Psychiatrists in Orange, CA

Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-based medication treatment strategy, she places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-based medication treatment strategy, she places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(657) 530-6613 View (657) 530-6613
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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-Bonmente knows 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.
(657) 256-5949 View (657) 256-5949
Photo of Kelly Mullins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Mullins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Kelly. Ary you already working with a therapist and wondering if medication may be right for you? Many mental health disorders can benefit when incorporating therapy with medication management. This will require a two-pronged approach for successful treatment, medication combined with therapy or counseling.
Hi there, I'm Kelly. Ary you already working with a therapist and wondering if medication may be right for you? Many mental health disorders can benefit when incorporating therapy with medication management. This will require a two-pronged approach for successful treatment, medication combined with therapy or counseling.
(657) 837-5392 View (657) 837-5392
Photo of Kemerick Takang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kemerick Takang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified mental health practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master's degree in mental health. I conduct mental health assessments and evaluations and treat and manage individuals with mental health concerns through psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.
I am a board-certified mental health practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master's degree in mental health. I conduct mental health assessments and evaluations and treat and manage individuals with mental health concerns through psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.
(657) 571-3895 View (657) 571-3895
Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, MFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyn Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, MFT
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
(657) 530-5700 View (657) 530-5700
Photo of Lisa A Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa A Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Lisa A. Johnson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Master’s in Family nurse practitioner and a Post Master’s in PMHNP. Lisa’s training includes treating individuals with a variety of psychiatric disorders such as bipolar, ADHD, anxiety, depression, treatment resistant depression and eating disorders in an outpatient setting. She believes that care should be personalized to meet client needs and comprehensive utilizing an interdisciplinary approach. Lisa Johnson's practice is unique as she is currently working on a fellowship in functional medicine.
Lisa A. Johnson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Master’s in Family nurse practitioner and a Post Master’s in PMHNP. Lisa’s training includes treating individuals with a variety of psychiatric disorders such as bipolar, ADHD, anxiety, depression, treatment resistant depression and eating disorders in an outpatient setting. She believes that care should be personalized to meet client needs and comprehensive utilizing an interdisciplinary approach. Lisa Johnson's practice is unique as she is currently working on a fellowship in functional medicine.
(657) 530-6650 View (657) 530-6650
Photo of May Vang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
May Vang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
(657) 571-3754 View (657) 571-3754
Photo of Amber Whitlatch, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Whitlatch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat all mental health conditions for those 18 years and older, ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also specialize in trauma and integrative psychiatry. I am a trained crisis counselor, SAFE-EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). After graduating from UC, I completed a residency in geriatric psychiatry, eventually created a dementia support program, now a part of the CMS Guide model in Ohio.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat all mental health conditions for those 18 years and older, ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also specialize in trauma and integrative psychiatry. I am a trained crisis counselor, SAFE-EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). After graduating from UC, I completed a residency in geriatric psychiatry, eventually created a dementia support program, now a part of the CMS Guide model in Ohio.
(213) 722-3840 View (213) 722-3840
Photo of John Anthony Chua Diya - John Anthony Diya - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Anthony Diya - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
John Anthony Diya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He graduated from Charles R. Drew University. He has over 9 years of experience in providing psychiatric care to patients of all ages. He began his career in healthcare as a Registered Nurse working in both the inpatient and outpatient settings.
John Anthony Diya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He graduated from Charles R. Drew University. He has over 9 years of experience in providing psychiatric care to patients of all ages. He began his career in healthcare as a Registered Nurse working in both the inpatient and outpatient settings.
(657) 385-7024 View (657) 385-7024
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (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!
(424) 396-0514 View (424) 396-0514
Photo of Orah Mahtov, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orah Mahtov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
(657) 301-4266 View (657) 301-4266
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (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!
(424) 396-0111 View (424) 396-0111
