Psychiatrists in La Habra, CA

Photo of Chioma Okoro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chioma Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Chioma Okoro, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BC-PMHNP) with over 13 years of experience in mental health. I specialize in working with adults and seniors who are experiencing major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and other psychiatric conditions.
I am Chioma Okoro, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BC-PMHNP) with over 13 years of experience in mental health. I specialize in working with adults and seniors who are experiencing major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and other psychiatric conditions.
(562) 379-4686 View (562) 379-4686
Photo of Shannon Richmond, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Richmond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
(213) 398-8445 View (213) 398-8445
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(657) 837-0196 View (657) 837-0196
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
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.
(424) 347-6576 View (424) 347-6576
Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(714) 202-9498 View (714) 202-9498
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.
(341) 888-6292 View (341) 888-6292
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(657) 837-1237 View (657) 837-1237

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-based medication treatment strategy, she places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-based medication treatment strategy, she places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(657) 530-6613 View (657) 530-6613
Photo of Veronica Ramirez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(949) 569-7436 View (949) 569-7436
Photo of Dr. Francis Shih, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Francis Shih
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Dr. Francis Shih completed his adult, adolescent and child psychiatry training at UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and has practiced integrative psychiatry for over 20 years. He attended UCLA majoring in psychobiology and University of Vermont College of Medicine for his medical degree. At Neuro Wellness Spa, Dr. Shih brings quality, compassionate care with a focus on enhancing resilience and potential.
Dr. Francis Shih completed his adult, adolescent and child psychiatry training at UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and has practiced integrative psychiatry for over 20 years. He attended UCLA majoring in psychobiology and University of Vermont College of Medicine for his medical degree. At Neuro Wellness Spa, Dr. Shih brings quality, compassionate care with a focus on enhancing resilience and potential.
(562) 414-4590 View (562) 414-4590
Photo of Jonathan Shaywitz, MD, Psychiatrist
Jonathan Shaywitz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I am a Board-Certi Psychiatrist. I received my BA with Honors from Brown University and received my Medical Degree from Harvard Medical School. I completed my residency at UCLA where I was selected chief resident for the Anxiety Disorders Program.
I am a Board-Certi Psychiatrist. I received my BA with Honors from Brown University and received my Medical Degree from Harvard Medical School. I completed my residency at UCLA where I was selected chief resident for the Anxiety Disorders Program.
(818) 639-8625 View (818) 639-8625
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(657) 297-5632 View (657) 297-5632
Photo of Karen Rightler, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Rightler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Caught in life's storm? Need a helping hand? Whether you're grappling with ADHD, PTSD, trauma, depression, or anxiety, you're not alone. Imagine breaking through the fog and truly understanding the storm of emotions you feel. Picture a life not just built on coping, but flourishing from genuine healing. The journey to reclaiming your peace and navigating life's twists begins with a single step: a chat, a connection. No matter your age, if you're striving for deeper emotional clarity and a harmonious well-being, I'm here for you. Dive into a transformative experience with individual therapy and medication guidance for every age.
Caught in life's storm? Need a helping hand? Whether you're grappling with ADHD, PTSD, trauma, depression, or anxiety, you're not alone. Imagine breaking through the fog and truly understanding the storm of emotions you feel. Picture a life not just built on coping, but flourishing from genuine healing. The journey to reclaiming your peace and navigating life's twists begins with a single step: a chat, a connection. No matter your age, if you're striving for deeper emotional clarity and a harmonious well-being, I'm here for you. Dive into a transformative experience with individual therapy and medication guidance for every age.
(714) 487-0748 View (714) 487-0748
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
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!
(562) 512-5656 View (562) 512-5656
Photo of Cat Dang, DO, Psychiatrist
Cat Dang
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
In my practice the most important person is you, my client. I will take the time to listen to you, to understand your unique situation, and to review available medical information. I will look beyond obvious symptoms and will try to uncover other medical and behavioral issues. Then, we will discuss a variety of recommendation that, in my experience, provide the greatest likelihood of improvement for your condition. It is your choice to decide which recommendation to move forward with. These may include medication options, therapy options, and other lifestyle changes.
In my practice the most important person is you, my client. I will take the time to listen to you, to understand your unique situation, and to review available medical information. I will look beyond obvious symptoms and will try to uncover other medical and behavioral issues. Then, we will discuss a variety of recommendation that, in my experience, provide the greatest likelihood of improvement for your condition. It is your choice to decide which recommendation to move forward with. These may include medication options, therapy options, and other lifestyle changes.
