Psychiatrists in Pacifica, CA

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(650) 582-2301 View (650) 582-2301
Photo of Vassilis N Panagopoulos, Psychiatrist, MD
Vassilis N Panagopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of... I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician...
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of... I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician...
(650) 594-6525 View (650) 594-6525
Photo of Jan B Weber - Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry®, Psychiatrist, Jan Weber, MD
Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry®
Psychiatrist, Jan Weber, MD
Online Only
Welcome to Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry! As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with subspecialty in child and adolescent psychiatry and additional training in complementary medicine, I provide holistic mental health treatment for children, teenagers and adults with a particular focus on nutrition and homeopathy. I have more than 20 years of clinical experience, as well as a track record of excellent clinical outcomes.
Welcome to Menlo Park Integrative Psychiatry! As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with subspecialty in child and adolescent psychiatry and additional training in complementary medicine, I provide holistic mental health treatment for children, teenagers and adults with a particular focus on nutrition and homeopathy. I have more than 20 years of clinical experience, as well as a track record of excellent clinical outcomes.
(650) 275-6152 View (650) 275-6152
Photo of Max Burns, Psychiatrist, MD
Max Burns
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
I offer evidence based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. My therapy approach is a mix of genuine humanism, evidence based (CBT, DBT. RO-DBT) strategies and mindfulness. I strive to be validating, non-judgmental and warm while collaboratively helping you get the tools you need to reach your valued-goals in life.
I offer evidence based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. My therapy approach is a mix of genuine humanism, evidence based (CBT, DBT. RO-DBT) strategies and mindfulness. I strive to be validating, non-judgmental and warm while collaboratively helping you get the tools you need to reach your valued-goals in life.
(650) 239-6279 View (650) 239-6279
Photo of Ogechukwun Ugwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ogechukwun Ugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
(559) 648-9317 View (559) 648-9317
Photo of Dormico Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dormico Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
(442) 239-1268 View (442) 239-1268