Photo of Shehnaz Hussain, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shehnaz Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), trained and experienced in treating psychiatric disorders across all ages and practice environments, including inpatient and outpatient settings. I have garnered extensive experience as a PMHNP, working with patients of all ages, from young children to adolescents and adults. I completed my graduate education at Maryville University of St. Louis, Missouri, where I obtained my Master’s of Nursing with a specialization as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), trained and experienced in treating psychiatric disorders across all ages and practice environments, including inpatient and outpatient settings. I have garnered extensive experience as a PMHNP, working with patients of all ages, from young children to adolescents and adults. I completed my graduate education at Maryville University of St. Louis, Missouri, where I obtained my Master’s of Nursing with a specialization as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(657) 300-2571 View (657) 300-2571
Photo of Carolyn Love, PhD, PMHNP, LMFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyn Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
(657) 300-9986 View (657) 300-9986
Photo of Grace Kwon, DO, Psychiatrist
Grace Kwon
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Dr. Kwon is a psychiatrist who holds two medical board certifications in general Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed general adult psychiatry residency at Harbor UCLA, and continued a sub-specialty fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Kwon understands the importance of your autonomy and ability to make informed decisions about your health. She conceptualizes diagnosis and treatment from a holistic point of view. She has training in many different treatment modalities including medication management, acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Dr. Kwon is a psychiatrist who holds two medical board certifications in general Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed general adult psychiatry residency at Harbor UCLA, and continued a sub-specialty fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Kwon understands the importance of your autonomy and ability to make informed decisions about your health. She conceptualizes diagnosis and treatment from a holistic point of view. She has training in many different treatment modalities including medication management, acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
(714) 463-1241 View (714) 463-1241
Photo of Jessica Mormann, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Mormann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I am Jessica, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner! I have worked in healthcare since 2003. I love helping people live their best lives! Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD should not hold you back from being your best self! I have past work experience in the critical care setting for over 7 years, acquiring a vast knowledge of pathophysiology and medical treatments.
Hello, I am Jessica, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner! I have worked in healthcare since 2003. I love helping people live their best lives! Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD should not hold you back from being your best self! I have past work experience in the critical care setting for over 7 years, acquiring a vast knowledge of pathophysiology and medical treatments.
(657) 385-8380 View (657) 385-8380
Photo of Eric Nghe, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric Nghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Eric is a doctorally-prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from the California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
Eric is a doctorally-prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from the California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
(657) 837-1524 View (657) 837-1524
Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Dr. Terry Eagan brings to Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry an extensive body of professional experience in the field of psychiatry, encompassing both his clinical private practice and multiple Medical Director positions where he provides medical and psychiatric oversight of mental health treatment centers. Dr. Eagan’s diverse background includes the founding of various institutes that focus on providing specialized and innovative treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders.
Dr. Terry Eagan brings to Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry an extensive body of professional experience in the field of psychiatry, encompassing both his clinical private practice and multiple Medical Director positions where he provides medical and psychiatric oversight of mental health treatment centers. Dr. Eagan’s diverse background includes the founding of various institutes that focus on providing specialized and innovative treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders.
(657) 366-5804 View (657) 366-5804
Photo of Deborah Spandikow, MSN, WHNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Spandikow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, WHNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
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.
(657) 387-0645 View (657) 387-0645
Photo of Michael Nash, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Nash
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is seeking mental health care and values a personalized and collaborative approach to treatment. They may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, inattention, or other psychiatric conditions that require medication management. What they need goes beyond just symptom control; they desire a holistic perspective that considers their overall well-being. I believe my clients appreciate my commitment to collaboration, evidence-based practice, and actively involving them in creating treatment plans.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking mental health care and values a personalized and collaborative approach to treatment. They may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, inattention, or other psychiatric conditions that require medication management. What they need goes beyond just symptom control; they desire a holistic perspective that considers their overall well-being. I believe my clients appreciate my commitment to collaboration, evidence-based practice, and actively involving them in creating treatment plans.
(657) 571-4137 View (657) 571-4137

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Orange, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in Orange, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
73% ADHD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Trauma and PTSD
57% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Orange, CA see their clients

63% Online Only
37% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Orange?

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.