Psychiatrists in Berkeley, CA

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
Photo of Sandrine Pirard, Psychiatrist, MD
Sandrine Pirard
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified physician in psychiatry and addiction medicine, licensed in California. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care with a holistic approach to conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and addiction. I treat adults struggling with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and substance use disorders. I welcome patients of all backgrounds and offer care in both English and French.
I am a board-certified physician in psychiatry and addiction medicine, licensed in California. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care with a holistic approach to conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and addiction. I treat adults struggling with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and substance use disorders. I welcome patients of all backgrounds and offer care in both English and French.
(341) 500-4220 View (341) 500-4220
Photo of Sara Paredes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Sara Paredes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Berkeley, CA 94705
Sara has over a decade of experience in mental health care and is dedicated to a holistic, integrative approach to psychiatric wellness. She creates a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore symptoms impacting their quality of life. Sara believes in treating the whole person by collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure that psychiatric care aligns with each patient’s overall well-being.
Sara has over a decade of experience in mental health care and is dedicated to a holistic, integrative approach to psychiatric wellness. She creates a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore symptoms impacting their quality of life. Sara believes in treating the whole person by collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure that psychiatric care aligns with each patient’s overall well-being.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Ryan Thebo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(341) 348-8699 View (341) 348-8699
Photo of Serena Wu, Psychiatrist, MD
Serena Wu
Psychiatrist, MD
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and family doctor who provides supportive therapy and medication management. I believe in the thoughtful use of psychiatric medications grounded in the best available evidence based principles. I use a combination of medications and therapeutic modalities to help each client achieve their mental health goals. I believe that lifestyle, nutrition and also physical health all interplay to influence mental health. I am here to support clients in whatever stage they are in with compassion and empathy.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and family doctor who provides supportive therapy and medication management. I believe in the thoughtful use of psychiatric medications grounded in the best available evidence based principles. I use a combination of medications and therapeutic modalities to help each client achieve their mental health goals. I believe that lifestyle, nutrition and also physical health all interplay to influence mental health. I am here to support clients in whatever stage they are in with compassion and empathy.
(510) 630-2371 View (510) 630-2371
Photo of Tami Zorge - The Mindful Lemon , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
The Mindful Lemon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Online Only
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
(341) 999-5020 View (341) 999-5020
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Berkeley, CA 94704
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(341) 217-2879 View (341) 217-2879
Photo of Dr. Randall Scott Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall Scott Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(310) 340-7908 View (310) 340-7908
Photo of Haining Yu, Psychiatrist, MD
Haining Yu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
During college, I developed an interest in psychology and neuroscience. After college, I became a middle school teacher, and found my passion in working with children and families. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health that encompasses physical health and psychological health. I work with patients and families in a collaborative manner, setting shared treatment goals, and believe that patients often hold the key to moving forward towards these goals.
During college, I developed an interest in psychology and neuroscience. After college, I became a middle school teacher, and found my passion in working with children and families. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health that encompasses physical health and psychological health. I work with patients and families in a collaborative manner, setting shared treatment goals, and believe that patients often hold the key to moving forward towards these goals.
(844) 748-2375 View (844) 748-2375
Photo of Priyanka - Mindpath College Health Psychiatrists & Therapists, Psychiatrist
Mindpath College Health provides outpatient mental health care for college and university students, staff, and the surrounding community. We provide a broad spectrum of individual and group therapy, relationship counseling, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management and psychiatry. Mindpath College Health helps patients 18+ with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, gender and sexual identity, grief, life changes, OCD, relationships, and trauma and PTSD.
Mindpath College Health provides outpatient mental health care for college and university students, staff, and the surrounding community. We provide a broad spectrum of individual and group therapy, relationship counseling, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management and psychiatry. Mindpath College Health helps patients 18+ with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, gender and sexual identity, grief, life changes, OCD, relationships, and trauma and PTSD.
(510) 405-5514 View (510) 405-5514
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(310) 856-9442 View (310) 856-9442
Photo of Les Tsang - berkeley behavioral health & wellness, Psychiatrist, DO
Life is hard. Relationships are stressful. Welcome to berkeley behavioral health & wellness. We’re here to help. We offer treatment for a full range of behavioral health conditions in an environment that is supportive, collaborative and personalized to each individual. Dr. Tsang is a UCLA-trained, board certified Psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience specializing in Ketamine treatment and medication management.
