Psychiatrists in Brentwood, CA

Photo of Nwankaego Nwandei, PA, Physician Assistant
Nwankaego Nwandei
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
(310) 526-3404 View (310) 526-3404
Photo of Brittnai Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Linda Kim, MD, Psychiatrist
Linda Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and therapist providing excellence in reproductive mental health. I specialize in helping women and their families feel their emotional best throughout pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, infertility, and more. I will support you in maximizing your emotional wellness so that you can be at your best personally and professionally. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV, full lab testing, and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
I am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and therapist providing excellence in reproductive mental health. I specialize in helping women and their families feel their emotional best throughout pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, infertility, and more. I will support you in maximizing your emotional wellness so that you can be at your best personally and professionally. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV, full lab testing, and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
(925) 386-7589 View (925) 386-7589
Photo of Kevin Simonson - Dr. Kevin Simonson - Cura Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kevin Simonson - Cura Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Kevin Simonson offers an integrative approach to mental health care, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, and PTSD. With years of experience, he combines evidence-based treatments like TMS, Ketamine, and MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, with a holistic, personalized approach. Certified in Psychedelic Therapy, Integrative Psychiatry, and Psychodynamic Therapy, Dr. Simonson ensures that each patient receives the most advanced care tailored to their needs. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve lasting well-being through innovative and compassionate treatment.
Dr. Kevin Simonson offers an integrative approach to mental health care, specializing in mood disorders, anxiety, and PTSD. With years of experience, he combines evidence-based treatments like TMS, Ketamine, and MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, with a holistic, personalized approach. Certified in Psychedelic Therapy, Integrative Psychiatry, and Psychodynamic Therapy, Dr. Simonson ensures that each patient receives the most advanced care tailored to their needs. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve lasting well-being through innovative and compassionate treatment.
(424) 306-0269 View (424) 306-0269
Photo of Dave Khatri - Clear Mind Treatment, MD, Psychiatrist
Clear Mind Treatment
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Psychiatry only with the depression/anxiety/trauma program along with ketamine, trauma therapy, TMS, Neurofeedback. We have at home and in person options for ketamine and trauma-EMDR, treatment. We treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders and more. Clear Mind Treatment is the perfect option for those looking for insurance based psychiatry, Also, Clear Mind is ideal for those seeking a flexible therapy program where they can talk over video conference or in office.
Psychiatry only with the depression/anxiety/trauma program along with ketamine, trauma therapy, TMS, Neurofeedback. We have at home and in person options for ketamine and trauma-EMDR, treatment. We treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders and more. Clear Mind Treatment is the perfect option for those looking for insurance based psychiatry, Also, Clear Mind is ideal for those seeking a flexible therapy program where they can talk over video conference or in office.
(424) 395-3433 View (424) 395-3433
Photo of Tiffany Figuero, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Figuero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Hello, My name is Tiffany. I specialize in medication management for mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, weight loss, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am compassionate and I am here to help.
Hello, My name is Tiffany. I specialize in medication management for mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, weight loss, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am compassionate and I am here to help.
(925) 794-4973 View (925) 794-4973
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente , MD, Psychiatrist
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(424) 371-7664 View (424) 371-7664
Photo of Sophie Feller, MD, Psychiatrist