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Britten White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Britten White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Britten White, DNP, APRN, is a board-certified provider in both psychiatry and family medicine. She has been practicing since 2016 and brings a well-rounded clinical background that includes experience in prehospital care, emergency medicine, urgent care, primary care, and outpatient psychiatry. While she works with patients across the lifespan, Britten has a special interest in child and adolescent psychiatry. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, their five children, and the family dog.
Britten White, DNP, APRN, is a board-certified provider in both psychiatry and family medicine. She has been practicing since 2016 and brings a well-rounded clinical background that includes experience in prehospital care, emergency medicine, urgent care, primary care, and outpatient psychiatry. While she works with patients across the lifespan, Britten has a special interest in child and adolescent psychiatry. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, their five children, and the family dog.
(415) 853-9463 View (415) 853-9463
Photo of Sara Hansen, Psychiatrist, MD
Sara Hansen
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatrist who deeply cares about helping people their best lives. I treat adults with a wide variety of mental health conditions and work with individuals formulating the right plan for them. I am passionate about developing strong relationships since I believe this is the cornerstone to effective treatment.
I am a board certified psychiatrist who deeply cares about helping people their best lives. I treat adults with a wide variety of mental health conditions and work with individuals formulating the right plan for them. I am passionate about developing strong relationships since I believe this is the cornerstone to effective treatment.
(415) 707-7835 View (415) 707-7835
Photo of Shawn Barnes, Psychiatrist, MD
Shawn Barnes
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients. I practice integrative psychiatry emphasizing wellness over medications. Do you feel like doctors have been medicating you, but not understanding you? Have you been disappointed with psychiatric medications and are seeking a different path, without the risks that may come with medications? Do you worry that you may have become dependent on sleeping pills or medications for mood/anxiety and hope to live a full, meaningful life without them? Are you seeking a psychiatrist who is comfortable with alternative, complementary, and holistic treatments? If these questions resonate with you, perhaps we should meet.
Accepting new patients. I practice integrative psychiatry emphasizing wellness over medications. Do you feel like doctors have been medicating you, but not understanding you? Have you been disappointed with psychiatric medications and are seeking a different path, without the risks that may come with medications? Do you worry that you may have become dependent on sleeping pills or medications for mood/anxiety and hope to live a full, meaningful life without them? Are you seeking a psychiatrist who is comfortable with alternative, complementary, and holistic treatments? If these questions resonate with you, perhaps we should meet.
(760) 487-8344 View (760) 487-8344
Photo of Shannon Pereira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Pereira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
(858) 533-2812 View (858) 533-2812
Photo of Trenice Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(619) 771-0128 View (619) 771-0128
Photo of Dileep Shergill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, PMHNP
Dileep Shergill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I'm deeply committed to making quality mental health care accessible to everyone and emphasizing the importance of mental well-being in overall health. My journey in medicine began with the completion of my Doctorate of Medicine in Poland. With a strong foundation in medical knowledge and a passion for mental health, I provide holistic, compassionate care and evidence-based treatments for individuals across the lifespan facing mental health challenges.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I'm deeply committed to making quality mental health care accessible to everyone and emphasizing the importance of mental well-being in overall health. My journey in medicine began with the completion of my Doctorate of Medicine in Poland. With a strong foundation in medical knowledge and a passion for mental health, I provide holistic, compassionate care and evidence-based treatments for individuals across the lifespan facing mental health challenges.
(510) 902-4993 View (510) 902-4993
Photo of Kyle Chen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kyle Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Kyle Chen PMHNP-BC ​ Licensed in: California ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Kyle Chen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He received his degree from California State University – Los Angeles and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 6 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient facilities. His goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatments through evidence-based practices.
Kyle Chen PMHNP-BC ​ Licensed in: California ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Kyle Chen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He received his degree from California State University – Los Angeles and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 6 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient facilities. His goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatments through evidence-based practices.
(562) 991-6733 View (562) 991-6733
Photo of Sam Oeur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Sam Oeur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing culturally informed mental health care in populations across the lifespan, including children, teens, and adults with complex acute and chronic psychiatric disorders. I specialize in care for the LGBTQ+ community, people of color (POC), Military/Veterans, and severe mental illness. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing culturally informed mental health care in populations across the lifespan, including children, teens, and adults with complex acute and chronic psychiatric disorders. I specialize in care for the LGBTQ+ community, people of color (POC), Military/Veterans, and severe mental illness. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
(707) 760-0810 View (707) 760-0810
Photo of Dr. Satoko Miyamoto, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Satoko Miyamoto
Psychiatrist, DO
Berkeley, CA 94705
Dr. Satoko Miyamoto is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Miyamoto combines elements of therapy during medication management sessions.
Dr. Satoko Miyamoto is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Miyamoto combines elements of therapy during medication management sessions.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
George K. Lerner, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94102
Dr. George Lerner is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Francisco's financial district. He specializes in the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) in adults. Dr. Lerner has 18-year experience in treating adults who have been successful in their professional endeavors but have found attention deficit symptoms to be an impediment to achieving their full potential.
Dr. George Lerner is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Francisco's financial district. He specializes in the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) in adults. Dr. Lerner has 18-year experience in treating adults who have been successful in their professional endeavors but have found attention deficit symptoms to be an impediment to achieving their full potential.
(628) 277-8119 View (628) 277-8119
Photo of Naiga Dohnji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Naiga Dohnji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
(323) 694-9243 View (323) 694-9243
Photo of Michael Minzenberg - Michael Minzenberg, MD | Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatrist
Dr. Minzenberg is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in mental health care with a focus on treatment-resistant depression through interventional (Neuromodulation) modalities such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), esketamine nasal spray, and intravenous ketamine infusions.
Dr. Minzenberg is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in mental health care with a focus on treatment-resistant depression through interventional (Neuromodulation) modalities such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), esketamine nasal spray, and intravenous ketamine infusions.
(650) 910-6063 View (650) 910-6063
Photo of Dr. Sophie Weinberg, Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Dr. Sophie Weinberg
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Sophie Weinberg is a compassionate and deeply dedicated physician, dually board-certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. Her journey through medicine has been shaped by a rich and diverse training—completing her General Psychiatry residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY, and her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Nassau University Medical Center on Long Island, NY. Dr. Weinberg approaches healing as both a science and an art. Her care is profoundly patient-centered, collaborative, and holistic, honoring the intricate connection between body, mind, and spirit.
Dr. Sophie Weinberg is a compassionate and deeply dedicated physician, dually board-certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. Her journey through medicine has been shaped by a rich and diverse training—completing her General Psychiatry residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY, and her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Nassau University Medical Center on Long Island, NY. Dr. Weinberg approaches healing as both a science and an art. Her care is profoundly patient-centered, collaborative, and holistic, honoring the intricate connection between body, mind, and spirit.
(510) 588-3710 View (510) 588-3710
Photo of Genesis Javaherian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Genesis Javaherian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Online Only
Hi, I’m Gene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, private practice and academic research. I received my degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and specialize in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use.
Hi, I’m Gene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, private practice and academic research. I received my degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and specialize in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use.
(415) 417-1929 View (415) 417-1929

See more therapy options for Pacifica

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Pacifica, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Pacifica, CA who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
83% Anxiety
83% ADHD
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Sleep or Insomnia
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Psychosis

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Pacifica, CA see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Male
33% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Pacifica?

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.