Psychiatrists in Gardena, CA

Photo of Ugochi Nnadozie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ugochi Nnadozie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Gardena, CA 90247
Hello! I'm Ugochi Nnadozie, and I have over 17 years of experience in healthcare, providing compassionate and professional care. I am skilled in both Psychiatry and Family Health with licenses as a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. My career has been built on offering high-quality care in various settings, from home health visits to working in hospitals and correctional institutions. I am passionate about making sure each patient feels safe and understood, offering a blend of empathy and expertise. My goal is always to create a care plan that meets individual health needs
Hello! I'm Ugochi Nnadozie, and I have over 17 years of experience in healthcare, providing compassionate and professional care. I am skilled in both Psychiatry and Family Health with licenses as a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. My career has been built on offering high-quality care in various settings, from home health visits to working in hospitals and correctional institutions. I am passionate about making sure each patient feels safe and understood, offering a blend of empathy and expertise. My goal is always to create a care plan that meets individual health needs
(562) 837-0448 View (562) 837-0448
Photo of Ana Jimenez | Bonmente, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Ana Jimenez | Bonmente
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Gardena, CA 90248
Now welcoming 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. Welcome!
Now welcoming 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. Welcome!
(310) 919-1545 View (310) 919-1545
Photo of Riz Ahmad, Psychiatrist, MD
Riz Ahmad
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.
(310) 861-2581 View (310) 861-2581
Photo of Erica Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
(562) 545-3065 View (562) 545-3065
Photo of Sarah Blue, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarah Blue
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) 587-8067 View (916) 587-8067
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Now welcoming 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.
Now welcoming 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) 340-0241 View (310) 340-0241
Photo of Carmela Zaragoza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carmela Zaragoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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. Now welcoming 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(424) 346-9916 View (424) 346-9916
Photo of Khadeer Khan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Khadeer Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Online Only
As your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I want to remind you of something incredibly important: your journey towards mental wellness is a courageous one. Every step you take, no matter how small it may seem, is a triumph worth celebrating. In the midst of life's challenges, it's easy to lose sight of your own strength and resilience. But I'm here to remind you that you possess an inner power that can overcome any obstacle. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of your mind with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support. Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Take the time to nurture your mind,
As your Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I want to remind you of something incredibly important: your journey towards mental wellness is a courageous one. Every step you take, no matter how small it may seem, is a triumph worth celebrating. In the midst of life's challenges, it's easy to lose sight of your own strength and resilience. But I'm here to remind you that you possess an inner power that can overcome any obstacle. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of your mind with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support. Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Take the time to nurture your mind,
(323) 688-4748 View (323) 688-4748
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD
Mottsin Thomas
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.
(310) 361-3579 View (310) 361-3579
Photo of Ehab S Yacoub - Ehab Yacoub MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Ehab Yacoub MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Ehab Yacoub, M.D. is a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorder, Psychosis, Autism, Intellectual disability, and Certified Addiction Specialist (Certified by AAAP for Opiod Dependence Treatment). He also conducts evaluations for weight loss surgeries. Dr. Yacoub had his fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at USC. Dr.Yacoub has practiced in regional centers as well as private practices in Los Angeles, Northridge and Gardena offices.
Ehab Yacoub, M.D. is a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorder, Psychosis, Autism, Intellectual disability, and Certified Addiction Specialist (Certified by AAAP for Opiod Dependence Treatment). He also conducts evaluations for weight loss surgeries. Dr. Yacoub had his fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at USC. Dr.Yacoub has practiced in regional centers as well as private practices in Los Angeles, Northridge and Gardena offices.
(424) 688-6294 View (424) 688-6294
Photo of Ugochi Nnadozie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Ugochi Nnadozie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Online Only
I have a passion for caring for people. My practice philosophies include but are not limited to: Patient-centered care Evidenced-based practice Holistic care Respectful and compassionate care tailored to individual needs I offer comprehensive assessment and use evidence-based diagnostic criteria and treatment plans for all cases. My practice culture is to develop personalized, for each patient. Engage my clients through empathy, building trust, and monitoring for co-occurring disorders. We all experience anxiety or depression in some form or another, but it needs to be addressed when it starts to get in the way of our happiness
I have a passion for caring for people. My practice philosophies include but are not limited to: Patient-centered care Evidenced-based practice Holistic care Respectful and compassionate care tailored to individual needs I offer comprehensive assessment and use evidence-based diagnostic criteria and treatment plans for all cases. My practice culture is to develop personalized, for each patient. Engage my clients through empathy, building trust, and monitoring for co-occurring disorders. We all experience anxiety or depression in some form or another, but it needs to be addressed when it starts to get in the way of our happiness
(562) 632-5086 View (562) 632-5086