Sophie Feller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I'm a board-certified adult psychiatrist experienced in treating people with a range of mental health challenges. I see my work with each person as a partnership intended to foster individual strengths and respect individual preferences. The care I provide is collaborative and trauma-informed utilizing a holistic and evidence-based approach.
I'm a board-certified adult psychiatrist experienced in treating people with a range of mental health challenges. I see my work with each person as a partnership intended to foster individual strengths and respect individual preferences. The care I provide is collaborative and trauma-informed utilizing a holistic and evidence-based approach.
(424) 414-2192 View (424) 414-2192
Photo of Martine Senatus - VIP Integrative Health Care , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VIP Integrative Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I create a safe, supportive and non‑judgmental environment for every client and understand the importance of empathy, trust, and kindness. My sympathetic, kindhearted and caring approaches to each individual patients make me capable of reaching the core of each of my patients’ issues and empowers them to enhance their awareness of their potentials in dealing with treatment and recovery. Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! Call us for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, prescriptions, addiction, anxiety/depression/bipolar/. We are here for you !
I create a safe, supportive and non‑judgmental environment for every client and understand the importance of empathy, trust, and kindness. My sympathetic, kindhearted and caring approaches to each individual patients make me capable of reaching the core of each of my patients’ issues and empowers them to enhance their awareness of their potentials in dealing with treatment and recovery. Tele Health Virtual Visits Available! Call us for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, prescriptions, addiction, anxiety/depression/bipolar/. We are here for you !
(657) 530-6371 View (657) 530-6371
Photo of Mehnaz Hyder, MD, Psychiatrist
Mehnaz Hyder
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Please note-cash only practice. Your brain is the most brilliantly designed piece of engineering in the whole universe. It allows you to experience the world. It's where all of your great ideas live. And it's what makes you a unique individual. You are one in billions! You are meant to experience joy and to do spectacular things-according to your best paradigm based on your values. Traumatic life experiences and chronic stress can interfere with your ability to curate your paradigm which may lead to depression, anxiety, and poor functioning. I can help you with these symptoms.
Please note-cash only practice. Your brain is the most brilliantly designed piece of engineering in the whole universe. It allows you to experience the world. It's where all of your great ideas live. And it's what makes you a unique individual. You are one in billions! You are meant to experience joy and to do spectacular things-according to your best paradigm based on your values. Traumatic life experiences and chronic stress can interfere with your ability to curate your paradigm which may lead to depression, anxiety, and poor functioning. I can help you with these symptoms.
(650) 275-6820 View (650) 275-6820
Photo of Dr. Marlynn Wei - Dr. Marlynn Wei, MD, JD, MD, JD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Marlynn Wei, MD, JD
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a compassionate and holistic approach to therapy? I am a Harvard- and Yale-trained integrative holistic psychotherapist, psychiatrist, anxiety expert, and author of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Yoga. I offer psychotherapy for deep change and specialize in working with high-achieving individuals across industries, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives in finance, tech, startups, law, and innovative fields. We will work together toward your goals, whether it is to improve life-work balance, reduce stress, improve relationships, envision your career, or find a fulfilling future.
Are you looking for a compassionate and holistic approach to therapy? I am a Harvard- and Yale-trained integrative holistic psychotherapist, psychiatrist, anxiety expert, and author of the Harvard Medical School Guide to Yoga. I offer psychotherapy for deep change and specialize in working with high-achieving individuals across industries, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives in finance, tech, startups, law, and innovative fields. We will work together toward your goals, whether it is to improve life-work balance, reduce stress, improve relationships, envision your career, or find a fulfilling future.
(415) 855-7654 View (415) 855-7654

