Psychiatrists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

Photo of Victoria Ndubaku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Ndubaku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Hello, I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have practiced for more than 7 years. I help young adults, adults and geriatric patients for the treatment of mild and major psychiatric illnesses. I am very good listener which positions me to provide a safe and therapeutic environment. One of my best skills, is being a very good listener while in session with my clients. I emphasize on the importance of medication management, overseeing the medications prescribed for a client to ensure that they are taken properly and achieving their planned, therapeutic outcome.
Hello, I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have practiced for more than 7 years. I help young adults, adults and geriatric patients for the treatment of mild and major psychiatric illnesses. I am very good listener which positions me to provide a safe and therapeutic environment. One of my best skills, is being a very good listener while in session with my clients. I emphasize on the importance of medication management, overseeing the medications prescribed for a client to ensure that they are taken properly and achieving their planned, therapeutic outcome.
(424) 855-0392 View (424) 855-0392
Photo of Aisha Abbasi, Psychiatrist, MD
Aisha Abbasi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
For over thirty years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with a vast array of emotional issues. I utilize my understanding of my patients’ past and current life situations, and what I see happening within the therapeutic relationship, to help my patients achieve their goals. I believe it is because of my consistent dedication to helping my patients, that other physicians have voted for me (without solicitation) to be among America’s Best Doctors, for twenty years in a row.
For over thirty years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people with a vast array of emotional issues. I utilize my understanding of my patients’ past and current life situations, and what I see happening within the therapeutic relationship, to help my patients achieve their goals. I believe it is because of my consistent dedication to helping my patients, that other physicians have voted for me (without solicitation) to be among America’s Best Doctors, for twenty years in a row.
(213) 263-3171 View (213) 263-3171
Photo of Dr. Cuneyt Tegin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Cuneyt Tegin
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients in person and via video teleconferencing.
I am a double board certified (in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine) adult psychiatrist with strong psychopharmacology and psychotherapy(CBT, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing and Couples Therapy) background. I treat adult patients with variety of mental illnesses and substance use problems. I see patients in person and via video teleconferencing.
(657) 255-6312 View (657) 255-6312
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
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!
(562) 632-5834 View (562) 632-5834
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(424) 349-5026 View (424) 349-5026
Photo of Sayeh Beheshti - SoCal Youth Center, Psychiatrist, MD
SoCal Youth Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
SoCal Youth Center provides trauma-informed therapy and psychiatry services for youths ages 8-18 in our comprehensive and client-centered programs, offered in-person and via telehealth to make treatment accessible and convenient. Our unique intensive outpatient treatment program consists of services including individual therapy, family therapy, group sessions, and psychiatric medication management. Our team collectively has decades of experience in treating a wide range of behavioral and developmental disorders, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and body image issues, gender identity issues, autism, and ADHD.
SoCal Youth Center provides trauma-informed therapy and psychiatry services for youths ages 8-18 in our comprehensive and client-centered programs, offered in-person and via telehealth to make treatment accessible and convenient. Our unique intensive outpatient treatment program consists of services including individual therapy, family therapy, group sessions, and psychiatric medication management. Our team collectively has decades of experience in treating a wide range of behavioral and developmental disorders, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and body image issues, gender identity issues, autism, and ADHD.
(562) 837-2459 View (562) 837-2459
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!
(424) 688-7374 View (424) 688-7374

