Psychiatrists in Los Gatos, CA

Licensed CA & VA
YouTube PsychtalkwithDrWendla.
Dr Schwartz is a seasoned physician and accomplished adult/child psychiatrist, renowned for her holistic approach to treatment that acknowledges the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. With over 25 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Schwartz specializes in addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Psychosis, Somatic disorders, Trauma/PTSD, DMDD, Autism, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders. She possesses a deep understanding of children, teenagers and adults
Licensed CA & VA
YouTube PsychtalkwithDrWendla.
Dr Schwartz is a seasoned physician and accomplished adult/child psychiatrist, renowned for her holistic approach to treatment that acknowledges the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. With over 25 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Schwartz specializes in addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Psychosis, Somatic disorders, Trauma/PTSD, DMDD, Autism, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders. She possesses a deep understanding of children, teenagers and adults

Now accepting new patients. Dr. Lang-Furr has over 15 years of experience treating patients with PTSD, insomnia, depression, bipolar, and anxiety disorders. She is double-board certified in Adult and Geriatric psychiatry. Dr. Lang-Furr is an advocate for lifestyle psychiatry, focusing on psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions in combination with conservative use of medications when necessary.
Now accepting new patients. Dr. Lang-Furr has over 15 years of experience treating patients with PTSD, insomnia, depression, bipolar, and anxiety disorders. She is double-board certified in Adult and Geriatric psychiatry. Dr. Lang-Furr is an advocate for lifestyle psychiatry, focusing on psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions in combination with conservative use of medications when necessary.

I trained in the Stanford Adult Psychiatry Residency Program, where I held the position of Chief Resident, and I am currently an Adjunct Clinical Instructor at Stanford where I teach and supervise residents. My areas of expertise include medication management and psychodynamic psychotherapy. The appropriate mental health care at the right time has the power to transform lives. I’m quite lucky to be able to say that my passion is also my profession, and I consider it a privilege to be a psychiatrist and to help people get through some of the most difficult times in their lives.
I trained in the Stanford Adult Psychiatry Residency Program, where I held the position of Chief Resident, and I am currently an Adjunct Clinical Instructor at Stanford where I teach and supervise residents. My areas of expertise include medication management and psychodynamic psychotherapy. The appropriate mental health care at the right time has the power to transform lives. I’m quite lucky to be able to say that my passion is also my profession, and I consider it a privilege to be a psychiatrist and to help people get through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

Licensed CA & VA
Persons suffering emotional illness often are hesitant to trust others. Yet they must bridge this gap if they're toreceive help. It's an evolving process that is made easier by encountering and interacting with empathetic, engaged, and experienced professionals. In addition, those professionals must be flexible, open-eared as well as open-minded if they truly desire to understand the person they're trying to help. This process begins at the first appointment when a psychiatrist must help the seeker answer the most important of questions: Can we really talk? Can I trust him? Can he help me? Will he help me?
Licensed CA & VA
Persons suffering emotional illness often are hesitant to trust others. Yet they must bridge this gap if they're toreceive help. It's an evolving process that is made easier by encountering and interacting with empathetic, engaged, and experienced professionals. In addition, those professionals must be flexible, open-eared as well as open-minded if they truly desire to understand the person they're trying to help. This process begins at the first appointment when a psychiatrist must help the seeker answer the most important of questions: Can we really talk? Can I trust him? Can he help me? Will he help me?

Accepting patients now!
Dr. Kapur is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in children, teens, young adults, and their families. This training has provided Dr. Kapur with expertise in ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, parent-child relational issues, among other mental health problems.
Accepting patients now!
Dr. Kapur is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in children, teens, young adults, and their families. This training has provided Dr. Kapur with expertise in ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, parent-child relational issues, among other mental health problems.

Dr. Tony Masri is a board certified sleep medicine specialist. He has a decade of experience in diagnosing and managing sleep disorders from sleep apnea and insomnia to rare parasomnias and narcolepsy. His holistic therapeutic approach combines non-medication and medication treatment based on his patient’s treatment goals. He also provides in-home sleep studies allowing for a full sleep assessment without the discomfort of sleeping in a lab.
Dr. Tony Masri is a board certified sleep medicine specialist. He has a decade of experience in diagnosing and managing sleep disorders from sleep apnea and insomnia to rare parasomnias and narcolepsy. His holistic therapeutic approach combines non-medication and medication treatment based on his patient’s treatment goals. He also provides in-home sleep studies allowing for a full sleep assessment without the discomfort of sleeping in a lab.

If you want to know your true-self, if you are curious about what built your personality and character, if you want to know where your depression and anxiety come from, if you wonder how you can be healthier and stronger, or if you are interested in what good life and good death are like, please meet me and talk with me. Share your daily life, thoughts and emotion with me. Let's find out your true self and let you be you. My goal is for you to love yourself as you are. That's the purpose of life. That makes your life a good life. That makes your death a good death. You deserve to be a better version of yourself everyday.
If you want to know your true-self, if you are curious about what built your personality and character, if you want to know where your depression and anxiety come from, if you wonder how you can be healthier and stronger, or if you are interested in what good life and good death are like, please meet me and talk with me. Share your daily life, thoughts and emotion with me. Let's find out your true self and let you be you. My goal is for you to love yourself as you are. That's the purpose of life. That makes your life a good life. That makes your death a good death. You deserve to be a better version of yourself everyday.

Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.

Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "

My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.

I have practiced as a psychiatrist for over 25 years. I graduated from University of Michigan Medical School and completed a psychiatry residency at UC San Francisco. I specialize in working with adult men. My particular areas of interest are Bipolar & Depressive Disorders along with Anxiety & Addiction issues. My evaluations are very thorough & detailed. I take a holistic approach working with each patient's background and their treatment preferences. Medication management is often a part of treatment. There can be significant paperwork to fill out as part of the evaluation. This facilitates the best use of our time together.
I have practiced as a psychiatrist for over 25 years. I graduated from University of Michigan Medical School and completed a psychiatry residency at UC San Francisco. I specialize in working with adult men. My particular areas of interest are Bipolar & Depressive Disorders along with Anxiety & Addiction issues. My evaluations are very thorough & detailed. I take a holistic approach working with each patient's background and their treatment preferences. Medication management is often a part of treatment. There can be significant paperwork to fill out as part of the evaluation. This facilitates the best use of our time together.

Hi! I am a board certified adult psychiatrist, specializing in the treatment of adult mental health disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Schizophrenia. My training was at a research institution in the areas of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and I keep up to date with the latest advances in this ever-changing field of treatment. My past experience working for Santa Cruz County Mental Health has informed me about the patient experience, the impact on families, as well as cultural aspects and connections with local mental health resources. I am fluent in both English and Spanish.
Hi! I am a board certified adult psychiatrist, specializing in the treatment of adult mental health disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Schizophrenia. My training was at a research institution in the areas of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and I keep up to date with the latest advances in this ever-changing field of treatment. My past experience working for Santa Cruz County Mental Health has informed me about the patient experience, the impact on families, as well as cultural aspects and connections with local mental health resources. I am fluent in both English and Spanish.

If you're considering calling me it's because something is wrong, and you're suffering. Often it's difficult to even find the words to describe the problem. that's okay. I meet you wherever you are so that together we begin to build an understanding of the difficulties that have brought you to treatment. I'm experienced working in many different overlapping areas of difficultly including anxiety and mood, troubled intimacy and relationships, complex and developmental trauma, socially located trauma and oppression, loss and bereavement, living with pain and/or medical illness, and concerns regarding gender and sexuality,
If you're considering calling me it's because something is wrong, and you're suffering. Often it's difficult to even find the words to describe the problem. that's okay. I meet you wherever you are so that together we begin to build an understanding of the difficulties that have brought you to treatment. I'm experienced working in many different overlapping areas of difficultly including anxiety and mood, troubled intimacy and relationships, complex and developmental trauma, socially located trauma and oppression, loss and bereavement, living with pain and/or medical illness, and concerns regarding gender and sexuality,

I help adults achieve an enhanced sense of well being and contentment to manage anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders and environmental stress by evaluating and treating biological, psychological and mind-body imbalances. I offer medication management, supportive therapy, integrative health interventions and practical techniques for clients to manage problematic habits and thought patterns. I have treated adults with psychiatric conditions for 20 years and share my time and knowledge to thoroughly explore one’s concerns, making sure to understand the complexities and nuances of the individual.
I help adults achieve an enhanced sense of well being and contentment to manage anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders and environmental stress by evaluating and treating biological, psychological and mind-body imbalances. I offer medication management, supportive therapy, integrative health interventions and practical techniques for clients to manage problematic habits and thought patterns. I have treated adults with psychiatric conditions for 20 years and share my time and knowledge to thoroughly explore one’s concerns, making sure to understand the complexities and nuances of the individual.

Anxiety, depression, and behavior challenges can make life feel overwhelming, especially when traditional care models fail to address the root causes. For example, neurodevelopmental differences may underlie anxiety and depression. High achievement and gender stereotypes can mask autism and ADHD, for which sensory processing challenges are often at the core.
Blue Wave Behavioral Health was created to address this gap in care for children, teens, young adults and families. As a neurodevelopmental psychiatry provider who sees the full picture with comprehensive clarity, I offer clear clinical impressions and guidance for growth.
Anxiety, depression, and behavior challenges can make life feel overwhelming, especially when traditional care models fail to address the root causes. For example, neurodevelopmental differences may underlie anxiety and depression. High achievement and gender stereotypes can mask autism and ADHD, for which sensory processing challenges are often at the core.
Blue Wave Behavioral Health was created to address this gap in care for children, teens, young adults and families. As a neurodevelopmental psychiatry provider who sees the full picture with comprehensive clarity, I offer clear clinical impressions and guidance for growth.

