have specialty providers trained in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. We place emphasis with treating each client and their family with respect, comfort, and professionalism. We focus on the needs of our patients and tailors our treatment plan to keep everyone informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with sadness, anxiety, concentration or another mental health concern that is negatively impacting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step towards making a positive change. At Renewed Mental Health Group, we have specialty providers trained in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. We place emphasis with treating each client and their family with respect, comfort, and professionalism. We focus on the needs of our patients and tailors our treatment plan to keep everyone informed.
(714) 364-0718 View (714) 364-0718
Photo of Medard Sison, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Medard Sison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
(714) 584-6860 View (714) 584-6860
Photo of Medard Sison - Orange Coast Psychiatry, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orange Coast Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92804
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Orange Coast Psychiatry and the team of Psychiatric Mental Health Providers specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. OCP believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. OCP focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Orange Coast Psychiatry and the team of Psychiatric Mental Health Providers specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. OCP believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. OCP focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
(657) 837-1965 View (657) 837-1965
Photo of Richard Samedra, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Samedra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92804
The ideal clients that I would love to help and collaborate with are clients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, bipolar, and schizophrenia. This client population needs a knowledgeable clinician who provides patient-centered care and is willing and able to listen to clients with genuine care and empathy. The client’s goal is to be a functional member of our society via volunteering in our community, working and providing for themselves and their family, to be emotionally present with their family and friends, and have the necessary coping skills to utilize when faced with adversities.
The ideal clients that I would love to help and collaborate with are clients that are dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, bipolar, and schizophrenia. This client population needs a knowledgeable clinician who provides patient-centered care and is willing and able to listen to clients with genuine care and empathy. The client’s goal is to be a functional member of our society via volunteering in our community, working and providing for themselves and their family, to be emotionally present with their family and friends, and have the necessary coping skills to utilize when faced with adversities.
(657) 566-5904 View (657) 566-5904
Photo of Samantha Perkins, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have over nine years of experience in psychiatry. I have honed my skills under the guidance of leading psychiatrists in California, specializing in psychiatric medication management for psychiatric diagnosis's . I am double board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and in Adult/Geriatric Primary Care, allowing me to provide comprehensive mental health support across various age groups. My passion lies in functional psychiatry and wellness coaching.
I have over nine years of experience in psychiatry. I have honed my skills under the guidance of leading psychiatrists in California, specializing in psychiatric medication management for psychiatric diagnosis's . I am double board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and in Adult/Geriatric Primary Care, allowing me to provide comprehensive mental health support across various age groups. My passion lies in functional psychiatry and wellness coaching.
(657) 441-1033 View (657) 441-1033
Photo of Tamara Chambless, MD, Psychiatrist
Tamara Chambless
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been practicing psychiatry for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Major Depression, Refractory Major Depression, Bipolar Mood D/O, Borderline Personality D/O, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis. My ideal patient is just one who keeps trying. We will work with you to find the right thing. All I ask is that even on those days you feel like you’re done trying or you want to give up, that you come anyway. That’s when we need to see you the most. Here at TACtelepsychiatry.com we work together until you feel better.
I have been practicing psychiatry for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Major Depression, Refractory Major Depression, Bipolar Mood D/O, Borderline Personality D/O, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis. My ideal patient is just one who keeps trying. We will work with you to find the right thing. All I ask is that even on those days you feel like you’re done trying or you want to give up, that you come anyway. That’s when we need to see you the most. Here at TACtelepsychiatry.com we work together until you feel better.
(949) 990-3579 View (949) 990-3579
Photo of Shaheena Gazipura - Orange Coast Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orange Coast Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MD
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or daily stress and is ready to take back control. You may have tried managing things on your own but need support and practical tools that make a real difference. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges and work toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll focus on building resilience and self-empowerment, creating a path toward stability and wellness that’s tailored to your unique needs and goals. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or daily stress and is ready to take back control. You may have tried managing things on your own but need support and practical tools that make a real difference. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges and work toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll focus on building resilience and self-empowerment, creating a path toward stability and wellness that’s tailored to your unique needs and goals. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
(949) 749-7632 View (949) 749-7632
Photo of Karen Rightler, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Rightler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MFT
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92801
Are you seeking a new mental health provider? If so, I am happy to help. I provide a safe space and personalized treatment for anyone who is struggling to manage their anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, and more. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with additional education and training in marriage and family therapy, my approach is tailored to your specific needs. I am trained to provide individual psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management.
Are you seeking a new mental health provider? If so, I am happy to help. I provide a safe space and personalized treatment for anyone who is struggling to manage their anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, and more. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with additional education and training in marriage and family therapy, my approach is tailored to your specific needs. I am trained to provide individual psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management.
(714) 924-3028 View (714) 924-3028
Photo of Michael Marshall, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Michael Marshall, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Los Angeles, California who works with adults and adolescents, and provides care for patients who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Michael Marshall has extensive experience treating patients who are in crisis and has worked as a registered nurse/nurse practitioner in behavioral health for 15 years. Michael’s, treatment approach is rooted in evidence-based practice using a client centered approach.
Michael Marshall, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Los Angeles, California who works with adults and adolescents, and provides care for patients who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Michael Marshall has extensive experience treating patients who are in crisis and has worked as a registered nurse/nurse practitioner in behavioral health for 15 years. Michael’s, treatment approach is rooted in evidence-based practice using a client centered approach.
(951) 356-9648 View (951) 356-9648
Photo of Samir Hamed, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92802
