Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA

Tri America Health and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, LCSW, LCADC
Online Only
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America Health & Wellness offers in-person visits in NJ and telehealth visits in more than 20 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD, and TMS and Spravato treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Open 7 days a week. Call today to learn more.
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America Health & Wellness offers in-person visits in NJ and telehealth visits in more than 20 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD, and TMS and Spravato treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Open 7 days a week. Call today to learn more.
(201) 347-1447 View (201) 347-1447
Photo of Trish Vanessa Williams Forde - Trish Williams-Forde Aligned Mind Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, PHN
Trish Williams-Forde Aligned Mind Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, PHN
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Do you sometimes feel disconnected from yourself and others? Do you have dreams and aspirations but need help reaching those goals or accomplishments? Nowadays, sadness, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, and uncertainty about navigating new or long-term relationships are widespread experiences. At Aligned Mind Health Services, we offer a customized client-focused approach to help you move forward and celebrate your successes along your journey! We meet you where you are and work with you to overcome various challenges. We aim to help you feel better and live the purpose-filled life you deserve!
Do you sometimes feel disconnected from yourself and others? Do you have dreams and aspirations but need help reaching those goals or accomplishments? Nowadays, sadness, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, and uncertainty about navigating new or long-term relationships are widespread experiences. At Aligned Mind Health Services, we offer a customized client-focused approach to help you move forward and celebrate your successes along your journey! We meet you where you are and work with you to overcome various challenges. We aim to help you feel better and live the purpose-filled life you deserve!
(424) 433-3804 View (424) 433-3804
Photo of Nathalie Anyakpor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nathalie Anyakpor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a warm and collaborative therapist who works with adults navigating burnout, anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD. Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals who feel overwhelmed behind the scenes — managing careers, family expectations, and invisible stress. I integrate insight-oriented work with practical skill-building so you can better understand your patterns while also developing tools that improve daily functioning, emotional regulation, and self-trust. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, capable, and aligned in your life — not just coping, but actually well.
I’m a warm and collaborative therapist who works with adults navigating burnout, anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD. Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals who feel overwhelmed behind the scenes — managing careers, family expectations, and invisible stress. I integrate insight-oriented work with practical skill-building so you can better understand your patterns while also developing tools that improve daily functioning, emotional regulation, and self-trust. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, capable, and aligned in your life — not just coping, but actually well.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Armin Hoes - MUUD Clinic, Psychiatrist, MD
MUUD Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90034
We’re a team of board-certified psychiatrists working with adults and teens for ADHD, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, stress, and performance under pressure. We specialize in sports, elite performance. Care starts with a comprehensive wellness evaluation and may include a psychiatric assessment and for those who meet criteria, medication management as appropriate, skills-based support (CBT-informed and mindfulness-based, performance-focused strategies). Our goal is simple: improve focus, stabilize mood, strengthen sleep and energy, and help you follow through with the habits that make your life feel like yours again.
We’re a team of board-certified psychiatrists working with adults and teens for ADHD, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, stress, and performance under pressure. We specialize in sports, elite performance. Care starts with a comprehensive wellness evaluation and may include a psychiatric assessment and for those who meet criteria, medication management as appropriate, skills-based support (CBT-informed and mindfulness-based, performance-focused strategies). Our goal is simple: improve focus, stabilize mood, strengthen sleep and energy, and help you follow through with the habits that make your life feel like yours again.
(310) 510-6336 View (310) 510-6336
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
(323) 443-1729 View (323) 443-1729
Photo of Dr. Carolyn Hanohano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Dr. Carolyn Hanohano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(805) 515-4318 View (805) 515-4318
Photo of Dr. Tatiana Molinar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, RN
Dr. Tatiana Molinar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, RN
Online Only
My practice often centers neurodivergent people, especially those who are gifted, autistic, or have ADHD. Many are dealing with perfectionism, anxiety, or long-term trauma. Many are also BIPOC and LGBTQ+ and want a provider who truly sees and understands them. I also have a strong medical background and broad experience across many areas of psychiatry. I work with a wide range of mental health concerns and help people better understand what they’re feeling and find simple, practical tools that actually work.
My practice often centers neurodivergent people, especially those who are gifted, autistic, or have ADHD. Many are dealing with perfectionism, anxiety, or long-term trauma. Many are also BIPOC and LGBTQ+ and want a provider who truly sees and understands them. I also have a strong medical background and broad experience across many areas of psychiatry. I work with a wide range of mental health concerns and help people better understand what they’re feeling and find simple, practical tools that actually work.
(323) 870-6580 View (323) 870-6580
Photo of Obidi Obienu - Smith & O'Brien Psychiatric Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Smith & O'Brien Psychiatric Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(213) 652-5948 View (213) 652-5948
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90036
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!
(424) 396-1266 View (424) 396-1266
Photo of Evangeline Luriz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Evangeline Luriz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(818) 927-6225 View (818) 927-6225
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, Dr
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(424) 487-6534 View (424) 487-6534
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 Deborah Barraza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Deborah Barraza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I’m Debbie, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; I offer a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where we can work together to understand your needs and help you feel your best—all from the comfort of your home. During our sessions, I take time to explore areas such as mood, anxiety, sleep, focus, trauma, and substance use, so we can create a personalized plan that works for you. I provide brief psychotherapy using supportive therapy, CBT-informed techniques, and motivational interviewing.
