Psychiatrists in San Clemente, CA

Photo of Kristen Curry, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristen Curry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
I take pride in my holistic approach, collaborating with patients to find a solution to meet their mental health. I believe in creating an individualized treatment plan using a combination of medication management, individual therapy as well as complementary and alternative approaches.
I take pride in my holistic approach, collaborating with patients to find a solution to meet their mental health. I believe in creating an individualized treatment plan using a combination of medication management, individual therapy as well as complementary and alternative approaches.
(949) 749-6607 View (949) 749-6607
Photo of Rebecca Dorne, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Dorne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92672
Outstanding psychiatric care is catered to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
Outstanding psychiatric care is catered to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
(949) 844-5377 View (949) 844-5377
Photo of Marcel Rauda, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marcel Rauda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92672
I am a dedicated board-certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the ANCC. I graduated from Maryville University in St. Louis, and bring a wealth of knowledge into each session. Treating adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders is my specialty. I have experience providing comprehensive care in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am a dedicated board-certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the ANCC. I graduated from Maryville University in St. Louis, and bring a wealth of knowledge into each session. Treating adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders is my specialty. I have experience providing comprehensive care in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(949) 889-1537 View (949) 889-1537
Photo of Shala Shardil, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shala Shardil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92673
Hi! I'm Shala, a board certified mental health nurse practitioner supporting adolescents, teens, and adults in overcoming anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I use psychotherapy, medication management, and Neurofeedback in my practice. Neurofeedback calms the brain, making psychotherapy more effective. I am also a member of the Benzodiazepine Information and Coalition (BIC). For those who need to taper off meds, I use a holistic method which includes psychotherapy, nutrition, and sleep hygiene in addition to gentle tapering from Benzos and other psychotropics based on well known methods like the Ashton Manual and Dr. Horowitz guidelines.
Hi! I'm Shala, a board certified mental health nurse practitioner supporting adolescents, teens, and adults in overcoming anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I use psychotherapy, medication management, and Neurofeedback in my practice. Neurofeedback calms the brain, making psychotherapy more effective. I am also a member of the Benzodiazepine Information and Coalition (BIC). For those who need to taper off meds, I use a holistic method which includes psychotherapy, nutrition, and sleep hygiene in addition to gentle tapering from Benzos and other psychotropics based on well known methods like the Ashton Manual and Dr. Horowitz guidelines.
(949) 776-7897 View (949) 776-7897
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) 631-0470 View (510) 631-0470
Photo of Mehdi Bubba Thomas, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mehdi Bubba Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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!
(949) 868-0326 View (949) 868-0326
Photo of Trisha Paniagua, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trisha Paniagua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
My name is Trisha Paniagua and I chose to be a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner because I desire to advocate for and educate patients in managing life’s challenges and their mental health. I’d like to help in assisting with a treatment plan, diagnosis and medication management. I desire to be able to participate in diminishing the stigma in mental healthcare. I have an extensive background in mental health that has helped me to gain a wealth of experience in working with a vast population of patients, students, and families of different cultures, varied socio-economic backgrounds, and with multiple diagnosis.
My name is Trisha Paniagua and I chose to be a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner because I desire to advocate for and educate patients in managing life’s challenges and their mental health. I’d like to help in assisting with a treatment plan, diagnosis and medication management. I desire to be able to participate in diminishing the stigma in mental healthcare. I have an extensive background in mental health that has helped me to gain a wealth of experience in working with a vast population of patients, students, and families of different cultures, varied socio-economic backgrounds, and with multiple diagnosis.
(858) 522-0145 View (858) 522-0145
Photo of Toni Ann Locke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toni Ann Locke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Cal State San Marcos. I obtained my post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from National University. In addition to medication management, I use a combination of CBT and emotionally focused therapy. The theoretical approaches that I use are humanistic and cognitive perspectives.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Cal State San Marcos. I obtained my post-master's certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from National University. In addition to medication management, I use a combination of CBT and emotionally focused therapy. The theoretical approaches that I use are humanistic and cognitive perspectives.
(650) 484-5203 View (650) 484-5203
Photo of Linda Long - Psychiatry Services | Help Therapy, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatry Services | Help Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92673
Help Therapy’s psychiatry and medication management services are expertly tailored for individuals with a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, personality disorders, mood disorders, and other conditions requiring medication. Our comprehensive approach aligns with your mental health plan and includes detailed consultations to tailor and optimize your medication treatment. We also offer optional psychotherapy and psychological evaluations for additional support. Trust our dedicated team to guide you towards improved mental health and well-being
Help Therapy’s psychiatry and medication management services are expertly tailored for individuals with a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, personality disorders, mood disorders, and other conditions requiring medication. Our comprehensive approach aligns with your mental health plan and includes detailed consultations to tailor and optimize your medication treatment. We also offer optional psychotherapy and psychological evaluations for additional support. Trust our dedicated team to guide you towards improved mental health and well-being