Photo of Oyebola Oyelade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
(323) 612-0227 View (323) 612-0227
Photo of Charlene N Azonwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Charlene N Azonwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Gardena, CA 90248
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and succeed in working hard under intense pressure. My ultimate goal is to help patients return to their normal state of mind.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and succeed in working hard under intense pressure. My ultimate goal is to help patients return to their normal state of mind.
(323) 405-9515 View (323) 405-9515
Photo of Mattison Pearlman, Physician Assistant, PAC, CAQ Psy
Mattison Pearlman
Physician Assistant, PAC, CAQ Psy
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) 742-8446 View (310) 742-8446
Photo of Jaspreet Takhar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jaspreet Takhar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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. Now welcoming 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(310) 361-2205 View (310) 361-2205
Photo of Kosi Obialor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kosi Obialor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I provide medication management and prescribe all psychiatric medications for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. I accept most government Insurance. I have always been drawn to people and their unique stories from a very young age. I love to listen to people and help them better understand their situation. I have always been fascinated by why people do what they do and act how they act. I am passionate about understanding also the complexity of the human mind, behavior, and human experience. I enjoy learning and exploring different options that are available for treating psychological issues
I provide medication management and prescribe all psychiatric medications for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. I accept most government Insurance. I have always been drawn to people and their unique stories from a very young age. I love to listen to people and help them better understand their situation. I have always been fascinated by why people do what they do and act how they act. I am passionate about understanding also the complexity of the human mind, behavior, and human experience. I enjoy learning and exploring different options that are available for treating psychological issues
Photo of Vides Apresto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vides Apresto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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. Now welcoming 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. Now welcoming new patients!
(424) 370-1429 View (424) 370-1429
Photo of Roselyne Nwufor - Pioneer Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Pioneer Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Pioneer home, the place for hope. We are accepting new clients via telepsych for psychiatry evaluation and medication management. We specialize in teens and adult psychiatry services, and we utilize evidenced-based interventions to treat various mental health disorders such as anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, Bipolar, etc. We are committed to providing holistic, compassionate care and quality mental health care based on an individual basis. And we encourage our clients to participate in their mental health care plan to ensure their optimal mental health and wellness. Don't wait, make your appointment today. Call Us
Welcome to Pioneer home, the place for hope. We are accepting new clients via telepsych for psychiatry evaluation and medication management. We specialize in teens and adult psychiatry services, and we utilize evidenced-based interventions to treat various mental health disorders such as anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, Bipolar, etc. We are committed to providing holistic, compassionate care and quality mental health care based on an individual basis. And we encourage our clients to participate in their mental health care plan to ensure their optimal mental health and wellness. Don't wait, make your appointment today. Call Us
(323) 831-8506 View (323) 831-8506
Photo of Shaniqa Daniel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Shaniqa Daniel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
I am Shaniqa Daniel, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for providing high-quality mental health care. I hold a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science and am board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). With a professional background in critical care, skilled nursing, subacute care, and behavioral health, I bring over 15 years of experience in the nursing field. At Mindful Methods Wellness Clinic, my approach is rooted in empathy, professionalism, and evidence-based practices aimed at delivering the highest standard of care.
I am Shaniqa Daniel, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for providing high-quality mental health care. I hold a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science and am board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). With a professional background in critical care, skilled nursing, subacute care, and behavioral health, I bring over 15 years of experience in the nursing field. At Mindful Methods Wellness Clinic, my approach is rooted in empathy, professionalism, and evidence-based practices aimed at delivering the highest standard of care.
(424) 625-0617 View (424) 625-0617
Photo of Brittney Bryant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittney Bryant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, or mood disorders. They seek clarity, stability, and strategies to regain control of their life. Their goal is to manage their symptoms effectively, improve their well-being, and feel more balanced and fulfilled. They want compassionate support and evidence-based solutions to help them move forward.
My ideal client is someone struggling with ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, or mood disorders. They seek clarity, stability, and strategies to regain control of their life. Their goal is to manage their symptoms effectively, improve their well-being, and feel more balanced and fulfilled. They want compassionate support and evidence-based solutions to help them move forward.
(562) 564-6409 View (562) 564-6409
1

See more therapy options for Gardena

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Gardena, CA

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Gardena, CA who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
61% Sleep or Insomnia
59% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Gardena, CA see their clients

82% Online Only
18% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Gardena?

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.