Hi, I’m Debbie, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; I offer a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where we can work together to understand your needs and help you feel your best—all from the comfort of your home. During our sessions, I take time to explore areas such as mood, anxiety, sleep, focus, trauma, and substance use, so we can create a personalized plan that works for you. I provide brief psychotherapy using supportive therapy, CBT-informed techniques, and motivational interviewing.
(820) 777-5949 View (820) 777-5949
Photo of Dr. Kenneth D'Oyen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kenneth D'Oyen
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Our therapeutic partnership sets the tone for treatment and is optimized with open communication and ongoing collaboration. Provider is accepting new patients for medication management only and does not provide stand-alone therapy services at this time many of the patients I encounter are suffering emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Our treatment goals are always to improve conflicts with oneself and others. During treatment we delve into problematic thought patterns that present with anxiety, depression, pain, and addiction, founded in some form of trauma.
Our therapeutic partnership sets the tone for treatment and is optimized with open communication and ongoing collaboration. Provider is accepting new patients for medication management only and does not provide stand-alone therapy services at this time many of the patients I encounter are suffering emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Our treatment goals are always to improve conflicts with oneself and others. During treatment we delve into problematic thought patterns that present with anxiety, depression, pain, and addiction, founded in some form of trauma.
(323) 375-2916 View (323) 375-2916
Photo of Negresha Welcome, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Negresha Welcome
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who focuses on helping individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like themselves. I work especially well with women and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Whether you’re dealing with stress, burnout, or trying to make sense of changes in your mood, energy, or motivation, I provide a space where you can feel heard and supported without judgment.
I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who focuses on helping individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like themselves. I work especially well with women and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Whether you’re dealing with stress, burnout, or trying to make sense of changes in your mood, energy, or motivation, I provide a space where you can feel heard and supported without judgment.
(909) 473-4166 View (909) 473-4166
Photo of Paige Schaeper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Paige Schaeper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Paige 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. She takes a holistic approach to mental healthcare, maintaining the client at its core and integrating both Eastern and Western medicine to optimize overall wellbeing. With more than a decade of experience, Paige has expertise in evaluation and diagnosis, therapy, and medication management.
Welcoming New Patients! Paige 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. She takes a holistic approach to mental healthcare, maintaining the client at its core and integrating both Eastern and Western medicine to optimize overall wellbeing. With more than a decade of experience, Paige has expertise in evaluation and diagnosis, therapy, and medication management.
(818) 873-4836 View (818) 873-4836
Photo of Joshua Eldridge - Joshua Eldridge, MD | Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Eldridge is a psychiatrist with a focus on treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and OCD in college students, working professionals, and creatives. He identifies the specific issues troubling his patients. Then, he discusses multiple treatment options for their needs. Regardless of diagnosis, his ideal patient is someone motivated to work towards improving their lives. Patients may need to be open to a balanced, sustainable approach in which medications and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) are considered alongside therapy, meditation, exercise, nutrition, and other lifestyle changes.
Dr. Eldridge is a psychiatrist with a focus on treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and OCD in college students, working professionals, and creatives. He identifies the specific issues troubling his patients. Then, he discusses multiple treatment options for their needs. Regardless of diagnosis, his ideal patient is someone motivated to work towards improving their lives. Patients may need to be open to a balanced, sustainable approach in which medications and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) are considered alongside therapy, meditation, exercise, nutrition, and other lifestyle changes.
(628) 265-3105 View (628) 265-3105
Photo of Aukse Goktepe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aukse Goktepe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. I use a range of methods, including medications, motivational interviewing, psychosocial support, and genetic testing, to create personalized care plans that help you feel your best.
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. I use a range of methods, including medications, motivational interviewing, psychosocial support, and genetic testing, to create personalized care plans that help you feel your best.
(323) 767-0983 View (323) 767-0983
Photo of Dr. Sandra Hah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sandra Hah
Psychiatrist, MD
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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!
(213) 895-4578 View (213) 895-4578
Photo of Pascal Daniel Stirnimann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Pascal Daniel Stirnimann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90045
I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and impulse control disorders across the lifespan. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, including training at a women’s shelter in New York City. I take a holistic approach to treatment, considering the whole individual and family system to create a personalized treatment plan. Using a shared decision-making model, I collaborate closely with clients to provide interventions that improve the key areas of life necessary for overall health and wellness.
I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and impulse control disorders across the lifespan. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, including training at a women’s shelter in New York City. I take a holistic approach to treatment, considering the whole individual and family system to create a personalized treatment plan. Using a shared decision-making model, I collaborate closely with clients to provide interventions that improve the key areas of life necessary for overall health and wellness.
(424) 398-8469 View (424) 398-8469

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

$199

Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
81% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
76% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
76% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

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.

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.