Psychiatrists in Novato, CA

Photo of Patricia Jane Stamm - Patricia Stamm, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Patricia Stamm, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Lately, have you been feeling anxious or depressed—like you're just not yourself? Is it hard to find the motivation you used to have to do things, and have you started isolating yourself from people? Do you find you have less energy than before or that your sleep is disrupted? Do the things you used to enjoy no longer bring you the same happiness? In addition are you troubled or overwhelmed by what is going on in the world? If you answered yes to a number of these questions, you could really benefit from the kind of psychotherapy that I do.
Lately, have you been feeling anxious or depressed—like you're just not yourself? Is it hard to find the motivation you used to have to do things, and have you started isolating yourself from people? Do you find you have less energy than before or that your sleep is disrupted? Do the things you used to enjoy no longer bring you the same happiness? In addition are you troubled or overwhelmed by what is going on in the world? If you answered yes to a number of these questions, you could really benefit from the kind of psychotherapy that I do.
(415) 969-3638 View (415) 969-3638
Photo of Moushumi Mukerji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, MSN
Moushumi Mukerji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, MSN
3 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
Are you tired of endless medication that doesn't help? As a prescriber and trauma therapist, I approach healing with compassion, skill, and respect for your story. I thoughtfully combine medication, ketamine therapy, and evidence-based approaches to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, ADHD, and OCD. I specialize in women’s mental health, perinatal challenges, sexual trauma, and supporting immigrants and people of color. I work with teens and adults, offering both telehealth and in-person care. Healing is possible—with collaboration, care, and courage.
Are you tired of endless medication that doesn't help? As a prescriber and trauma therapist, I approach healing with compassion, skill, and respect for your story. I thoughtfully combine medication, ketamine therapy, and evidence-based approaches to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, ADHD, and OCD. I specialize in women’s mental health, perinatal challenges, sexual trauma, and supporting immigrants and people of color. I work with teens and adults, offering both telehealth and in-person care. Healing is possible—with collaboration, care, and courage.
(530) 617-6032 View (530) 617-6032
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(415) 914-8752 View (415) 914-8752
Photo of Theresa Carla Negrido Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Theresa Carla Negrido Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
I specialize in medication management. I work with individuals dealing with mood dysregulation, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and attention issues. My goal is to support you in understanding and managing your mental health in a compassionate and holistic way.
I specialize in medication management. I work with individuals dealing with mood dysregulation, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and attention issues. My goal is to support you in understanding and managing your mental health in a compassionate and holistic way.
(415) 300-1669 View (415) 300-1669
Photo of Ned Kletz, Psychiatrist, MD
Ned Kletz
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr Kletz has been a trusted provider for ADHD evaluations/treatment and general psychiatry in California for some time. With other providers, many people find they have to wait months for an ADHD evaluation. Due to our weekend hours we are typically able to schedule clients for ADHD evaluations within one week. Additionally, for every paid appointment, we also offer 2 phone “check-ins” at no additional charge whenever needed. In this way, the treatment you receive will have a concierge quality to it.
Dr Kletz has been a trusted provider for ADHD evaluations/treatment and general psychiatry in California for some time. With other providers, many people find they have to wait months for an ADHD evaluation. Due to our weekend hours we are typically able to schedule clients for ADHD evaluations within one week. Additionally, for every paid appointment, we also offer 2 phone “check-ins” at no additional charge whenever needed. In this way, the treatment you receive will have a concierge quality to it.
(628) 266-4660 View (628) 266-4660
Photo of Nikhil Majumdar - Mindful Health Solutions - Nikhil Majumdar, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Majumdar is a psychiatrist, Board-Certified in Psychiatry as well as in Addiction Medicine, who believes in holistic treatment. He creates personalized treatment plans with each patient, drawing on his expertise and their life experience to help them improve their mental, physical, and social health. He considers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. He looks forward to watching TMS grow in its ability to treat other conditions as other areas of the brain are carefully mapped.
Dr. Majumdar is a psychiatrist, Board-Certified in Psychiatry as well as in Addiction Medicine, who believes in holistic treatment. He creates personalized treatment plans with each patient, drawing on his expertise and their life experience to help them improve their mental, physical, and social health. He considers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be at the forefront of neurological and psychiatric treatment. He looks forward to watching TMS grow in its ability to treat other conditions as other areas of the brain are carefully mapped.
(650) 686-5706 View (650) 686-5706
Photo of Shannon Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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.
(213) 772-3603 View (213) 772-3603
Photo of Inna Zelikman - Inna Zelikman PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Inna Zelikman PMH-NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Online Only
Are you someone who has been struggling with treatment resistant depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Sleep Disorder, unresolved trauma or unprocessed grief? Do you feel stuck in old patterns despite years of therapy? I am Certified in Somatic Trauma Therapy and Completed Internal Family Systems (IFS) level I. Through somatic therapy I help clients get in touch with their feelings and release any trapped emotions. These technics help with regulation of nervous system that is needed to process trauma. Are you seeking psychedelic therapy at psilocybin centers and need an assessment and medication adjustment before/after.
Are you someone who has been struggling with treatment resistant depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Sleep Disorder, unresolved trauma or unprocessed grief? Do you feel stuck in old patterns despite years of therapy? I am Certified in Somatic Trauma Therapy and Completed Internal Family Systems (IFS) level I. Through somatic therapy I help clients get in touch with their feelings and release any trapped emotions. These technics help with regulation of nervous system that is needed to process trauma. Are you seeking psychedelic therapy at psilocybin centers and need an assessment and medication adjustment before/after.
(628) 214-2296 View (628) 214-2296

