Psychiatrists in Palo Alto, CA

Photo of Catalina Villa, Psychiatrist, MD
Catalina Villa
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
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!
(650) 628-6618 View (650) 628-6618
Photo of Matthew May, Psychiatrist, MD
Matthew May
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Perhaps you are suffering from anxiety or depression, would like better relationships or healthier habits? If so, I have some excellent news for you. There are many new and powerful therapy methods that can lead to rapid and profound improvements, even cures, without requiring medication. If this sounds interesting to you, I would be honored to work with you, collaboratively and compassionately, to help you achieve your goals.
Perhaps you are suffering from anxiety or depression, would like better relationships or healthier habits? If so, I have some excellent news for you. There are many new and powerful therapy methods that can lead to rapid and profound improvements, even cures, without requiring medication. If this sounds interesting to you, I would be honored to work with you, collaboratively and compassionately, to help you achieve your goals.
(650) 209-7669 View (650) 209-7669
Photo of Jaspreet Takhar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jaspreet Takhar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(650) 582-2148 View (650) 582-2148
Photo of Brigitte Apfel, Psychiatrist, MD
Brigitte Apfel
Psychiatrist, MD
Palo Alto, CA 94301
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatrist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of emotional well-being and mental health. With 30 years of clinical experience, I offer personalized, evidence-based treatment for a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and bipolar disorder. My approach is holistic, integrating psychotherapy with medication management to ensure the care is tailored to your unique needs.
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatrist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of emotional well-being and mental health. With 30 years of clinical experience, I offer personalized, evidence-based treatment for a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and bipolar disorder. My approach is holistic, integrating psychotherapy with medication management to ensure the care is tailored to your unique needs.
(650) 551-9374 View (650) 551-9374
Photo of Integrative Psychiatrist - Patricia Pop, Psychiatrist, MD
Integrative Psychiatrist - Patricia Pop
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Were you diagnosed with ADHD and unsure what to do next? Let’s talk! I’m a Stanford-trained psychiatrist specializing in treating women with ADHD, anxiety, and depression - offering medications & more (supplements, exercise, nutrition, mind-body skills) in a way that is warm, detailed, and thorough. Happy to help you use meds as one piece of a much larger puzzle. Self-compassion and a thoughtful approach can help you shift from overwhelm to peace. I’m also passionate about using transformational states (psychedelics, brainspotting, breathwork) to learn more about ourselves.
Were you diagnosed with ADHD and unsure what to do next? Let’s talk! I’m a Stanford-trained psychiatrist specializing in treating women with ADHD, anxiety, and depression - offering medications & more (supplements, exercise, nutrition, mind-body skills) in a way that is warm, detailed, and thorough. Happy to help you use meds as one piece of a much larger puzzle. Self-compassion and a thoughtful approach can help you shift from overwhelm to peace. I’m also passionate about using transformational states (psychedelics, brainspotting, breathwork) to learn more about ourselves.
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Photo of Claudette Banda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Claudette Banda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(650) 789-7742 View (650) 789-7742
Photo of Kimberly Bell - Kimberly Burns Bell, MD, Inc., Psychiatrist, MD
Kimberly Burns Bell, MD, Inc.
Psychiatrist, MD
Palo Alto, CA 94303
I am a board certified Stanford trained psychiatrist with extensive experience in both traditional and alternative medicine. I offer medication management and talk therapy. My goal is to help you maximize your potential by partnering with you to create an individualized treatment program. I look forward to working with you!
I am a board certified Stanford trained psychiatrist with extensive experience in both traditional and alternative medicine. I offer medication management and talk therapy. My goal is to help you maximize your potential by partnering with you to create an individualized treatment program. I look forward to working with you!
(650) 285-5527 View (650) 285-5527
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) 229-6998 View (650) 229-6998
Photo of Greg Stavaridis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Greg Stavaridis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Online Only
I have a passion for working with motivated individuals and routinely incorporate both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to health in my treatment plans. I care for patients ages 16 to 65 years old.
I have a passion for working with motivated individuals and routinely incorporate both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to health in my treatment plans. I care for patients ages 16 to 65 years old.
(650) 718-8067 View (650) 718-8067
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 Shannon Shaffer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Shaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Shannon is a board certified PMHNP licensed in Connecticut and California. Shannon has 9 years of experience with varied populations including active-duty military members from her time in the United States Air Force. Shannon is committed to improving mental health utilizing evidence-based practice and holistic approaches. Shannon offers personalized treatment that empowers patients to take an active role in setting and reaching their mental health goals. She places high value on considering the physical, social, and environmental factors that contribute to a patient’s overall well-being.
Shannon is a board certified PMHNP licensed in Connecticut and California. Shannon has 9 years of experience with varied populations including active-duty military members from her time in the United States Air Force. Shannon is committed to improving mental health utilizing evidence-based practice and holistic approaches. Shannon offers personalized treatment that empowers patients to take an active role in setting and reaching their mental health goals. She places high value on considering the physical, social, and environmental factors that contribute to a patient’s overall well-being.
(650) 850-5905 View (650) 850-5905