Michael Quach MD | Willow Glen Psychiatry For Men
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You deserve more. More control over your mood. More focus and direction. More meaning in every pursuit. I offer a confidential, judgment-free zone where men like you can finally tackle those emotional challenges head-on. My focus is laser-sharp – Men's Mental Health. I understand the unique pressures you face, the biological and cultural currents that shape your experiences. I'm here to listen, strategize, and equip you with the tools you need to conquer whatever you're facing.
You deserve more. More control over your mood. More focus and direction. More meaning in every pursuit. I offer a confidential, judgment-free zone where men like you can finally tackle those emotional challenges head-on. My focus is laser-sharp – Men's Mental Health. I understand the unique pressures you face, the biological and cultural currents that shape your experiences. I'm here to listen, strategize, and equip you with the tools you need to conquer whatever you're facing.

Kimberly Frost Sickler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, PMHNP, ACHPN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We at Manresa Wellness are currently welcoming new clients. We understand how challenging it can be to find mental health care, especially given the current shortage of providers in our area. At a time when so many are facing difficulties, we are grateful to offer a growing practice dedicated to meeting this need. At Manresa Wellness, our mission is to support the mental health and well-being of adults in our community with compassionate, personalized care. We treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions and are deeply committed to helping our patients find relief, feel empowered, and lead fuller, more fulfilling lives.
We at Manresa Wellness are currently welcoming new clients. We understand how challenging it can be to find mental health care, especially given the current shortage of providers in our area. At a time when so many are facing difficulties, we are grateful to offer a growing practice dedicated to meeting this need. At Manresa Wellness, our mission is to support the mental health and well-being of adults in our community with compassionate, personalized care. We treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions and are deeply committed to helping our patients find relief, feel empowered, and lead fuller, more fulfilling lives.

I am a Stanford and Emory trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Each patient of mine is a distinct individual with their own unique life experiences, strengths and challenges. Therefore, I create a specialized treatment plan in a collaborative and respectful manner, providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy and/or pharmacologic management in a warm, supportive environment. I have particular expertise in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and Adult ADHD. I am trained, among other therapeutic methods, in Family-Based Therapy for Anorexia Nervosa and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Stanford University.
I am a Stanford and Emory trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Each patient of mine is a distinct individual with their own unique life experiences, strengths and challenges. Therefore, I create a specialized treatment plan in a collaborative and respectful manner, providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy and/or pharmacologic management in a warm, supportive environment. I have particular expertise in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and Adult ADHD. I am trained, among other therapeutic methods, in Family-Based Therapy for Anorexia Nervosa and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Stanford University.

Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, or navigating complex emotions in life? Or are you a woman facing challenges during pregnancy and postpartum periods? Serving adolescents and adults of all genders and cultural backgrounds, my expertise lies in providing compassionate, judgment-free, comprehensive telepsychiatry across California. Seeking relief and a path to wellbeing? My approach combines traditional psychiatry—medications & therapy—with holistic methods like supplementation, genetic/lab testing, and sleep optimization. Let's uncover the root causes and tailor a journey towards your vibrant health.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, or navigating complex emotions in life? Or are you a woman facing challenges during pregnancy and postpartum periods? Serving adolescents and adults of all genders and cultural backgrounds, my expertise lies in providing compassionate, judgment-free, comprehensive telepsychiatry across California. Seeking relief and a path to wellbeing? My approach combines traditional psychiatry—medications & therapy—with holistic methods like supplementation, genetic/lab testing, and sleep optimization. Let's uncover the root causes and tailor a journey towards your vibrant health.

Usually people come in for help when there is some distress ( symptoms can be a wake-up call to pay attention- to grow or heal- change- or rest more): I see people from all walks of life- with anxiety, prolonged sadness,grief or stress, pms- menopause symptoms,chronic fatigue, allergies-asthma, thyroid issues, insomnia, co-dependent or burned out workers/ givers, alcoholics wanting more recovery, straight-or gay people etc. I work best with someone that really wants to clear or transform deeper dysfunctional patterns as well, and strive toward higher qualities of soul purpose,love, joy, serenity, focus, balance, and self-discovery.
Usually people come in for help when there is some distress ( symptoms can be a wake-up call to pay attention- to grow or heal- change- or rest more): I see people from all walks of life- with anxiety, prolonged sadness,grief or stress, pms- menopause symptoms,chronic fatigue, allergies-asthma, thyroid issues, insomnia, co-dependent or burned out workers/ givers, alcoholics wanting more recovery, straight-or gay people etc. I work best with someone that really wants to clear or transform deeper dysfunctional patterns as well, and strive toward higher qualities of soul purpose,love, joy, serenity, focus, balance, and self-discovery.
See more therapy options for Los Gatos
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Los Gatos, CA
20+
Average cost per session
$425
Psychiatrists in Los Gatos, CA who prioritize treating:
81% | Depression |
81% | Anxiety |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Sleep or Insomnia |
76% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
21 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Los Gatos, CA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Los Gatos?
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.