Psychiatrists in Coronado, CA

Photo of Jamie M Sorenson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMHCNS, APRN
Jamie M Sorenson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMHCNS, APRN
Coronado, CA 92118
I am passionate about providing comprehensive care & improving the overall health in my patients. I strongly believe in the total body connection & recognizing illnesses are much more than just a “body part.” I am well known for my energy, out of the box thinking & ability to recognize missed health conditions. I am very open minded & considers many options to improve mental health, in addition to medication & therapy. I work hard to get my patients well .
I am passionate about providing comprehensive care & improving the overall health in my patients. I strongly believe in the total body connection & recognizing illnesses are much more than just a “body part.” I am well known for my energy, out of the box thinking & ability to recognize missed health conditions. I am very open minded & considers many options to improve mental health, in addition to medication & therapy. I work hard to get my patients well .
(619) 568-2426 View (619) 568-2426
Photo of Donald Sortonis - Donald Sortonis | Anxiety, Depression & ADHD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, BSN, APRN
Donald Sortonis | Anxiety, Depression & ADHD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, BSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Coronado, CA 92118
Don is a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and has years of experience in the mental health practice. He is licensed to conduct various therapies as well as medication management, allowing him to help clients in all stages of treatment. He is praised for his natural warmth, charm, and extensive knowledge both by his clients and colleagues.
Don is a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and has years of experience in the mental health practice. He is licensed to conduct various therapies as well as medication management, allowing him to help clients in all stages of treatment. He is praised for his natural warmth, charm, and extensive knowledge both by his clients and colleagues.
(619) 375-3115 View (619) 375-3115
Photo of Mark Melden, Psychiatrist, DO, FABPN
Mark Melden
Psychiatrist, DO, FABPN
Coronado, CA 92118
Our numerous specialties include: mood, anxiety, bipolar, panic disorder, geriatric disorders, child and adolescent disorders, ADD/ADHD, psychotic disorders, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, autism and Asperger disorders, forensic evaluations, testamentary changes, disability evaluations, capacity evaluations for LPS and probate conservatorship, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, memory loss and cognitive dysfunctions, substance and alcohol abuse treatment, Suboxone prescribers for opiate dependence, weight loss
Our numerous specialties include: mood, anxiety, bipolar, panic disorder, geriatric disorders, child and adolescent disorders, ADD/ADHD, psychotic disorders, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, autism and Asperger disorders, forensic evaluations, testamentary changes, disability evaluations, capacity evaluations for LPS and probate conservatorship, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, memory loss and cognitive dysfunctions, substance and alcohol abuse treatment, Suboxone prescribers for opiate dependence, weight loss
(619) 432-6510 View (619) 432-6510
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(805) 694-0322 View (805) 694-0322
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
(805) 600-2380 View (805) 600-2380
Photo of Jacquelyn Hamed - Jacquelyn Hamed | Anxiety, Depression & ADHD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Jacquelyn Hamed | Anxiety, Depression & ADHD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
1 Endorsed
Coronado, CA 92118
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
Hi! I am Jackie. I have been helping clients who are overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, panic episodes, trauma or PSTD, bipolar or personality disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
(559) 235-1977 View (559) 235-1977
Photo of Ross Palmer, Psychiatrist, MD
Ross Palmer
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you for considering to work with me as your physician. I opened my private practice clinic because I wanted to create a safe, comfortable space where my patients are always valued and respected, where your most private concerns can be expressed without judgment or stigma. In addition to a calming, friendly environment, I also offer excellent medical knowledge and clinical judgment. In psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Diego, I ranked first of 58 residents by exam scores.
