Psychiatrists in Orange, CA

Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(951) 467-4838 View (951) 467-4838
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 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 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 Riz Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
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.
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) 325-8756 View (657) 325-8756
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 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 Deborah Spandikow, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Spandikow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
I strive to provide compassionate evidence-based care to help you successfully achieve your mental health goals. Biography I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the lifespan. 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. We are all unique individuals, so our best strategy is to individualize care across disciplines, including referrals for in-depth psychotherapy.
I strive to provide compassionate evidence-based care to help you successfully achieve your mental health goals. Biography I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the lifespan. 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. We are all unique individuals, so our best strategy is to individualize care across disciplines, including referrals for in-depth psychotherapy.
(657) 837-5838 View (657) 837-5838
Photo of Tameka Joy-Hawkins, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tameka Joy-Hawkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Looking to end the stigma & disparity seen in the behavioral population Tameka Hawkins is a compassionate board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tameka has a longstanding interest in precision (personalized) medicine for the treatment of psychiatric conditions. She is committed to delivering high-quality patient-centered care for the patients she serves. Mrs. Hawkins pays close attention to her clients and encourages them to speak up about their worries. She is invested in their well-being and wants the best for them.
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Looking to end the stigma & disparity seen in the behavioral population Tameka Hawkins is a compassionate board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tameka has a longstanding interest in precision (personalized) medicine for the treatment of psychiatric conditions. She is committed to delivering high-quality patient-centered care for the patients she serves. Mrs. Hawkins pays close attention to her clients and encourages them to speak up about their worries. She is invested in their well-being and wants the best for them.
(657) 530-6448 View (657) 530-6448
Photo of Jinyi Bae, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jinyi Bae
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have been working in the field of mental health for the past 15 years. I worked as a psychiatric registered nurse since 2009 and transitioned into the nurse practitioner role after seeing the need for psych providers.
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have been working in the field of mental health for the past 15 years. I worked as a psychiatric registered nurse since 2009 and transitioned into the nurse practitioner role after seeing the need for psych providers.
(657) 837-3396 View (657) 837-3396
Photo of Jordan Rose, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
(657) 837-3217 View (657) 837-3217
Photo of Adebowale Adeniji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adebowale Adeniji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Wale Adeniji pronounced Wa-lay. The origin of my name comes from Nigeria and holds the meaning “royalty comes home. “ When I think of royalty; luxury comes to mind. The ability to sustain peace within the mind and body is a luxury! I strive to sustain peace within my mind and body by maintaining a journal of gratitude, running a half marathon every year, and devoting time to laugh with loved ones. I have provided psychiatric treatment to severely mentally ill for several years.
Welcome, my name is Wale Adeniji pronounced Wa-lay. The origin of my name comes from Nigeria and holds the meaning “royalty comes home. “ When I think of royalty; luxury comes to mind. The ability to sustain peace within the mind and body is a luxury! I strive to sustain peace within my mind and body by maintaining a journal of gratitude, running a half marathon every year, and devoting time to laugh with loved ones. I have provided psychiatric treatment to severely mentally ill for several years.
(657) 301-4758 View (657) 301-4758
Photo of Samir Hamed, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, 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.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, 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) 571-2996 View (657) 571-2996
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(714) 599-8634 View (714) 599-8634
Photo of Catvy Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catvy Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
Catvy Nguyen 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. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen 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. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
(657) 837-6325 View (657) 837-6325
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(657) 387-8810 View (657) 387-8810
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(657) 837-2126 View (657) 837-2126
Photo of Andrew Dang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrew Dang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Andrew, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to help you manage anxiety, depression, stress, and various other mental health issues. Here, you'll find a supportive space where we can work together to achieve your mental wellness goals.
Hi! I'm Andrew, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to help you manage anxiety, depression, stress, and various other mental health issues. Here, you'll find a supportive space where we can work together to achieve your mental wellness goals.
(657) 571-3160 View (657) 571-3160
Photo of Nnenna Chimdi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nnenna Chimdi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Are you having difficulty with anxiety and you don't know how to go about it? You have reached the right place which is a place where your anxiety will be addressed and the different ways we can go about it with you feeling much better. Are you feeling depressed which is usually complicated with anxiety? Are you struggling with your job? Are you having problems coping with your daily activities? What is it that you have that is too difficult to handle at this time? I am glad that you're reaching out because you are at the right place where you will learn new coping skills and different ways to maneuver what is weighing down.
Are you having difficulty with anxiety and you don't know how to go about it? You have reached the right place which is a place where your anxiety will be addressed and the different ways we can go about it with you feeling much better. Are you feeling depressed which is usually complicated with anxiety? Are you struggling with your job? Are you having problems coping with your daily activities? What is it that you have that is too difficult to handle at this time? I am glad that you're reaching out because you are at the right place where you will learn new coping skills and different ways to maneuver what is weighing down.
(657) 837-5746 View (657) 837-5746
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

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.