Psychiatrists in Folsom, CA

Photo of Dr. Jeremy Ernst - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Folsom, CA 95630
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(916) 775-8241 View (916) 775-8241
Photo of Clyde Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, PMHNP
Clyde Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner blending Eastern and Western approaches to support mind-body-spirit healing. With 15+ years in behavioral health, I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic coaching. My clients are open-minded, curious, and ready for lasting change. We explore how lifestyle, nutrition, past experiences, and spirituality impact mental health. I provide compassionate, personalized care grounded in collaboration, safety, and respect.
I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner blending Eastern and Western approaches to support mind-body-spirit healing. With 15+ years in behavioral health, I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic coaching. My clients are open-minded, curious, and ready for lasting change. We explore how lifestyle, nutrition, past experiences, and spirituality impact mental health. I provide compassionate, personalized care grounded in collaboration, safety, and respect.
(916) 533-9960 View (916) 533-9960
Photo of Ksenia Voronina, Psychiatrist, MD
Ksenia Voronina
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who enjoys forming a more holistic impression of my patients informed by their culture and developmental journey. I am passionate in helping patients get back on track. I understand and validate each person's experience, enjoying hearing the stories and thinking through their treatment needs.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who enjoys forming a more holistic impression of my patients informed by their culture and developmental journey. I am passionate in helping patients get back on track. I understand and validate each person's experience, enjoying hearing the stories and thinking through their treatment needs.
(916) 596-9697 View (916) 596-9697
Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Bettina Ervin Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
(916) 345-2501 View (916) 345-2501
Photo of Denali Tice, Psychiatrist, MD
Denali Tice
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Not accepting new clients
My expertise is in psychoanalytic and psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that aims to address emotional and psychologic distress through the exploration of unconscious forces that are outside of our awareness and influence how we perceive ourselves and others, and how we relate to the world at large. This kind of psychological work is fostered by the development of a collaborative relationship between the patient and the therapist, which is why I meet with my patients at least once a week and often more frequently, including for full analysis.
My expertise is in psychoanalytic and psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that aims to address emotional and psychologic distress through the exploration of unconscious forces that are outside of our awareness and influence how we perceive ourselves and others, and how we relate to the world at large. This kind of psychological work is fostered by the development of a collaborative relationship between the patient and the therapist, which is why I meet with my patients at least once a week and often more frequently, including for full analysis.
(916) 545-1368 View (916) 545-1368
Photo of Ani Behrouzi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ani Behrouzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Have you been feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, insomnia, or PTSD? You’re not alone, and support is here for you. I specialize in helping children and adults regain control of their mental health through compassionate and evidence-based medication management. My approach is centered on truly understanding your struggles. At each visit, I conduct a thorough assessment to identify the root cause of your symptoms, ensuring that we develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. In our initial sessions, we will focus on alleviating your most pressing concerns so you can begin to feel relief.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, insomnia, or PTSD? You’re not alone, and support is here for you. I specialize in helping children and adults regain control of their mental health through compassionate and evidence-based medication management. My approach is centered on truly understanding your struggles. At each visit, I conduct a thorough assessment to identify the root cause of your symptoms, ensuring that we develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. In our initial sessions, we will focus on alleviating your most pressing concerns so you can begin to feel relief.
(279) 465-0442 View (279) 465-0442
Photo of Jeremy Ernst, Psychiatrist, DO
Jeremy Ernst
Psychiatrist, DO
Folsom, CA 95630
Dr. Jeremy Ernst is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Ernst helps clients by taking a holistic and collaborative approach to care. Together they are able to find root causes for mental health concerns and find safe and effective solutions. Outside of work, Dr. Ernst enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with his family.
Dr. Jeremy Ernst is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Ernst helps clients by taking a holistic and collaborative approach to care. Together they are able to find root causes for mental health concerns and find safe and effective solutions. Outside of work, Dr. Ernst enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with his family.
(916) 665-0448 View (916) 665-0448
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.
(916) 702-8647 View (916) 702-8647
Photo of Maisha Correia, Psychiatrist, MD
Maisha Correia
Psychiatrist, MD
Folsom, CA 95630
