Psychiatrists in Camarillo, CA

Photo of Adelina Lopez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Adelina Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Camarillo, CA 93010
You create your healing path, I am here to support that journey. I am experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. I welcome all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ+ individuals with care and respect. I educate and partner with my patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. I take a holistic approach and place the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
You create your healing path, I am here to support that journey. I am experienced in treating various medical and mental health needs across the lifespan. I welcome all cultures, preferences, points of view and LGBTQ+ individuals with care and respect. I educate and partner with my patients to optimize their self-care and well-being and help them actualize their chosen goals. I take a holistic approach and place the patient at the center of their treatment plan.
(805) 624-3942 View (805) 624-3942
Photo of Shannon Enochs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Shannon Enochs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a DNP and Board-Certified PMHNP-BC, I provide compassionate, trauma-informed care that integrates evidence-based psychiatry, education, medication, holistic healing, and emerging treatments. I support individuals navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and other mental health challenges. My approach is collaborative and personalized, honoring your experiences as we create a path toward healing, resilience, and lasting well-being.
As a DNP and Board-Certified PMHNP-BC, I provide compassionate, trauma-informed care that integrates evidence-based psychiatry, education, medication, holistic healing, and emerging treatments. I support individuals navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and other mental health challenges. My approach is collaborative and personalized, honoring your experiences as we create a path toward healing, resilience, and lasting well-being.
(805) 738-6940 View (805) 738-6940
Photo of Celia Woods, Psychiatrist, M, D
Celia Woods
Psychiatrist, M, D
Camarillo, CA 93010
A valued mentor once said to me, “Sometimes we can save the whole world but we can’t find our own way out of a paper bag.” He was commenting on the situation we humans find ourselves in when dealing with overwhelming worry, loss or trauma. On the surface, some people appear to have it all, but many are silently suffering on the inside. One of the biggest challenges we humans face is recognizing when we are stuck in a pattern of dysfunctional behavior. One of the subsequent challenges after that is asking for professional help to navigate a way out of that dysfunctional space.
A valued mentor once said to me, “Sometimes we can save the whole world but we can’t find our own way out of a paper bag.” He was commenting on the situation we humans find ourselves in when dealing with overwhelming worry, loss or trauma. On the surface, some people appear to have it all, but many are silently suffering on the inside. One of the biggest challenges we humans face is recognizing when we are stuck in a pattern of dysfunctional behavior. One of the subsequent challenges after that is asking for professional help to navigate a way out of that dysfunctional space.
(805) 702-7099 View (805) 702-7099
Photo of Julie Curry Schreiner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Julie Curry Schreiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Is your child or adolescent needing mental health support? As a doctor of nursing practice, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and a family nurse practitioner, I have focused my career on integrative psychiatric care to children and adolescents. My professional goal is for families, children, and adolescent clients to feel supported and understood throughout their mental health journey. Through therapeutic support and medication management, I hope to meet the needs of every child and adolescent client I meet.
Is your child or adolescent needing mental health support? As a doctor of nursing practice, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and a family nurse practitioner, I have focused my career on integrative psychiatric care to children and adolescents. My professional goal is for families, children, and adolescent clients to feel supported and understood throughout their mental health journey. Through therapeutic support and medication management, I hope to meet the needs of every child and adolescent client I meet.
(805) 262-9350 View (805) 262-9350
Photo of Alexander Huang, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Huang
Psychiatrist, MD
Camarillo, CA 93010
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
(805) 738-3783 View (805) 738-3783
Photo of Traci Babcock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, NP
Traci Babcock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, NP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner for 23 years. I accept most major insurances. I work with Family Psychological Services, a Regional Behavioral Health Center. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with adolescents and adults ages 17 and up. I have provided direct services through Cedars-Sinai Hospital, USC, and other major neuropsychiatric departments for psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health disorders, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, and critical care.
I am an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner for 23 years. I accept most major insurances. I work with Family Psychological Services, a Regional Behavioral Health Center. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with adolescents and adults ages 17 and up. I have provided direct services through Cedars-Sinai Hospital, USC, and other major neuropsychiatric departments for psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health disorders, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, and critical care.
(747) 246-7564 View (747) 246-7564
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(818) 873-5345 View (818) 873-5345
Photo of Traci Babcock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Traci Babcock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner for 23 years. I accept most major insurances. I work with Family Psychological Services, a Regional Behavioral Health Center. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with adolescents and adults ages 17 and up. I have provided direct services through Cedars-Sinai Hospital, USC, and other major neuropsychiatric departments for psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health disorders, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, and critical care.
I am an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner for 23 years. I accept most major insurances. I work with Family Psychological Services, a Regional Behavioral Health Center. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with adolescents and adults ages 17 and up. I have provided direct services through Cedars-Sinai Hospital, USC, and other major neuropsychiatric departments for psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health disorders, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, and critical care.
(805) 232-7943 View (805) 232-7943
