Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Sham Singh, Psychiatrist, MD
Sham Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a UCLA-trained psychiatrist who approaches mental health holistically. My unique approach uses a combination of medication management and analyzing lifestyle modifications to achieve peak performance of the brain. I am non judgmental and an outstanding listener. I am experienced in treating a wide variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, agoraphobia, panic attacks, insomnia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, as well as long COVID mental health symptoms.
I am a UCLA-trained psychiatrist who approaches mental health holistically. My unique approach uses a combination of medication management and analyzing lifestyle modifications to achieve peak performance of the brain. I am non judgmental and an outstanding listener. I am experienced in treating a wide variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, agoraphobia, panic attacks, insomnia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, as well as long COVID mental health symptoms.
(424) 404-5641 View (424) 404-5641
Photo of Arjun Kumar, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Arjun Kumar
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Dr. Kumar is an adult and geriatric psychiatrist seeing patients at his Los Angeles office and virtually. Dr. Kumar believes in a humane and comprehensive approach to mental health care across the lifespan. He emphasizes the impact of past experiences on emotional well-being, practicing trauma-informed care that draws from his work with military veterans. He enjoys helping patients through major life transitions like graduation and career changes, aging and retirement, and relationship conflict. He is also experienced at helping older adults confront late-life challenges like chronic disease, memory loss, and grief.
Dr. Kumar is an adult and geriatric psychiatrist seeing patients at his Los Angeles office and virtually. Dr. Kumar believes in a humane and comprehensive approach to mental health care across the lifespan. He emphasizes the impact of past experiences on emotional well-being, practicing trauma-informed care that draws from his work with military veterans. He enjoys helping patients through major life transitions like graduation and career changes, aging and retirement, and relationship conflict. He is also experienced at helping older adults confront late-life challenges like chronic disease, memory loss, and grief.
(424) 766-1972 View (424) 766-1972
Photo of Benedicta Osuji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(949) 695-8479 View (949) 695-8479
Photo of Oyebola Oyelade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oyebola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have many years of experience in mental health management. I aim to support both the mental and physical health of my clients. I meet my patients where they are. I utilize many approaches in my treatment plans, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, innovative, individualized care, motivational interviews, goal setting, supportive, strength-based, person-centered, compassion-focused, evidence-based practices, and patient education.
(209) 457-7683 View (209) 457-7683
Photo of Menbi Tegegne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Menbi Tegegne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi. my name is Menbi. I am a psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I graduated with my master's from National University and I have been treating patients with both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for the last two years. I have worked in several settings from hospital, to outpatient, to remote and even in prison settings. I have treated patients with different mental health issues. I believe in holistic treatment. I am compassionate and dedicated to my client's well-being.
Hi. my name is Menbi. I am a psychiatrist nurse practitioner. I graduated with my master's from National University and I have been treating patients with both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for the last two years. I have worked in several settings from hospital, to outpatient, to remote and even in prison settings. I have treated patients with different mental health issues. I believe in holistic treatment. I am compassionate and dedicated to my client's well-being.
(626) 876-3029 View (626) 876-3029
Photo of Keumhee Byeon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Keumhee Byeon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Online Only
Happiness starts with good health. Although it is your battle, you don’t need to fight alone. 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental disorder within a given year. If you are in need of psychiatric mental help, I am here to assist you with those needs. I started out as a Psychiatric RN, but with the desire to expand my nursing career, I became an NP to increase my knowledge about mental health disorders so that I can better meet the needs of patients and the increasingly complicated healthcare demands of the mentally-ill community.
Happiness starts with good health. Although it is your battle, you don’t need to fight alone. 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental disorder within a given year. If you are in need of psychiatric mental help, I am here to assist you with those needs. I started out as a Psychiatric RN, but with the desire to expand my nursing career, I became an NP to increase my knowledge about mental health disorders so that I can better meet the needs of patients and the increasingly complicated healthcare demands of the mentally-ill community.