(949) 200-6817 View (949) 200-6817
Photo of Hina Sidhu - Revîv: Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Ctr, MD, Psychiatrist
Revîv: Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Ctr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92835
At Revîv Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Center our trained Providers help treat various forms of mental illness in the adult population through traditional medication management as well as modern techniques such as TMS under the guidance and leadership of Board Certified Psychiatrist Dr. Hina Sidhu with empathy and skill.
At Revîv Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Center our trained Providers help treat various forms of mental illness in the adult population through traditional medication management as well as modern techniques such as TMS under the guidance and leadership of Board Certified Psychiatrist Dr. Hina Sidhu with empathy and skill.
(714) 905-5542 View (714) 905-5542
Photo of Sayeh Beheshti, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Sayeh Beheshti
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I'm the Medical Director of SoCal Youth Center, a mental health treatment center for youths ages 8-18. I supervise a team that provides trauma-informed care in our comprehensive programs offered in-person and via telehealth. Our unique intensive outpatient treatment program consists of services including individual therapy, family therapy, group sessions, and psychiatric medication management. My team collectively has decades of experience in treating a wide range of behavioral and developmental disorders, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and body image issues, gender identity issues, autism, and ADHD.
I'm the Medical Director of SoCal Youth Center, a mental health treatment center for youths ages 8-18. I supervise a team that provides trauma-informed care in our comprehensive programs offered in-person and via telehealth. Our unique intensive outpatient treatment program consists of services including individual therapy, family therapy, group sessions, and psychiatric medication management. My team collectively has decades of experience in treating a wide range of behavioral and developmental disorders, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and body image issues, gender identity issues, autism, and ADHD.
(714) 646-1712 View (714) 646-1712
Photo of Alex Sanchez, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alex Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or attention issues? Alex is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP helping people improve their mental wellness and productivity. He specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. He provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more. He received his training from the nation's top ranked university, UCLA.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or attention issues? Alex is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP helping people improve their mental wellness and productivity. He specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more. He provides modern treatment options through lifestyle improvement, medications, natural options, therapy, and more. He received his training from the nation's top ranked university, UCLA.
(714) 942-5451 View (714) 942-5451
Photo of Medard Sison - Orange Coast Psychiatry, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orange Coast Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92804
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Orange Coast Psychiatry and the team of Psychiatric Mental Health Providers specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. OCP believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. OCP focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Orange Coast Psychiatry and the team of Psychiatric Mental Health Providers specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. OCP believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. OCP focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
(657) 837-1965 View (657) 837-1965
Photo of Chika Agulanna - Light Care Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Light Care Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
Chika is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Fresno Ca, who works with children and adults and provides care for patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, sleep difficulties etc. Chika has experience with medication management and use of psychotherapy and has been a board certified PMHNP for over 2 years. Chika’s treatment approach is rooted in evidence based practice utilizing medication and psychotherapy. Chika studied at Walden University, where she obtained a Masters in Nursing science. She has also worked as an RN for more than 8 years which has been helpful in providing care
Chika is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Fresno Ca, who works with children and adults and provides care for patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, sleep difficulties etc. Chika has experience with medication management and use of psychotherapy and has been a board certified PMHNP for over 2 years. Chika’s treatment approach is rooted in evidence based practice utilizing medication and psychotherapy. Chika studied at Walden University, where she obtained a Masters in Nursing science. She has also worked as an RN for more than 8 years which has been helpful in providing care
(559) 423-7076 View (559) 423-7076

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in La Habra, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in La Habra, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Stress
71% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Medication Management

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in La Habra, CA see their clients

85% Online Only
15% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in La Habra?

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.