Psychiatrists in Imperial Beach, CA
![Photo of Jordan Blaine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41569cfd-1783-47b1-abcc-beb1c6269114/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Imperial Beach, CA 91932 (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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kathleen Hunter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e457a35e-ea91-4f32-a076-28fc3b759811/1/320x400.png)
Welcome to Rula! My name is Kathy Hunter and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience in subacute detox, inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, a university counseling center, and inpatient pediatric psychiatry liaison. I am passionate about removing mental health stigma and focusing on health disparities in marginalized populations. I seek to have a strong working relationship with my patients, with a primary focus on autonomy, respect, relationships, and a deep understanding of how one's environment will have an impact on goals and progress.
Welcome to Rula! My name is Kathy Hunter and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience in subacute detox, inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, a university counseling center, and inpatient pediatric psychiatry liaison. I am passionate about removing mental health stigma and focusing on health disparities in marginalized populations. I seek to have a strong working relationship with my patients, with a primary focus on autonomy, respect, relationships, and a deep understanding of how one's environment will have an impact on goals and progress.
![Photo of Kailee Marin, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1a9d223-6352-4fa7-a103-c86d302c5db6/1/320x400.png)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Navneet Kaur Mann, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/537b2c08-200d-4979-9f83-782a36e41a6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Navneet Kaur Mann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
Navneet Mann is a dual board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her family nurse practitioner from Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, CA, and her psychiatric nurse practitioner from National University in San Diego, CA. She earned her terminal degree in Nursing with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2022 from Grand Canyon University. Her ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive mental healthcare, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management, and therapy for psychiatric disorders.
Navneet Mann is a dual board certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her family nurse practitioner from Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, CA, and her psychiatric nurse practitioner from National University in San Diego, CA. She earned her terminal degree in Nursing with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2022 from Grand Canyon University. Her ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive mental healthcare, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management, and therapy for psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed66bd2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Chika Okechukwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8db96973-1cf8-436d-a34d-e8015ddb616b/1/320x400.png)
Chika Okechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102 (Online Only)
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with great experience treating clients with medical and mental health disorders. She utilizes a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical and nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with great experience treating clients with medical and mental health disorders. She utilizes a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical and nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
![Photo of Madalyn Cosensci, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c16fda1-770e-430a-bf0e-61096e466cb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madalyn Cosensci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910 (Online Only)
As a California Licensed Psychiatric Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) my role is to diagnose and treat a diverse array of psychiatric ailments. With over seven years of experience in acute inpatient psychiatric hospitals, my approach to treatment is founded upon the principles of a collaborative team dynamic. My priority lies in alleviating suffering, enhancing resilience, and fostering long-term mental well-being for each patient under my care.
As a California Licensed Psychiatric Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) my role is to diagnose and treat a diverse array of psychiatric ailments. With over seven years of experience in acute inpatient psychiatric hospitals, my approach to treatment is founded upon the principles of a collaborative team dynamic. My priority lies in alleviating suffering, enhancing resilience, and fostering long-term mental well-being for each patient under my care.
![Photo of Princess McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb43e543-bad1-4278-8be8-abee9c21da16/1/320x400.png)
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
![Photo of Ripal Patel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e98b0a4-b8e2-4e78-8d1c-a72a39abbb9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ripal Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
Hello! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner provider, I am committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based, and individualized care to each of my patients. I believe that mental health care should be tailored to each person's specific needs and experiences.
Hello! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner provider, I am committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based, and individualized care to each of my patients. I believe that mental health care should be tailored to each person's specific needs and experiences.
![Photo of Olga Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a600a754-d142-4616-a952-bde82cb7d7c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am fluent in English and Russian, and I have 15 years of experience in mental health care and nursing during which my focus has been improving the lives of my patients using highly effective treatments to include medication management and psychotherapy. In addition to utilizing mental health medication, I also use Motivational interviewing, Supportive Therapy, and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy and treatment.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am fluent in English and Russian, and I have 15 years of experience in mental health care and nursing during which my focus has been improving the lives of my patients using highly effective treatments to include medication management and psychotherapy. In addition to utilizing mental health medication, I also use Motivational interviewing, Supportive Therapy, and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy and treatment.
![Photo of Caleb Bragg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35708ebb-53e7-494d-9537-0a9dfcb6c212/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Bragg is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. He completed his residency and training at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. While at Rush, he served as chief resident, and was actively involved in teaching medical students and residents. His clinical experience encompasses treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders including mood disorders, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders and schizophrenia.
Dr. Bragg is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. He completed his residency and training at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. While at Rush, he served as chief resident, and was actively involved in teaching medical students and residents. His clinical experience encompasses treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders including mood disorders, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Brittnai Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fb83b93-dbea-478b-8ec3-f1fc2daf5437/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Tara Pundiak Toohey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88c50068-6965-4d34-8e25-67d85c062bab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Toohey is board certified in adult psychiatry with extensive experience in emergency psychiatry and reproductive mental health with a boutique psychiatry practice in California. She completed residency at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in New York City and has over 20 years' experience. She served as faculty at UCSD and University of Hawaii. In addition to the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis and ADHD, her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry and management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She is a consultant in hospitals and emergency rooms throughout California.
