Psychiatrists in Bakersfield, CA

Photo of Adaljiza Tavera, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Adaljiza Tavera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am passionately led to psychiatry because I cherish this personal approach to medicine and thrive in the process of building relationships with patients. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to my patients.
I am passionately led to psychiatry because I cherish this personal approach to medicine and thrive in the process of building relationships with patients. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to my patients.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed - Jacquelyn Hamed | Anxiety, Depression & ADHD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Jacquelyn Hamed | Anxiety, Depression & ADHD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
(661) 463-8510 View (661) 463-8510
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
(661) 727-5833 View (661) 727-5833
Photo of Dr. Andrea Steele, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Andrea Steele
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Dr. Andrea Steele strives to help adults reach their unique potential. Dr. Steele understands the courage it takes to be vulnerable. Therefore, she works to ensure her patients feel comfortable in sharing what they experience.
Dr. Andrea Steele strives to help adults reach their unique potential. Dr. Steele understands the courage it takes to be vulnerable. Therefore, she works to ensure her patients feel comfortable in sharing what they experience.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Obianuju Makinde-Agu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Obianuju Makinde-Agu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I am Obianuju Makinde-Agu, a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with more than 15 years of experience in the field. I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric care through telehealth, offering a convenient and confidential way to receive mental health support from the comfort of your own home.
Welcome! I am Obianuju Makinde-Agu, a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with more than 15 years of experience in the field. I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric care through telehealth, offering a convenient and confidential way to receive mental health support from the comfort of your own home.
(661) 451-0969 View (661) 451-0969
Photo of Kingwai Lui, Psychiatrist, DO
Kingwai Lui
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
As a faculty member of Kaweah Health Psychiatry Residency, I offer treatment approaches supported by current scientific evidence. Together, we will explore different options and devise a comprehensive and holistic plan built on trust and open communication. Our plan will be flexible based to your need and best interest as we understand the fluidity of life.
As a faculty member of Kaweah Health Psychiatry Residency, I offer treatment approaches supported by current scientific evidence. Together, we will explore different options and devise a comprehensive and holistic plan built on trust and open communication. Our plan will be flexible based to your need and best interest as we understand the fluidity of life.
(661) 215-8947 View (661) 215-8947
Photo of Dr. Damien Lee Young, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Damien Lee Young
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Dr. Damien Lee Young is board-eligible and specializes in adult psychiatry. Dr. Lee Young was raised in the Caribbean where conversations about mental health were “taboo.” He seeks to promote mental health for individuals who experienced similar upbringings. Dr. Lee Young utilizes medication management with a strong interest in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). He completed his residency at New York Metropolitan Hospital, where he engaged with a diverse patient population. Patients here had dual psychiatric/medical or psychiatric/addiction diagnoses. Dr. Lee Young is an aviation enthusiast and has flown solo.
Dr. Damien Lee Young is board-eligible and specializes in adult psychiatry. Dr. Lee Young was raised in the Caribbean where conversations about mental health were “taboo.” He seeks to promote mental health for individuals who experienced similar upbringings. Dr. Lee Young utilizes medication management with a strong interest in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). He completed his residency at New York Metropolitan Hospital, where he engaged with a diverse patient population. Patients here had dual psychiatric/medical or psychiatric/addiction diagnoses. Dr. Lee Young is an aviation enthusiast and has flown solo.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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
(661) 438-0261 View (661) 438-0261
Photo of Succura Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Succura Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner, board certified with the ANCC. I added PMHNP-BC this very Fall. I have worked in many capacities in Mental Health, as an educator and a director. I have over 10 years of experience in mental health. I find my approach to psychiatric medication management to be person centered and highly effective.
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner, board certified with the ANCC. I added PMHNP-BC this very Fall. I have worked in many capacities in Mental Health, as an educator and a director. I have over 10 years of experience in mental health. I find my approach to psychiatric medication management to be person centered and highly effective.
(661) 386-1999 View (661) 386-1999
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(805) 866-0769 View (805) 866-0769
Charlene Azonwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I'm Charlene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in California. I had my master's degree from Walden University and have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for 2 years. I have experience in the medical field for more than 20 years. I have gained extensive knowledge that contributes to achieving excellent outcomes.