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Udor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Sarah Udor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Sausalito, CA 94965
As a dedicated mental health, pain management, and aesthetic physician, I understand the unique challenges that individuals face when it comes to both physical and emotional well-being. I am here to support you in your journey toward healing, whether through personalized mental health counseling, advanced pain management techniques, or rejuvenating aesthetic treatments.
As a dedicated mental health, pain management, and aesthetic physician, I understand the unique challenges that individuals face when it comes to both physical and emotional well-being. I am here to support you in your journey toward healing, whether through personalized mental health counseling, advanced pain management techniques, or rejuvenating aesthetic treatments.
(628) 285-1287 View (628) 285-1287
Photo of Dr. James Eyerman - Integrative Psychiatry w Dr James Eyerman, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, ABIHM
Integrative Psychiatry w Dr James Eyerman
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, ABIHM
San Francisco, CA 94123
Welcome. I treat patients facing a wide variety of physical, mental, and spiritual challenges. Depending on your specific needs, the treatment can involve medication as well as psychotherapy. We may work with depth and transpersonal psychology, dreams, non-drug psychedelic states of consciousness, and hypnosis. I also offer acupuncture, ayurvedic medicine, meditation techniques, EMDR, and holotropic breathwork.
Welcome. I treat patients facing a wide variety of physical, mental, and spiritual challenges. Depending on your specific needs, the treatment can involve medication as well as psychotherapy. We may work with depth and transpersonal psychology, dreams, non-drug psychedelic states of consciousness, and hypnosis. I also offer acupuncture, ayurvedic medicine, meditation techniques, EMDR, and holotropic breathwork.
(628) 214-2265 View (628) 214-2265
Steven A. Frankel
Psychiatrist, MD
Corte Madera, CA 94925
What's missing from typical psychiatric care? * Care is typically boiled down to diagnositic categories while bypassing confounding personal issues * Clinicians tend to focus on the patient separated from the rest of his or her life. * Care is available only on a schedule. * Care is delivered by someone whose experience and interest covers only part of a problem. -- Mental health conditions don't exist in isolation. They are generally complicated by interpersonal issues involving relationships, family, school, or employment. They may require psychotherapy, medication, or both. My practice consists of psychotherapy, medication as needed, and medical consultation as appropriate
What's missing from typical psychiatric care? * Care is typically boiled down to diagnositic categories while bypassing confounding personal issues * Clinicians tend to focus on the patient separated from the rest of his or her life. * Care is available only on a schedule. * Care is delivered by someone whose experience and interest covers only part of a problem. -- Mental health conditions don't exist in isolation. They are generally complicated by interpersonal issues involving relationships, family, school, or employment. They may require psychotherapy, medication, or both. My practice consists of psychotherapy, medication as needed, and medical consultation as appropriate
(415) 466-8626 View (415) 466-8626
Photo of Chinenye Chukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chinenye Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Chinenye! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized mental healthcare. My approach to providing mental healthcare is patient-centered, compassionate, and evidence-based. I believe in building a collaborative relationship with my patients, and taking the time to understand their unique experiences and goals. I also incorporate mindfulness techniques and trauma-informed care to ensure a comprehensive approach to mental well-being.
Hi there, I'm Chinenye! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized mental healthcare. My approach to providing mental healthcare is patient-centered, compassionate, and evidence-based. I believe in building a collaborative relationship with my patients, and taking the time to understand their unique experiences and goals. I also incorporate mindfulness techniques and trauma-informed care to ensure a comprehensive approach to mental well-being.
(747) 359-3796 View (747) 359-3796
Photo of Dr. John Connor Barnhart, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. John Connor Barnhart
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94127
I am a UCSF and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist specialized in helping you unlock your full potential. I work with adults struggling with mood, anxiety, and focus problems - as well as difficulties in relationships, career, or sense of self - who are invested in developing a deeper understanding of themselves and taking an active role in their self-improvement; those looking to get at the root causes of new or long-festering problems and committed to making positive changes to support their wellbeing.
I am a UCSF and University of Pennsylvania trained psychiatrist specialized in helping you unlock your full potential. I work with adults struggling with mood, anxiety, and focus problems - as well as difficulties in relationships, career, or sense of self - who are invested in developing a deeper understanding of themselves and taking an active role in their self-improvement; those looking to get at the root causes of new or long-festering problems and committed to making positive changes to support their wellbeing.
(415) 936-8152 View (415) 936-8152
