Psychiatrists in Kentfield, CA

Photo of Jordan Eipper, Psychiatrist, MD
Jordan Eipper
Psychiatrist, MD
Kentfield, CA 94904
I'm a UCSF-trained psychiatrist working with adults experiencing the full spectrum of mental health challenges. I fit well with people who desire to go deeper than symptom suppression and work together to uncover the root causes beneath emotional suffering. This can include but often goes beyond medication prescribing. True healing requires us to care for all the different elements that make up our lives, from the physical body to the mind and beyond. I place an emphasis on the psychological impact of traumatic experiences and the importance of lifestyle factors like sleep, movement, nutrition, spirituality, and relationships.
I'm a UCSF-trained psychiatrist working with adults experiencing the full spectrum of mental health challenges. I fit well with people who desire to go deeper than symptom suppression and work together to uncover the root causes beneath emotional suffering. This can include but often goes beyond medication prescribing. True healing requires us to care for all the different elements that make up our lives, from the physical body to the mind and beyond. I place an emphasis on the psychological impact of traumatic experiences and the importance of lifestyle factors like sleep, movement, nutrition, spirituality, and relationships.
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Photo of Catherine Theo, Psychiatrist, MD
Catherine Theo
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
We all have concerns that can leave us, well...uncomfortable. Depression, social anxiety, marriage issues, self-doubt, impaired focus...any of these can keep us from living our best lives. At the Couch Psychiatry Group, we treat the spectrum of mental health issues with special focus on anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Our goal is to empower you to recognize the dysfunctional patterns that have kept you stuck in the mire and give you the tools to fix them in the present and avoid them in the future.
We all have concerns that can leave us, well...uncomfortable. Depression, social anxiety, marriage issues, self-doubt, impaired focus...any of these can keep us from living our best lives. At the Couch Psychiatry Group, we treat the spectrum of mental health issues with special focus on anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Our goal is to empower you to recognize the dysfunctional patterns that have kept you stuck in the mire and give you the tools to fix them in the present and avoid them in the future.
(415) 938-5155 View (415) 938-5155
Photo of Marc I Schwartz, Psychiatrist, MD
Marc I Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am committed the relief of distress in the mind emotions and difficulty functioning in youth, adults and those in advanced years. A comprehensive evaluation, a treatment plan developed collaboratively attends to the biologic psychic and interpersonal issues present. After training as a pediatrician, my fascination with the development of the brain and mind lead me to retrain as a psychiatrist. I enjoy making the process of therapy feel engaging and safe and attempt to be actively useful in guiding people develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which the mind works. There is a map to how we create our emotional states.
I am committed the relief of distress in the mind emotions and difficulty functioning in youth, adults and those in advanced years. A comprehensive evaluation, a treatment plan developed collaboratively attends to the biologic psychic and interpersonal issues present. After training as a pediatrician, my fascination with the development of the brain and mind lead me to retrain as a psychiatrist. I enjoy making the process of therapy feel engaging and safe and attempt to be actively useful in guiding people develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which the mind works. There is a map to how we create our emotional states.
(628) 212-7676 View (628) 212-7676
Photo of Mark Schiller, Psychiatrist, MD
Mark Schiller
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
As the founder of Mind Therapy Clinic, a psychiatric center focused on innovative, integrated, and personalized care, I believe in utilizing innovative approaches to treating the most common to the most complicated problems with the latest, scientifically supported psychotherapeutic and medication approaches. The Mind Therapy clinicians supplement traditional approaches with rapidly developing diagnostic technologies to more objectively identify, target, and treat psychiatric problems. An integrated approach to treating the whole person involves integrating mainstream methods with alternative disciplines and fostering collaboration between clinicians with differing backgrounds and training.
As the founder of Mind Therapy Clinic, a psychiatric center focused on innovative, integrated, and personalized care, I believe in utilizing innovative approaches to treating the most common to the most complicated problems with the latest, scientifically supported psychotherapeutic and medication approaches. The Mind Therapy clinicians supplement traditional approaches with rapidly developing diagnostic technologies to more objectively identify, target, and treat psychiatric problems. An integrated approach to treating the whole person involves integrating mainstream methods with alternative disciplines and fostering collaboration between clinicians with differing backgrounds and training.
(650) 209-7943 View (650) 209-7943
Photo of Adam Nelson, Psychiatrist, MD
Adam Nelson
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I currently see patients in my private office, where I specialize in working with a broad spectrum of complex diagnoses and conditions, such as atypical mood disorders, psychoses, and personality disorders. I use an integrative treatment approach to address several possible areas of concern, including genetics, epigenetics, biochemistry, interpersonal skills, current stress, and historical life experiences.
I currently see patients in my private office, where I specialize in working with a broad spectrum of complex diagnoses and conditions, such as atypical mood disorders, psychoses, and personality disorders. I use an integrative treatment approach to address several possible areas of concern, including genetics, epigenetics, biochemistry, interpersonal skills, current stress, and historical life experiences.
(415) 578-9413 View (415) 578-9413

