Psychiatrists in El Monte, CA

Photo of Sandy Hah, MD, Psychiatrist
Sandy Hah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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!
(818) 412-6880 View (818) 412-6880

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kawal Singh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kawal Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Wellcome! I'm Kawal. I want to take a moment to acknowledge that you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health as the first step can often be difficult and daunting for many of us. Though being vulnerable can be difficult at first, once this step is overcome, many find the road ahead to be more relaxed and improvement to take shape. It is my utmost duty to create a safe and welcome environment. I believe perception is reality which ties to my approach to patient care focuses on providing care through empathetic, compassionate care by attempting to analyze an individuals thought process and experiencing the world.
Wellcome! I'm Kawal. I want to take a moment to acknowledge that you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health as the first step can often be difficult and daunting for many of us. Though being vulnerable can be difficult at first, once this step is overcome, many find the road ahead to be more relaxed and improvement to take shape. It is my utmost duty to create a safe and welcome environment. I believe perception is reality which ties to my approach to patient care focuses on providing care through empathetic, compassionate care by attempting to analyze an individuals thought process and experiencing the world.
(657) 300-2572 View (657) 300-2572
Photo of Dr. Allie Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allie Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Dr. Allie R. Shapiro is a board-certified pediatrician and board certified in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry. She graduated from Miss Porter’s School in 2004, Brandeis University in 2008, and St. George’s University of Medicine in 2012.
Dr. Allie R. Shapiro is a board-certified pediatrician and board certified in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry. She graduated from Miss Porter’s School in 2004, Brandeis University in 2008, and St. George’s University of Medicine in 2012.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Alice Wong, DO, Psychiatrist
Alice Wong
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who provides culturally sensitive integrative mental health care by listening with empathy, inquiring with curiosity, and understanding with humility. I have experience in working with diverse cultural backgrounds, with an added focus on Asian Americans, and understand the struggles one may face in wanting to assimilate while retaining their cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety/depression/trauma, managing family expectations, navigating transitions, or striving for a fulfilling life, I'm dedicated to walking this path with you.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who provides culturally sensitive integrative mental health care by listening with empathy, inquiring with curiosity, and understanding with humility. I have experience in working with diverse cultural backgrounds, with an added focus on Asian Americans, and understand the struggles one may face in wanting to assimilate while retaining their cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety/depression/trauma, managing family expectations, navigating transitions, or striving for a fulfilling life, I'm dedicated to walking this path with you.
View
Photo of Dr. Todd Hill - Dr. Todd Hill - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Todd Hill - Neuro Wellness Spa Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Dr. Hill has been practicing Psychiatry for nearly 20 years. He now practices both Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Throughout his medical career, he owned his own private practice for 10 years, was on staff as a consultation psychiatrist for multiple Kansas City hospitals, and served as the Medical Director of Psychiatric Services at one of the largest hospitals in the Kansas City Metro area. Additionally, Dr. Hill served as Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Psychiatry at his alma mater, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences.
Dr. Hill has been practicing Psychiatry for nearly 20 years. He now practices both Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Throughout his medical career, he owned his own private practice for 10 years, was on staff as a consultation psychiatrist for multiple Kansas City hospitals, and served as the Medical Director of Psychiatric Services at one of the largest hospitals in the Kansas City Metro area. Additionally, Dr. Hill served as Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Psychiatry at his alma mater, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences.
(424) 238-6522 View (424) 238-6522
Photo of Serena Puga, MD, Psychiatrist
Serena Puga
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I provide comprehensive mental health services to adults, adolescents and couples. For patients who have complex needs such as multiple medical or mental health diagnoses, who have seen many previous practitioners with no results, or who do not want to see multiple providers or need integrated care with a single person they trust, my practice is an ideal fit. I have specialty training in mood disorders, personality disorders, neurodivergence in all its forms, and working with other providers including physicians, lawyers, estate planners, neuropsychologists, and care managers as well as . I am happy to provide in-home services.
I provide comprehensive mental health services to adults, adolescents and couples. For patients who have complex needs such as multiple medical or mental health diagnoses, who have seen many previous practitioners with no results, or who do not want to see multiple providers or need integrated care with a single person they trust, my practice is an ideal fit. I have specialty training in mood disorders, personality disorders, neurodivergence in all its forms, and working with other providers including physicians, lawyers, estate planners, neuropsychologists, and care managers as well as . I am happy to provide in-home services.
