Psychiatrists in Century City, CA

Photo of Yvette Holman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Yvette Holman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I've worked with clients of all backgrounds who have struggled with addiction, process disorders and various mental heath issues. My goal after the initial assessment, is to work with the client to develop a course of action to get better. With a combination of therapy, a treatment plan and medication (if applicable) we will get you, the client back into the normal stream of life.
I've worked with clients of all backgrounds who have struggled with addiction, process disorders and various mental heath issues. My goal after the initial assessment, is to work with the client to develop a course of action to get better. With a combination of therapy, a treatment plan and medication (if applicable) we will get you, the client back into the normal stream of life.
(323) 315-0586 View (323) 315-0586
Photo of Olga Tsoy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olga Tsoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Struggling with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or substance use can feel overwhelming. Underlying health issues or nutrient imbalances may be affecting mood and well-being. The goal is to feel better, regain control, and restore balance in life. A personalized treatment plan can help not only with immediate symptoms but also support lasting improvements and overall wellness.
Struggling with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or substance use can feel overwhelming. Underlying health issues or nutrient imbalances may be affecting mood and well-being. The goal is to feel better, regain control, and restore balance in life. A personalized treatment plan can help not only with immediate symptoms but also support lasting improvements and overall wellness.
(424) 415-8119 View (424) 415-8119
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(213) 772-5543 View (213) 772-5543
Photo of Nwankaego Nwandei, Physician Assistant, PA
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 Dr. Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
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!
(424) 396-0572 View (424) 396-0572
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall 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!
(424) 363-4887 View (424) 363-4887