Life is hard. Relationships are stressful. Welcome to berkeley behavioral health & wellness. We’re here to help. We offer treatment for a full range of behavioral health conditions in an environment that is supportive, collaborative and personalized to each individual. Dr. Tsang is a UCLA-trained, board certified Psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience specializing in Ketamine treatment and medication management.
(510) 462-5510 View (510) 462-5510
Photo of Miriam Lundy, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, NP
Miriam Lundy
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, NP
Berkeley, CA 94704
Not accepting new clients
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive experience in individual psychotherapy and medication management. I believe in healing and growth through self-knowledge and that care must be individualized to suit each client's needs. I work with clients suffering from depression & mood disturbance, anxiety and addiction. My other specialties include young adult issues/college students, relationship issues, eating issues, women's health and perinatal mental health concerns.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive experience in individual psychotherapy and medication management. I believe in healing and growth through self-knowledge and that care must be individualized to suit each client's needs. I work with clients suffering from depression & mood disturbance, anxiety and addiction. My other specialties include young adult issues/college students, relationship issues, eating issues, women's health and perinatal mental health concerns.
(510) 254-3506 View (510) 254-3506
Photo of Karsten M Heil - DIA Health - accessible psychiatric care, Psychiatrist, MD, NP
DIA Health - accessible psychiatric care
Psychiatrist, MD, NP
Berkeley, CA 94705
Our group of experienced clinicians has a collective goal of making high-quality mental health care more accessible. At DIA Health, you will have a dedicated mental health care clinician who will provide treatment tailored to your individual needs to help you live and function better. Personalized, high-quality mental health care is often out of reach to the average patient and family. To address this gap, we focus on patients who choose to use their commercial insurance to cover mental health care needs.
Our group of experienced clinicians has a collective goal of making high-quality mental health care more accessible. At DIA Health, you will have a dedicated mental health care clinician who will provide treatment tailored to your individual needs to help you live and function better. Personalized, high-quality mental health care is often out of reach to the average patient and family. To address this gap, we focus on patients who choose to use their commercial insurance to cover mental health care needs.
(510) 962-7049 View (510) 962-7049
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 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
Kiera S Levine
Psychiatrist, MD
Berkeley, CA 94705
I treat adults who are struggling with a range of emotional pain or anxieties. Problems I try to help people sort out include loss and grief, the impact of loss on relationships and the meaning of a life indelibly altered; illness, new or a new stage of it, and how it impacts one's sense of self, potential, and meaning; identity, related to race, ethnicity, sexuality or gender; the complexity of parenting or having difficult parents; and ordinary but intimidating transition from one stage of life to another, the changes to the body, meaning, and connections to others that come with these transitions.
I treat adults who are struggling with a range of emotional pain or anxieties. Problems I try to help people sort out include loss and grief, the impact of loss on relationships and the meaning of a life indelibly altered; illness, new or a new stage of it, and how it impacts one's sense of self, potential, and meaning; identity, related to race, ethnicity, sexuality or gender; the complexity of parenting or having difficult parents; and ordinary but intimidating transition from one stage of life to another, the changes to the body, meaning, and connections to others that come with these transitions.
(510) 916-3123 View (510) 916-3123
Photo of Tara N Valenzuela, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tara N Valenzuela
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
(415) 870-3670 View (415) 870-3670
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
Berkeley, CA 94705
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 Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(341) 217-2101 View (341) 217-2101
Photo of Sara K Sheriff, Psychiatrist, MD
Sara K Sheriff
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a private practice based in Oakland. I obtained my medical degree from the University of California, Irvine, and completed my psychiatry residency training at the California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, which has a strong emphasis on psychodynamic psychotherapy in addition to medication management for patients struggling with psychiatric disorders and other mental health issues. After completing psychiatry residency, I pursued additional psychotherapy training through the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a private practice based in Oakland. I obtained my medical degree from the University of California, Irvine, and completed my psychiatry residency training at the California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, which has a strong emphasis on psychodynamic psychotherapy in addition to medication management for patients struggling with psychiatric disorders and other mental health issues. After completing psychiatry residency, I pursued additional psychotherapy training through the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis.
(510) 953-4802 View (510) 953-4802

See more therapy options for Berkeley

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Berkeley, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Berkeley, CA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% ADHD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Trauma and PTSD
64% Bipolar Disorder
63% Medication Management

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Berkeley, CA see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Berkeley?

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.