(310) 341-0702 View (310) 341-0702
Photo of Leah Silver, PMHNO, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Silver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNO, DNP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Leah Silver is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who started practicing in 2022. She earned an Undergraduate Degree in Nursing from the University of Arizona and a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from the University of Washington. Leah believes it is a privilege to positively impact her patients and help improve their mental health. Her hope is to empower individuals, families, groups, and communities to achieve their health goals.
Leah Silver is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who started practicing in 2022. She earned an Undergraduate Degree in Nursing from the University of Arizona and a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from the University of Washington. Leah believes it is a privilege to positively impact her patients and help improve their mental health. Her hope is to empower individuals, families, groups, and communities to achieve their health goals.
(310) 730-1781 View (310) 730-1781
Photo of Ericka Marie Ellison, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ericka Marie Ellison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is someone seeking a compassionate, knowledgeable provider to support their mental health journey. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, and need a personalized treatment approach that considers both emotional and practical needs. They want to feel understood and empowered, aiming for stability, resilience, and an improved quality of life through dedicated, holistic care.
My ideal client is someone seeking a compassionate, knowledgeable provider to support their mental health journey. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, and need a personalized treatment approach that considers both emotional and practical needs. They want to feel understood and empowered, aiming for stability, resilience, and an improved quality of life through dedicated, holistic care.
(925) 940-3959 View (925) 940-3959
Photo of Sauntrice O'Quin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sauntrice O'Quin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(323) 405-9785 View (323) 405-9785
Photo of Jacqueline Finley, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Finley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Online Only
As a compassionate and dedicated therapist, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and improve their emotional well-being.
As a compassionate and dedicated therapist, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and improve their emotional well-being.
(323) 859-1330 View (323) 859-1330
Photo of Princess McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(747) 347-3657 View (747) 347-3657
Photo of Tom Flegler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tom Flegler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new patients for in-person or telemedicine visits. Tell me, what is going on in your life? Does our rapidly changing world leave you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulties with your relationships, focus, or sleep? Have you lost the energy — or interest — to engage in activities that once brought you joy? Do you feel your problems are not being acknowledged or treated adequately? Nearly everyone has hit rough patches that required them to stop and reassess if their life is headed in a direction that reflects their values. If you’re reading this, it’s likely you may be feeling a little lost in the woods yourself.
Accepting new patients for in-person or telemedicine visits. Tell me, what is going on in your life? Does our rapidly changing world leave you feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulties with your relationships, focus, or sleep? Have you lost the energy — or interest — to engage in activities that once brought you joy? Do you feel your problems are not being acknowledged or treated adequately? Nearly everyone has hit rough patches that required them to stop and reassess if their life is headed in a direction that reflects their values. If you’re reading this, it’s likely you may be feeling a little lost in the woods yourself.
(619) 304-5951 View (619) 304-5951
Photo of Kenneth Etefia - Renaissance Behavioral Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist
Renaissance Behavioral Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Renaissance Behavioral Medicine provides psychotherapy and medication management services for children, teens and adults for various mental health conditions including but not limited to major depressive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, substance addiction and all anxiety disorders. Services are provided in person and via telehealth for Southern and Northern California residents.
Renaissance Behavioral Medicine provides psychotherapy and medication management services for children, teens and adults for various mental health conditions including but not limited to major depressive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, substance addiction and all anxiety disorders. Services are provided in person and via telehealth for Southern and Northern California residents.
(213) 262-0888 View (213) 262-0888
Photo of Hilda Nguthu-Bell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hilda Nguthu-Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hilda Nguthu-Bell is a skilled and professional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse with over several years of experience, primarily in clinical Healthcare in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Specialized in Mental Health and Case Management she has proven her ability to lead and motivate others.