(949) 303-7203 View (949) 303-7203
Photo of Brittany Watson, PMHNPBC, DNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Brittany Watson is a licensed and dual board-certified Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner in family medicine and psychiatric mental health. Her training in both specialties allows her to understand the critical link between physical and mental well-being across the lifespan. She has a strong belief in holistic care utilizing a variety of treatment modalities including psychotropic medications, in addition to evidence based complementary and alternative treatments. She believes in a collaborative approach with her client's in reaching their goals. She is a San Diego native and enjoys playing sports, traveling and beach days.
Brittany Watson is a licensed and dual board-certified Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner in family medicine and psychiatric mental health. Her training in both specialties allows her to understand the critical link between physical and mental well-being across the lifespan. She has a strong belief in holistic care utilizing a variety of treatment modalities including psychotropic medications, in addition to evidence based complementary and alternative treatments. She believes in a collaborative approach with her client's in reaching their goals. She is a San Diego native and enjoys playing sports, traveling and beach days.
(858) 522-0145 View (858) 522-0145
Photo of Dr. Oyinade Akhigbe, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Oyinade Akhigbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult or senior struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, or mood disorders. They seek relief from overwhelming thoughts, emotional imbalances, and disruptive behaviors. Their goal is to regain control of their mental health and overall well-being, finding peace and stability. They value a holistic approach that treats not just the symptoms but the whole person—physical, emotional, and mental. They're ready to work through these challenges with a compassionate provider who listens, builds trust, and empowers them toward a healthier, happier life.
My ideal client is an adult or senior struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, or mood disorders. They seek relief from overwhelming thoughts, emotional imbalances, and disruptive behaviors. Their goal is to regain control of their mental health and overall well-being, finding peace and stability. They value a holistic approach that treats not just the symptoms but the whole person—physical, emotional, and mental. They're ready to work through these challenges with a compassionate provider who listens, builds trust, and empowers them toward a healthier, happier life.
(562) 669-3664 View (562) 669-3664
Photo of Kirsten Manalo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kirsten Manalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in treating a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I have 8 years of nursing experience with background specialties in psychiatric/mental health, medical-surgical, home health, and academia. My education and experience enables me to treat patients with a holistic approach meaning other factors that affect mental health and well-being are taken into consideration as well. This includes addressing multiple facets of health including emotional, psychological, physiological, sociocultural, and spiritual.
I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in treating a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I have 8 years of nursing experience with background specialties in psychiatric/mental health, medical-surgical, home health, and academia. My education and experience enables me to treat patients with a holistic approach meaning other factors that affect mental health and well-being are taken into consideration as well. This includes addressing multiple facets of health including emotional, psychological, physiological, sociocultural, and spiritual.
(858) 522-0145 View (858) 522-0145
Photo of Mary A Offenheiser, RN, MSN, PMHCNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Mary A Offenheiser
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MSN, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Are you feeling lost, angry, scared, hopeless and helpless about the future, or have a history of painful experiences? Are you always sick or in pain? Is life out of control? Are you spending much time imagining "how things should be" rather than dealing with how it is today? Do you do the things you need to do, to take care of yourself? Do you know how to be good to yourself? Having difficulties with closeness and distance in intimate relationships? I work with adults, young adults and elders to find courage and calmness, wisdom and clarity to embrace life!
Are you feeling lost, angry, scared, hopeless and helpless about the future, or have a history of painful experiences? Are you always sick or in pain? Is life out of control? Are you spending much time imagining "how things should be" rather than dealing with how it is today? Do you do the things you need to do, to take care of yourself? Do you know how to be good to yourself? Having difficulties with closeness and distance in intimate relationships? I work with adults, young adults and elders to find courage and calmness, wisdom and clarity to embrace life!
(949) 407-5789 View (949) 407-5789
Photo of Mohamed Yaser Elatrozy - Ocean View Neuropsychiatry-Adult/Child Psychiatry, MD, CHILD, PSYCH, Psychiatrist
Ocean View Neuropsychiatry-Adult/Child Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, CHILD, PSYCH
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
Ocean View Neuropsychiatry is a Psychiatry practice located in Orange County, CA with additional locations in Riverside CA. We offer prompt appointments with flexible hours including later appointments to accommodate the family's schedule. Our practice consists of Board Certified Adult and Child psychiatrists.
Ocean View Neuropsychiatry is a Psychiatry practice located in Orange County, CA with additional locations in Riverside CA. We offer prompt appointments with flexible hours including later appointments to accommodate the family's schedule. Our practice consists of Board Certified Adult and Child psychiatrists.
(949) 312-4365 View (949) 312-4365
Photo of Brynn Bailey - Balanced Behavioral Health, MS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Balanced Behavioral Health
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Waitlist for new clients
Brynn Bailey MS, PA-C, has been practicing psychiatry over the last 10 years. She is passionate about helping her patients optimize their health, wellbeing, & happiness through a compassionate & comprehensive approach to treatment. Brynn is a careful listener & collaborates with her patients to formulate a treatment plan that addresses each person's unique needs & leverages their strengths & capabilities. She specializes in working with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychosis, eating disorders, PTSD, ADHD, & other conditions created by situational life stressors. She is distinguished by her kind, easy going, yet professional manner. Brynn's focus is medication management with a supportive & collaborative treatment model.