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Esder Shin - Blue Ocean Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Blue Ocean Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression that disrupt your daily life, affecting your work, school, and relationships? Do you feel emotionally exhausted and overwhelmed just trying to get through the day? You're not alone. Many individuals are grappling with feelings of anxiety and uncertainty while searching for their place in life, managing challenging relationships, and navigating past traumas.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression that disrupt your daily life, affecting your work, school, and relationships? Do you feel emotionally exhausted and overwhelmed just trying to get through the day? You're not alone. Many individuals are grappling with feelings of anxiety and uncertainty while searching for their place in life, managing challenging relationships, and navigating past traumas.
(424) 380-7230 View (424) 380-7230
Photo of Dominique Sanders, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(949) 993-0199 View (949) 993-0199
Photo of Jason Cheng, Psychiatrist, MD
Jason Cheng
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you looking for more than medications for your life journey? I can bridge traditions of the East and West to curate a mental health wellness plan for you. My integrative psychiatry practice combines conventional medicine with other evidence-based treatments. I've learned techniques during medical school at the University of Michigan, psychiatry residency at UC San Francisco, the public psychiatry fellowship at Columbia University, and the Integrative Psychiatry Institute fellowship accredited by the University of Colorado. I'm one of a limited number of Accelerated Resolution Therapists (acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com).
Are you looking for more than medications for your life journey? I can bridge traditions of the East and West to curate a mental health wellness plan for you. My integrative psychiatry practice combines conventional medicine with other evidence-based treatments. I've learned techniques during medical school at the University of Michigan, psychiatry residency at UC San Francisco, the public psychiatry fellowship at Columbia University, and the Integrative Psychiatry Institute fellowship accredited by the University of Colorado. I'm one of a limited number of Accelerated Resolution Therapists (acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com).
(615) 471-6213 View (615) 471-6213
Photo of Elio Pedroso Conroy, Psychiatrist, MD
Elio Pedroso Conroy
Psychiatrist, MD
West Hollywood, CA 90046
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. After graduating from medical school, I worked as a primary care physician in Brazil for few years gaining extra experience in general medicine. After that, I completed 4 years of Psychiatry residency training at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington DC. Treating patients with severe mental illness during my formal training gave me vast experience in medication management.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. After graduating from medical school, I worked as a primary care physician in Brazil for few years gaining extra experience in general medicine. After that, I completed 4 years of Psychiatry residency training at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington DC. Treating patients with severe mental illness during my formal training gave me vast experience in medication management.
(209) 264-5197 View (209) 264-5197
Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Bettina Ervin Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
(424) 677-0491 View (424) 677-0491
Photo of Angela A Chijioke - Angela Chijioke DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Angela Chijioke DNP, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Online Only
I embrace a holistic approach that recognizes each patient as a unique individual with physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic syndrome, psychoses, mood disorders, and medication management. I am committed to providing patient-centered care that addresses immediate health concerns and considers the broader context of the patient's life. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I obtained a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I embrace a holistic approach that recognizes each patient as a unique individual with physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic syndrome, psychoses, mood disorders, and medication management. I am committed to providing patient-centered care that addresses immediate health concerns and considers the broader context of the patient's life. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I obtained a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(909) 377-4157 View (909) 377-4157
Photo of Lalaine Otadoy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lalaine Otadoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accepting 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 accepting 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!
(424) 415-8955 View (424) 415-8955
Photo of Jessica Jun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Jessica Jun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Tustin, CA 92780
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is to improve individual well-being and quality of life through symptom management. I plan to work together in personalizing treatment that meets goals and lifestyles.
My focus is to improve individual well-being and quality of life through symptom management. I plan to work together in personalizing treatment that meets goals and lifestyles.
(626) 238-0940 View (626) 238-0940
Photo of Dr. Waqar Zuberi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
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!
(424) 217-7800 View (424) 217-7800
Photo of Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
(916) 659-8370 View (916) 659-8370
Photo of Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
(843) 417-0261 View (843) 417-0261
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
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.
(323) 443-1729 View (323) 443-1729
Photo of Bettina Ervin Rodgers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bettina Ervin Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
Hi there, my name is Bettina Rodgers and I’m looking forward to connecting with you. I’m a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the state of California. My expertise is in working with patients ages 18 and up who need help using medication to manage their mental health. My main focus with patients is on life span. Mental health is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. The treatment plan that we come up with will focus on creating a sustained positive impact on your overall health.
(310) 361-3748 View (310) 361-3748

See more therapy options for Rancho Palos Verdes

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
71% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Bipolar Disorder
71% Sleep or Insomnia
71% Medication Management

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Optum
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA see their clients

71% Online Only
29% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Rancho Palos Verdes?

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.