Psychiatrists in Long Beach, CA

Photo of Lisa Chan, Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Lisa Chan
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Verified Verified
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!
(424) 401-0378 View (424) 401-0378
Photo of Tiffany Quach, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffany Quach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now, welcoming new patients! We know that 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 that 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.
(424) 404-5232 View (424) 404-5232
Photo of Joseph Aguirre - Joseph Aguirre - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Joseph Aguirre - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
Joseph Aguirre, PMHNP-BC, is deeply committed to the mental well-being of his clients, employing a holistic approach that combines medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy techniques. Joseph is proficient in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which he integrates into his practice to help clients address a range of mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. He is skilled at creating a supportive and understanding environment, encouraging his clients to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a safe space.
Joseph Aguirre, PMHNP-BC, is deeply committed to the mental well-being of his clients, employing a holistic approach that combines medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy techniques. Joseph is proficient in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which he integrates into his practice to help clients address a range of mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. He is skilled at creating a supportive and understanding environment, encouraging his clients to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a safe space.
(512) 640-2161 View (512) 640-2161
Photo of Volker Nabavi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
(424) 699-4971 View (424) 699-4971
Photo of Princess McKenzie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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!
(424) 476-4823 View (424) 476-4823
Photo of Alicia Bulin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alicia Bulin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(562) 534-7222 View (562) 534-7222
Photo of Twanna Davis Arnold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Twanna Davis Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now, Welcoming New Patients! We know that 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 that 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.
(424) 655-2893 View (424) 655-2893
Photo of Volker Nabavi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
(562) 564-6081 View (562) 564-6081
Photo of Taylor Scheller, Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Taylor Scheller
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Verified Verified
Online Only
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! 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.
(424) 588-3209 View (424) 588-3209
Photo of Ryan Thebo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90806
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(562) 580-4128 View (562) 580-4128
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(805) 977-6576 View (805) 977-6576
Photo of Jaspreet Takhar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jaspreet Takhar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(424) 346-9717 View (424) 346-9717
Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Bettina Ervin Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
(424) 677-0491 View (424) 677-0491
Photo of Holly Ann Olalia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Holly Ann Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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!
(424) 424-2893 View (424) 424-2893
Photo of Kathleen Hunter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kathleen Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(424) 496-4039 View (424) 496-4039
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(424) 403-1094 View (424) 403-1094
Photo of Desiree Bonomo, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Desiree Bonomo
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
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!
(424) 484-6869 View (424) 484-6869
Photo of Uchenna Okoye, Psychiatrist, MD
Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(424) 372-0380 View (424) 372-0380
Photo of Eric Osterlind I Ketamine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Eric Osterlind I Ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stuck in depression, anxiety, or trauma can be overwhelming, especially when traditional treatments fall short. If you’re searching for a new path to healing, at-home ketamine therapy may offer relief. Many have found hope and breakthrough where nothing else worked. This science-backed treatment is designed to help you regain clarity, peace, and a sense of control over your life. You don’t have to carry this weight alone—there is another way forward.
Feeling stuck in depression, anxiety, or trauma can be overwhelming, especially when traditional treatments fall short. If you’re searching for a new path to healing, at-home ketamine therapy may offer relief. Many have found hope and breakthrough where nothing else worked. This science-backed treatment is designed to help you regain clarity, peace, and a sense of control over your life. You don’t have to carry this weight alone—there is another way forward.
(562) 837-0496 View (562) 837-0496
Photo of Angela Ofoegbu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Angela Ofoegbu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
My ideal client is an adult struggling with psychiatric conditions or substance use concerns. They seek effective treatment that combines both conventional and complementary approaches, aiming for symptom relief, stability, and long-term well-being. They want a provider who listens, collaborates, and offers flexibility to fit their schedule.
My ideal client is an adult struggling with psychiatric conditions or substance use concerns. They seek effective treatment that combines both conventional and complementary approaches, aiming for symptom relief, stability, and long-term well-being. They want a provider who listens, collaborates, and offers flexibility to fit their schedule.
(844) 569-9956 View (844) 569-9956

See more therapy options for Long Beach

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Long Beach, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Long Beach, CA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
92% Depression
82% Trauma and PTSD
81% ADHD
81% Bipolar Disorder
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Medication Management

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Cigna and Evernorth
96% Aetna
87% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Long Beach, CA see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Long 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.

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.