Photo of David Scott May, Psychiatrist, MD
David Scott May
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I am a board certified child and adult psychiatrist in private practice for 30 years. I am highly trained to do psychiatric evaluations, various types of psychotherapy and medication consultations for psychiatric conditions. My approach varies depending on the need of the individual, the couple or the family. I work collaboratively with my patients. I attempt as broad of a view of each individual as possible. I look at environmental, social, psychological, and biological forces; and use this holistic view when considering the designing of a course of treatment for an individual.
I am a board certified child and adult psychiatrist in private practice for 30 years. I am highly trained to do psychiatric evaluations, various types of psychotherapy and medication consultations for psychiatric conditions. My approach varies depending on the need of the individual, the couple or the family. I work collaboratively with my patients. I attempt as broad of a view of each individual as possible. I look at environmental, social, psychological, and biological forces; and use this holistic view when considering the designing of a course of treatment for an individual.
(415) 895-2362 View (415) 895-2362
Photo of Kim Schurman, Psychiatrist, MD
Kim Schurman
Psychiatrist, MD
San Rafael, CA 94901
Dr. Kim Schurman is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a focused interest in working with patients who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety. Her style of psychiatry is a warm, curious, and empathic approach to working with patients. She prefers to work collaboratively in order to help patients understand themselves and their treatment process.
Dr. Kim Schurman is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a focused interest in working with patients who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety. Her style of psychiatry is a warm, curious, and empathic approach to working with patients. She prefers to work collaboratively in order to help patients understand themselves and their treatment process.
(628) 345-7293 View (628) 345-7293
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 895-7292 View (341) 895-7292
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) 977-6576 View (805) 977-6576
Photo of Nadia Taylor, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Nadia Taylor
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am a UCSF-trained, board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience treating the full spectrum of mental and emotional struggles, with a holistic approach that draws from conventional psychiatry as well as integrative and functional medicine. I strive to deeply understand your lived experience, while also exploring underlying physiological factors that may be contributing to your distress. I offer in-depth evaluations that include laboratory testing to uncover root causes, and highly individualized treatment to bring relief and restore balance.
I am a UCSF-trained, board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience treating the full spectrum of mental and emotional struggles, with a holistic approach that draws from conventional psychiatry as well as integrative and functional medicine. I strive to deeply understand your lived experience, while also exploring underlying physiological factors that may be contributing to your distress. I offer in-depth evaluations that include laboratory testing to uncover root causes, and highly individualized treatment to bring relief and restore balance.
(628) 257-8842 View (628) 257-8842
Photo of Edward Davis, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABAM, ABPM
Edward Davis
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABAM, ABPM
Sausalito, CA 94965
I look for ways to optimize individual treatment and seek opportunities to surpass previous functioning. My goal is to help patients achieve their full potential and self-actualize. I follow a positive strength based approach that is highly individualized. After graduating from the Juilliard School, I prepared for medical studies at the City University of New York. Then completed medical studies at U.C.S.F. and psychiatry residency at Stanford University. I have recently renewed Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology 2020, Addiction Medicine 2019 and Pain Medicine 2017.
I look for ways to optimize individual treatment and seek opportunities to surpass previous functioning. My goal is to help patients achieve their full potential and self-actualize. I follow a positive strength based approach that is highly individualized. After graduating from the Juilliard School, I prepared for medical studies at the City University of New York. Then completed medical studies at U.C.S.F. and psychiatry residency at Stanford University. I have recently renewed Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology 2020, Addiction Medicine 2019 and Pain Medicine 2017.
(415) 799-8592 View (415) 799-8592
Photo of Sarah J Polfliet, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarah J Polfliet
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
(415) 685-4127 View (415) 685-4127

See more therapy options for Novato

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Novato, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Novato, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
88% Anxiety
75% ADHD
75% Bipolar Disorder
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Sleep or Insomnia
63% Medication Management

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
75% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Novato, CA see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Novato?

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.