(323) 274-1960 View (323) 274-1960
Photo of David Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
David Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers clients to take control of their mental health journey.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers clients to take control of their mental health journey.
(562) 573-6409 View (562) 573-6409
Photo of Zachary Schwager, Psychiatrist, MD
Zachary Schwager
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
For me, the decision to go into psychiatry was easy; I am passionate about advocating for people of all ages struggling with their mental health. My approach is to appreciate the human experience and to help make life more fulfilling for those in need of support. Each session with me you can expect a kind, thorough evaluation and personalized evidence-based treatment recommendations. The decision for or against a particular treatment is always shared and I empower patients to participate in formulating a treatment plan together with me.
For me, the decision to go into psychiatry was easy; I am passionate about advocating for people of all ages struggling with their mental health. My approach is to appreciate the human experience and to help make life more fulfilling for those in need of support. Each session with me you can expect a kind, thorough evaluation and personalized evidence-based treatment recommendations. The decision for or against a particular treatment is always shared and I empower patients to participate in formulating a treatment plan together with me.
(323) 612-0135 View (323) 612-0135
Photo of Latarsha Pittman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Latarsha Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Latarsha Pittman is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults. She treats a full list of issues with specializations in ADHD, anxiety, behavioral disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, and mood disorders.
Latarsha Pittman is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults. She treats a full list of issues with specializations in ADHD, anxiety, behavioral disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, and mood disorders.
(213) 799-5642 View (213) 799-5642
Photo of Hovhannes Avagyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Hovhannes Avagyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Los Angeles, CA 90006
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing individualized, holistic, and science based care to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness. With experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more—I am committed to creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to share your experiences and concerns. I take a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to your unique needs, preferences, and goals.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing individualized, holistic, and science based care to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness. With experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more—I am committed to creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to share your experiences and concerns. I take a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to your unique needs, preferences, and goals.
(213) 772-2985 View (213) 772-2985
Photo of Janice Tolentino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP-BC
Janice Tolentino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP-BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with mental health symptoms but have remained silent? Do you feel that there is something not right about you but do not know what to do or who to talk to about it? Are you looking for a compassionate provider who you would want to be heard and understood? I help patients get the best of themselves in a nonjudgmental and empathetic way. At an early age, I gravitated toward mental health and have found myself drawn to understanding the complexities of human emotions and behavior.
Are you struggling with mental health symptoms but have remained silent? Do you feel that there is something not right about you but do not know what to do or who to talk to about it? Are you looking for a compassionate provider who you would want to be heard and understood? I help patients get the best of themselves in a nonjudgmental and empathetic way. At an early age, I gravitated toward mental health and have found myself drawn to understanding the complexities of human emotions and behavior.
(213) 460-2945 View (213) 460-2945
Photo of Yeun Lim, Psychiatrist, MD
Yeun Lim
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I'm a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a full scope of mental health disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, autism, OCD, trichotillomania, excoriation disorder, and trauma-related disorders. I welcome and provide affirming care for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
I'm a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a full scope of mental health disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, autism, OCD, trichotillomania, excoriation disorder, and trauma-related disorders. I welcome and provide affirming care for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
(310) 361-7745 View (310) 361-7745
Photo of Gol Ara, Psychiatrist, MD
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
(562) 620-5558 View (562) 620-5558
Photo of Julie M. Hall, Psychiatrist, MD
Julie M. Hall
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Every thousand mile journey begins with one step. Regardless of what you are going through, I am committed to creating the possibility of complete health and well-being for you. Using my expertise as a double board certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist, I am able to flexibly address issues of all ages. In addition, my combined training in both psychotherapy and medication management ensures an integrated approach of both understanding the dynamics of one's individual situation and combining appropriate medication management when necessary.