Hilda Nguthu-Bell is a skilled and professional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse with over several years of experience, primarily in clinical Healthcare in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Specialized in Mental Health and Case Management she has proven her ability to lead and motivate others.
(415) 650-4168 View (415) 650-4168
Photo of Esder Shin - Blue Ocean Mental Health, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blue Ocean Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in general adult psychiatry treating clients between the ages of 18 to 65, addressing ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), mood disorders, and more. You can count on my full commitment, transparent communication regarding treatment and medication, informed consent, and a dependable treatment plan tailored to your recovery objectives. My clients gain from my extensive experience and my dedication to being a valuable resource throughout their journey.
Hi! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in general adult psychiatry treating clients between the ages of 18 to 65, addressing ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), mood disorders, and more. You can count on my full commitment, transparent communication regarding treatment and medication, informed consent, and a dependable treatment plan tailored to your recovery objectives. My clients gain from my extensive experience and my dedication to being a valuable resource throughout their journey.
(424) 380-7230 View (424) 380-7230
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(916) 883-0416 View (916) 883-0416
Photo of Michael Lowenstein, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Lowenstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, want to resolve parenting issues or other relationship problems, as well as create more meaningful interactions and connections with the people you love, relief is available, and I'm here to help. My name is Dr. Michael Lowenstein, and I'm a board certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience providing a wide range of counseling, therapy, psychotherapy and medication treatments for individual adults living in the Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica and Los Angeles area, as well as online throughout the state of California.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, want to resolve parenting issues or other relationship problems, as well as create more meaningful interactions and connections with the people you love, relief is available, and I'm here to help. My name is Dr. Michael Lowenstein, and I'm a board certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience providing a wide range of counseling, therapy, psychotherapy and medication treatments for individual adults living in the Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica and Los Angeles area, as well as online throughout the state of California.
(310) 439-9323 View (310) 439-9323
Photo of Leonard Frankel - Mindpath College Health - Los Angeles, PMHNP, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, Psychiatrist
Mindpath College Health - Los Angeles
Psychiatrist, PMHNP, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Mindpath College Health provides outpatient mental health care for college and university students, staff, and the surrounding community. We provide a broad spectrum of individual and group therapy, relationship counseling, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management and psychiatry. Mindpath College Health helps patients 18+ with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, gender and sexual identity, grief, life changes, OCD, relationships, and trauma and PTSD.
Mindpath College Health provides outpatient mental health care for college and university students, staff, and the surrounding community. We provide a broad spectrum of individual and group therapy, relationship counseling, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management and psychiatry. Mindpath College Health helps patients 18+ with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, gender and sexual identity, grief, life changes, OCD, relationships, and trauma and PTSD.
(424) 273-8900 View (424) 273-8900
Photo of Pamela Joy Abao, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Joy Abao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Many face mental health challenges, especially when raised in environments where emotional struggles are overlooked or stigmatized. It can be hard to open up about feelings due to cultural or personal barriers. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma—particularly in demanding or stressful environments—you're not alone. I offer compassionate, culturally sensitive care tailored to your needs, creating a safe space to help you manage your well-being, break through stigma, and thrive. Let's work together to improve your mental health and help you feel empowered.
Many face mental health challenges, especially when raised in environments where emotional struggles are overlooked or stigmatized. It can be hard to open up about feelings due to cultural or personal barriers. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma—particularly in demanding or stressful environments—you're not alone. I offer compassionate, culturally sensitive care tailored to your needs, creating a safe space to help you manage your well-being, break through stigma, and thrive. Let's work together to improve your mental health and help you feel empowered.
(213) 715-6904 View (213) 715-6904
Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(310) 361-1730 View (310) 361-1730

See more therapy options for El Monte

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in El Monte, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in El Monte, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Infertility

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Carelon Health IPA of California (CHIPA)

How Psychiatrists in El Monte, CA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in El Monte?

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.