Dr. Maisha Correia is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She earned her BA in Psychology with a Chemistry correlate from Vassar College, then moved to San Francisco to earn her MD from University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. Dr. Correia provides a thoughtful, complete diagnostic evaluation in addition to well considered medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She has a particular interest in treating chronic trauma symptoms as well as a broad base of experience doing so.
Dr. Maisha Correia is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She earned her BA in Psychology with a Chemistry correlate from Vassar College, then moved to San Francisco to earn her MD from University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. Dr. Correia provides a thoughtful, complete diagnostic evaluation in addition to well considered medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She has a particular interest in treating chronic trauma symptoms as well as a broad base of experience doing so.
(916) 776-5114 View (916) 776-5114
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!
(916) 252-4268 View (916) 252-4268
Photo of Penelope Libeu, Psychiatrist, MD
Penelope Libeu
Psychiatrist, MD
Folsom, CA 95630
Dr. Penelope Libeu is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and has been in practice since 2018. She received her BA from UC Berkeley, earned her medical degree from Rush Medical College, and graduated from Northwestern Memorial Hospital's psychiatry residency program. Dr. Libeu's approach to improving mental health is multidisciplinary and may include combining medication(s) with psychotherapy, group therapy, relationship (couple's) therapy, and making lifestyle changes to improve your overall well-being, e. g.
Dr. Penelope Libeu is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and has been in practice since 2018. She received her BA from UC Berkeley, earned her medical degree from Rush Medical College, and graduated from Northwestern Memorial Hospital's psychiatry residency program. Dr. Libeu's approach to improving mental health is multidisciplinary and may include combining medication(s) with psychotherapy, group therapy, relationship (couple's) therapy, and making lifestyle changes to improve your overall well-being, e. g.
(916) 818-2211 View (916) 818-2211
Photo of Julie Marie Bergman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Julie Marie Bergman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Folsom, CA 95630
Hi! I am the owner and founder of Grace Mental Health Resources. I am excited to share my years of mental health knowledge with you in order to improve your quality of life. I specialize in mitigating anxiety and depression and my goal is to help you transcend your well-being. I would love to help you move towards creating the life you have dreamed of living. I began my career in the US Army. I became a Registered Nurse in 2000. I became a Nurse Practitioner in 2016. I am now certified as a Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner and as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My hobbies include running, hiking, biking, swimming,
Hi! I am the owner and founder of Grace Mental Health Resources. I am excited to share my years of mental health knowledge with you in order to improve your quality of life. I specialize in mitigating anxiety and depression and my goal is to help you transcend your well-being. I would love to help you move towards creating the life you have dreamed of living. I began my career in the US Army. I became a Registered Nurse in 2000. I became a Nurse Practitioner in 2016. I am now certified as a Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner and as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My hobbies include running, hiking, biking, swimming,
(916) 970-7323 View (916) 970-7323
Photo of Li Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Li Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a healthcare provider, my goal is to work with you to meet your healthcare needs, including your emotional and psychosocial needs.
As a healthcare provider, my goal is to work with you to meet your healthcare needs, including your emotional and psychosocial needs.
(279) 202-9921 View (279) 202-9921
Photo of Amanda Horrocks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Amanda Horrocks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Folsom, CA 95630
Amanda provides compassionate and personalized care to her patients. She believes in working closely with individuals and their families to support their unique journeys to wellness. Her approachable nature and dedication to being thorough and comprehensive allow her to connect deeply with those she serves. Although Amanda didn’t initially plan to work in mental health, her fascination with the brain and its complexities led her to this rewarding field. During a psychiatry rotation in nursing school, she discovered a profound passion for mental health care.
Amanda provides compassionate and personalized care to her patients. She believes in working closely with individuals and their families to support their unique journeys to wellness. Her approachable nature and dedication to being thorough and comprehensive allow her to connect deeply with those she serves. Although Amanda didn’t initially plan to work in mental health, her fascination with the brain and its complexities led her to this rewarding field. During a psychiatry rotation in nursing school, she discovered a profound passion for mental health care.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Pegah Pajouhi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Pegah Pajouhi
Psychiatrist, MD
Folsom, CA 95630
Dr. Pegah Pajouhi is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Pajouhi provides medication management and has a compassionate, evidence-based approach, accounting for the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that impact each patient’s mental health.