Thank you for considering to work with me as your physician. I opened my private practice clinic because I wanted to create a safe, comfortable space where my patients are always valued and respected, where your most private concerns can be expressed without judgment or stigma. In addition to a calming, friendly environment, I also offer excellent medical knowledge and clinical judgment. In psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Diego, I ranked first of 58 residents by exam scores.
(619) 489-6914 View (619) 489-6914
Photo of Laura Wakil, Psychiatrist, MD, IFMCP
Laura Wakil
Psychiatrist, MD, IFMCP
Serves Area
I am board-certified in psychiatry, neurology and functional medicine, and have a unique practice offering integrative and reproductive psychiatry with supplement, nutrition and exercise plans, therapy, functional medicine, and finding the root cause of your mental and physical symptoms all in one place for true whole-person care. You deserve compassion, to be heard, find answers, feel better quickly and maintain wellness long-term. My focus is on my relationship with my patients, maintaining trust, and providing excellent care. I approach patients with the same dedication I would want my own loved ones to receive.
I am board-certified in psychiatry, neurology and functional medicine, and have a unique practice offering integrative and reproductive psychiatry with supplement, nutrition and exercise plans, therapy, functional medicine, and finding the root cause of your mental and physical symptoms all in one place for true whole-person care. You deserve compassion, to be heard, find answers, feel better quickly and maintain wellness long-term. My focus is on my relationship with my patients, maintaining trust, and providing excellent care. I approach patients with the same dedication I would want my own loved ones to receive.
(858) 461-7503 View (858) 461-7503
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(760) 388-6354 View (760) 388-6354
Photo of Jaclyn Joyce, Psychiatrist, DO
Jaclyn Joyce
Psychiatrist, DO
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi there. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist based out of San Diego, California. I can prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, or both. I genuinely enjoy working with clients, hearing unique life stories, and finding ways to help each person as an individual. I have experience working with a wide variety of psychiatric concerns. There are also a few areas in which I have a special focus, including: working with older adolescents and college students, pregnancy, and new parents.
Hi there. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist based out of San Diego, California. I can prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, or both. I genuinely enjoy working with clients, hearing unique life stories, and finding ways to help each person as an individual. I have experience working with a wide variety of psychiatric concerns. There are also a few areas in which I have a special focus, including: working with older adolescents and college students, pregnancy, and new parents.
(619) 431-2004 View (619) 431-2004
Photo of Nikki French, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nikki French
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Life with mood disorders, anxiety, or ADHD can feel overwhelming, leaving you drained, unfocused, and emotionally exhausted. You might struggle with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or a persistent sense of unease. My goal is to help you regain control by offering a tailored and supportive approach. Together, we can work toward finding balance and peace in your daily life.
Life with mood disorders, anxiety, or ADHD can feel overwhelming, leaving you drained, unfocused, and emotionally exhausted. You might struggle with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or a persistent sense of unease. My goal is to help you regain control by offering a tailored and supportive approach. Together, we can work toward finding balance and peace in your daily life.
(858) 808-1959 View (858) 808-1959
Photo of Daniel Brockett, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Brockett
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Thank you for visiting my profile. If you are reading this, your suffering has likely reached a point where you are considering professional help. You may be seeking relief from painful emotional symptoms, problems with self-esteem, problems with addictive substances or behaviors. It may be that you would like to improve your relationships or adjust to a physical illness.
Thank you for visiting my profile. If you are reading this, your suffering has likely reached a point where you are considering professional help. You may be seeking relief from painful emotional symptoms, problems with self-esteem, problems with addictive substances or behaviors. It may be that you would like to improve your relationships or adjust to a physical illness.
(858) 914-4619 View (858) 914-4619

