Psychiatrists in Diamond Bar, CA

Photo of Oyebola Oyelade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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.
(909) 310-4457 View (909) 310-4457
Photo of Amy Du, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Amy Du
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, welcome! I'm Amy, a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), who can help you with both psychiatric medication management & supportive talk therapy! I cannot wait to get to know you & to create an individualized treatment plan together: we are a team! I am here to provide assessment, diagnosis(es), psychiatric medication prescriptions if appropriate/agreed upon, & to provide ongoing support. I am also delving into the world of Integrative & Functional Psychiatry & cannot wait to share all of this knowledge with you! :D I am already looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you & talk soon!
Hi, welcome! I'm Amy, a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), who can help you with both psychiatric medication management & supportive talk therapy! I cannot wait to get to know you & to create an individualized treatment plan together: we are a team! I am here to provide assessment, diagnosis(es), psychiatric medication prescriptions if appropriate/agreed upon, & to provide ongoing support. I am also delving into the world of Integrative & Functional Psychiatry & cannot wait to share all of this knowledge with you! :D I am already looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you & talk soon!
(626) 790-2952 View (626) 790-2952
Photo of Guylene Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
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. "
(909) 404-8739 View (909) 404-8739
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(626) 746-5840 View (626) 746-5840
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(626) 654-4293 View (626) 654-4293
Photo of Amr Beltagui, Psychiatrist, MD
Amr Beltagui
Psychiatrist, MD
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who specializes in helping people with treatment resistant conditions. Especially those that have not had great healing success with traditional medications and treatments. I have a strong interventional background as well as extensive training in other treatment modalities including ketamine/esketamine treatment and Transcranial Magnet Stimulation.
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who specializes in helping people with treatment resistant conditions. Especially those that have not had great healing success with traditional medications and treatments. I have a strong interventional background as well as extensive training in other treatment modalities including ketamine/esketamine treatment and Transcranial Magnet Stimulation.
(909) 345-6000 View (909) 345-6000
Photo of Patrick Gonzales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patrick Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Mr. Patrick Gonzales is a qualified adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He earned his master’s degree in nursing from West Coast University. Subsequently, Mr. Gonzales received a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric nursing from Azusa Pacific University. He currently works at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA across Gardena, Van Nuys, Fullerton, CA.
Mr. Patrick Gonzales is a qualified adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He earned his master’s degree in nursing from West Coast University. Subsequently, Mr. Gonzales received a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric nursing from Azusa Pacific University. He currently works at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA across Gardena, Van Nuys, Fullerton, CA.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Kalpesh Bhavsar - LA Psychiatry Services, Psychiatrist, Dr
LA Psychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, Dr
Serves Area
We offer medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy for those in need of mental health assistance. We provide in-person and telemedicine appointments. We are fortunate to have Dr Bhavsar, M.D., Ray Castillo, PMHNP and Cristina Pajarillaga, PMHNP on our team. We provide psychiatric services to adolescence , adults and seniors . we provide services in Pomona valley hospital, Canyon ridge hospital( chino) and BHC Alhambra hospital( Rosemead).
We offer medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy for those in need of mental health assistance. We provide in-person and telemedicine appointments. We are fortunate to have Dr Bhavsar, M.D., Ray Castillo, PMHNP and Cristina Pajarillaga, PMHNP on our team. We provide psychiatric services to adolescence , adults and seniors . we provide services in Pomona valley hospital, Canyon ridge hospital( chino) and BHC Alhambra hospital( Rosemead).
(909) 267-6550 View (909) 267-6550
Photo of Ronald Blustein, Psychiatrist, MD
Ronald Blustein
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Ronald Blustein is a caring and compassionate psychiatrist. Dr. Blustein obtained his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He brings extensive experience to his role at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA, across Gardena, Van Nuys, Fullerton, CA.
Dr. Ronald Blustein is a caring and compassionate psychiatrist. Dr. Blustein obtained his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He brings extensive experience to his role at Ehab Yacoub, MD Inc. Brain Health USA, across Gardena, Van Nuys, Fullerton, CA.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Mahmoud Aborabeh, Psychiatrist, MD
Mahmoud Aborabeh
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Mahmoud Aborabeh has 10 office locations, including in Gardena, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, Northridge, Newhall, Culver City, Fullerton, Santa Ana, and San Francisco
Dr. Mahmoud Aborabeh has 10 office locations, including in Gardena, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, Northridge, Newhall, Culver City, Fullerton, Santa Ana, and San Francisco
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Suchet Rao
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
(909) 706-6131 View (909) 706-6131