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(858) 331-8021 View (858) 331-8021
Photo of Sima Aman, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sima Aman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
In the midst of uncertainty with ADHD, PTSD, trauma, bipolar, depression, or anxiety? My ideal client seeks more than just coping – they aim for real healing and clarity. They're determined to navigate life's hurdles, find serenity, and reclaim their vitality. Recognizing that profound change begins with a simple dialogue, they're ready for a transformative journey. I treat individuals of ALL Ages with the use of Medication Management and Psychotherapy! Together, let's illuminate the path to your best self
In the midst of uncertainty with ADHD, PTSD, trauma, bipolar, depression, or anxiety? My ideal client seeks more than just coping – they aim for real healing and clarity. They're determined to navigate life's hurdles, find serenity, and reclaim their vitality. Recognizing that profound change begins with a simple dialogue, they're ready for a transformative journey. I treat individuals of ALL Ages with the use of Medication Management and Psychotherapy! Together, let's illuminate the path to your best self
(714) 248-0605 View (714) 248-0605
Photo of Chika Okechukwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chika Okechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with great experience treating clients with medical and mental health disorders. She utilizes a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical and nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with great experience treating clients with medical and mental health disorders. She utilizes a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical and nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
(657) 571-6287 View (657) 571-6287
Photo of Amanda Seif, MD, Psychiatrist
Amanda Seif
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Seif is a board certified psychiatrist with a subspecialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and integrative mental health. As an integrative psychiatrist, she looks with her patients and looks at the roots of their problems. Instead of addressing the illness itself only, Dr. Seif’s approach is proactive. Her goal is to find the deep cause of the current mental state of her patients, to better understand their thought process and to prevent future illness and setbacks. Dr. Seif’s journey, her education, and her passion for helping others have led her to develop a patient-centered outlook in her line of work.
Dr. Seif is a board certified psychiatrist with a subspecialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and integrative mental health. As an integrative psychiatrist, she looks with her patients and looks at the roots of their problems. Instead of addressing the illness itself only, Dr. Seif’s approach is proactive. Her goal is to find the deep cause of the current mental state of her patients, to better understand their thought process and to prevent future illness and setbacks. Dr. Seif’s journey, her education, and her passion for helping others have led her to develop a patient-centered outlook in her line of work.
(714) 844-0239 View (714) 844-0239
Photo of Karen Rightler, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Rightler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Caught in life's storm? Need a helping hand? Whether you're grappling with ADHD, PTSD, trauma, depression, or anxiety, you're not alone. Imagine breaking through the fog and truly understanding the storm of emotions you feel. Picture a life not just built on coping, but flourishing from genuine healing. The journey to reclaiming your peace and navigating life's twists begins with a single step: a chat, a connection. No matter your age, if you're striving for deeper emotional clarity and a harmonious well-being, I'm here for you. Dive into a transformative experience with individual therapy and medication guidance for every age.
Caught in life's storm? Need a helping hand? Whether you're grappling with ADHD, PTSD, trauma, depression, or anxiety, you're not alone. Imagine breaking through the fog and truly understanding the storm of emotions you feel. Picture a life not just built on coping, but flourishing from genuine healing. The journey to reclaiming your peace and navigating life's twists begins with a single step: a chat, a connection. No matter your age, if you're striving for deeper emotional clarity and a harmonious well-being, I'm here for you. Dive into a transformative experience with individual therapy and medication guidance for every age.
(714) 487-0748 View (714) 487-0748
Photo of Michelle Del Rosario, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Del Rosario
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92801
Are you looking for guidance or treatment to address you or your loved one’s mental health needs? If so, I am your person and would love to help you or your loved ones. I provide a safe space and provide patient-centered treatment for anyone struggling to manage their anxiety, depression, mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, and more. As a practitioner specializing in psychiatric-mental health, I tailor my treatment plan based on you. I utilize both individualized supportive psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management into my practice.
Are you looking for guidance or treatment to address you or your loved one’s mental health needs? If so, I am your person and would love to help you or your loved ones. I provide a safe space and provide patient-centered treatment for anyone struggling to manage their anxiety, depression, mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, and more. As a practitioner specializing in psychiatric-mental health, I tailor my treatment plan based on you. I utilize both individualized supportive psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management into my practice.
(714) 613-8567 View (714) 613-8567
Photo of Medard Sison, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Medard Sison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92801
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
(657) 220-8068 View (657) 220-8068
Photo of Jennifer A Java, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer A Java
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92807
Jennifer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She earned her Master of Science of Nursing degree from Maryville University. Before joining Progeny Psychiatric Group, Jennifer spent almost 10 years as a registered nurse specializing in critical care. Her mission is to provide professional, evidence-based, compassionate care to people of all ages.
Jennifer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She earned her Master of Science of Nursing degree from Maryville University. Before joining Progeny Psychiatric Group, Jennifer spent almost 10 years as a registered nurse specializing in critical care. Her mission is to provide professional, evidence-based, compassionate care to people of all ages.
(657) 300-3947 View (657) 300-3947
Photo of Griselda Hernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Griselda Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal patient is an adolescent facing mental health challenges. They struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma and may have co-occurring substance use disorders. They need a supportive, non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings, understand their behaviors, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Their goals include achieving mental stability, overcoming addiction, and building resilience to handle life's challenges. They want to regain control of their lives, improve their relationships, and find hope and motivation for a brighter future.
My ideal patient is an adolescent facing mental health challenges. They struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma and may have co-occurring substance use disorders. They need a supportive, non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings, understand their behaviors, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Their goals include achieving mental stability, overcoming addiction, and building resilience to handle life's challenges. They want to regain control of their lives, improve their relationships, and find hope and motivation for a brighter future.
(714) 437-7033 View (714) 437-7033

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Anaheim, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Anaheim, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
88% ADHD
86% Bipolar Disorder
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Medication Management
76% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
93% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Anaheim, CA see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

61% Female
39% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Anaheim?

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.