Photo of Erika Brenda Arias, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erika Brenda Arias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in the field. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I work with patients who struggle with depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine. My approach is supportive, compassion focused, and culturally sensitive while incorporating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in the field. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I work with patients who struggle with depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine. My approach is supportive, compassion focused, and culturally sensitive while incorporating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
(510) 726-7117 View (510) 726-7117
Photo of Matthew Dawe, Psychiatrist, MD
Matthew Dawe
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
My name is Matthew Dawe, I am a board certified Psychiatrist. I have been practicing Psychiatry for 32 years. Unlike most Psychiatrists, I do both medication management and Psychotherapy. I was trained in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Los Angeles Psychoanalytic Institute which is now known as The New Center for Psychoanalysis. I care deeply about helping people with their emotional struggles and I am committed to working diligently to find the most effective treatment for each patient.
My name is Matthew Dawe, I am a board certified Psychiatrist. I have been practicing Psychiatry for 32 years. Unlike most Psychiatrists, I do both medication management and Psychotherapy. I was trained in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Los Angeles Psychoanalytic Institute which is now known as The New Center for Psychoanalysis. I care deeply about helping people with their emotional struggles and I am committed to working diligently to find the most effective treatment for each patient.
(818) 272-8902 View (818) 272-8902
Photo of Benedicta Osuji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(949) 998-5039 View (949) 998-5039
Photo of Joyce Weckl, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP, MSN
Joyce Weckl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Unsure of what to do about your mood swings or other troubling symptoms? I treat men, women, school age children, and adolescents for most mental health issues. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide compassionate, individualized care with the added benefit of the ability to prescribe medication.In the past, I was a certified nurse-midwife and women's health care provider. I have a long history of treating women in relation to their reproductive changes.
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Unsure of what to do about your mood swings or other troubling symptoms? I treat men, women, school age children, and adolescents for most mental health issues. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide compassionate, individualized care with the added benefit of the ability to prescribe medication.In the past, I was a certified nurse-midwife and women's health care provider. I have a long history of treating women in relation to their reproductive changes.
(805) 654-0926 View (805) 654-0926
Photo of Sabira Saifuddin - Family Psychiatry - Counseling & Wellness, Psychiatrist, MD
Family Psychiatry - Counseling & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Psychiatric Treatment & Counseling for the Whole family. We have a Multidisciplinary Team of Psychiatrist, Nurse Practitioners & Psychotherapists We perform Psychiatric Assessments & Treatment of ADHD in Adults and Children, Anxiety Disorders ( Panic attacks, Generalized Anxiety, OCD ) Depressive Disorders ( Major Depression), Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorders Etc. We combine conventional medical treatment with non-medication treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ( TMS ) for Severe depression for patients who don't respond well to Medications.
Psychiatric Treatment & Counseling for the Whole family. We have a Multidisciplinary Team of Psychiatrist, Nurse Practitioners & Psychotherapists We perform Psychiatric Assessments & Treatment of ADHD in Adults and Children, Anxiety Disorders ( Panic attacks, Generalized Anxiety, OCD ) Depressive Disorders ( Major Depression), Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse Disorders Etc. We combine conventional medical treatment with non-medication treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ( TMS ) for Severe depression for patients who don't respond well to Medications.
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Photo of Michael Polda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michael Polda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to assist adults with anxiety, depression, or the unique challenges of aging. If you need a compassionate, understanding provider to help you navigate your mental health journey I am here to help. I will partner with you in finding relief from your symptoms, improving your quality of life, and developing effective coping strategies. I provide accessible, timely care to facilitate your mental wellness journey through listening, understanding, and providing personalized solutions.
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to assist adults with anxiety, depression, or the unique challenges of aging. If you need a compassionate, understanding provider to help you navigate your mental health journey I am here to help. I will partner with you in finding relief from your symptoms, improving your quality of life, and developing effective coping strategies. I provide accessible, timely care to facilitate your mental wellness journey through listening, understanding, and providing personalized solutions.
(805) 870-9438 View (805) 870-9438
Photo of Alfredo Bimbela - Psychological Behavioral Health Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychological Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
Locations: California. To make an appointment, please visit our website and complete "Start Services". If you have questions, please visit our website and submit your questions online.
Locations: California. To make an appointment, please visit our website and complete "Start Services". If you have questions, please visit our website and submit your questions online.
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Photo of Azmeena Hashem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Azmeena Hashem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
(818) 717-7533 View (818) 717-7533
Photo of Chelsea Vanicek, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Chelsea Vanicek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Meet Chelsea, a dedicated PMHNP with a fervor for transforming lives. With a heart for the adult and geriatric populations, she specializes in treating psychiatric illnesses like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar 1 and 2, and schizophrenia. Chelsea's compassionate care blends clinical expertise with unwavering empathy, ensuring her patients feel seen and heard. Her mission? To restore hope, foster resilience, and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives. In her hands, mental health becomes a journey of healing and growth.
Meet Chelsea, a dedicated PMHNP with a fervor for transforming lives. With a heart for the adult and geriatric populations, she specializes in treating psychiatric illnesses like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar 1 and 2, and schizophrenia. Chelsea's compassionate care blends clinical expertise with unwavering empathy, ensuring her patients feel seen and heard. Her mission? To restore hope, foster resilience, and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives. In her hands, mental health becomes a journey of healing and growth.
(805) 819-2246 View (805) 819-2246

