Psychiatrists in Malibu, CA
We're Plus by APN - a team of psychiatry, therapy, and medical providers who have come together to provide real, comprehensive, interventional care for your mental health and well-being. Traditional psychiatry involves diagnosis and medication management. And we certainly do those. But at Plus by APN, we also provide in-depth psychiatric assessments to help you determine the best comprehensive treatment plan for your needs - whether that be therapy, medication, Deep TMS, ketamine-assisted healing, brain mapping, neurofeedback, stellate ganglion block (SGB) or some combination of the above.
We're Plus by APN - a team of psychiatry, therapy, and medical providers who have come together to provide real, comprehensive, interventional care for your mental health and well-being. Traditional psychiatry involves diagnosis and medication management. And we certainly do those. But at Plus by APN, we also provide in-depth psychiatric assessments to help you determine the best comprehensive treatment plan for your needs - whether that be therapy, medication, Deep TMS, ketamine-assisted healing, brain mapping, neurofeedback, stellate ganglion block (SGB) or some combination of the above.

DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of...I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician.
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of...I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician.

Resilient Minds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Waitlist for new clients
I facilitate rapid transformation in individuals groups and systems. I help you to clear subconscious belief systems, negative frequencies, ancestral and this lifetime traumas that hold you back from inhabiting the frequency of health, wealth or whatever you desire. For resolution of chronic illness, autoimmune, inflammation, struggles with weight, fatigue or psychiatric illness I create a customized biochemical methylation protocol and adjustment based on your unique energy body and genetic variants. I manage Western psychiatric medication when appropriate with ongoing supervision and a commitment to naturopathic treatment.
I facilitate rapid transformation in individuals groups and systems. I help you to clear subconscious belief systems, negative frequencies, ancestral and this lifetime traumas that hold you back from inhabiting the frequency of health, wealth or whatever you desire. For resolution of chronic illness, autoimmune, inflammation, struggles with weight, fatigue or psychiatric illness I create a customized biochemical methylation protocol and adjustment based on your unique energy body and genetic variants. I manage Western psychiatric medication when appropriate with ongoing supervision and a commitment to naturopathic treatment.

Mindwell Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.
MindWell Mental Health Services is a psychiatric clinic in Wildomar providing in-person and online mental health consultation, mental health counseling, psychiatric medication management, and therapy for adults, teenagers, and children struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, addiction, and more. While based in Wildomar, MindWell also offers virtual and face-to-face mental health consultations in Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside County, and throughout California.

Patryce became a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner after graduating from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. In addition to earning her health coach certification at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and training in ketamine-assisted therapy at the Polaris Insight Center, Patryce has deepened her knowledge throughout her own health journey, her experience working as an artist, and 20 years of yoga and spiritual exploration. As a holistic-minded Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Patryce considers the whole person when designing individualized treatment plans.
Patryce became a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner after graduating from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. In addition to earning her health coach certification at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and training in ketamine-assisted therapy at the Polaris Insight Center, Patryce has deepened her knowledge throughout her own health journey, her experience working as an artist, and 20 years of yoga and spiritual exploration. As a holistic-minded Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Patryce considers the whole person when designing individualized treatment plans.

Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
As a mental health provider at At Plus by APN, we provide neurotechnology and integrative psychiatry services, including dTMS, Ketamine-Assisted Healing, Stellate Ganglion Block, and Neurofeedback. Traditional healthcare holds a significant line between physical healthcare and mental healthcare. We don’t. A fulfilling, healthy life requires well-being for both your mind and your body. It shouldn’t be so rare for healthcare providers to integrate the two. We set out to help people everywhere pursue mental and physical health at the same time, under the same umbrella – All Points North.
As a mental health provider at At Plus by APN, we provide neurotechnology and integrative psychiatry services, including dTMS, Ketamine-Assisted Healing, Stellate Ganglion Block, and Neurofeedback. Traditional healthcare holds a significant line between physical healthcare and mental healthcare. We don’t. A fulfilling, healthy life requires well-being for both your mind and your body. It shouldn’t be so rare for healthcare providers to integrate the two. We set out to help people everywhere pursue mental and physical health at the same time, under the same umbrella – All Points North.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.

Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.

My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.

We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Welcome to Psychiatry 4 Women, where YOU matter! Hello, I am Dr. Ani Tokat, a mother, doctor, educator, and an entrepreneur. I focus on women's mental health needs in all stages of their lives, with emphasis on moms. If you like hole-in-the-wall, little gem type places, then search no further. I created this solo practice with you in mind, without any corporate influence. I brought old school Psychiatry into modern times, where you have direct access to your doctor, where you are not a number in a busy clinic, where you are seen as a human being rather than as a symptom, where your voice is heard without judgement.
Welcome to Psychiatry 4 Women, where YOU matter! Hello, I am Dr. Ani Tokat, a mother, doctor, educator, and an entrepreneur. I focus on women's mental health needs in all stages of their lives, with emphasis on moms. If you like hole-in-the-wall, little gem type places, then search no further. I created this solo practice with you in mind, without any corporate influence. I brought old school Psychiatry into modern times, where you have direct access to your doctor, where you are not a number in a busy clinic, where you are seen as a human being rather than as a symptom, where your voice is heard without judgement.

Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.

We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!

Jamie is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, substance abuse, OCD and mood disorders. She works closely with a residential treatment center in West Los Angeles that offers more intensive treatment for trauma and OCD.
Jamie is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, substance abuse, OCD and mood disorders. She works closely with a residential treatment center in West Los Angeles that offers more intensive treatment for trauma and OCD.

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.

We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!

Chelsea Neumann, MD at West Coast Integrative
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Chelsea Neumann, MD is an integrative psychiatrist in California who is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Neumann practices using an integrative psychiatry model which incorporates the biological, psychological and social factors that contribute to the health and well-being of the whole person and family. She treats children, adolescents and adults of all ages. Her practice includes therapists and a nutritionist who provide all services within one mental health home at West Coast Integrative Mental Health.
Chelsea Neumann, MD is an integrative psychiatrist in California who is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Neumann practices using an integrative psychiatry model which incorporates the biological, psychological and social factors that contribute to the health and well-being of the whole person and family. She treats children, adolescents and adults of all ages. Her practice includes therapists and a nutritionist who provide all services within one mental health home at West Coast Integrative Mental Health.

We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!

My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
See more therapy options for Malibu
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Malibu, CA
30+
Average cost per session
$325
Psychiatrists in Malibu, CA who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
94% | Trauma and PTSD |
84% | ADHD |
84% | Stress |
81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
90% | Aetna |
90% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Malibu, CA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
52% | Female | |
48% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Malibu?
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.