Psychiatrists in Oceanside, CA

One size does NOT fit all! I believe that an individualized and holistic approach to your mental wellness yields true solutions. I have over 10 years of well rounded experience in the field and I am passionate about integrating evidence-informed conventional and complementary therapies in treating psychiatric disorders. I have learned that every person requires a unique approach. You and I may need to rework medications, while others would benefit from talking through possibilities or processing painful memories, and still others need my help refining their nutrition or developing consistent exercise habits.
One size does NOT fit all! I believe that an individualized and holistic approach to your mental wellness yields true solutions. I have over 10 years of well rounded experience in the field and I am passionate about integrating evidence-informed conventional and complementary therapies in treating psychiatric disorders. I have learned that every person requires a unique approach. You and I may need to rework medications, while others would benefit from talking through possibilities or processing painful memories, and still others need my help refining their nutrition or developing consistent exercise habits.

My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.
My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.

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.

My ideal client is an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, anger management, or trauma. They need compassionate support, clear guidance, and a tailored treatment plan. Their goal is to regain stability, improve emotional well-being, and develop coping skills for a more fulfilling life. They seek a trusted provider to help them navigate medication management and complementary strategies like therapy, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments.
My ideal client is an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, anger management, or trauma. They need compassionate support, clear guidance, and a tailored treatment plan. Their goal is to regain stability, improve emotional well-being, and develop coping skills for a more fulfilling life. They seek a trusted provider to help them navigate medication management and complementary strategies like therapy, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments.

Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.

I am ready to help you on your journey towards improving your mental health. Each of us face unique challenges, and at times, we need to seek assistance from others. I believe that using a client-centered approach, collaborating with other service providers such as therapists, and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices for my clients is key to improving mental health. In addition to being a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I also have a Master of Public Health, with a concentration in Maternal and Child Health.
I am ready to help you on your journey towards improving your mental health. Each of us face unique challenges, and at times, we need to seek assistance from others. I believe that using a client-centered approach, collaborating with other service providers such as therapists, and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices for my clients is key to improving mental health. In addition to being a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I also have a Master of Public Health, with a concentration in Maternal and Child Health.

Dr. Densert is a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive training and over 23 years of clinical experience. She provides evidence-based and advanced psychiatric care tailored to individual needs and offers a range of services including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment resistant depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and nasal esketamine (Spravato) for depression as well as traditional psychiatric medication management for various psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Densert is a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive training and over 23 years of clinical experience. She provides evidence-based and advanced psychiatric care tailored to individual needs and offers a range of services including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment resistant depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and nasal esketamine (Spravato) for depression as well as traditional psychiatric medication management for various psychiatric conditions.

My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.

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

Thrive Medical Specialists is revolutionizing mental health care in San Diego with our comprehensive and integrative approach. We treat the whole person, not just symptoms, by combining traditional psychotherapy with advanced treatments like stellate ganglion block and ketamine-assisted therapy. Our facility is a sanctuary for those seeking to overcome mental health challenges, offering private and comfortable settings for treatment. By focusing on cutting-edge, evidence-based options, we're setting new standards in care and helping our patients achieve remarkable transformations towards mental health and emotional well-being.
Thrive Medical Specialists is revolutionizing mental health care in San Diego with our comprehensive and integrative approach. We treat the whole person, not just symptoms, by combining traditional psychotherapy with advanced treatments like stellate ganglion block and ketamine-assisted therapy. Our facility is a sanctuary for those seeking to overcome mental health challenges, offering private and comfortable settings for treatment. By focusing on cutting-edge, evidence-based options, we're setting new standards in care and helping our patients achieve remarkable transformations towards mental health and emotional well-being.

Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
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Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.

I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.

Michelle Hanna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
I am passionate about meeting my clients where they are at and I approach psychiatric appointments holistically, knowing the importance of the mind body connection. I ensure the care I provide is client-centered and collaborative because I know that working with my clients as a team helps us to achieve our shared goals. I provide medication management in a therapeutic setting and I use my education, experience, and genuine curiosity to learn and grow every day.
I am passionate about meeting my clients where they are at and I approach psychiatric appointments holistically, knowing the importance of the mind body connection. I ensure the care I provide is client-centered and collaborative because I know that working with my clients as a team helps us to achieve our shared goals. I provide medication management in a therapeutic setting and I use my education, experience, and genuine curiosity to learn and grow every day.