Every thousand mile journey begins with one step. Regardless of what you are going through, I am committed to creating the possibility of complete health and well-being for you. Using my expertise as a double board certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist, I am able to flexibly address issues of all ages. In addition, my combined training in both psychotherapy and medication management ensures an integrated approach of both understanding the dynamics of one's individual situation and combining appropriate medication management when necessary.
(424) 322-4361 View (424) 322-4361
Photo of Katia Garcia - Citywide Mental Health, a Nursing Corporation, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Citywide Mental Health, a Nursing Corporation
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Katia Garcia, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health. My ideal client is an adult facing anxiety, depression, or addiction, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They struggle with managing their emotions, finding balance, and maintaining healthy habits. Their goals are to regain control, reduce symptoms, and improve overall well-being.
Welcome! I’m Katia Garcia, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health. My ideal client is an adult facing anxiety, depression, or addiction, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They struggle with managing their emotions, finding balance, and maintaining healthy habits. Their goals are to regain control, reduce symptoms, and improve overall well-being.
(213) 877-4022 View (213) 877-4022
Photo of Claudette Banda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Claudette Banda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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!
(310) 683-5561 View (310) 683-5561
Photo of Aryeh L Goldberg, Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Aryeh L Goldberg
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Dr. Goldberg is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and forensic psychiatrist practicing in Southern California. He treats a variety of psychiatric conditions, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders, and personality disorders as well as disorders of sleep, attention and focus. Dr. Goldberg specializes in marital therapy and marital interventions as a treatment for psychiatric disorders. His further interests include spirituality and the unique mental health concerns of religious and spiritual communities.
Dr. Goldberg is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and forensic psychiatrist practicing in Southern California. He treats a variety of psychiatric conditions, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders, and personality disorders as well as disorders of sleep, attention and focus. Dr. Goldberg specializes in marital therapy and marital interventions as a treatment for psychiatric disorders. His further interests include spirituality and the unique mental health concerns of religious and spiritual communities.
(310) 363-0765 View (310) 363-0765
Photo of Olga Perez Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olga Perez Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who finds themselves at a crossroads, grappling with feelings of uncertainty, sadness, or stress that interfere with their daily lives. They may be dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD, and they seek relief from these challenges to regain control and balance. My clients want to feel heard and understood in a safe, non-judgmental environment where their unique struggles are acknowledged and respected. They come to my practice with the hope of finding personalized, evidence-based solutions that honor their individuality and guide them toward lasting mental wellness.
My ideal client is someone who finds themselves at a crossroads, grappling with feelings of uncertainty, sadness, or stress that interfere with their daily lives. They may be dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD, and they seek relief from these challenges to regain control and balance. My clients want to feel heard and understood in a safe, non-judgmental environment where their unique struggles are acknowledged and respected. They come to my practice with the hope of finding personalized, evidence-based solutions that honor their individuality and guide them toward lasting mental wellness.
(213) 652-6904 View (213) 652-6904
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071
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
(562) 620-5593 View (562) 620-5593
Photo of Nicholas Athanasiou, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFASAM
Nicholas Athanasiou
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFASAM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Treating the causes of addiction and mood disorders involves understanding both the biologic effects and human experiences of illness. As a psychiatrist boarded in both Addiction and Adult Psychiatry, I have experience with a broad range of mental illnesses and specialize in treating addiction and mood disorders. An important part of my treatment philosophy is to develop a physician-patient relationship which becomes the foundation for successful treatment.
Treating the causes of addiction and mood disorders involves understanding both the biologic effects and human experiences of illness. As a psychiatrist boarded in both Addiction and Adult Psychiatry, I have experience with a broad range of mental illnesses and specialize in treating addiction and mood disorders. An important part of my treatment philosophy is to develop a physician-patient relationship which becomes the foundation for successful treatment.
(310) 928-9450 View (310) 928-9450

See more therapy options for Los Angeles

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
78% Bipolar Disorder
77% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

66% Female
33% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Los Angeles?

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.