Psychiatrists in El Segundo, CA

Photo of Dr. Sabrina Ali Leger, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sabrina Ali Leger
Psychiatrist, MD
El Segundo, CA 90245
Dr. Sabrina Ali Leger specializes in children, adolescents, transitional-age youth, and adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mood disorders, parent-child conflict, and trauma.
Dr. Sabrina Ali Leger specializes in children, adolescents, transitional-age youth, and adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mood disorders, parent-child conflict, and trauma.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Gil Hoftman, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Dr. Gil Hoftman
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
2 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245
Healing is not linear. We need each other. I care about connection, compassion, and deep understanding with cutting edge treatment. I hope you can feel safe and sound coming to the clinic while we discover how to help you heal. All are welcome and accepted here. This is a safe space for lgbtqia+ and neurodivergent individuals, and people from different racial, ethnic, immigration, religious, and political backgrounds.
Healing is not linear. We need each other. I care about connection, compassion, and deep understanding with cutting edge treatment. I hope you can feel safe and sound coming to the clinic while we discover how to help you heal. All are welcome and accepted here. This is a safe space for lgbtqia+ and neurodivergent individuals, and people from different racial, ethnic, immigration, religious, and political backgrounds.
(424) 655-2615 View (424) 655-2615
Photo of Ayaka Robbins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Ayaka Robbins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245
Ayaka has more than 12 years of experience in the mental health field. As a marriage and family therapist and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Ayaka helps with anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use.
Ayaka has more than 12 years of experience in the mental health field. As a marriage and family therapist and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Ayaka helps with anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Ayoosh Kakkar, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ayoosh Kakkar
Psychiatrist, MD
El Segundo, CA 90245
Dr. Kakkar is an adult psychiatrist who completed his medical degree at the American University of Antigua and his residency at Augusta University. Dr. Kakkar was born in New Delhi and has lived in various cities throughout the world, which has given him various experiences of different cultures and backgrounds. He most recently moved from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and came back to California where he lived when he went to middle school. He enjoys working with people of all ages and has special interests in Adult ADHD, conduct/impulse control as well as affective disorders.
Dr. Kakkar is an adult psychiatrist who completed his medical degree at the American University of Antigua and his residency at Augusta University. Dr. Kakkar was born in New Delhi and has lived in various cities throughout the world, which has given him various experiences of different cultures and backgrounds. He most recently moved from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and came back to California where he lived when he went to middle school. He enjoys working with people of all ages and has special interests in Adult ADHD, conduct/impulse control as well as affective disorders.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Megan Puyau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Megan Puyau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245
Megan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 11 years of experience treating adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, focusing on women’s mental health.
Megan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 11 years of experience treating adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, focusing on women’s mental health.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente , Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know 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 - We know 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) 742-8081 View (310) 742-8081
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
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!
(424) 396-0386 View (424) 396-0386
Photo of Sandra Hah, Psychiatrist, MD
Sandra Hah
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!
(424) 396-0683 View (424) 396-0683
Photo of Naiga Dohnji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Naiga Dohnji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
(805) 567-6636 View (805) 567-6636
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente , Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(424) 371-7664 View (424) 371-7664
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!
(424) 408-1051 View (424) 408-1051
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!
(424) 377-0933 View (424) 377-0933
Photo of Dustin Stephens, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Dustin Stephens
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
(310) 872-2483 View (310) 872-2483
Photo of Jacqueline Constantino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacqueline Constantino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
(805) 516-5275 View (805) 516-5275
Photo of Dominique Sanders, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(949) 993-0199 View (949) 993-0199
Photo of Jordan Blaine Udeshi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jordan Blaine Udeshi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(747) 252-5393 View (747) 252-5393
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(310) 361-9795 View (310) 361-9795
Photo of Kartik Ananth - Pacific Pain & Wellness Group, Psychiatrist, MD
Pacific Pain & Wellness Group
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Pacific Pain & Wellness Group helps individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, or chronic pain who feel stuck or unheard in traditional care. Our holistic approach addresses the physical and emotional components of chronic pain, which can often co-occur with mental health disorders. Our pain & chronic pain management treatments range from new and proven treatments such as Ketamine infusions, Epidural injections, Diagnostic & therapeutic nerve blocks, Radiofrequency ablation, Spinal cord stimulation, Facet joint injections, Botox for migraines, TMS and pre-surgical pain consultation.
Pacific Pain & Wellness Group helps individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, or chronic pain who feel stuck or unheard in traditional care. Our holistic approach addresses the physical and emotional components of chronic pain, which can often co-occur with mental health disorders. Our pain & chronic pain management treatments range from new and proven treatments such as Ketamine infusions, Epidural injections, Diagnostic & therapeutic nerve blocks, Radiofrequency ablation, Spinal cord stimulation, Facet joint injections, Botox for migraines, TMS and pre-surgical pain consultation.
(424) 405-4301 View (424) 405-4301
Photo of Kartik Ananth - Pacific TMS Group, Psychiatrist, MD
Pacific TMS Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Pacific TMS Group approaches mental health using effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA approved, non-invasive alternative treatment, using up-to-date technology for those experiencing symptoms pertaining to depression. Our clinic also offers both traditional and new approaches to mood disorders guided by the principle of quality-of-life improvement and patient satisfaction, including med-management, psychotherapy, and ketamine infusions. Please proceed to this link for a complimentary TMS informational session: https://tinyurl.com/3yhec2nx
Pacific TMS Group approaches mental health using effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA approved, non-invasive alternative treatment, using up-to-date technology for those experiencing symptoms pertaining to depression. Our clinic also offers both traditional and new approaches to mood disorders guided by the principle of quality-of-life improvement and patient satisfaction, including med-management, psychotherapy, and ketamine infusions. Please proceed to this link for a complimentary TMS informational session: https://tinyurl.com/3yhec2nx
(310) 340-1791 View (310) 340-1791
Photo of Ana Jimenez | Bonmente, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Ana Jimenez | Bonmente
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(310) 349-3940 View (310) 349-3940

See more therapy options for El Segundo

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in El Segundo, CA

20+

Average cost per session

$125

Psychiatrists in El Segundo, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
95% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
95% Bipolar Disorder
91% ADHD
91% Trauma and PTSD
91% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Anthem
93% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in El Segundo, CA see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in El Segundo?

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.