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Sabera Saklayen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sabera Saklayen
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Sabera Saklayen is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with experience treating a diverse patient population in Long Island and New York City. She graduated residency from Stony Brook University Hospital where she served as chief resident, and proceeded to work as an outpatient attending in Manhattan upon graduation. Dr. Saklayen primarily focuses on medication management, however will often bring in integrative therapy approaches to each session based upon your needs within 30-min follow-up visits. She prefers to work in collaboration with you to determine the best and most feasible treatment while considering your safety.
Dr. Sabera Saklayen is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with experience treating a diverse patient population in Long Island and New York City. She graduated residency from Stony Brook University Hospital where she served as chief resident, and proceeded to work as an outpatient attending in Manhattan upon graduation. Dr. Saklayen primarily focuses on medication management, however will often bring in integrative therapy approaches to each session based upon your needs within 30-min follow-up visits. She prefers to work in collaboration with you to determine the best and most feasible treatment while considering your safety.
(510) 736-4271 View (510) 736-4271
Photo of Dr. Regina Fu, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Regina Fu
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Regina Fu is a board-certified psychiatrist who began her interest in Psychiatry while studying Psychobiology at UCLA. After completing her General Psychiatry residency at University of Rochester, she emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health treatment using the biopsychosocial foundation. Her approach to patient care combines evidence-based medicine while recognizing the individual factors that can influence well-being. She has a special interest in Cultural Psychiatry and prioritizes providing personalized and effective care to a diverse patient population.
Dr. Regina Fu is a board-certified psychiatrist who began her interest in Psychiatry while studying Psychobiology at UCLA. After completing her General Psychiatry residency at University of Rochester, she emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health treatment using the biopsychosocial foundation. Her approach to patient care combines evidence-based medicine while recognizing the individual factors that can influence well-being. She has a special interest in Cultural Psychiatry and prioritizes providing personalized and effective care to a diverse patient population.
(415) 968-6330 View (415) 968-6330
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(650) 822-0721 View (650) 822-0721
Photo of Ugo Ndubaku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, FNP-BC
Ugo Ndubaku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, FNP-BC
Serves Area
Thank you for visiting my page. What is affecting your mental health or the wellness of your loved ones today? Have you considered a holistic approach and integrative healing therapies? If not, make an appointment with me because no matter how long you’ve been struggling with your mental health, there is hope. Together, let's identify all the factors of your symptoms, such as background, stress factors, genetics, lifestyle, and nutrition to create a treatment approach that works for you. You need someone to see you as a whole person and not just as a bundle of symptoms. You are not alone in your journey.
Thank you for visiting my page. What is affecting your mental health or the wellness of your loved ones today? Have you considered a holistic approach and integrative healing therapies? If not, make an appointment with me because no matter how long you’ve been struggling with your mental health, there is hope. Together, let's identify all the factors of your symptoms, such as background, stress factors, genetics, lifestyle, and nutrition to create a treatment approach that works for you. You need someone to see you as a whole person and not just as a bundle of symptoms. You are not alone in your journey.
(661) 215-8712 View (661) 215-8712
Photo of Dormico Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dormico Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
(619) 374-9674 View (619) 374-9674
Photo of Kendall Haydel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kendall Haydel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of mental health experience. I utilize a holistic approach specializing in treating ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, with a focus on serving the LGBTQIA+ community.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of mental health experience. I utilize a holistic approach specializing in treating ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, with a focus on serving the LGBTQIA+ community.
(310) 987-4953 View (310) 987-4953
Photo of Haining Yu, Psychiatrist, MD
Haining Yu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