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Frederick Yuh Huang, Psychiatrist, MD
Frederick Yuh Huang
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I am direct and respectful in my professional approach to every person I treat. I view our work as a collaborative effort and will do my best to meet you where you are at. Together we will create a treatment plan that will best meet your needs. I specialize in working with patients who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss and grief. I also have expertise studying the emotional strain associated with immigration and growing up the child of immigrants.
I am direct and respectful in my professional approach to every person I treat. I view our work as a collaborative effort and will do my best to meet you where you are at. Together we will create a treatment plan that will best meet your needs. I specialize in working with patients who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss and grief. I also have expertise studying the emotional strain associated with immigration and growing up the child of immigrants.
(760) 274-8333 View (760) 274-8333
Photo of Angela Lim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angela Lim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Diego, CA 92117
Angela is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She received her Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, San Marcos and has over six years of mental and behavioral health care experience. Angela has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in settings which include intensive outpatient programs and psychiatric emergency rooms. In these settings, she has provided care for various diagnoses, including but not limited to, anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, and PTSD.
Angela is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She received her Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, San Marcos and has over six years of mental and behavioral health care experience. Angela has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in settings which include intensive outpatient programs and psychiatric emergency rooms. In these settings, she has provided care for various diagnoses, including but not limited to, anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, and PTSD.
(415) 964-5885 View (415) 964-5885
Photo of Nichole Thorne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Nichole Thorne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that authenticity is important when providing care to my patients; I show up to each patient visit with a focus on where the patient is and commonly ask where or how the patient would like to improve their health moving forward. I believe that patient visits are an opportunity for me to be a sounding board, cheerleader, or problem-solver who can share ideas about patient-centered care.
I believe that authenticity is important when providing care to my patients; I show up to each patient visit with a focus on where the patient is and commonly ask where or how the patient would like to improve their health moving forward. I believe that patient visits are an opportunity for me to be a sounding board, cheerleader, or problem-solver who can share ideas about patient-centered care.
(760) 654-8190 View (760) 654-8190
Photo of Whitney McFadden, Psychiatrist, MD, MPhil
Whitney McFadden
Psychiatrist, MD, MPhil
La Jolla, CA 92037
Find more about me at willowmindhealth . com. I am trained in neuroscience, psychiatric genetics, and nutritional psychiatry with a vested interest in women’s and perinatal psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping women through difficult transitions like pregnancy, the impact of stressful work environments on health, developing healthy relationships, and managing mental health balance when life requires a different way of operating. I work with women looking to get through unforeseen roadblocks and get them on the path to operating well in their bodies and nervous systems so they can thrive.
Find more about me at willowmindhealth . com. I am trained in neuroscience, psychiatric genetics, and nutritional psychiatry with a vested interest in women’s and perinatal psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping women through difficult transitions like pregnancy, the impact of stressful work environments on health, developing healthy relationships, and managing mental health balance when life requires a different way of operating. I work with women looking to get through unforeseen roadblocks and get them on the path to operating well in their bodies and nervous systems so they can thrive.
(310) 683-5604 View (310) 683-5604
Photo of Shreesh Prasad, Psychiatrist, MD
Shreesh Prasad
Psychiatrist, MD
San Diego, CA 92130
Dr. Shreesh Prasad is a child and adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 5 years of experience in psychiatry. Dr. Prasad specializes in medication management for the full range of mental health conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and OCD, but especially enjoys working with patients with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder as well as those who suffer from trauma-related disorders. Dr. Prasad takes a holistic, multidisciplinary, and strengths-based approach to the patients in his care.
Dr. Shreesh Prasad is a child and adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 5 years of experience in psychiatry. Dr. Prasad specializes in medication management for the full range of mental health conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and OCD, but especially enjoys working with patients with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder as well as those who suffer from trauma-related disorders. Dr. Prasad takes a holistic, multidisciplinary, and strengths-based approach to the patients in his care.
(702) 447-0346 View (702) 447-0346
Photo of Deval A Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Deval A Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
San Diego, CA 92130
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
(858) 926-5815 View (858) 926-5815
Photo of Felista Anugom, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Felista Anugom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
Dr. Felista Anugom is a highly skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience. As the CEO of Prudent Psychiatry, she brings a wealth of expertise in providing top-notch mental health care. Dr. Anugom specializes in working with all populations and has extensive experience in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD etc. At Prudent Psychiatry, clients find a supportive community of mental health experts offering personalized, compassionate, affordable, and high-quality services.
Dr. Felista Anugom is a highly skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience. As the CEO of Prudent Psychiatry, she brings a wealth of expertise in providing top-notch mental health care. Dr. Anugom specializes in working with all populations and has extensive experience in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD etc. At Prudent Psychiatry, clients find a supportive community of mental health experts offering personalized, compassionate, affordable, and high-quality services.
(562) 376-5419 View (562) 376-5419
Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry San Diego, Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP
Remedy Psychiatry San Diego
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you struggling in your day to day? With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatry appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
Are you struggling in your day to day? With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatry appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
(310) 695-1866 View (310) 695-1866

See more therapy options for Coronado

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Coronado, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Coronado, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
92% Trauma and PTSD
83% Eating Disorders
75% ADHD
75% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
88% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Coronado, CA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Coronado?

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.