Brynn Bailey MS, PA-C, has been practicing psychiatry over the last 10 years. She is passionate about helping her patients optimize their health, wellbeing, & happiness through a compassionate & comprehensive approach to treatment. Brynn is a careful listener & collaborates with her patients to formulate a treatment plan that addresses each person's unique needs & leverages their strengths & capabilities. She specializes in working with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychosis, eating disorders, PTSD, ADHD, & other conditions created by situational life stressors. She is distinguished by her kind, easy going, yet professional manner. Brynn's focus is medication management with a supportive & collaborative treatment model.
(949) 647-5310 View (949) 647-5310
Photo of Hendrick Soh, MD, Psychiatrist
Hendrick Soh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hendrick Soh, MD participates in the evaluation and psychiatric medical management of children and adolescents in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Soh is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is board-certified in General psychiatry with additional specialty training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate education at UCLA and medical school at UC-Irvine. Dr. Soh then finished his residency training at Harbor-UCLA and his fellowship training at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.
Hendrick Soh, MD participates in the evaluation and psychiatric medical management of children and adolescents in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Soh is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is board-certified in General psychiatry with additional specialty training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate education at UCLA and medical school at UC-Irvine. Dr. Soh then finished his residency training at Harbor-UCLA and his fellowship training at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.
(415) 855-7612 View (415) 855-7612
Photo of Jada Alston, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jada Alston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Are you struggling with managing your emotions? Has your daily life become challenging or too overwhelming? Living with symptoms of mental health disorders can be frightening and can interrupt your ability to work and maintain healthy social relationships. Most individuals that suffer from mental health disorders feel isolated, alone, and fear being judged or mistreated. Let us work together to restore your happiness and well-being. I specialize in medication management and can help you find a medication to help boost your wellness journey. Due to the high volume of emails, please call my clinic for scheduling instead of emailing.
Are you struggling with managing your emotions? Has your daily life become challenging or too overwhelming? Living with symptoms of mental health disorders can be frightening and can interrupt your ability to work and maintain healthy social relationships. Most individuals that suffer from mental health disorders feel isolated, alone, and fear being judged or mistreated. Let us work together to restore your happiness and well-being. I specialize in medication management and can help you find a medication to help boost your wellness journey. Due to the high volume of emails, please call my clinic for scheduling instead of emailing.
(949) 722-7118 View (949) 722-7118
Photo of Samir Hamed, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
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 Allied Healers, 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.
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 Allied Healers, 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.
(949) 919-5847 View (949) 919-5847
Photo of Klaudia Mayer, MSN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Klaudia Mayer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
One size does NOT fit all! I believe that an individualized and holistic approach to your mental wellness yields true solutions. I have over 10 years of well rounded experience in the field and I am passionate about integrating evidence-informed conventional and complementary therapies in treating psychiatric disorders. I have learned that every person requires a unique approach. You and I may need to rework medications, while others would benefit from talking through possibilities or processing painful memories, and still others need my help refining their nutrition or developing consistent exercise habits.
One size does NOT fit all! I believe that an individualized and holistic approach to your mental wellness yields true solutions. I have over 10 years of well rounded experience in the field and I am passionate about integrating evidence-informed conventional and complementary therapies in treating psychiatric disorders. I have learned that every person requires a unique approach. You and I may need to rework medications, while others would benefit from talking through possibilities or processing painful memories, and still others need my help refining their nutrition or developing consistent exercise habits.
(442) 210-3246 View (442) 210-3246
Photo of Lauren Sarah Debski, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Sarah Debski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92674
Are you doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results? Have you tried countless times to change a your behavior, such as quitting alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, heroin, methamphetamines, or nicotine? Have you recently left inpatient rehabilitation or an inpatient psychiatric ward and need additional support? Do you feel like your mood, anxiety, and depression are running your life? Do you feel triggered by your past? Making these changes can be extremely difficult and cannot be done alone. My name is Lauren Debski. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner.
Are you doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results? Have you tried countless times to change a your behavior, such as quitting alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, heroin, methamphetamines, or nicotine? Have you recently left inpatient rehabilitation or an inpatient psychiatric ward and need additional support? Do you feel like your mood, anxiety, and depression are running your life? Do you feel triggered by your past? Making these changes can be extremely difficult and cannot be done alone. My name is Lauren Debski. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner.
(760) 276-6579 View (760) 276-6579
1

See more therapy options for San Clemente

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Clemente, CA

20+

Average cost per session

$172

Psychiatrists in San Clemente, CA who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
83% ADHD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Medication Management
74% Bipolar Disorder
74% Stress

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
82% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in San Clemente, CA see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in San Clemente?

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.