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Arman Danielyan, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist
Arman Danielyan
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Dr. Danielyan offers psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment for various psychiatric conditions in youth and young adults. Those include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, psychotic illnesses, autism spectrum conditions and others. Dr. Danielyan's practice covers the East Bay area, including Walnut Creek and Lafayette, CA. For more information, including the testimonials from the patients, please visit www.baypsychiatry.com.
Dr. Danielyan offers psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment for various psychiatric conditions in youth and young adults. Those include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, psychotic illnesses, autism spectrum conditions and others. Dr. Danielyan's practice covers the East Bay area, including Walnut Creek and Lafayette, CA. For more information, including the testimonials from the patients, please visit www.baypsychiatry.com.
(925) 230-9413 View (925) 230-9413
Photo of Simret Nanda, MD, Psychiatrist
Simret Nanda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
My ideal client could be a child, adolescent or an adult that wants and needs to get psychiatric care. I am an open-minded and holistic psychiatrist who takes the whole person into account when I am treating him/her. I practice the biopsychosocial model and I also understand that not all treatment modalities work for all people. I tailor treatment goals and strategies for each individual person. I am also a big believer in combining diet, exercise, acupuncture, reiki, massage, physical therapy, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, psychoeducation, groups into the treatment plan and focusing on wellness as well.
My ideal client could be a child, adolescent or an adult that wants and needs to get psychiatric care. I am an open-minded and holistic psychiatrist who takes the whole person into account when I am treating him/her. I practice the biopsychosocial model and I also understand that not all treatment modalities work for all people. I tailor treatment goals and strategies for each individual person. I am also a big believer in combining diet, exercise, acupuncture, reiki, massage, physical therapy, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, psychoeducation, groups into the treatment plan and focusing on wellness as well.
(925) 744-8449 View (925) 744-8449
Photo of Neha Nayyar, MD, Psychiatrist
Neha Nayyar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
(628) 313-5919 View (628) 313-5919
Photo of Atef Shaikh, DO, Psychiatrist
Atef Shaikh
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Welcome! I'm double board-certified in adult and addiction psychiatry. I provide treatment for a broad range of conditions including ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, stress related to trauma and addictions. These conditions often have overlapping symptoms, which can make it challenging for patients to relate to a single diagnostic label. They can also manifest as feeling a lack of purpose, engagement in "non-productive" time consuming behaviors, being uncomfortable around other people and feeling negatively about oneself. I specialize in understanding how these experiences intersect and impact individuals.
Welcome! I'm double board-certified in adult and addiction psychiatry. I provide treatment for a broad range of conditions including ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, stress related to trauma and addictions. These conditions often have overlapping symptoms, which can make it challenging for patients to relate to a single diagnostic label. They can also manifest as feeling a lack of purpose, engagement in "non-productive" time consuming behaviors, being uncomfortable around other people and feeling negatively about oneself. I specialize in understanding how these experiences intersect and impact individuals.
(925) 329-6377 View (925) 329-6377
Photo of Dr. Randall Scott Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Randall Scott Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, CA 94568
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(925) 732-5834 View (925) 732-5834
Photo of Olukemi Kuku, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olukemi Kuku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfield, CA 94533
I am doctorally prepared, board-certified "across life span" psychiatry mental health nurse practitioner. I provide brief psychotherapy, personalized medication treatment and management. I have an expertise in young adult and adult psychiatry.
I am doctorally prepared, board-certified "across life span" psychiatry mental health nurse practitioner. I provide brief psychotherapy, personalized medication treatment and management. I have an expertise in young adult and adult psychiatry.
(707) 289-3926 View (707) 289-3926
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
View
Photo of Uzma Khan, MD, ABPN, ABOM, Psychiatrist
Uzma Khan
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABOM
Verified Verified
Alamo, CA 94507
I specialize in Metabolic Psychiatry. Metabolic dysfunction is often linked to depression, ADHD, anxiety, menopause and other mental health conditions. I offer tailored program packages for individuals managing psychiatric illnesses in a supportive, non-traditional setting, ensuring a holistic approach to both mental and metabolic wellness. My comprehensive care includes treatments for weight loss and maintenance, all focused on achieving mental health stability. I am all about smashing the stigma of having mental illness and it starts with having my clinic available in a non-traditional setting.
I specialize in Metabolic Psychiatry. Metabolic dysfunction is often linked to depression, ADHD, anxiety, menopause and other mental health conditions. I offer tailored program packages for individuals managing psychiatric illnesses in a supportive, non-traditional setting, ensuring a holistic approach to both mental and metabolic wellness. My comprehensive care includes treatments for weight loss and maintenance, all focused on achieving mental health stability. I am all about smashing the stigma of having mental illness and it starts with having my clinic available in a non-traditional setting.
(925) 578-3538 View (925) 578-3538

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Brentwood, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$600

Psychiatrists in Brentwood, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
91% Depression
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Women's Issues
64% Relationship Issues
64% Bipolar Disorder
64% Medication Management

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Brentwood, CA see their clients

72% Online Only
28% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Brentwood?

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.