Psychiatrists in Gilroy, CA

Photo of Kerstin Helgason, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kerstin Helgason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gilroy, CA 95020
I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and help people with mental health medication, psychotherapy, and Ketamine. As a nurse practitioner and therapist I have a broad perspective that ranges from the biological and body to the psychological and spiritual. Our bodies and minds naturally want to heal, but we may need some help in doing so. I'd love to help you along in your healing.
I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and help people with mental health medication, psychotherapy, and Ketamine. As a nurse practitioner and therapist I have a broad perspective that ranges from the biological and body to the psychological and spiritual. Our bodies and minds naturally want to heal, but we may need some help in doing so. I'd love to help you along in your healing.
(408) 837-4677 View (408) 837-4677
Photo of Torri Taylor-Spencer, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Torri Taylor-Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate prescriber that enjoys helping patients achieve their goals of emotional health and stability. I specialize in treating underserved members of the BIPOC and marginalized communities, young/teen parents, & those who have experienced trauma and other adverse childhood experiences (ACES). I have a welcoming interpersonal style with flexible availability to support your lifestyle.
I am passionate prescriber that enjoys helping patients achieve their goals of emotional health and stability. I specialize in treating underserved members of the BIPOC and marginalized communities, young/teen parents, & those who have experienced trauma and other adverse childhood experiences (ACES). I have a welcoming interpersonal style with flexible availability to support your lifestyle.
(408) 337-9122 View (408) 337-9122
Photo of Arnold Fosah, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arnold Fosah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilroy, CA 95020
If you're feeling sad or anxious or struggling with relationship conflicts or habits that negatively impact your life, I'm here to help. With my therapeutic approach, you can expect to feel completely heard, understood, and empowered towards positive change. Together, we'll work on developing practical tools and gaining new perspectives to help you grow and improve your overall sense of well-being and purpose. In my practice, I use a holistic approach to better understand you and address your unique needs. I'm also trained to diagnose psychiatric disorders and utilize medication therapy when necessary.
If you're feeling sad or anxious or struggling with relationship conflicts or habits that negatively impact your life, I'm here to help. With my therapeutic approach, you can expect to feel completely heard, understood, and empowered towards positive change. Together, we'll work on developing practical tools and gaining new perspectives to help you grow and improve your overall sense of well-being and purpose. In my practice, I use a holistic approach to better understand you and address your unique needs. I'm also trained to diagnose psychiatric disorders and utilize medication therapy when necessary.
(408) 617-9317 View (408) 617-9317
Photo of Akash Jaggi, MD, Psychiatrist
Akash Jaggi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have experience treating a variety of mental health issues including: depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I have experience treating a variety of mental health issues including: depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(650) 668-3796 View (650) 668-3796
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Ferhad Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist
Ferhad Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I specialize in treating patients with anxiety or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). I believe mental health is a vital aspect of any individual's well-being, and I work to have every patient with depression be as symptom-free as possible and enjoy life to the fullest. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be an important treatment modality, as it allows me to work with my patients and tailor individual treatment modalities specific to their symptoms, and relieve their suffering from depression or another psychological disorder. I believe that TMS can be an alternative instrument or an addition to medications.
I specialize in treating patients with anxiety or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). I believe mental health is a vital aspect of any individual's well-being, and I work to have every patient with depression be as symptom-free as possible and enjoy life to the fullest. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be an important treatment modality, as it allows me to work with my patients and tailor individual treatment modalities specific to their symptoms, and relieve their suffering from depression or another psychological disorder. I believe that TMS can be an alternative instrument or an addition to medications.
(650) 889-7759 View (650) 889-7759
Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Axeline Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognisant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognisant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
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Photo of Sheryl Goularte, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheryl Goularte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; I envision my ideal client as an individual who seeks to embrace their mental well-being and strives for positive change. These clients may be facing a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma and mood disorders, and they are seeking compassionate and non-judgmental environment to address their unique needs. Their goals are centered around achieving mental stability, building resilience, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered as they navigate their personal journey towards mental wellness.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; I envision my ideal client as an individual who seeks to embrace their mental well-being and strives for positive change. These clients may be facing a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma and mood disorders, and they are seeking compassionate and non-judgmental environment to address their unique needs. Their goals are centered around achieving mental stability, building resilience, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered as they navigate their personal journey towards mental wellness.
(408) 413-3355 View (408) 413-3355
Photo of Renata Costa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renata Costa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I believe that every human being has the ability to create a sense of wellbeing and peace in their life. I am here to walk alongside you and find the path that can help you reach your goals. I use a holistic and compassionate approach in my practice. I believe loyalty and integrity must be the basis for every encounter. Comprehensive psychiatric care involves not only medication management, but also cognitive/behavioral strategies, client-based interventions, family collaboration, mindfulness and a variety of tools to help you succeed.
I believe that every human being has the ability to create a sense of wellbeing and peace in their life. I am here to walk alongside you and find the path that can help you reach your goals. I use a holistic and compassionate approach in my practice. I believe loyalty and integrity must be the basis for every encounter. Comprehensive psychiatric care involves not only medication management, but also cognitive/behavioral strategies, client-based interventions, family collaboration, mindfulness and a variety of tools to help you succeed.
(669) 322-5979 View (669) 322-5979

