Psychiatrists in San Carlos, CA

Kimberly Erlich-Pediatric Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PNP-PC, PMHS-BC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Yale-trained Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; double board certified in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Mental Health & certified integrative mental health professional; in practice for 22+ years. Collaborative style; committed to use of evidence-based practices to promote mental health and wellness and treat behavioral disorders, while prioritizing integrative/holistic interventions. Skilled at treating anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, and attention disorders. I partner with Fullscript online supplement pharmacy: us.fullscript.com/welcome/kerlich.
Yale-trained Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; double board certified in Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Mental Health & certified integrative mental health professional; in practice for 22+ years. Collaborative style; committed to use of evidence-based practices to promote mental health and wellness and treat behavioral disorders, while prioritizing integrative/holistic interventions. Skilled at treating anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, depression, and attention disorders. I partner with Fullscript online supplement pharmacy: us.fullscript.com/welcome/kerlich.

I am a double-board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years in clinical practice. I trained at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City. My approach is to understand every person's individual biology, background and present circumstances. This means treatment should be personalized to meet you where you are, reduce symptoms that stand in your way, and build skills to create changes you want to see. I work with adults across a variety of mental health conditions. I offer treatment with medications, therapy, or both, and may recommend lifestyle modifications or supplements. I also collaborate with your care team.
I am a double-board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years in clinical practice. I trained at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City. My approach is to understand every person's individual biology, background and present circumstances. This means treatment should be personalized to meet you where you are, reduce symptoms that stand in your way, and build skills to create changes you want to see. I work with adults across a variety of mental health conditions. I offer treatment with medications, therapy, or both, and may recommend lifestyle modifications or supplements. I also collaborate with your care team.

If you or your child/teen are struggling with mental health concerns and are seeking the expertise of a skilled and compassionate physician, look no further. Dr. Cordelia Ross, MD is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist offering telehealth appointments. She is recognized by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology as both a general psychiatrist and a child and adolescent psychiatrist. She trained at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital, teaching hospitals at Harvard Medical School, and is currently a professor at the Stanford University Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
If you or your child/teen are struggling with mental health concerns and are seeking the expertise of a skilled and compassionate physician, look no further. Dr. Cordelia Ross, MD is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist offering telehealth appointments. She is recognized by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology as both a general psychiatrist and a child and adolescent psychiatrist. She trained at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital, teaching hospitals at Harvard Medical School, and is currently a professor at the Stanford University Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.

As a board certified psychiatrist, I treat psychiatric conditions using the bio-psycho-social framework. Psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, like thyroid problems, the effects of chemotherapy, strokes, or genetic predisposition. Psychiatric issues may also have psychological causes, such as the lack of coping skills, difficulty processing situations, or early life experiences. Finally, psychiatric disorders may have sociological explanations: overwhelming expectations of one's social setting, perhaps, or drastic changes in one's environment.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I treat psychiatric conditions using the bio-psycho-social framework. Psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, like thyroid problems, the effects of chemotherapy, strokes, or genetic predisposition. Psychiatric issues may also have psychological causes, such as the lack of coping skills, difficulty processing situations, or early life experiences. Finally, psychiatric disorders may have sociological explanations: overwhelming expectations of one's social setting, perhaps, or drastic changes in one's environment.

Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!

If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, problems with attention, are in a life transition, experiencing trauma and its consequences, or have wishes for a greater sense of authenticity, my 30 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist and psychotherapist has convinced me that a good relationship with a mental health provider can help you understand, accept and value your unique story. I believe it is my passion for this work that has led me to be selected as one of the "Best Doctors in America" for 20 straight years.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, problems with attention, are in a life transition, experiencing trauma and its consequences, or have wishes for a greater sense of authenticity, my 30 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist and psychotherapist has convinced me that a good relationship with a mental health provider can help you understand, accept and value your unique story. I believe it is my passion for this work that has led me to be selected as one of the "Best Doctors in America" for 20 straight years.

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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

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. 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 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. 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!

TeleHealthPsyCare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
What's bothering you the most today? Let's work on it. Sometimes meds help.
What's bothering you the most today? Let's work on it. Sometimes meds help.

I offer evidence based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. My therapy approach is a mix of genuine humanism, evidence based (CBT, DBT. RO-DBT) strategies and mindfulness. I strive to be validating, non-judgmental and warm while collaboratively helping you get the tools you need to reach your valued-goals in life.
I offer evidence based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. My therapy approach is a mix of genuine humanism, evidence based (CBT, DBT. RO-DBT) strategies and mindfulness. I strive to be validating, non-judgmental and warm while collaboratively helping you get the tools you need to reach your valued-goals in life.

