Psychiatrists in Salinas, CA

Photo of Amarachi Igwe - Calm corner Mental health, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Calm corner Mental health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Salinas, CA 93905
Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings, anxiety, depression? I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. At calm corner mental health we understand that seeking mental health care that feels both supportive and culturally sensitive is essential. That's why we are proud to offer a team of experienced and compassionate black psychiatrists in Los Angeles who are committed to providing you with the highest level of mental care.
Are you struggling with episodes of mood swings, anxiety, depression? I know it took a lot of courage to get to this point. At calm corner mental health we understand that seeking mental health care that feels both supportive and culturally sensitive is essential. That's why we are proud to offer a team of experienced and compassionate black psychiatrists in Los Angeles who are committed to providing you with the highest level of mental care.
(562) 620-8482 View (562) 620-8482
Photo of Halee Fullerton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
(760) 491-4145 View (760) 491-4145
Photo of Jordan Rose, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
(831) 231-3324 View (831) 231-3324
Photo of Erika Brenda Arias, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erika Brenda Arias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in the field. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I work with patients who struggle with depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine. My approach is supportive, compassion focused, and culturally sensitive while incorporating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
My name is Erika Arias MSN, FNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in the field. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients between the ages of 18-70 years old. I work with patients who struggle with depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders and provide services in addiction medicine. My approach is supportive, compassion focused, and culturally sensitive while incorporating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
(510) 694-7927 View (510) 694-7927
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
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.
(831) 406-5344 View (831) 406-5344
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(415) 862-3150 View (415) 862-3150
Photo of Briauna Linton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Briauna Linton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Briauna and I have a diverse clinical background spanning over 9 years. I have showcased my expertise in various domains, notably in critical care, which has lead to my decision to become a dedicated provider. In addition to my clinical expertise, I often emphasize patient education, advocacy, and empowerment. I work to reduce stigma associated with mental illness, promote resilience, and support individuals in achieving their therapeutic goals. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that addresses the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of mental health.
My name is Briauna and I have a diverse clinical background spanning over 9 years. I have showcased my expertise in various domains, notably in critical care, which has lead to my decision to become a dedicated provider. In addition to my clinical expertise, I often emphasize patient education, advocacy, and empowerment. I work to reduce stigma associated with mental illness, promote resilience, and support individuals in achieving their therapeutic goals. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that addresses the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of mental health.
(562) 573-8885 View (562) 573-8885
Photo of Hailey Battle, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hailey Battle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Nurse Practitioner Hailey Battle believes in practicing self-compassion, embracing imperfections, and cultivating resiliency. Working with clients, she strives to help them understand their treatment options, navigate their mental health goals, and most importantly, live wholeheartedly. Given her clinical practice experience, she has a firm understanding of medications (psychopharmacology), their safety considerations, and their effects on individuals. NP Battle's approach to care includes creating a unique treatment plan, including medication management and non-pharmacological interventions.
Nurse Practitioner Hailey Battle believes in practicing self-compassion, embracing imperfections, and cultivating resiliency. Working with clients, she strives to help them understand their treatment options, navigate their mental health goals, and most importantly, live wholeheartedly. Given her clinical practice experience, she has a firm understanding of medications (psychopharmacology), their safety considerations, and their effects on individuals. NP Battle's approach to care includes creating a unique treatment plan, including medication management and non-pharmacological interventions.
(531) 202-3779 View (531) 202-3779
Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Axeline Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognisant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognisant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
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Photo of Sandra Merino, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Merino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dedicated and patient-focused Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse with over 18 years of nursing experience. Well-versed in offering evidence-based, therapeutic care for patients dealing with mental health and substance use disorders. Strengths in acute and outpatient care services for over fifteen years. I am experienced in providing quality care to various patient populations. I possess a Master’s qualification in nursing. Proficient in updating charts, monitoring medications, and working with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient care. Quality-driven and efficient with strong interpersonal abilities.
Dedicated and patient-focused Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse with over 18 years of nursing experience. Well-versed in offering evidence-based, therapeutic care for patients dealing with mental health and substance use disorders. Strengths in acute and outpatient care services for over fifteen years. I am experienced in providing quality care to various patient populations. I possess a Master’s qualification in nursing. Proficient in updating charts, monitoring medications, and working with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient care. Quality-driven and efficient with strong interpersonal abilities.
(661) 443-5372 View (661) 443-5372

