Psychiatrists in Orinda, CA

Photo of Linda Kim, MD, Psychiatrist
Linda Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and therapist providing excellence in reproductive mental health. I specialize in helping women and their families feel their emotional best throughout pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, infertility, and more. I will support you in maximizing your emotional wellness so that you can be at your best personally and professionally. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV, full lab testing, and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
I am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and therapist providing excellence in reproductive mental health. I specialize in helping women and their families feel their emotional best throughout pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, infertility, and more. I will support you in maximizing your emotional wellness so that you can be at your best personally and professionally. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV, full lab testing, and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
(925) 386-7589 View (925) 386-7589
Photo of Jerry H. Gelbart, MD, QME, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Jerry H. Gelbart
Psychiatrist, MD, QME, FAPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Jerry Gelbart. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, went to college in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I attended medical school at Ohio State University, and trained in Psychiatry at UCLA. I’ve been in private practice for 30+ years. I have helped many people suffering from psychological symptoms with medication and firmly advocate biologic methods of treatment. I’ve had an even greater passion, however, for teaching people how to understand their emotions, and how to put that information to use to reduce problematic symptoms and find greater fulfillment in life.
My name is Jerry Gelbart. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, went to college in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I attended medical school at Ohio State University, and trained in Psychiatry at UCLA. I’ve been in private practice for 30+ years. I have helped many people suffering from psychological symptoms with medication and firmly advocate biologic methods of treatment. I’ve had an even greater passion, however, for teaching people how to understand their emotions, and how to put that information to use to reduce problematic symptoms and find greater fulfillment in life.
(925) 254-3652 View (925) 254-3652
Photo of David A Atkins, MD, Psychiatrist
David A Atkins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
Not accepting new clients
I am a Harvard-trained board certified general psychiatrist with over 30 years experience treating a wide variety of conditions and disorders associated with my specialty. I strive to provide the highest standard of care and compassion to each of my patients via psychotherapy and psychotropic medication treatments.
I am a Harvard-trained board certified general psychiatrist with over 30 years experience treating a wide variety of conditions and disorders associated with my specialty. I strive to provide the highest standard of care and compassion to each of my patients via psychotherapy and psychotropic medication treatments.
(925) 633-5926 View (925) 633-5926
Photo of Rochelle Gordon, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Rochelle Gordon
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
Everybody has problems. They might be relationships, job stress, depression, anxiety, moodswings... I posit every problem has a solution and that we can work together to find it. I have helped people for over 25 years. I am a board certified psychiatrist. I am empathic & nonjudgemental. You and I will become partners in understanding which of these issues are uniquely yours, and how you have been dealing with them. We all use tools which may have worked with past problems but in fact may be working against us now. We can replace these with successful ways of dealing with life!
Everybody has problems. They might be relationships, job stress, depression, anxiety, moodswings... I posit every problem has a solution and that we can work together to find it. I have helped people for over 25 years. I am a board certified psychiatrist. I am empathic & nonjudgemental. You and I will become partners in understanding which of these issues are uniquely yours, and how you have been dealing with them. We all use tools which may have worked with past problems but in fact may be working against us now. We can replace these with successful ways of dealing with life!
(925) 267-6224 View (925) 267-6224
Photo of Scott Smolar, DO, DFASAM, PC, Psychiatrist
Scott Smolar
Psychiatrist, DO, DFASAM, PC
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
Dr. Smolar's extensive experience treating a full range of ages, backgrounds, mental health and addiction issues makes him well suited to help individuals struggling with a multitude of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Smolar's extensive experience treating a full range of ages, backgrounds, mental health and addiction issues makes him well suited to help individuals struggling with a multitude of psychiatric conditions.
(415) 407-1198 View (415) 407-1198
Photo of Dr. Jen Sweet, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jen Sweet
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer mental healthcare for women and their loved ones, encompassing a more holistic, and I believe, warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I aim to provide specialized and comprehensive treatment for challenges specific to your different life stages. I offer inclusive and truly quality care with the ultimate goal of helping you overcome emotional hurdles that you face, in any phase of your life.