David Chang Min Ha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94014
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA

Renaissance Behavioral Medicine provides psychotherapy and medication management services for children, teens and adults for various mental health conditions including but not limited to major depressive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, substance addiction and all anxiety disorders. Services are provided in person and via telehealth for Southern and Northern California residents.
Renaissance Behavioral Medicine provides psychotherapy and medication management services for children, teens and adults for various mental health conditions including but not limited to major depressive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, substance addiction and all anxiety disorders. Services are provided in person and via telehealth for Southern and Northern California residents.

Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner I worked for 12 years as an inpatient nurse at a local hospital, 8 of which were as an inpatient psychiatric nurse working with the adult population. I've spent the last 6 years working as a Community Mental Health Nurse with underserved communities in the county that suffer from severe mental illnesses. During that time, I also completed the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at UCSF. My area of expertise are adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. From the start of my career, I realized that I have the responsibility to meet my clients where they are.
Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner I worked for 12 years as an inpatient nurse at a local hospital, 8 of which were as an inpatient psychiatric nurse working with the adult population. I've spent the last 6 years working as a Community Mental Health Nurse with underserved communities in the county that suffer from severe mental illnesses. During that time, I also completed the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at UCSF. My area of expertise are adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. From the start of my career, I realized that I have the responsibility to meet my clients where they are.

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!

Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.
Azmeena Hashem (DNP, PMHNP-BC, NP-C, APRN, RN). Holistic and effective patient care and practice psychopharmacology. My skills include conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, devising personalized treatment plans, and experience in psychiatric medication management. Also, provide ongoing psychoeducation to individuals and their families. Adult patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, dual diagnosis, bipolar, PTSD, and panic disorder. Active listening, working with the patient as a team, and discussing treatment plans with them.

My name is Missy Teklai. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in medication management, anxiety, and depression. I believe psychiatry and therapy shouldn't be expensive or impossible to access. I’m passionate about destigmatizing mental healthcare. I’m on a mission to create a world where feelings are felt, respected, and cared for. I strive for a collaborative approach with my patients utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and medication management. I specialize and have experience in medication management, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
My name is Missy Teklai. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in medication management, anxiety, and depression. I believe psychiatry and therapy shouldn't be expensive or impossible to access. I’m passionate about destigmatizing mental healthcare. I’m on a mission to create a world where feelings are felt, respected, and cared for. I strive for a collaborative approach with my patients utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and medication management. I specialize and have experience in medication management, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

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).

1) Double Board Certified: Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine — trained under Dr Anna Lembke at Stanford University, author of Dopamine Nation. I believe in re-sensitizing dopamine receptors through putting in hard work, leading to more energy, focus, and fulfillment.
1) Double Board Certified: Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine — trained under Dr Anna Lembke at Stanford University, author of Dopamine Nation. I believe in re-sensitizing dopamine receptors through putting in hard work, leading to more energy, focus, and fulfillment.

The process of healing is a collaborative effort. Your role is to share with me your concerns and any issues interfering with your or your loved one's life. Whether it be depression, anxiety, attention/focus or another mental heath topic, identifying the core issue is our first goal. I will then offer you my expert training and experience to recommend the best course of treatment to consider. Working together we will navigate along the healing process towards a happy, productive and satisfying quality of life.
The process of healing is a collaborative effort. Your role is to share with me your concerns and any issues interfering with your or your loved one's life. Whether it be depression, anxiety, attention/focus or another mental heath topic, identifying the core issue is our first goal. I will then offer you my expert training and experience to recommend the best course of treatment to consider. Working together we will navigate along the healing process towards a happy, productive and satisfying quality of life.

Limitless Psychiatry: ADHD Speciality
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Coach, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Labeled as a PROCRAStINATOR, perpetually LATE, battling BRAIN-fog, or viewed as a time waster? These descriptors often strike a chord for those with ADHD, reflecting not a lack of effort or ambition but the complex challenges of an overlooked and undermanaged condition. As a PMHNP with a focus on ADHD, I've walked in your shoes. I know firsthand the frustration these labels can bring and how misleading they can be. My personal journey with ADHD, alongside my professional expertise, ignites my passion for offering care that goes beyond traditional management. Let's change the narrative. Together, we can rewrite your story.
Labeled as a PROCRAStINATOR, perpetually LATE, battling BRAIN-fog, or viewed as a time waster? These descriptors often strike a chord for those with ADHD, reflecting not a lack of effort or ambition but the complex challenges of an overlooked and undermanaged condition. As a PMHNP with a focus on ADHD, I've walked in your shoes. I know firsthand the frustration these labels can bring and how misleading they can be. My personal journey with ADHD, alongside my professional expertise, ignites my passion for offering care that goes beyond traditional management. Let's change the narrative. Together, we can rewrite your story.
See more therapy options for San Carlos
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Carlos, CA
< 10
Psychiatrists in San Carlos, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
71% | Grief |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Medication Management |
57% | Eating Disorders |
Average years in practice
23 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in San Carlos, CA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Carlos?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.