During college, I developed an interest in psychology and neuroscience. After college, I became a middle school teacher, and found my passion in working with children and families. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health that encompasses physical health and psychological health. I work with patients and families in a collaborative manner, setting shared treatment goals, and believe that patients often hold the key to moving forward towards these goals.
During college, I developed an interest in psychology and neuroscience. After college, I became a middle school teacher, and found my passion in working with children and families. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health that encompasses physical health and psychological health. I work with patients and families in a collaborative manner, setting shared treatment goals, and believe that patients often hold the key to moving forward towards these goals.
(844) 748-2375 View (844) 748-2375
Photo of Dr. Duy Tran, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Duy Tran
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Duy Tran is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He received his Medical Doctor degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed his residency training in general psychiatry at the University of Michigan. Dr. Tran aims to provide mental health care that helps patients live more fulfilling lives. In his training, Dr. Tran gained extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations, including college students, LGBTQ+ individuals, perinatal women, veterans, and those with socioeconomic disadvantages.
Dr. Duy Tran is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He received his Medical Doctor degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed his residency training in general psychiatry at the University of Michigan. Dr. Tran aims to provide mental health care that helps patients live more fulfilling lives. In his training, Dr. Tran gained extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations, including college students, LGBTQ+ individuals, perinatal women, veterans, and those with socioeconomic disadvantages.
(415) 936-7406 View (415) 936-7406
Photo of Aaron Mikkelson Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aaron Mikkelson Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck, as if something is missing from your life? It takes real courage to reach out when things feel out of alignment with what truly matters to you. I bring two decades of healthcare experience supporting individuals like you through life's ups and downs. Many I work with feel off-track, struggling with anxiety, mood, ADHD, OCD, trauma's impact, or sleep. These experiences can leave you feeling disconnected and far from the life you envision. Together, we will explore how your current challenges are impacting your sense of purpose and well-being, and how your mind and body are responding to these experiences.
Are you feeling stuck, as if something is missing from your life? It takes real courage to reach out when things feel out of alignment with what truly matters to you. I bring two decades of healthcare experience supporting individuals like you through life's ups and downs. Many I work with feel off-track, struggling with anxiety, mood, ADHD, OCD, trauma's impact, or sleep. These experiences can leave you feeling disconnected and far from the life you envision. Together, we will explore how your current challenges are impacting your sense of purpose and well-being, and how your mind and body are responding to these experiences.
(530) 734-3288 View (530) 734-3288
Photo of Elizabeth Rawson, Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
Elizabeth Rawson
Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
Online Only
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
(415) 767-1598 View (415) 767-1598
Photo of John Mendelson, Psychiatrist, MD
John Mendelson
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. John Mendelson is a Board Certified Internist with over 30 years of research and practice in the field of addiction treatment. In addition to being Ria Health’s Founder and Chief Medical Officer, he currently serves as Clinical Professor of Medicine at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and maintains a private practice of his own.
Dr. John Mendelson is a Board Certified Internist with over 30 years of research and practice in the field of addiction treatment. In addition to being Ria Health’s Founder and Chief Medical Officer, he currently serves as Clinical Professor of Medicine at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and maintains a private practice of his own.
(415) 843-2685 View (415) 843-2685
Photo of Thomas Tae, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Thomas Tae
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Thomas Tae, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. It is important to acknowledge that most patients have the best outcome when treated with multiple modalities of care. I am committed to making sure my patients are aware of how they can improve their mental health by introducing holistic interventions. My focus area of practice consists of depression, PTSD, and anxiety. I am described as a practitioner who helps patients feel heard during their sessions. The goal is to make sure patients are comfortable to have a dialogue that is productive and helpful to their growth.