My name is Suzanne Simmons. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I treat patients of all ages. I have worked in healthcare for over 20 years. I spent most of my nursing career as an Intensive Care RN. I've always held an interest in helping those that are the most vulnerable. I chose psychiatry to help people achieve the best version of themselves. During my evaluation you will expect a thorough assessment including an extensive personal history and lab testing.
My name is Suzanne Simmons. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I treat patients of all ages. I have worked in healthcare for over 20 years. I spent most of my nursing career as an Intensive Care RN. I've always held an interest in helping those that are the most vulnerable. I chose psychiatry to help people achieve the best version of themselves. During my evaluation you will expect a thorough assessment including an extensive personal history and lab testing.

We are an advanced mental health clinic specializing in Depression ,PTSD ,OCD and Anxiety disorders. We have been providing care for Veterans,Active duty personnel and military families for the last 22years.
We are an advanced mental health clinic specializing in Depression ,PTSD ,OCD and Anxiety disorders. We have been providing care for Veterans,Active duty personnel and military families for the last 22years.

I enjoy helping people to persevere, adapt, and GROW through the challenges they face. As a creative problem solver, I take the time to listen and understand the unique factors affecting each of my patients. This personalized and holistic approach starts with a thorough evaluation, which then informs a treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy, mind-body interventions, and medication management. Most of my clients are professionals who appreciate a treatment plan that optimizes both symptom reduction and high mental performance both at home and on the job. I am dedicated to helping you improve your health and resilience!
I enjoy helping people to persevere, adapt, and GROW through the challenges they face. As a creative problem solver, I take the time to listen and understand the unique factors affecting each of my patients. This personalized and holistic approach starts with a thorough evaluation, which then informs a treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy, mind-body interventions, and medication management. Most of my clients are professionals who appreciate a treatment plan that optimizes both symptom reduction and high mental performance both at home and on the job. I am dedicated to helping you improve your health and resilience!

Deborah Spandikow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, WHNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
I am accepting new patients ages 15 and above. I enjoy working with individuals and families. I incorporate a holistic approach to mental health, including problem-focused psychotherapy, mind-body connection, lifestyle modifications, and medication management.
I am accepting new patients ages 15 and above. I enjoy working with individuals and families. I incorporate a holistic approach to mental health, including problem-focused psychotherapy, mind-body connection, lifestyle modifications, and medication management.
Crownview Concierge Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
We are currently accepting new patients! Concierge services allow you to have appointments more conveniently without long waiting periods! We prioritize your schedule and respond within 48 hours. We take pride in being upfront and honest as well as being available to answer any questions that you have. First adult member: $240 a month, $720/quarter, or $2800/ year and Each additional member: $200 off per year. Services include coordination between specialists, emergency help, and unlimited visits. Services do not include TMS, ketamine treatments, infusions, and injections but we offer these services at our Thrive location.
We are currently accepting new patients! Concierge services allow you to have appointments more conveniently without long waiting periods! We prioritize your schedule and respond within 48 hours. We take pride in being upfront and honest as well as being available to answer any questions that you have. First adult member: $240 a month, $720/quarter, or $2800/ year and Each additional member: $200 off per year. Services include coordination between specialists, emergency help, and unlimited visits. Services do not include TMS, ketamine treatments, infusions, and injections but we offer these services at our Thrive location.

Robert McLay is a psychiatrist and pain medicine physician who received board certifications in three areas: General Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Psychosomatic Medicine (the overlap between medical and mental health). He has a special focus on military, their families, and high-performance issues, but treats all mental health conditions. Dr. McLay received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Johns Hopkins University, and his Ph.D. in neuroscience and M.D. from Tulane University. He received specialty training from Naval Medical Center, the University of California San Diego, and the American Psychoanalytic Association.
Robert McLay is a psychiatrist and pain medicine physician who received board certifications in three areas: General Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Psychosomatic Medicine (the overlap between medical and mental health). He has a special focus on military, their families, and high-performance issues, but treats all mental health conditions. Dr. McLay received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Johns Hopkins University, and his Ph.D. in neuroscience and M.D. from Tulane University. He received specialty training from Naval Medical Center, the University of California San Diego, and the American Psychoanalytic Association.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oceanside, CA
70+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Oceanside, CA who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
81% | Medication Management |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
79% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Oceanside, CA see their clients
64% | Online Only | |
36% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oceanside?
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.