Psychiatrists in Manhattan Beach, CA

Photo of Dr. Geoffrey Okoth Odhiambo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Dr. Geoffrey Okoth Odhiambo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Jeff Okoth Odhiambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2016. He has a Doctor of Nursing Practice: Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Brandman University, a Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner from California State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University. Jeff believes in supporting and upholding our community's right to health by providing quality, equitable, and comprehensive care. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys traveling, football, billiards, and golfing.
Jeff Okoth Odhiambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2016. He has a Doctor of Nursing Practice: Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Brandman University, a Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner from California State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University. Jeff believes in supporting and upholding our community's right to health by providing quality, equitable, and comprehensive care. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys traveling, football, billiards, and golfing.
(424) 588-5479 View (424) 588-5479
Photo of Benedicta Osuji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(510) 916-3005 View (510) 916-3005
Photo of Shannon Richmond, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Shannon Richmond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
(424) 855-1839 View (424) 855-1839
Photo of Ana Jimenez, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Ana Jimenez
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(310) 807-6694 View (310) 807-6694
Photo of Dr. Quinn Miller-Bedell - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(424) 415-8613 View (424) 415-8613
Photo of Kelly Maher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Kelly Maher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Kelly Maher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Arts, Psychology from Boston College, a Bachelor of Science, Nursing from Rutgers University School of Nursing, a Master of Science, Nursing from California State University and a Master of Science, Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work. Kelly possesses 18 years of professional experience in the mental health field, including 10 years as a bedside nurse in a variety of inpatient psychiatric settings.
Kelly Maher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Arts, Psychology from Boston College, a Bachelor of Science, Nursing from Rutgers University School of Nursing, a Master of Science, Nursing from California State University and a Master of Science, Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work. Kelly possesses 18 years of professional experience in the mental health field, including 10 years as a bedside nurse in a variety of inpatient psychiatric settings.
(424) 414-7673 View (424) 414-7673
Photo of Riz Ahmad, Psychiatrist, MD
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(424) 232-0739 View (424) 232-0739
Photo of Vides Apresto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vides Apresto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(424) 488-7439 View (424) 488-7439
Photo of Mattison Pearlman, Physician Assistant, PAC, CAQ Psy
Mattison Pearlman
Physician Assistant, PAC, CAQ Psy
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(310) 943-3937 View (310) 943-3937
Photo of Debra R Kalan, Psychiatrist, MD
Debra R Kalan
Psychiatrist, MD
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Dr. Debra Kalan is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults struggling with mental health issues in various settings, including acute care, residential programs, and partial hospitalization programs. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology and a Medical Degree from the University of Southern California (USC). Dr. Kalan completed her residency in Psychiatry and Neurology and a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Harbor/UCLA Medical Center. She has worked extensively with private and nonprofit organizations.
Dr. Debra Kalan is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults struggling with mental health issues in various settings, including acute care, residential programs, and partial hospitalization programs. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology and a Medical Degree from the University of Southern California (USC). Dr. Kalan completed her residency in Psychiatry and Neurology and a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Harbor/UCLA Medical Center. She has worked extensively with private and nonprofit organizations.
(424) 306-1719 View (424) 306-1719
Photo of Mae Caragay, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Mae Caragay
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
(949) 997-0356 View (949) 997-0356
Photo of Daniel Chandler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Daniel Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(213) 583-2707 View (213) 583-2707
Photo of Ann Woo-Ming Park - ADHD Psychiatrist and Coach for Women, Psychiatrist, MD
ADHD Psychiatrist and Coach for Women
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hello and welcome. My name is Dr. Ann Park and I'm a Board-certified psychiatrist, therapist, and coach who specializes in treating women with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Did you know that ADHD affects 8% of U.S. adults (that's 27 million people) and is often underdiagnosed in women and high achievers? Common barriers include stigma, overworking to compensate, and misguided assumptions about what ADHD should look like. As a result, many people experience anxiety, depression, and interpersonal stress with their significant others before an accurate diagnosis is made.
Hello and welcome. My name is Dr. Ann Park and I'm a Board-certified psychiatrist, therapist, and coach who specializes in treating women with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Did you know that ADHD affects 8% of U.S. adults (that's 27 million people) and is often underdiagnosed in women and high achievers? Common barriers include stigma, overworking to compensate, and misguided assumptions about what ADHD should look like. As a result, many people experience anxiety, depression, and interpersonal stress with their significant others before an accurate diagnosis is made.
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Photo of Martha Koo, Psychiatrist, MD
Martha Koo