Hello, my name is Thomas Tae, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of California. It is important to acknowledge that most patients have the best outcome when treated with multiple modalities of care. I am committed to making sure my patients are aware of how they can improve their mental health by introducing holistic interventions. My focus area of practice consists of depression, PTSD, and anxiety. I am described as a practitioner who helps patients feel heard during their sessions. The goal is to make sure patients are comfortable to have a dialogue that is productive and helpful to their growth.
(341) 221-4580 View (341) 221-4580
Photo of Samantha Williams, Psychiatrist, MD
Samantha Williams
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy practicing psychiatry from a holistic perspective, considering how biology, core beliefs, relationships and environment may be informing your current experience. I’m passionate about helping clients to feel empowered to create balance, stability, joy and connection in their lives using a combination of pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and teaching. Initially, I’ll focus on creating a safe space and deeply listening to your story, and once we have gained insight into the factors impacting your experience, together we will come up with a dynamic treatment strategy that aligns with your priorities.
I enjoy practicing psychiatry from a holistic perspective, considering how biology, core beliefs, relationships and environment may be informing your current experience. I’m passionate about helping clients to feel empowered to create balance, stability, joy and connection in their lives using a combination of pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and teaching. Initially, I’ll focus on creating a safe space and deeply listening to your story, and once we have gained insight into the factors impacting your experience, together we will come up with a dynamic treatment strategy that aligns with your priorities.
(415) 763-6086 View (415) 763-6086
Photo of Jaime Jimenez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Jaime Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Are you frustrated with clinicians not calling you back or whose costs are prohibitive? Have you been wondering if medications may be an appropriate treatment for your persistent mental health symptoms? I will listen carefully and patiently to you and reflect not only your concerns, but also the strengths and motivations you bring to improving your mental health. I will work “with” you to develop a holistic assessment of your needs, suggest evidence-based treatments, and explain how these address the goals we establish collaboratively.
Are you frustrated with clinicians not calling you back or whose costs are prohibitive? Have you been wondering if medications may be an appropriate treatment for your persistent mental health symptoms? I will listen carefully and patiently to you and reflect not only your concerns, but also the strengths and motivations you bring to improving your mental health. I will work “with” you to develop a holistic assessment of your needs, suggest evidence-based treatments, and explain how these address the goals we establish collaboratively.
(831) 215-5738 View (831) 215-5738
Photo of Gurpinder Gill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gurpinder Gill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping people achieve their best mental health through a holistic approach in conjunction with conventional treatment. I also have extensive experience in maternal and neonatal care, which deepens my clinical skills and enhances my understanding of the emotional and psychological needs of patients. I recognize that many of the challenges faced by new parents are intertwined with mental health issues, and I enjoy helping families navigate these issues.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping people achieve their best mental health through a holistic approach in conjunction with conventional treatment. I also have extensive experience in maternal and neonatal care, which deepens my clinical skills and enhances my understanding of the emotional and psychological needs of patients. I recognize that many of the challenges faced by new parents are intertwined with mental health issues, and I enjoy helping families navigate these issues.
(415) 367-0230 View (415) 367-0230

See more therapy options for Kentfield

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kentfield, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Kentfield, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
80% Grief
80% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

38 Years

Gender breakdown

80% Male
20% Female

How Psychiatrists in Kentfield, CA see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kentfield?

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.