Hello! I'm Charlene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in California. I had my master's degree from Walden University and have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for 2 years. I have experience in the medical field for more than 20 years. I have gained extensive knowledge that contributes to achieving excellent outcomes.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Maryan Torres, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Maryan Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I expect to begin seeing new patients on January 15, 2025. I am a dedicated and board-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a minor in Spanish Language and Cultures from Alverno College, followed by her Master of Science in Nursing from Concordia University and a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Alverno College.
I expect to begin seeing new patients on January 15, 2025. I am a dedicated and board-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a minor in Spanish Language and Cultures from Alverno College, followed by her Master of Science in Nursing from Concordia University and a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Alverno College.
(661) 276-9713 View (661) 276-9713
Photo of Fahim Rasul, Psychiatrist, DO
Fahim Rasul
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I am Fahim Rasul. I have developed a profound appreciation for the holistic and patient-centered approach. My journey has been guided a commitment to integrating principles of osteopathy with a deep understanding of modern medical science while striving to provide compassionate and effective care. One of the most rewarding aspects of my practice has been building meaningful relationships with the patients and their family.
Hi! I am Fahim Rasul. I have developed a profound appreciation for the holistic and patient-centered approach. My journey has been guided a commitment to integrating principles of osteopathy with a deep understanding of modern medical science while striving to provide compassionate and effective care. One of the most rewarding aspects of my practice has been building meaningful relationships with the patients and their family.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Ashley Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
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
(661) 485-3925 View (661) 485-3925
Photo of Ebere Nwosu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ebere Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management. My extensive clinical experience across various settings, including inpatient psychiatric units and outpatient clinics, has equipped me with both theoretical knowledge and the vital intricacies of patient care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and managing mental health conditions throughout the lifespan.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management. My extensive clinical experience across various settings, including inpatient psychiatric units and outpatient clinics, has equipped me with both theoretical knowledge and the vital intricacies of patient care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and managing mental health conditions throughout the lifespan.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Jean-Paul Cortez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jean-Paul Cortez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal during our sessions is to create an inclusive environment where you feel valued and supported. Whether you seek guidance, healing, or simply someone to listen, I am here to offer my expertise and support. I have over 10 years of healthcare experience - 4 of those specializing in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions including ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction/substance abuse, insomnia, bipolar disorder, trauma, and more. I offer expert psychiatric evaluations, giving you a better understanding of your mental health conditions and treatment needs.
My goal during our sessions is to create an inclusive environment where you feel valued and supported. Whether you seek guidance, healing, or simply someone to listen, I am here to offer my expertise and support. I have over 10 years of healthcare experience - 4 of those specializing in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions including ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction/substance abuse, insomnia, bipolar disorder, trauma, and more. I offer expert psychiatric evaluations, giving you a better understanding of your mental health conditions and treatment needs.
(661) 306-2376 View (661) 306-2376
Photo of Gundu Anupama Reddy - Online Psychiatrist in California, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Online Psychiatrist in California
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in California. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in California. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
(661) 426-2658 View (661) 426-2658
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
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
(661) 271-6320 View (661) 271-6320
Photo of Andrea Steele, Psychiatrist, DO
Andrea Steele
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Christine is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who brings a patient-centered approach to care. She specializes in mood disorders using a mind, body, and spirit approach, as well as evidence-based treatments. Christine discusses treatment options with her patients to ensure the best plan is developed to meet their needs. She believes that when patients work collaboratively with their clinicians, they can achieve their best mental health outcomes. Christine enjoys gardening and exploring different cultural cuisines.
Christine is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who brings a patient-centered approach to care. She specializes in mood disorders using a mind, body, and spirit approach, as well as evidence-based treatments. Christine discusses treatment options with her patients to ensure the best plan is developed to meet their needs. She believes that when patients work collaboratively with their clinicians, they can achieve their best mental health outcomes. Christine enjoys gardening and exploring different cultural cuisines.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bakersfield, CA

70+

Average cost per session

$235

Psychiatrists in Bakersfield, CA who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
93% Depression
89% Bipolar Disorder
85% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bakersfield, CA see their clients

71% Online Only
29% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bakersfield?

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.