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Baback Gabbay, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Baback Gabbay
Psychiatrist, MD
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Dr. Baback “Bob” Gabbay received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Economics at UCLA. After obtaining his medical degree (M.D.) at UCLA, he completed residency training in Adult Psychiatry and additional subspecialty training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, CA. Throughout his professional clear he has garnered extensive experience in Women’s Mental Health and Geriatric Psychiatry, in addition to formal fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
Dr. Baback “Bob” Gabbay received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Economics at UCLA. After obtaining his medical degree (M.D.) at UCLA, he completed residency training in Adult Psychiatry and additional subspecialty training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, CA. Throughout his professional clear he has garnered extensive experience in Women’s Mental Health and Geriatric Psychiatry, in addition to formal fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
(818) 405-9844 View (818) 405-9844
Photo of Dr. Kailee Marin, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(747) 340-9672 View (747) 340-9672
Photo of Danica Trinidad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Danica Trinidad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Danica Trinidad is a dual certified Acute Care Adult and Gerontology and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of diverse clinical experience. She is experienced in inpatient and outpatient care of all ages.
Danica Trinidad is a dual certified Acute Care Adult and Gerontology and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of diverse clinical experience. She is experienced in inpatient and outpatient care of all ages.
(820) 732-0413 View (820) 732-0413

See more therapy options for Camarillo

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Camarillo, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$275

Psychiatrists in Camarillo, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
88% ADHD
76% Bipolar Disorder
71% Medication Management
59% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
59% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Anthem
73% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Camarillo, CA see their clients

58% Online Only
42% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Camarillo?

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.