Photo of Catherine A Reed, Psychiatrist, MD
Catherine A Reed
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Welcome to Peninsula Mental Health and the office of Catherine Reed, MD! My approach to caring for patients is collaborative and non-judgmental. My treatment emphasis is individually centered on assisting people in their entirety along their journey to wellness, rather than viewing them through the lens of a limited set of pathologies. My goal is healing in a welcoming, safe environment.
Welcome to Peninsula Mental Health and the office of Catherine Reed, MD! My approach to caring for patients is collaborative and non-judgmental. My treatment emphasis is individually centered on assisting people in their entirety along their journey to wellness, rather than viewing them through the lens of a limited set of pathologies. My goal is healing in a welcoming, safe environment.
(650) 684-5180 View (650) 684-5180
Photo of Shira Crohn, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Shira Crohn
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Shira Crohn is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatric care. She earned her Master’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology after completing rigorous training. Shira takes a holistic approach to treatment, guiding patients to understand how physical health and lifestyle choices impact brain function and mental well-being. She values building relationships with her patients by taking the time to get to know them and understand their unique needs.
Shira Crohn is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatric care. She earned her Master’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology after completing rigorous training. Shira takes a holistic approach to treatment, guiding patients to understand how physical health and lifestyle choices impact brain function and mental well-being. She values building relationships with her patients by taking the time to get to know them and understand their unique needs.
(650) 663-3107 View (650) 663-3107
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(650) 547-7919 View (650) 547-7919
Photo of Gloria M Kardong, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, DABPN
Gloria M Kardong
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, DABPN
Online Only
I am a psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and/or psychopharmacology, depending on the client's needs. I believe that it is important to offer individualized care based on the client's specific problems, concerns and preferences. My style is warm, collaborative and interactive. I can help with a practical, solution-focused approach for current problems. I also do exploratory therapy to address unresolved issues from the past that may be interfering with living your life as fully as possible. My clients also seek depth therapy to promote personal growth, insight and self-awareness. Licensed in 10 states. Virtual Therapy & Med mgmt.
I am a psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and/or psychopharmacology, depending on the client's needs. I believe that it is important to offer individualized care based on the client's specific problems, concerns and preferences. My style is warm, collaborative and interactive. I can help with a practical, solution-focused approach for current problems. I also do exploratory therapy to address unresolved issues from the past that may be interfering with living your life as fully as possible. My clients also seek depth therapy to promote personal growth, insight and self-awareness. Licensed in 10 states. Virtual Therapy & Med mgmt.
(650) 329-9465 View (650) 329-9465
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(650) 686-5441 View (650) 686-5441
Photo of Dr. Uchenna Okoye, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(650) 649-6899 View (650) 649-6899
Photo of Dr. Kailee Marin, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(650) 309-1107 View (650) 309-1107
Photo of Taylor Barragan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMFT, PMH-C
Taylor Barragan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMFT, PMH-C
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Effective Treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression: Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling to manage ADHD, or stuck in patterns of depression? I work with individuals who want more than just symptom relief—they want to understand the deeper roots of their emotions and experiences. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore these issues, and I don’t just listen—I offer honest, direct feedback that helps you make meaningful progress. Together, we will uncover insights that lead to lasting change, using evidence-based research and personalized treatment.
Effective Treatment for ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression: Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling to manage ADHD, or stuck in patterns of depression? I work with individuals who want more than just symptom relief—they want to understand the deeper roots of their emotions and experiences. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore these issues, and I don’t just listen—I offer honest, direct feedback that helps you make meaningful progress. Together, we will uncover insights that lead to lasting change, using evidence-based research and personalized treatment.
(714) 881-5639 View (714) 881-5639
Photo of Dr. Clarissa Doi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Clarissa Doi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Stanford-trained. 100% virtual. Dr. Clarissa Doi is a Stanford-trained, double board-certified physician with extensive experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care. She has valuable experience at prestigious academic centers and organizations, including Kaiser Permanente and Lyra Health.
Stanford-trained. 100% virtual. Dr. Clarissa Doi is a Stanford-trained, double board-certified physician with extensive experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care. She has valuable experience at prestigious academic centers and organizations, including Kaiser Permanente and Lyra Health.
(949) 881-5764 View (949) 881-5764

See more therapy options for Palo Alto

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Palo Alto, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$362

Psychiatrists in Palo Alto, CA who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
97% Depression
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% ADHD
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Medication Management
74% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
87% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Palo Alto, CA see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Palo Alto?

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.