I offer mental healthcare for women and their loved ones, encompassing a more holistic, and I believe, warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I aim to provide specialized and comprehensive treatment for challenges specific to your different life stages. I offer inclusive and truly quality care with the ultimate goal of helping you overcome emotional hurdles that you face, in any phase of your life.
(925) 248-4512 View (925) 248-4512
Photo of Jennifer Elle Roberts, MD, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Elle Roberts
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are each on our own unique journey. Let me help you work through challenges to discover your best self, and move forward from current roadblocks.
We are each on our own unique journey. Let me help you work through challenges to discover your best self, and move forward from current roadblocks.
(628) 230-2790 View (628) 230-2790
Photo of Michael H Swetye - Michael Swetye, M.D., P.C., MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
Michael Swetye, M.D., P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with board certifications in Adult, Adolescent and Child Psychiatry. I work with adults (including young adults), couples, families, teens, and middle schoolers.
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with board certifications in Adult, Adolescent and Child Psychiatry. I work with adults (including young adults), couples, families, teens, and middle schoolers.
(415) 969-5356 View (415) 969-5356
Photo of Arman Danielyan, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist
Arman Danielyan
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Danielyan offers psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment for various psychiatric conditions in youth and young adults. Those include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, psychotic illnesses, autism spectrum conditions and others. Dr. Danielyan's practice covers the East Bay area, including Walnut Creek and Lafayette, CA. For more information, including the testimonials from the patients, please visit www.baypsychiatry.com.
Dr. Danielyan offers psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and treatment for various psychiatric conditions in youth and young adults. Those include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, psychotic illnesses, autism spectrum conditions and others. Dr. Danielyan's practice covers the East Bay area, including Walnut Creek and Lafayette, CA. For more information, including the testimonials from the patients, please visit www.baypsychiatry.com.
(925) 230-9413 View (925) 230-9413
Photo of Paul Elizondo, DO, Psychiatrist
Paul Elizondo
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
(925) 578-4346 View (925) 578-4346

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Marcus J (Bo) Houston, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Marcus J (Bo) Houston
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in the East Bay. I am trained to address all of the major psychiatric diagnoses and specialize in both psychotherapy and medication management. My approach recognizes the practical necessity of diagnostic categories, but I also value and rely on the uniqueness of one's subjective experience to help guide the treatment process. It can be helpful for some people to hear that they may benefit from psychiatric or psychotherapeutic help even when a diagnosis may be unclear or unnecessary.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in the East Bay. I am trained to address all of the major psychiatric diagnoses and specialize in both psychotherapy and medication management. My approach recognizes the practical necessity of diagnostic categories, but I also value and rely on the uniqueness of one's subjective experience to help guide the treatment process. It can be helpful for some people to hear that they may benefit from psychiatric or psychotherapeutic help even when a diagnosis may be unclear or unnecessary.
(510) 808-6278 View (510) 808-6278
Photo of Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher is a dual board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Al-Dhaher empowers the family unit and strengthens school and community support when working with children and teenagers. She believes mindfulness, a healthy lifestyle, and strong social connections are crucial to improving mental health.
Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher is a dual board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Al-Dhaher empowers the family unit and strengthens school and community support when working with children and teenagers. She believes mindfulness, a healthy lifestyle, and strong social connections are crucial to improving mental health.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Michael J Kron - Michael J. Kron, MD Psychiatry, Psychopharmacology, MD, Meds, ADHD, Antidep, Anx, Psychiatrist
Michael J. Kron, MD Psychiatry, Psychopharmacology
Psychiatrist, MD, Meds, ADHD, Antidep, Anx
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Call or send us a message. We may ask you for some more info. If I think I can help, that's great. Usually I find options other doctors might have missed. So, often clients are satisfied with their results. Some describe their experiences: Darcy T "Dr. Kron is an incredible doctor. I already dread the day of his retirement. He is so wonderful, kind, and helpful and has been a ray of clarity in this sometimes hostile world. He has been my Dr for getting close to 20 years and I can honestly say I love him and feel so lucky I found him. Can’t recommend him enough. Brilliant and intelligent doctor, exceptional person on top." 4/22/2024
Call or send us a message. We may ask you for some more info. If I think I can help, that's great. Usually I find options other doctors might have missed. So, often clients are satisfied with their results. Some describe their experiences: Darcy T "Dr. Kron is an incredible doctor. I already dread the day of his retirement. He is so wonderful, kind, and helpful and has been a ray of clarity in this sometimes hostile world. He has been my Dr for getting close to 20 years and I can honestly say I love him and feel so lucky I found him. Can’t recommend him enough. Brilliant and intelligent doctor, exceptional person on top." 4/22/2024
(510) 878-4116 View (510) 878-4116
Photo of Gillian Reierson, MD, Psychiatrist
Gillian Reierson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
A primary goal of my practice is to aid in the alleviation of suffering. As your psychiatrist, I will meet with you first to perform a thorough evaluation. By listening to your concerns and getting to know you, I will be able to formulate an assessment and develop a treatment plan. We will then collaborate on which treatment options work best for you. My approach usually involves a combination of talk therapy with medications to target symptoms. I believe in prescribing medications conservatively when possible "” using the least number and the lowest effective doses.
A primary goal of my practice is to aid in the alleviation of suffering. As your psychiatrist, I will meet with you first to perform a thorough evaluation. By listening to your concerns and getting to know you, I will be able to formulate an assessment and develop a treatment plan. We will then collaborate on which treatment options work best for you. My approach usually involves a combination of talk therapy with medications to target symptoms. I believe in prescribing medications conservatively when possible "” using the least number and the lowest effective doses.
(925) 966-4018 View (925) 966-4018
Photo of Sahab Yaqubi - Mindful Health Solutions - Sahab Yaqubi, MD, Psychiatrist
Mindful Health Solutions - Sahab Yaqubi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a strong specialty in helping patients struggling with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapeutic tool that can play a crucial role for those with treatment-resistant mood or anxiety disorders. I take a holistic approach to patient care and treatment plans, considering biological, psychological, and social factors. I have found that being in tune with his patient’s emotional pain is the key to developing a good rapport.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a strong specialty in helping patients struggling with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapeutic tool that can play a crucial role for those with treatment-resistant mood or anxiety disorders. I take a holistic approach to patient care and treatment plans, considering biological, psychological, and social factors. I have found that being in tune with his patient’s emotional pain is the key to developing a good rapport.
(628) 200-3605 View (628) 200-3605
Photo of Dr. Richa Bhatia Md Inc, Psychiatrist
Dr. Richa Bhatia Md Inc
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94526
Currently accepting new patients: Dr Richa Bhatia is a double board certified Adult, Child & Adolescent psychiatrist with over 15 years of clinical experience, including working as Medical director at leading academic medical centers such as Dartmouth & in the community. Dedicated to high quality care, she offers empathic individual psychotherapy & judicious medication management when medications are needed. Her practice is accepting patients (ages 5 to 60) in the San Francisco Bay Area who suffer from Anxiety, OCD, low self-worth, PTSD, excessive perfectionism, & relationship challenges. This practice does not accept insurance.
Currently accepting new patients: Dr Richa Bhatia is a double board certified Adult, Child & Adolescent psychiatrist with over 15 years of clinical experience, including working as Medical director at leading academic medical centers such as Dartmouth & in the community. Dedicated to high quality care, she offers empathic individual psychotherapy & judicious medication management when medications are needed. Her practice is accepting patients (ages 5 to 60) in the San Francisco Bay Area who suffer from Anxiety, OCD, low self-worth, PTSD, excessive perfectionism, & relationship challenges. This practice does not accept insurance.