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kartik Ananth - Pacific TMS Group, Psychiatrist, MD
Pacific TMS Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Pacific TMS Group approaches mental health using effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA approved, non-invasive alternative treatment, using up-to-date technology for those experiencing symptoms pertaining to depression. Our clinic also offers both traditional and new approaches to mood disorders guided by the principle of quality-of-life improvement and patient satisfaction, including med-management, psychotherapy, and ketamine infusions. Please proceed to this link for a complimentary TMS informational session: https://tinyurl.com/3yhec2nx
Pacific TMS Group approaches mental health using effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA approved, non-invasive alternative treatment, using up-to-date technology for those experiencing symptoms pertaining to depression. Our clinic also offers both traditional and new approaches to mood disorders guided by the principle of quality-of-life improvement and patient satisfaction, including med-management, psychotherapy, and ketamine infusions. Please proceed to this link for a complimentary TMS informational session: https://tinyurl.com/3yhec2nx
(310) 340-1791 View (310) 340-1791
Photo of Richard Teves, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Richard Teves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Richard Teves and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing. With four years of experience working in inpatient psychiatric care in Riverside, Southern California, I have gained extensive knowledge in managing a variety of mental health disorders. I am passionate about mental health and its significance in everyday life, believing that mental well-being is a cornerstone of overall health. Now starting at Grow Therapy, I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to help my clients achieve emotional balance and resilience.
My name is Richard Teves and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing. With four years of experience working in inpatient psychiatric care in Riverside, Southern California, I have gained extensive knowledge in managing a variety of mental health disorders. I am passionate about mental health and its significance in everyday life, believing that mental well-being is a cornerstone of overall health. Now starting at Grow Therapy, I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to help my clients achieve emotional balance and resilience.
(213) 642-2494 View (213) 642-2494
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall 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!
(424) 396-1266 View (424) 396-1266
Photo of Dominique Sanders, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(714) 844-5536 View (714) 844-5536
Photo of Dr. Mark Hrymoc - Ketamine Therapy Ctr | MHC Cedars-Sinai East Tower, Psychiatrist, MD
Ketamine Therapy Ctr | MHC Cedars-Sinai East Tower
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Ketamine therapy is a powerful treatment option as part of a comprehensive care plan for depression and other mood disorders. This ability to reduce self-harm automatically puts ketamine into a very select group of medications, along with lithium and clozapine. Reducing self-harm is a result which no other antidepressant has ever been proven to have.
Ketamine therapy is a powerful treatment option as part of a comprehensive care plan for depression and other mood disorders. This ability to reduce self-harm automatically puts ketamine into a very select group of medications, along with lithium and clozapine. Reducing self-harm is a result which no other antidepressant has ever been proven to have.
(310) 564-2546 View (310) 564-2546
Photo of Esther Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Esther Lee is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and post master’s degree from West Coast University. She received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology at University of California, San Diego and Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Mount St. Mary’s University. Esther has extensive experience in inpatient and outpatient care of all ages. She has worked in a variety of settings with a strong critical care background, working with cardiac and pre/post transplant patients.
Esther Lee is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and post master’s degree from West Coast University. She received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology at University of California, San Diego and Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Mount St. Mary’s University. Esther has extensive experience in inpatient and outpatient care of all ages. She has worked in a variety of settings with a strong critical care background, working with cardiac and pre/post transplant patients.
(747) 349-3134 View (747) 349-3134
Photo of Harcharan J Bains - BiBi Psych, Psychiatrist, MD
BiBi Psych
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Availability—-only through TELEHEALTH/ ZOOM/ SKYPE/ FACETIME/WHATSAPP. Appointments are available within 48- 72 hours. Focus—MEDICATION MANAGEMENT & THERAPY. My clinic is all about you, making you feel better and productive in your life.Daily grind of life can bring anyone down and our goal is to make you go up and stay there. Each treatment is customized to your needs utilizing the latest scientific knowledge with minimal medication side effects. We treat vast spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Your privacy and safety is extremely important to me and we monitor it very closely aided by a professional staff.
Availability—-only through TELEHEALTH/ ZOOM/ SKYPE/ FACETIME/WHATSAPP. Appointments are available within 48- 72 hours. Focus—MEDICATION MANAGEMENT & THERAPY. My clinic is all about you, making you feel better and productive in your life.Daily grind of life can bring anyone down and our goal is to make you go up and stay there. Each treatment is customized to your needs utilizing the latest scientific knowledge with minimal medication side effects. We treat vast spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Your privacy and safety is extremely important to me and we monitor it very closely aided by a professional staff.
(417) 815-3605 View (417) 815-3605
Photo of Desanne Gonsalves, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Desanne Gonsalves
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90013
I am committed to helping and supporting individuals in reaching their mental health objectives using evidence-based methods, a holistic perspective, and humor. I am certified in both medication management and therapy, and I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, stress, and trauma. Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may involve psychiatric medications (if appropriate), psychotherapy, and other strategies to reduce your symptoms, enhance your mood, and help you conquer challenges.
I am committed to helping and supporting individuals in reaching their mental health objectives using evidence-based methods, a holistic perspective, and humor. I am certified in both medication management and therapy, and I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, stress, and trauma. Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may involve psychiatric medications (if appropriate), psychotherapy, and other strategies to reduce your symptoms, enhance your mood, and help you conquer challenges.
(323) 402-5680 View (323) 402-5680
Photo of Breanna Taylor Sciarrino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Breanna Taylor Sciarrino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Please note I only see patients who live in CA or NY and who are under 65 years of age. I can complete Autism and ADHD assessments if you are looking for that.
Please note I only see patients who live in CA or NY and who are under 65 years of age. I can complete Autism and ADHD assessments if you are looking for that.
View
Photo of Cristian Penciu, Psychiatrist, MD
Cristian Penciu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
(747) 285-7942 View (747) 285-7942
Photo of Michael Blumenfield - Michael Blumenfield, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Blumenfield, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I specialize in psychotherapy with adults. I also prescribe medication, when indicated, either in combination with psychotherapy or alone. I work with people with a wide variety of symptoms for coming to see a psychiatrist. Every person is unique. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, including the sports world, the entertainment industry, business, teaching, students, parenting and other settings. At present due to the pandemic I am only seeing patients remotely.You may be interested in a new book that I have recently published titled Shrinktalk ( available on Amazon)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I specialize in psychotherapy with adults. I also prescribe medication, when indicated, either in combination with psychotherapy or alone. I work with people with a wide variety of symptoms for coming to see a psychiatrist. Every person is unique. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, including the sports world, the entertainment industry, business, teaching, students, parenting and other settings. At present due to the pandemic I am only seeing patients remotely.You may be interested in a new book that I have recently published titled Shrinktalk ( available on Amazon)
(818) 564-4207 View (818) 564-4207
Photo of Raven Cross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Raven Cross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, thanks for visiting! My name is Raven and I have been in the healthcare field for over 15 years. Helping people is my life's passion. To be transparent, holding space for my clients to help heal themselves is a very personal goal of mine. I do require a FREE 15 minute consultation prior to booking an appointment with me to ensure we are a good match for each other.
Hello, thanks for visiting! My name is Raven and I have been in the healthcare field for over 15 years. Helping people is my life's passion. To be transparent, holding space for my clients to help heal themselves is a very personal goal of mine. I do require a FREE 15 minute consultation prior to booking an appointment with me to ensure we are a good match for each other.
(408) 317-1549 View (408) 317-1549
Photo of Tameka Dyce, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
(562) 573-9745 View (562) 573-9745
Photo of Roselyne Nwufor - Pioneer Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Pioneer Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Pioneer home, the place for hope. We are accepting new clients via telepsych for psychiatry evaluation and medication management. We specialize in teens and adult psychiatry services, and we utilize evidenced-based interventions to treat various mental health disorders such as anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, Bipolar, etc. We are committed to providing holistic, compassionate care and quality mental health care based on an individual basis. And we encourage our clients to participate in their mental health care plan to ensure their optimal mental health and wellness. Don't wait, make your appointment today. Call Us
Welcome to Pioneer home, the place for hope. We are accepting new clients via telepsych for psychiatry evaluation and medication management. We specialize in teens and adult psychiatry services, and we utilize evidenced-based interventions to treat various mental health disorders such as anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, Bipolar, etc. We are committed to providing holistic, compassionate care and quality mental health care based on an individual basis. And we encourage our clients to participate in their mental health care plan to ensure their optimal mental health and wellness. Don't wait, make your appointment today. Call Us
(323) 831-8506 View (323) 831-8506

See more therapy options for Century City

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Century City, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Century City, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
83% Addiction
83% Eating Disorders
83% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Century City, CA see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Century City?

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.