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Eric Nghe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric Nghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95122
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
(628) 261-6562 View (628) 261-6562
Photo of Ugochi Nnadozie, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ugochi Nnadozie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
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 Melinda Cuthbert, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melinda Cuthbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
(415) 891-1908 View (415) 891-1908
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
(209) 646-6731 View (209) 646-6731
Photo of Khalil Sandoval, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khalil Sandoval
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone seeking a safe, compassionate space to address their mental health challenges, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional or psychological concerns. They may feel overwhelmed or disconnected and are looking for understanding, guidance, and a pathway to healing. Their goals include finding balance in life, improving their well-being, and embracing personal growth. They want to feel heard, respected, and empowered to take steps toward a healthier mind and body.
My ideal client is someone seeking a safe, compassionate space to address their mental health challenges, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional or psychological concerns. They may feel overwhelmed or disconnected and are looking for understanding, guidance, and a pathway to healing. Their goals include finding balance in life, improving their well-being, and embracing personal growth. They want to feel heard, respected, and empowered to take steps toward a healthier mind and body.
(323) 237-8077 View (323) 237-8077
Photo of Piran Mehta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Piran Mehta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113
Hey there, I'm Piran. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Have you lost motivation in things you used to enjoy? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety, depression and mood. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
Hey there, I'm Piran. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Have you lost motivation in things you used to enjoy? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety, depression and mood. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
(408) 715-1736 View (408) 715-1736
Photo of Julio Monterrey, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Julio Monterrey
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
My mission is to provide the highest quality patient-centered care. I do this by specializing in diagnostic clarification of complex cases by using the latest in diagnostic tools, by providing clear and consistent communication with all patients so we holistically understand your goals and preferences, as well as collaborating with the rest of your care team (e.g., PCP, therapist, and school personnel for children and teens).
My mission is to provide the highest quality patient-centered care. I do this by specializing in diagnostic clarification of complex cases by using the latest in diagnostic tools, by providing clear and consistent communication with all patients so we holistically understand your goals and preferences, as well as collaborating with the rest of your care team (e.g., PCP, therapist, and school personnel for children and teens).
(669) 205-9708 View (669) 205-9708
Photo of Jaspreet Takhar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaspreet Takhar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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!
(650) 582-2148 View (650) 582-2148
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, 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.
(415) 612-5175 View (415) 612-5175
Photo of Chien Shien Yang - Redwood Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Redwood Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a board-certified physician specializing in general psychiatry, I am skilled in medication management. I have worked in the community and university settings in Nebraska and as an outpatient psychiatrist at Oakland Kaiser. Now working in private practice allows me to offer individualized care for my clients. I offer comprehensive and collaborative care. My approach is to provide expert medical advice while we work towards my client’s goals. Medication may not be best for everyone. If you do not want to consider medication at this time, you may consider reaching out to a therapist for weekly sessions first.
As a board-certified physician specializing in general psychiatry, I am skilled in medication management. I have worked in the community and university settings in Nebraska and as an outpatient psychiatrist at Oakland Kaiser. Now working in private practice allows me to offer individualized care for my clients. I offer comprehensive and collaborative care. My approach is to provide expert medical advice while we work towards my client’s goals. Medication may not be best for everyone. If you do not want to consider medication at this time, you may consider reaching out to a therapist for weekly sessions first.
(415) 655-0952 View (415) 655-0952
Photo of Canybec Sulayman, PMHNP, MSN, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Canybec Sulayman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CCRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD and seeks a comprehensive, personalized approach to care. They want to improve their mental and metabolic health, regain balance, and achieve long-term wellness. They seek compassionate, evidence-based treatment that addresses the root causes of their challenges.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD and seeks a comprehensive, personalized approach to care. They want to improve their mental and metabolic health, regain balance, and achieve long-term wellness. They seek compassionate, evidence-based treatment that addresses the root causes of their challenges.
(213) 371-2300 View (213) 371-2300

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Gilroy, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Gilroy, CA who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Medication Management
78% Anxiety
78% Trauma and PTSD
78% Bipolar Disorder
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
56% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
83% Aetna
67% TRICARE

How Psychiatrists in Gilroy, CA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Gilroy?

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.