Psychiatrist, MD
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Dr. Martha B. Koo, M.D., completed her undergraduate studies at Princeton University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, and her medical training at UCLA Medical School, where she earned membership in the AOA and Sigma Xi Society for academic excellence. Dr. Koo completed her residency in psychiatry at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and then pursued psychoanalytic training at the New Center for Psychoanalysis. For over twenty years, Dr. Koo has enjoyed her private practice, providing outpatient psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and pharmacological treatment for individuals, couples, and families.
Dr. Martha B. Koo, M.D., completed her undergraduate studies at Princeton University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, and her medical training at UCLA Medical School, where she earned membership in the AOA and Sigma Xi Society for academic excellence. Dr. Koo completed her residency in psychiatry at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and then pursued psychoanalytic training at the New Center for Psychoanalysis. For over twenty years, Dr. Koo has enjoyed her private practice, providing outpatient psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and pharmacological treatment for individuals, couples, and families.
(424) 378-3116 View (424) 378-3116
Photo of Brittnai Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
(424) 496-4319 View (424) 496-4319
Photo of Quinn Miller-Bedell, Psychiatrist, MD
Quinn Miller-Bedell
Psychiatrist, MD
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Dr. Quinn Miller-Bedell is a compassionate and collaborative Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD. He attended Tulane Medical School, where he received his M.D. degree, before completing his psychiatric residency training at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco. As the chief resident of the Emergency Psychiatry Service and hospital-based Consult and Liaison service, Dr. Miller-Bedell developed a deep understanding of providing comprehensive psychiatric care in challenging situations.
Dr. Quinn Miller-Bedell is a compassionate and collaborative Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD. He attended Tulane Medical School, where he received his M.D. degree, before completing his psychiatric residency training at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco. As the chief resident of the Emergency Psychiatry Service and hospital-based Consult and Liaison service, Dr. Miller-Bedell developed a deep understanding of providing comprehensive psychiatric care in challenging situations.
(424) 722-6580 View (424) 722-6580
Photo of Dustin Stephens, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Dustin Stephens
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
Dr. Stephens is a board-certified psychiatrist who received specialty training at UCLA and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. He is a compassionate and experienced physician with years of clinical experience. Dr. Stephens understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness, and he provides a safe and non-judgmental space for his patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. His approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence-based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
(310) 872-2483 View (310) 872-2483
Photo of Belinda King, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Belinda King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! I'm Belinda King, F-PMHNP-BC. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is compassionate, caring, and charismatic. My goal is to partner with you in your journey to well-being by providing you with empathy, respect, and compassion. I bring with me a unique set of skills that have fostered my urge to help those most in need. My focus areas are Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Anxiety, Gender Dysphoria, Major Depression, and OCD. I am committed to becoming your ally in health.
Hi! I'm Belinda King, F-PMHNP-BC. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is compassionate, caring, and charismatic. My goal is to partner with you in your journey to well-being by providing you with empathy, respect, and compassion. I bring with me a unique set of skills that have fostered my urge to help those most in need. My focus areas are Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Anxiety, Gender Dysphoria, Major Depression, and OCD. I am committed to becoming your ally in health.
(925) 940-3334 View (925) 940-3334
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(805) 456-1538 View (805) 456-1538
Photo of Stephen Morris, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephen Morris
Psychiatrist, MD
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Dr. Morris has been described as flexible, bright, and easy-going with a good sense of humor. His clinical philosophy is rooted in practical and balanced interventions. He is well trained in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and has extensive expertise in psychopharmacology. With the aid of modern mental health tools, he can help get things on track. His education is broad, both in life, and academia. He graduated with highest honors from UC Santa Barbara and earned his Doctor of Medicine degree at UC San Francisco medical school.
Dr. Morris has been described as flexible, bright, and easy-going with a good sense of humor. His clinical philosophy is rooted in practical and balanced interventions. He is well trained in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and has extensive expertise in psychopharmacology. With the aid of modern mental health tools, he can help get things on track. His education is broad, both in life, and academia. He graduated with highest honors from UC Santa Barbara and earned his Doctor of Medicine degree at UC San Francisco medical school.
(424) 622-4513 View (424) 622-4513

See more therapy options for Manhattan Beach

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Manhattan Beach, CA

80+

Average cost per session

$237

Psychiatrists in Manhattan Beach, CA who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
86% ADHD
83% Bipolar Disorder
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Cigna and Evernorth
97% Aetna
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Manhattan Beach, CA see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

61% Female
39% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Manhattan Beach?

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.