Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA
Welcoming New Patients! Evangeline is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Vangie’s passion for mental health arose at an early age, when she witnessed how access to quality, consistent care, or lack thereof, is everything. A dedicated provider, she uses a holistic, compassionate, and evidence-based approach, creating a supportive space where patients feel understood and empowered in their healing.
Welcoming New Patients! Evangeline is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Vangie’s passion for mental health arose at an early age, when she witnessed how access to quality, consistent care, or lack thereof, is everything. A dedicated provider, she uses a holistic, compassionate, and evidence-based approach, creating a supportive space where patients feel understood and empowered in their healing.
Welcoming New Patients! Twanna is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of San Diego. After 13 years as a family nurse practitioner, she discovered her passion for mental health and now provides holistic, culturally sensitive care. Twanna is known for her warm, collaborative style, creating a safe space where clients feel heard and supported.
Welcoming New Patients! Twanna is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of San Diego. After 13 years as a family nurse practitioner, she discovered her passion for mental health and now provides holistic, culturally sensitive care. Twanna is known for her warm, collaborative style, creating a safe space where clients feel heard and supported.
Hello, I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over two decades of experience in nursing, my mission is to provide compassionate and effective mental health care. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults. I assess and diagnose patients on a broad range of mental health issues, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, phobias, panic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Hello, I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over two decades of experience in nursing, my mission is to provide compassionate and effective mental health care. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults. I assess and diagnose patients on a broad range of mental health issues, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, phobias, panic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
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.
Welcoming New Patients! Lalaine is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. With more than a decade of experience, she offers psychiatric testing and diagnosis, medication management, various modalities of therapy such as CBT, and telepsychiatry appointments. Lalaine is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and culturally-sensitive mental health services to adult and geriatric clients.
Welcoming New Patients! Lalaine is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. With more than a decade of experience, she offers psychiatric testing and diagnosis, medication management, various modalities of therapy such as CBT, and telepsychiatry appointments. Lalaine is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and culturally-sensitive mental health services to adult and geriatric clients.
I specialize in treating various forms of depression, especially treatment-resistant cases, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
I provide innovative therapeutics, such as Ketamine Therapy, TMS Therapy, General Psychiatry, and more.
A proud advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, I'm committed to providing inclusive, supportive, and affirming care to individuals of all genders and sexual orientations. I have a client-centered approach, recognizing each person’s unique journey. It's important to me to involve clients in decision-making, tailoring treatment plans to align with individual goals and preferences.
I specialize in treating various forms of depression, especially treatment-resistant cases, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
I provide innovative therapeutics, such as Ketamine Therapy, TMS Therapy, General Psychiatry, and more.
A proud advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, I'm committed to providing inclusive, supportive, and affirming care to individuals of all genders and sexual orientations. I have a client-centered approach, recognizing each person’s unique journey. It's important to me to involve clients in decision-making, tailoring treatment plans to align with individual goals and preferences.
I welcome individuals and families seeking health, happiness, and healing. The past few years have brought unprecedented changes and disruption to our lives and forced us to confront deep-seeded inequities and injustices. Many people are experiencing sadness, worry, challenges at home, and difficulties at work or at school, as a result. I foster a strong, trusting alliance and conduct a comprehensive assessment to create a solid foundation for our work. Doing so allows us to pave the way for uncovering the root causes of distress, to manage these challenges in the moment, and to imagine and actualize a more promising future.
I welcome individuals and families seeking health, happiness, and healing. The past few years have brought unprecedented changes and disruption to our lives and forced us to confront deep-seeded inequities and injustices. Many people are experiencing sadness, worry, challenges at home, and difficulties at work or at school, as a result. I foster a strong, trusting alliance and conduct a comprehensive assessment to create a solid foundation for our work. Doing so allows us to pave the way for uncovering the root causes of distress, to manage these challenges in the moment, and to imagine and actualize a more promising future.