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Katelyn Brady, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, PMH-C
Katelyn Brady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, PMH-C
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a specialized focus on reproductive mental health. I currently provide outpatient psychiatric services, including diagnostic evaluation and medication management, to individuals with a range of psychiatric illnesses from diverse populations. I specialize in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and my goal is to help women regain a sense of strength and resilience as they work through these deeply personal experiences.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a specialized focus on reproductive mental health. I currently provide outpatient psychiatric services, including diagnostic evaluation and medication management, to individuals with a range of psychiatric illnesses from diverse populations. I specialize in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and my goal is to help women regain a sense of strength and resilience as they work through these deeply personal experiences.
(858) 567-1542 View (858) 567-1542
Photo of Doris Onuohah - Envision Wellness Health Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Envision Wellness Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience and a Doctorate from UMass Global. Based in California, I specialize in working with adults and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and life transitions. My goal is to offer a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your care. Many of my clients are high-functioning individuals—students, professionals, caregivers—who are outwardly managing life but privately feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally stuck.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience and a Doctorate from UMass Global. Based in California, I specialize in working with adults and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and life transitions. My goal is to offer a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your care. Many of my clients are high-functioning individuals—students, professionals, caregivers—who are outwardly managing life but privately feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally stuck.
(310) 879-5253 View (310) 879-5253
Photo of Victoria Balogun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMPN
Victoria Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMPN
Online Only
Hello, I’m Victoria Balogun, a dedicated Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I specialize in medication management for a range of mental health conditions. With a focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders, I bring over 5 years of experience in providing compassionate care and evidence-based treatment to my clients. My approach is rooted in understanding each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're navigating the challenges of mood disorders or seeking solutions for improved sleep, I am committed to empowering you on your journey to mental wellness.
Hello, I’m Victoria Balogun, a dedicated Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I specialize in medication management for a range of mental health conditions. With a focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders, I bring over 5 years of experience in providing compassionate care and evidence-based treatment to my clients. My approach is rooted in understanding each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're navigating the challenges of mood disorders or seeking solutions for improved sleep, I am committed to empowering you on your journey to mental wellness.
(805) 500-7757 View (805) 500-7757
Photo of Appolonia A Olumba - Apex Healthcare Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Apex Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Bellflower, CA 90706
Accepting New Patients - Also open on Weekends and After Hours - Are you struggling with mental health issues? Are you looking for someone to help you figure out what is going on with your mental health? Look no more, just call Apex Healthcare services, we are here to help. At Apex Healthcare Service, we help patients with multiple mental health issues to overcome their mental health challenges, and able to function in their full capacities in the society, and maintain their wellness as well as their well-being. Our team of LMFT and psychologist are also available for your therapy and counseling needs.
Accepting New Patients - Also open on Weekends and After Hours - Are you struggling with mental health issues? Are you looking for someone to help you figure out what is going on with your mental health? Look no more, just call Apex Healthcare services, we are here to help. At Apex Healthcare Service, we help patients with multiple mental health issues to overcome their mental health challenges, and able to function in their full capacities in the society, and maintain their wellness as well as their well-being. Our team of LMFT and psychologist are also available for your therapy and counseling needs.
(310) 746-5821 View (310) 746-5821
Photo of Daniel Mattox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Daniel Mattox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Text: (808) 563-4128 for quickest response. As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide high-quality mental healthcare services to patients through telemedicine. With a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, I possess the necessary skills and expertise to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and specialize in ADHD. Please note that I offer medication management for clients as another tool to help improve your mental health. Looking forward to meeting you and making some life improvements.
Text: (808) 563-4128 for quickest response. As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide high-quality mental healthcare services to patients through telemedicine. With a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, I possess the necessary skills and expertise to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and specialize in ADHD. Please note that I offer medication management for clients as another tool to help improve your mental health. Looking forward to meeting you and making some life improvements.
(562) 600-5486 View (562) 600-5486
Photo of Nnenna Chimdi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nnenna Chimdi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you having difficulty with anxiety and you don't know how to go about it? You have reached the right place which is a place where your anxiety will be addressed and the different ways we can go about it with you feeling much better. Are you feeling depressed which is usually complicated with anxiety? Are you struggling with your job? Are you having problems coping with your daily activities? What is it that you have that is too difficult to handle at this time? I am glad that you're reaching out because you are at the right place where you will learn new coping skills and different ways to maneuver what is weighing down.
Are you having difficulty with anxiety and you don't know how to go about it? You have reached the right place which is a place where your anxiety will be addressed and the different ways we can go about it with you feeling much better. Are you feeling depressed which is usually complicated with anxiety? Are you struggling with your job? Are you having problems coping with your daily activities? What is it that you have that is too difficult to handle at this time? I am glad that you're reaching out because you are at the right place where you will learn new coping skills and different ways to maneuver what is weighing down.
(657) 837-5746 View (657) 837-5746
Photo of Clarito D Villanueva Jr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Clarito D Villanueva Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry. I specialize in medication management for treating adolescents, adults, and elderly adults patients with, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and eating disorders. For people who suffer from debilitating mental disorders whose goals are to reduce their symptoms, experience pleasure and happiness, live and maintain a quality of life, my commitment is to empower you to be proactive in your care, optimize your progress, and achieve your goals.
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry. I specialize in medication management for treating adolescents, adults, and elderly adults patients with, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and eating disorders. For people who suffer from debilitating mental disorders whose goals are to reduce their symptoms, experience pleasure and happiness, live and maintain a quality of life, my commitment is to empower you to be proactive in your care, optimize your progress, and achieve your goals.
View
Photo of Roberto Montenegro, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Roberto Montenegro
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with vast experience in treating children and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in providing mental health services to high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm licensed to see patients in WA, CA, and AK, and I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with vast experience in treating children and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in providing mental health services to high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm licensed to see patients in WA, CA, and AK, and I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
(310) 361-4558 View (310) 361-4558
Photo of Sandrine Pirard, Psychiatrist, MD
Sandrine Pirard
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified physician in psychiatry and addiction medicine, licensed in California. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care with a holistic approach to conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and addiction. I treat adults struggling with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and substance use disorders. I welcome patients of all backgrounds and offer care in both English and French.
I am a board-certified physician in psychiatry and addiction medicine, licensed in California. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care with a holistic approach to conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and addiction. I treat adults struggling with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and substance use disorders. I welcome patients of all backgrounds and offer care in both English and French.
(341) 500-4220 View (341) 500-4220

See more therapy options for Diamond Bar

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Diamond Bar, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$350

Psychiatrists in Diamond Bar, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
91% Trauma and PTSD
91% Bipolar Disorder
73% Sleep or Insomnia
73% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
82% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Diamond Bar, CA see their clients

63% Online Only
37% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Diamond Bar?

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.