Psychiatrists in Chico, CA

Photo of Hatira Watts, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hatira Watts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95928
Hatira is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience. She helps children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Hatira performs psychiatric evaluations and provides medication management.
Hatira is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience. She helps children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Hatira performs psychiatric evaluations and provides medication management.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Harpreet Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Harpreet Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95928
Harpreet Kaur, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist who has subspecialty training and certification in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Kaur received her medical education at Government Medical College in Patiala, India and completed her residency at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. She completed both her fellowships at the University of Maryland Sheppard Pratt Health System.
Harpreet Kaur, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist who has subspecialty training and certification in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Kaur received her medical education at Government Medical College in Patiala, India and completed her residency at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. She completed both her fellowships at the University of Maryland Sheppard Pratt Health System.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Julie LaFreniere, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie LaFreniere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95928
Julie is board-certified with over 30 years of nursing experience in long-term care, inpatient, and outpatient facilities. She helps adults and seniors and brings a holistic, evidence-based approach to therapy using medication management, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, socialization, and spirituality.
Julie is board-certified with over 30 years of nursing experience in long-term care, inpatient, and outpatient facilities. She helps adults and seniors and brings a holistic, evidence-based approach to therapy using medication management, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, socialization, and spirituality.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Welby Nielsen, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Welby Nielsen
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95928
Dr. Welby Nielsen focuses on wellness and improved quality of life for each patient. Dr. Nielsen treats children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Dr. Welby Nielsen focuses on wellness and improved quality of life for each patient. Dr. Nielsen treats children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95926  (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.
(530) 424-2375 View (530) 424-2375
Photo of Brandon Weinstock - Good Vibes Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Good Vibes Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95926  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating difficulties with attention span and focus (ADHD), sleep difficulty/insomnia, depression, and also provide medication-assisted weight loss. Other symptoms/conditions we treat include anxiety, abnormal weight gain, nightmares/negative dreams, binge-eating disorder, hyperactivity, impulsivity, mood swings, low motivation, low energy, anhedonia, obsessive thoughts/compulsive behaviors (OCD), and work/school difficulty. We are currently accepting patients ages 18 & up.
We specialize in treating difficulties with attention span and focus (ADHD), sleep difficulty/insomnia, depression, and also provide medication-assisted weight loss. Other symptoms/conditions we treat include anxiety, abnormal weight gain, nightmares/negative dreams, binge-eating disorder, hyperactivity, impulsivity, mood swings, low motivation, low energy, anhedonia, obsessive thoughts/compulsive behaviors (OCD), and work/school difficulty. We are currently accepting patients ages 18 & up.
(530) 479-3690 View (530) 479-3690
Photo of Sauntrice O'Quin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sauntrice O'Quin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95973  (Online Only)
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Oyebola Oyelade, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95928  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Guylene Joseph, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95928  (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Guylene Joseph, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95973  (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Jacqueline Constantino, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Constantino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95926  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bettina Ervin Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95926
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Nelly Duarti - Braincom Advanced Nursing , APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Braincom Advanced Nursing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chico, CA 95926  (Online Only)
Hi, are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing.
Hi, are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty waking up in the morning, getting through the day, and sleeping through the night? Are you going through cycles of sadness, mood changes, nervousness, and tiredness? We provide holistic and patient-centered care for adolescents and adults from diverse populations to facilitate the process of healing.
(951) 499-1250 View (951) 499-1250
Photo of Dr. Anoopinder Singh, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anoopinder Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95928
Dr. Anoopinder Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Singh uses a holistic approach to treat college and university students and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, co-morbid disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and trauma. He has worked in disaster psychiatry outreach, the Medical Reserve Corps, and foreign and local governments, providing psychological first-aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India.
Dr. Anoopinder Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Singh uses a holistic approach to treat college and university students and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, co-morbid disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and trauma. He has worked in disaster psychiatry outreach, the Medical Reserve Corps, and foreign and local governments, providing psychological first-aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Hamilton City, CA 95951  (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.
(530) 444-4790 View (530) 444-4790

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Ashley Miller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(559) 235-1617 View (559) 235-1617
Photo of Catvy Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catvy Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
(651) 372-3391 View (651) 372-3391
Photo of Keith Lui - Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
(916) 758-9109 View (916) 758-9109
Photo of Dr. Delania Jewkes, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Delania Jewkes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
Dr. Delaina Jewkes is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who helps with anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma, and bipolar, psychotic, and personality disorders. Dr. Jewkes provides evidence-based and compassionate care, incorporating information about a patient’s history and individual goals to create a unique treatment plan.
Dr. Delaina Jewkes is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who helps with anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma, and bipolar, psychotic, and personality disorders. Dr. Jewkes provides evidence-based and compassionate care, incorporating information about a patient’s history and individual goals to create a unique treatment plan.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Cori Hanagami, MD, Psychiatrist
Cori Hanagami
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95678
My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative. I recognize that seeking help for psychological distress requires a tremendous amount of courage and feel honored to work with individuals as they navigate through challenging life situations. Often the path to healing is multifaceted and may involve weekly psychotherapy, lifestyle/behavioral changes, and/or medications. I specialize in treatment of adults with OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and trauma related disorders. I primarily provide medication management services and have limited availability for weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy.
My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative. I recognize that seeking help for psychological distress requires a tremendous amount of courage and feel honored to work with individuals as they navigate through challenging life situations. Often the path to healing is multifaceted and may involve weekly psychotherapy, lifestyle/behavioral changes, and/or medications. I specialize in treatment of adults with OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and trauma related disorders. I primarily provide medication management services and have limited availability for weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy.
(916) 610-4506 View (916) 610-4506

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Chico, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Chico, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
93% Anxiety
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Sleep or Insomnia
79% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
79% Stress

Average years in practice

22 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in Chico, CA see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Chico?

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.