I am board certified in psychiatry and treat a wide variety of conditions. I most recently worked at a state psychiatric hospital before moving to private practice. My residency training in general psychiatry and fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry were completed at the University of Miami. During my time there, I saw a high volume of patients from a wide variety of socio-economic and cultural contexts. My medical degree, M.D., is from the University of Louisville, my hometown, and my undergraduate degree is in Religious Studies.
I am board certified in psychiatry and treat a wide variety of conditions. I most recently worked at a state psychiatric hospital before moving to private practice. My residency training in general psychiatry and fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry were completed at the University of Miami. During my time there, I saw a high volume of patients from a wide variety of socio-economic and cultural contexts. My medical degree, M.D., is from the University of Louisville, my hometown, and my undergraduate degree is in Religious Studies.
Welcome! I’m Ahila Muthaiya, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. With specialized expertise in diagnosing, medication management, and supportive therapy, I am committed to helping you achieve emotional well-being and a balanced life. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, I am here to guide you with a comprehensive and patient-centered approach. Now accepting new patients—let’s take the next step together.
Welcome! I’m Ahila Muthaiya, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. With specialized expertise in diagnosing, medication management, and supportive therapy, I am committed to helping you achieve emotional well-being and a balanced life. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, I am here to guide you with a comprehensive and patient-centered approach. Now accepting new patients—let’s take the next step together.
I am a Los Angeles based board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. I treat a variety of age ranges and diagnoses, and although primarily a telehealth provider, I am open to arranging home visits as well. Transitions are hard across age ranges, whether that is middle school into high school, change of jobs, change in romance, etc. Of importance to me are the changes in childhood and their long-term impact on social and academic development. I believe that early intervention can have major impacts later in life which led to me pursuing my child and adolescent fellowship.
I am a Los Angeles based board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. I treat a variety of age ranges and diagnoses, and although primarily a telehealth provider, I am open to arranging home visits as well. Transitions are hard across age ranges, whether that is middle school into high school, change of jobs, change in romance, etc. Of importance to me are the changes in childhood and their long-term impact on social and academic development. I believe that early intervention can have major impacts later in life which led to me pursuing my child and adolescent fellowship.
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
While I am positioned to offer a LGBTQ+ perspective in my practice, I support clients from all backgrounds in reaching their mental health goals through compassionate, patient-centered care. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex-positive counseling, mood disorders, and substance use disorders for adults over 18 years old. I approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, using psychotherapeutic modalities centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment.
While I am positioned to offer a LGBTQ+ perspective in my practice, I support clients from all backgrounds in reaching their mental health goals through compassionate, patient-centered care. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, sex-positive counseling, mood disorders, and substance use disorders for adults over 18 years old. I approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, using psychotherapeutic modalities centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment.
I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over twelve (12) years of experience serving diverse adult and adolescent populations. I provide compassionate, culturally responsive care, and focus on building strong therapeutic relationships. My goal is to support clients in achieving stability, clarity, and improved well-being.
I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over twelve (12) years of experience serving diverse adult and adolescent populations. I provide compassionate, culturally responsive care, and focus on building strong therapeutic relationships. My goal is to support clients in achieving stability, clarity, and improved well-being.
Hi, I’m Tyler Davis. If you’ve been searching for a provider who truly listens and tailors treatment to your specific life, you’re in the right place.
Hi, I’m Tyler Davis. If you’ve been searching for a provider who truly listens and tailors treatment to your specific life, you’re in the right place.
Dr. Priti Bhardwaj is an experienced psychiatrist working in collaboration with Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS, our priority is patient care and comfort driven by a personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Bhardwaj maintains a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment, ensuring patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
Dr. Priti Bhardwaj is an experienced psychiatrist working in collaboration with Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental illness, Anew Era TMS can provide excellent quality psychiatric treatment and TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, post-partum, tinnitus, or chronic migraines. At Anew Era TMS, our priority is patient care and comfort driven by a personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Bhardwaj maintains a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment, ensuring patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
Struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or mood disorders? I am a board-certified psychiatric NP specializing in personalized treatment that goes beyond medication to truly address root causes. Rushed visits often miss the full picture. I've personally helped many thousands of patients successfully find lasting relief when past care left them with prescriptions but no real answers. Want to fully overcome your symptoms that are holding you back from a better life? ⇒ Appointments typically available within 4 days.
Struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or mood disorders? I am a board-certified psychiatric NP specializing in personalized treatment that goes beyond medication to truly address root causes. Rushed visits often miss the full picture. I've personally helped many thousands of patients successfully find lasting relief when past care left them with prescriptions but no real answers. Want to fully overcome your symptoms that are holding you back from a better life? ⇒ Appointments typically available within 4 days.
Getting medication treatment for psychiatric symptoms used to require a blind leap, with no idea what treatment you would get, or how much time and money it would take. For over 6 years, healthPiper has made it so that anyone can get the same expertise as the top medical schools, delivered online, with our renowned welcoming service. All for less than clinicians usually charge. We were started by a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA, a graduate of Yale Medical School, and a perennial SuperDoctor and TopDoctor to create a service so that everyone can effortlessly get the best treatment available anywhere.
Getting medication treatment for psychiatric symptoms used to require a blind leap, with no idea what treatment you would get, or how much time and money it would take. For over 6 years, healthPiper has made it so that anyone can get the same expertise as the top medical schools, delivered online, with our renowned welcoming service. All for less than clinicians usually charge. We were started by a clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA, a graduate of Yale Medical School, and a perennial SuperDoctor and TopDoctor to create a service so that everyone can effortlessly get the best treatment available anywhere.
Dr. Mark Shideler specializes in the medication and psychotherapy treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD related to life experiences including childhood trauma, sexual assault, grief, accidents, and combat-related experiences.
Dr. Shideler is trained in several evidence-based therapies, including Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy (WET), and Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) for nightmares. He also incorporates psychodynamic psychotherapy into his to help patients better understand long-standing emotional patterns and relationships.
Dr. Mark Shideler specializes in the medication and psychotherapy treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD related to life experiences including childhood trauma, sexual assault, grief, accidents, and combat-related experiences.
Dr. Shideler is trained in several evidence-based therapies, including Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy (WET), and Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) for nightmares. He also incorporates psychodynamic psychotherapy into his to help patients better understand long-standing emotional patterns and relationships.
Welcoming New Patients! Tiffany is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A mental health specialist for more than five years, Tiffany brings warmth, clinical expertise, and evidence-based care to every visit. She listens closely, offers thoughtful evaluations and conscientious medication management, and works collaboratively with clients to build practical plans that support lasting mental health
Welcoming New Patients! Tiffany is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A mental health specialist for more than five years, Tiffany brings warmth, clinical expertise, and evidence-based care to every visit. She listens closely, offers thoughtful evaluations and conscientious medication management, and works collaboratively with clients to build practical plans that support lasting mental health
Dealing with mental illness or struggling with an addiction can be challenging for many of us. Having both can almost seem insurmountable. It can also be hard to ask for help, but if you are here you are taking an important step. I can work with you in dealing with these challenges. I am board-certified in both general and addiction psychiatry and provide treatment specifically tailored for each person. Through diagnostic assessment and clarification, medication management, psychotherapy, and other modalities, I can help build a treatment plan that works for you.
Dealing with mental illness or struggling with an addiction can be challenging for many of us. Having both can almost seem insurmountable. It can also be hard to ask for help, but if you are here you are taking an important step. I can work with you in dealing with these challenges. I am board-certified in both general and addiction psychiatry and provide treatment specifically tailored for each person. Through diagnostic assessment and clarification, medication management, psychotherapy, and other modalities, I can help build a treatment plan that works for you.
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:
| 95% | Anxiety |
| 94% | Depression |
| 81% | ADHD |
| 79% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 76% | Medication Management |
| 74% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 94% | Aetna |
| 88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 76% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients
| 50% | In Person and Online | |
| 50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 63% | Female | |
| 36% | 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.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.