(341) 230-1861 View (341) 230-1861
Photo of John Echols, MD, Psychiatrist
John Echols
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Not accepting new clients
My care philosophy is to understand the person beneath the symptoms. To ever apply wisdom, compassion and knowledge to the art of healing. When a doctor adheres to specific methods; I have doubts about the therapeutic effect for each individual patient. I treat every patient as individually as possible, because solutions to the problems are always uniquely individual ones. I practice with a broad scope of theoretical and practical foundations, working with the patient before me to find what is most helpful.
My care philosophy is to understand the person beneath the symptoms. To ever apply wisdom, compassion and knowledge to the art of healing. When a doctor adheres to specific methods; I have doubts about the therapeutic effect for each individual patient. I treat every patient as individually as possible, because solutions to the problems are always uniquely individual ones. I practice with a broad scope of theoretical and practical foundations, working with the patient before me to find what is most helpful.
(925) 966-1305 View (925) 966-1305
Photo of Jeanne Leventhal Alexander, MD, ABPN, FRCPC, FAPA, FACPsyc, Psychiatrist
Jeanne Leventhal Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, FRCPC, FAPA, FACPsyc
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
J. B, Danville, wrote: " I am a post-menopausal woman whose ADD was undiagnosed prior to the thorough evaluation by Dr Alexander. My life has certainly improved with the treatment she has prescribed. I have found her to be insightful, compassionate and intelligent. I highly recommend her!" ....... Greg, Walnut Creek, wrote: "Dr. Alexander's diagnostic skills and her ability to empathize make her an extremely effective psychiatrist… I found her to be patient, thoughtful, intelligent, professional, and caring, and highly recommend her."
J. B, Danville, wrote: " I am a post-menopausal woman whose ADD was undiagnosed prior to the thorough evaluation by Dr Alexander. My life has certainly improved with the treatment she has prescribed. I have found her to be insightful, compassionate and intelligent. I highly recommend her!" ....... Greg, Walnut Creek, wrote: "Dr. Alexander's diagnostic skills and her ability to empathize make her an extremely effective psychiatrist… I found her to be patient, thoughtful, intelligent, professional, and caring, and highly recommend her."
(510) 878-5665 View (510) 878-5665
Photo of Dr. Jaberpreet Dhaliwal, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jaberpreet Dhaliwal
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Dublin, CA 94568
Meet Dr. Jaberpreet Dhaliwal, an Adult Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other health problems through medication management and psychotherapy. Raised in California’s rural Central Valley by a single mother, Dr. Dhaliwal understands the challenges of overcoming adversity and the importance of mental health. After earning his doctorate, he completed an additional four years of specialized training in psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco-Fresno Medical System. He brings his extensive experience from the UC medical system and California's Department of State Hospitals.
Meet Dr. Jaberpreet Dhaliwal, an Adult Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other health problems through medication management and psychotherapy. Raised in California’s rural Central Valley by a single mother, Dr. Dhaliwal understands the challenges of overcoming adversity and the importance of mental health. After earning his doctorate, he completed an additional four years of specialized training in psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco-Fresno Medical System. He brings his extensive experience from the UC medical system and California's Department of State Hospitals.
(925) 396-9715 View (925) 396-9715
Photo of Yuhuan Xie, MD, Psychiatrist
Yuhuan Xie
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Mental illnesses not only cause psychological pain, they also prevents you from fully engaging and functioning in daily school/work, personal and family life. You want to restore your previous functioning as soon as possible.
Mental illnesses not only cause psychological pain, they also prevents you from fully engaging and functioning in daily school/work, personal and family life. You want to restore your previous functioning as soon as possible.
(925) 478-3698 View (925) 478-3698

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Orinda, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$275

Psychiatrists in Orinda, CA who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Relationship Issues
60% Parenting
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Other

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Orinda, CA see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Orinda?

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.