Dr. Toohey is board certified in adult psychiatry with extensive experience in emergency psychiatry and reproductive mental health with a boutique psychiatry practice in California. She completed residency at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in New York City and has over 20 years' experience. She served as faculty at UCSD and University of Hawaii. In addition to the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis and ADHD, her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry and management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She is a consultant in hospitals and emergency rooms throughout California.
![Photo of Marym Lateef, PMHNP, FNP-C, EFTMP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a02bd1fa-80d9-42ac-a937-b2c71d238572/1/320x400.png)
Marym Lateef
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, EFTMP-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
![Photo of Shou Wang, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00835e12-2da5-4b0f-a232-c05fc212e514/1/320x400.jpeg)
My interest in psychiatry comes from painting as no two paintings are identical just like all people are unique in their way. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a former US Army veteran with more than 5 years of experience in psychiatry. With extensive experience in counseling and medication management, my goal is to provide the best care possible to you or your loved ones.
My interest in psychiatry comes from painting as no two paintings are identical just like all people are unique in their way. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a former US Army veteran with more than 5 years of experience in psychiatry. With extensive experience in counseling and medication management, my goal is to provide the best care possible to you or your loved ones.
![Photo of Michael Lukowski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a26cd059-0691-4b94-8c2a-5afa531edee8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
![Photo of Justin Roberts, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe3359c7-685f-4a09-8ee6-ac02e1938737/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91911 (Online Only)
While I am positioned to offer a LGBTQ+ perspective in my practice, I support clients from all backgrounds in reaching their mental health goals through compassionate, patient-centered care. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex-positive counseling, mood disorders, and substance use disorders for adults over 18 years old. I approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, using psychotherapeutic modalities centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment.
While I am positioned to offer a LGBTQ+ perspective in my practice, I support clients from all backgrounds in reaching their mental health goals through compassionate, patient-centered care. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex-positive counseling, mood disorders, and substance use disorders for adults over 18 years old. I approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, using psychotherapeutic modalities centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment.
![Photo of Mayoma Olusunmade, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ea35f01-2703-46ce-9e8b-6dd15e8b8c18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Olusunmade is trained in child and adolescent psychiatry, as well as in adult psychiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Olusunmade has extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations and has particular clinical interests in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and trauma. His practice focuses on medication management along with supportive therapy and psycho-education of patients and families.
Dr. Olusunmade is trained in child and adolescent psychiatry, as well as in adult psychiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Olusunmade has extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations and has particular clinical interests in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and trauma. His practice focuses on medication management along with supportive therapy and psycho-education of patients and families.
![Photo of Joy Kennedy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/febbb361-88de-4b11-b743-31834511468c/1/320x400.png)
Joy Kennedy, MD is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2006. She received her Bachelor of Science from The University of Texas at Austin. She then completed her medical degree, general psychiatry residency, and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training at The University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Kennedy offers a comprehensive treatment approach to both individual and family problems. She integrates psychotherapy and medications when necessary, and strongly believes in tailoring the treatment plan to fit the unique needs of each client.
Joy Kennedy, MD is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2006. She received her Bachelor of Science from The University of Texas at Austin. She then completed her medical degree, general psychiatry residency, and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training at The University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Kennedy offers a comprehensive treatment approach to both individual and family problems. She integrates psychotherapy and medications when necessary, and strongly believes in tailoring the treatment plan to fit the unique needs of each client.
![Photo of Cheryl Person, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1562e30a-78f7-40b0-8046-6176b109124b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cheryl Person is the National Director of Clinical Quality at Talkiatry. She is board certified in general adult psychiatry and has been in practice for 20 years. Dr. Person focuses on medication management but believes that is only part of successful treatment. She will spend her time providing motivational interviewing or supportive therapy, and believes it is often critical to have a therapist as part of the treatment team. Dr. Person received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine. She completed her residency at Johns Hopkins as well as a psychiatric epidemiology fellowship.
Dr. Cheryl Person is the National Director of Clinical Quality at Talkiatry. She is board certified in general adult psychiatry and has been in practice for 20 years. Dr. Person focuses on medication management but believes that is only part of successful treatment. She will spend her time providing motivational interviewing or supportive therapy, and believes it is often critical to have a therapist as part of the treatment team. Dr. Person received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine. She completed her residency at Johns Hopkins as well as a psychiatric epidemiology fellowship.
See more therapy options for Imperial Beach
Nearby Searches for Imperial Beach
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Diego
- Solana Beach
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Imperial Beach, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Imperial Beach, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Imperial Beach, CA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Imperial Beach?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.