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ferhad Ahmad, MD, Psychiatrist
Ferhad Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I specialize in treating patients with anxiety or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). I believe mental health is a vital aspect of any individual's well-being, and I work to have every patient with depression be as symptom-free as possible and enjoy life to the fullest. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be an important treatment modality, as it allows me to work with my patients and tailor individual treatment modalities specific to their symptoms, and relieve their suffering from depression or another psychological disorder. I believe that TMS can be an alternative instrument or an addition to medications.
I specialize in treating patients with anxiety or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). I believe mental health is a vital aspect of any individual's well-being, and I work to have every patient with depression be as symptom-free as possible and enjoy life to the fullest. I find Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to be an important treatment modality, as it allows me to work with my patients and tailor individual treatment modalities specific to their symptoms, and relieve their suffering from depression or another psychological disorder. I believe that TMS can be an alternative instrument or an addition to medications.
(650) 889-7759 View (650) 889-7759
Photo of Rebecca I Katz, MD, Psychiatrist
Rebecca I Katz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carmel By The Sea, CA 93923
Rebecca I. Katz, M.D. is a double board certified Child & Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. She has extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, other mood disorders, PTSD, perinatal and postpartum mental health disorders and more. Dr. Katz was a teacher prior to pursuing a medical degree and as an educator, she believes knowledge motivates action. Educating patients about the tools they need for success is crucial for effective healthcare. Fostering a collaborative clinic where patients feel informed and empowered equips them to take an active role in their health journey.
Rebecca I. Katz, M.D. is a double board certified Child & Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. She has extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, other mood disorders, PTSD, perinatal and postpartum mental health disorders and more. Dr. Katz was a teacher prior to pursuing a medical degree and as an educator, she believes knowledge motivates action. Educating patients about the tools they need for success is crucial for effective healthcare. Fostering a collaborative clinic where patients feel informed and empowered equips them to take an active role in their health journey.
(831) 293-7300 View (831) 293-7300
Photo of Craig Fisher, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Craig Fisher
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am accepting new clients and can schedule you within a few days of you reaching out. I use collaborative decision-making with you to reach your mental health goals. I work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My specialty is in the treatment, diagnosis and medication management of mental health disorders. I am committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and will work collaboratively with your therapist and other providers for you to receive the best treatment and benefits of medication management.
I am accepting new clients and can schedule you within a few days of you reaching out. I use collaborative decision-making with you to reach your mental health goals. I work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. My specialty is in the treatment, diagnosis and medication management of mental health disorders. I am committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome and will work collaboratively with your therapist and other providers for you to receive the best treatment and benefits of medication management.
(805) 622-2916 View (805) 622-2916
Photo of Sauntrice O'Quin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sauntrice O'Quin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
(323) 405-9785 View (323) 405-9785
Photo of Alma Caridad Ritsema, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alma Caridad Ritsema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Aptos, CA 95003
Accepting New Patients - We are acutely aware that there is a shortage of mental health care practitioners in the area at a time when so many people are struggling to maintain their mental health. We are happy to be a new and growing practice that can address this shortage and help new patients. The goal of Manresa Wellness is to provide mental health support to adults in our community by providing competent and compassionate care.
Accepting New Patients - We are acutely aware that there is a shortage of mental health care practitioners in the area at a time when so many people are struggling to maintain their mental health. We are happy to be a new and growing practice that can address this shortage and help new patients. The goal of Manresa Wellness is to provide mental health support to adults in our community by providing competent and compassionate care.
(831) 603-3938 View (831) 603-3938
Photo of James Lake, MD, Psychiatrist
James Lake
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience. After obtaining a BA in Human Biology at Stanford my first career was in high-tech consulting in Silicon Valley. I then attended medical school at U.C. Irvine and completed residency training at Stanford. I have served as a clinical assistant professor at Stanford, and am currently an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at University of Arizona College of Medicine.
I am a Board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience. After obtaining a BA in Human Biology at Stanford my first career was in high-tech consulting in Silicon Valley. I then attended medical school at U.C. Irvine and completed residency training at Stanford. I have served as a clinical assistant professor at Stanford, and am currently an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at University of Arizona College of Medicine.
(855) 466-4607 View (855) 466-4607
Photo of Oriana Vesga-Lopez, MD, Psychiatrist
Oriana Vesga-Lopez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Vesga-Lopez is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a focus on the treatment of lifetime adversity exposure and its impact on well-being. She completed her residency training and served as Chief Resident in Emergency Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in affiliation with Harvard Medical School. With a compassionate approach, she is committed to helping her patients navigate the complexities of life adversities and their effects on mental health. Her clinical practice integrates mindfulness-based psychotherapeutic modalities with psychopharmacology, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Dr. Vesga-Lopez is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a focus on the treatment of lifetime adversity exposure and its impact on well-being. She completed her residency training and served as Chief Resident in Emergency Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in affiliation with Harvard Medical School. With a compassionate approach, she is committed to helping her patients navigate the complexities of life adversities and their effects on mental health. Her clinical practice integrates mindfulness-based psychotherapeutic modalities with psychopharmacology, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(650) 727-1523 View (650) 727-1523
Photo of Jill Marie Ridens, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Marie Ridens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
February 2025: Currently taking new clients with appointments available as early as this week! Insurance accepted: Aetna, Optum, Magellan, Carelon and Medicare. More insurance carriers being covered soon. Cash pay/Out of Network is ok and we can provide a super bill upon request. My ideal client is someone who wants to understand their mental health and the different options for managing their symptoms and treating the underlying causes. You want to use the most up-to-date treatment strategies for your mental health. You are interested in building a lasting relationship with your provider.
February 2025: Currently taking new clients with appointments available as early as this week! Insurance accepted: Aetna, Optum, Magellan, Carelon and Medicare. More insurance carriers being covered soon. Cash pay/Out of Network is ok and we can provide a super bill upon request. My ideal client is someone who wants to understand their mental health and the different options for managing their symptoms and treating the underlying causes. You want to use the most up-to-date treatment strategies for your mental health. You are interested in building a lasting relationship with your provider.
(831) 291-3540 View (831) 291-3540
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.
(760) 387-1656 View (760) 387-1656

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Salinas, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Salinas, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
82% Trauma and PTSD
82% Bipolar Disorder
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Sleep or Insomnia
64% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Blue Cross

How Psychiatrists in Salinas, CA see their clients

81% Online Only
19% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Salinas?

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.