Psychiatrists in Orange County, CA
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP-BC) with an additional master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). I treat patients in person and via telehealth with medication and therapy. Working with me, my clients experience less difficulty navigating life stressors, and more confidence in their abilities to meet their goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP-BC) with an additional master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). I treat patients in person and via telehealth with medication and therapy. Working with me, my clients experience less difficulty navigating life stressors, and more confidence in their abilities to meet their goals.
Medard Sison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
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.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Shaheena Gazipura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Are you struggling with life challenges and seeking a new mental health provider? If so, I am happy to assist you on your journey. My ideal client strives for reflection and clarity, which will lead to healing. They are determined to steer through life’s obstacles, cope, and reclaim a fulfilling life. Together, we can navigate your path to your best self.
Are you struggling with life challenges and seeking a new mental health provider? If so, I am happy to assist you on your journey. My ideal client strives for reflection and clarity, which will lead to healing. They are determined to steer through life’s obstacles, cope, and reclaim a fulfilling life. Together, we can navigate your path to your best self.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Lisa 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. Evidence based research is essential in her treatment plan.
Lisa 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. Evidence based research is essential in her treatment plan.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92806 (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.
Dr. Bleyan is a double board certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry and integrative psychiatry who is providing tele-psychiatry services to patients in Florida, California and New York. In the first 60 minute initial consultation she takes an in-depth, holistic approach to your mental health providing the highest quality patient care. Dr. Bleyan's areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders, mood disorders, OCD, adjustment disorder, medication management, psychotherapy, supplements, natural remedies and mind-body wellness.
Dr. Bleyan is a double board certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry and integrative psychiatry who is providing tele-psychiatry services to patients in Florida, California and New York. In the first 60 minute initial consultation she takes an in-depth, holistic approach to your mental health providing the highest quality patient care. Dr. Bleyan's areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders, mood disorders, OCD, adjustment disorder, medication management, psychotherapy, supplements, natural remedies and mind-body wellness.
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Griselda Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804
My ideal patient is an adolescent facing mental health challenges. They struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma and may have co-occurring substance use disorders. They need a supportive, non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings, understand their behaviors, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Their goals include achieving mental stability, overcoming addiction, and building resilience to handle life's challenges. They want to regain control of their lives, improve their relationships, and find hope and motivation for a brighter future.
My ideal patient is an adolescent facing mental health challenges. They struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma and may have co-occurring substance use disorders. They need a supportive, non-judgmental environment to explore their feelings, understand their behaviors, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Their goals include achieving mental stability, overcoming addiction, and building resilience to handle life's challenges. They want to regain control of their lives, improve their relationships, and find hope and motivation for a brighter future.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** 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 inpatient and outpatient settings.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** 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 inpatient and outpatient settings.
Purpose Psychiatry / Jeremy R Verhines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Purpose Psychiatry is a single specialty concierge fee-for-service practice that offers comprehensive mental health diagnosis, treatment and medication management services to clients in both California and Hawaii. We are dedicated to helping individuals enhance and achieve their psychological well-being. We are dedicated to helping individuals enhance and achieve their psychological well-being. We offer treatment for ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and OCD Disorders.
Purpose Psychiatry is a single specialty concierge fee-for-service practice that offers comprehensive mental health diagnosis, treatment and medication management services to clients in both California and Hawaii. We are dedicated to helping individuals enhance and achieve their psychological well-being. We are dedicated to helping individuals enhance and achieve their psychological well-being. We offer treatment for ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and OCD Disorders.
As a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with over fifteen years of experience as a clinician and teacher, I use a biopsychosocial model to tailor an individual treatment plan by combining several modalities in assessing and treating mental health-related issues, including medical and evidence-based, psychoanalytic, and developmental theories and techniques. I strongly believe in working closely with my patients (and, if necessary, with their families) to form a solid therapeutic alliance to address current and old distress and symptoms.
As a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with over fifteen years of experience as a clinician and teacher, I use a biopsychosocial model to tailor an individual treatment plan by combining several modalities in assessing and treating mental health-related issues, including medical and evidence-based, psychoanalytic, and developmental theories and techniques. I strongly believe in working closely with my patients (and, if necessary, with their families) to form a solid therapeutic alliance to address current and old distress and symptoms.
Mattison Pearlman
Physician Assistant, PAC, CAQ Psy
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Jessica Vermeulen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Jacob Olsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Orange County, California. I currently works in an outpatient Telehealth setting performing medication management and psychotherapy. I have a background as an emergency room nurse, and upon graduating from Charles Drew University with his Masters degree as a nurse practitioner, I specialized in crisis management. I have a wide variety of experience and skill set to give reliable and client-focused care. I enjoy working with clients of diverse backgrounds. My mission is to create a safe and comfortable environment for all of my clients.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Orange County, California. I currently works in an outpatient Telehealth setting performing medication management and psychotherapy. I have a background as an emergency room nurse, and upon graduating from Charles Drew University with his Masters degree as a nurse practitioner, I specialized in crisis management. I have a wide variety of experience and skill set to give reliable and client-focused care. I enjoy working with clients of diverse backgrounds. My mission is to create a safe and comfortable environment for all of my clients.
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.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
See more therapy options for Orange County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Orange County, CA
700+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Orange County, CA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
81% | ADHD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Medication Management |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Orange County, CA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
36% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Orange County?
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.