Dr. Pegah Pajouhi is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Pajouhi provides medication management and has a compassionate, evidence-based approach, accounting for the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that impact each patient’s mental health.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Dr. Abhishek Rai - Psychiatrist (Integrative/Holistic), Psychiatrist, MD
Psychiatrist (Integrative/Holistic)
Psychiatrist, MD
Folsom, CA 95630
Dr. Abhishek Rai is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals grappling with psychiatric conditions such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. What sets Dr. Rai apart is his distinctive approach, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern medicine philosophies in a highly personalized manner for each patient. Driven by the conviction that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and spirit, he initiates treatment with medication but views complete healing as an intricate journey. He is licensed in state of CA,MI,PA and WV.
Dr. Abhishek Rai is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals grappling with psychiatric conditions such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. What sets Dr. Rai apart is his distinctive approach, seamlessly blending Western and Eastern medicine philosophies in a highly personalized manner for each patient. Driven by the conviction that true healing encompasses the body, mind, and spirit, he initiates treatment with medication but views complete healing as an intricate journey. He is licensed in state of CA,MI,PA and WV.
(916) 892-0416 View (916) 892-0416
Photo of Melissa Fisher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Melissa Fisher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Folsom, CA 95630
Melissa Fisher is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is committed to providing compassionate and empathetic care. She has been practicing medicine since 2003. Melissa is dual-certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. After working several years in hematology/oncology, she transitioned into psychiatry and completed a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been working in psychiatry for 10+ years and has experience treating adults of all ages in inpatient/skilled nursing and outpatient settings.
Melissa Fisher is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is committed to providing compassionate and empathetic care. She has been practicing medicine since 2003. Melissa is dual-certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. After working several years in hematology/oncology, she transitioned into psychiatry and completed a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been working in psychiatry for 10+ years and has experience treating adults of all ages in inpatient/skilled nursing and outpatient settings.
(916) 571-1399 View (916) 571-1399
Photo of Shannon Suo, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Shannon Suo
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I completed my undergraduate studies at UC Davis with a BS in Zoology, focused on behavior. I attended University of Cincinnati School of Medicine for my medical degree and came back to Sacramento for a combined residency in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I chose the combined practice of Family Medicine and Psychiatry because I saw the impact that psychological concerns had on the health of individuals and how often primary care physicians were not prepared to understand or treat these problems. I maintain Board Certification in both Family Medicine and Adult Psychiatry.
I completed my undergraduate studies at UC Davis with a BS in Zoology, focused on behavior. I attended University of Cincinnati School of Medicine for my medical degree and came back to Sacramento for a combined residency in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. I chose the combined practice of Family Medicine and Psychiatry because I saw the impact that psychological concerns had on the health of individuals and how often primary care physicians were not prepared to understand or treat these problems. I maintain Board Certification in both Family Medicine and Adult Psychiatry.
(916) 237-1795 View (916) 237-1795
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist, MD
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Folsom, CA 95630
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(530) 270-3395 View (530) 270-3395
Julie Phenco
Psychiatrist, MD
Folsom, CA 95630
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I value confidentiality, and listening to my patients is a significant part of the work I do. How I practice is largely influenced by my appreciation for the unique biological, psychological, socio-cultural and spiritual aspects of an individual person. I see adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, academic/ professional concerns and life transition difficulties among others.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy and medication management. I value confidentiality, and listening to my patients is a significant part of the work I do. How I practice is largely influenced by my appreciation for the unique biological, psychological, socio-cultural and spiritual aspects of an individual person. I see adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, academic/ professional concerns and life transition difficulties among others.
(916) 580-3240 View (916) 580-3240

See more therapy options for Folsom

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Folsom, CA

40+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Folsom, CA who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% ADHD
78% Bipolar Disorder
76% Medication Management
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
97% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Folsom, CA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Folsom?

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.