Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Sarah Pai, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Pai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience treating adult patients in San Diego county. I am hoping to connect with clients who are looking for a psychiatric provider who is not only skilled in diganosis and prescribing, but is able to understand your unique needs and build a trusted partnership in your care. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my patients.
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience treating adult patients in San Diego county. I am hoping to connect with clients who are looking for a psychiatric provider who is not only skilled in diganosis and prescribing, but is able to understand your unique needs and build a trusted partnership in your care. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my patients.
(858) 358-6209 View (858) 358-6209
Photo of Simon Ordonez, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Simon Ordonez
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Accepting New Patients - Pacific Mind Health treats mental health disorders using a variety of treatments including medications, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We strive to help create a treatment plan which will help guide you on a path to wellness. Our goal is to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations which will inform treatment choices and increase the likelihood the treatment will be successful. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(619) 350-4441 View (619) 350-4441
Photo of Steve Park, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Steve Park
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
Accepting New Patients - Steve Park, PA-C is a physician assistant at Pacific Mind Health. Steve grew up in Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in gerontology at University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA. Inspired to treat patients, Steve gained experience as an EMT and soon received his Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Chapman University. Today, he finds great pleasure in helping others improve their mental health and lifestyle.
(619) 853-2640 View (619) 853-2640
Photo of Guylene Joseph, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Guylene Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
Guylene Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training and experience in the field of Behavioral Health. She has over 20 years of experience with the last 7 years as mental health NP. Her goal is to provide compassionate care and to partner with you to meet your wellness goal. She uses a holistic approach to care. She believes every patient deserves the best care. "I'm passionate about creating welcoming environment where my patients feel comfortable and safe to share their story. "
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Noor Bahramzi, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Noor Bahramzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt the weight of life's demands becoming overwhelming? Do you have strategies or support systems to help you navigate these challenging times?
Have you ever felt the weight of life's demands becoming overwhelming? Do you have strategies or support systems to help you navigate these challenging times?
(619) 832-1527 View (619) 832-1527
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
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
(858) 302-4113 View (858) 302-4113
Photo of Brandon Cole, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandon Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
Are you seeking compassionate support on your mental health journey? I would be honored to be your dedicated guide to holistic wellness and empowerment. I am passionate about helping my clients reach their full potential and have more satisfaction in life and relationships. My approach is anything but one-size-fits-all. I believe in the power of personalized care, tailored to your unique needs, goals, and values. I combine evidence-based practices with a holistic perspective, addressing the multifaceted nature of mental health struggles with understanding and empathy.
Are you seeking compassionate support on your mental health journey? I would be honored to be your dedicated guide to holistic wellness and empowerment. I am passionate about helping my clients reach their full potential and have more satisfaction in life and relationships. My approach is anything but one-size-fits-all. I believe in the power of personalized care, tailored to your unique needs, goals, and values. I combine evidence-based practices with a holistic perspective, addressing the multifaceted nature of mental health struggles with understanding and empathy.
(858) 923-4646 View (858) 923-4646
Photo of Marym Lateef, PMHNP, FNP-C, EFTMP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marym Lateef
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, EFTMP-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
(619) 493-3897 View (619) 493-3897
Photo of Martina Nankivell, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant
Martina Nankivell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
(619) 586-5976 View (619) 586-5976
Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
(619) 658-7122 View (619) 658-7122
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(619) 432-4984 View (619) 432-4984
Photo of Dr. Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(619) 329-4608 View (619) 329-4608
Photo of Assal Parsa - Pacific Mind Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Pacific Mind Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(424) 300-1164 View (424) 300-1164
Photo of Mina Sardashti, MD, Psychiatrist
Mina Sardashti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Mina works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Mina believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Mina works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Mina believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
(858) 358-5215 View (858) 358-5215
Photo of Ryan Bolt, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Bolt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
I believe in an integrative approach with a focus on wholeness and client-centered care. Using these foundations, I strive to provide comprehensive care that incorporates complementary treatments, genetic testing, lifestyle modification, therapy, and medication management. My goal is to foster an environment of trust and understanding so that we can work together to achieve your goals. I am easily accessible even outside of clinic hours via text, email, or phone.
I believe in an integrative approach with a focus on wholeness and client-centered care. Using these foundations, I strive to provide comprehensive care that incorporates complementary treatments, genetic testing, lifestyle modification, therapy, and medication management. My goal is to foster an environment of trust and understanding so that we can work together to achieve your goals. I am easily accessible even outside of clinic hours via text, email, or phone.
(858) 946-4241 View (858) 946-4241
Photo of Dr. Krista Roybal, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Krista Roybal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
*Please Note, I currently only see adults enrolled in True Life Center for Wellbeing Intensive Outpatient (IOP) program.* At True Life Center, patients receive compassionate, individualized, holistic care from a full team of diverse and talented practitioners. In addition to an approach to psychotherapy that is suited to you, we offer couples & family therapy, mindfulness self-compassion & meditation, individualized yoga, acupuncture, massage, nutrition, and fitness. Our approach to care is rooted in the belief that achieving optimal mental health requires attention to the needs of the whole individual - mind, body, and spirit.
*Please Note, I currently only see adults enrolled in True Life Center for Wellbeing Intensive Outpatient (IOP) program.* At True Life Center, patients receive compassionate, individualized, holistic care from a full team of diverse and talented practitioners. In addition to an approach to psychotherapy that is suited to you, we offer couples & family therapy, mindfulness self-compassion & meditation, individualized yoga, acupuncture, massage, nutrition, and fitness. Our approach to care is rooted in the belief that achieving optimal mental health requires attention to the needs of the whole individual - mind, body, and spirit.
(858) 386-7265 View (858) 386-7265
Photo of Nikki French, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nikki French
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
Life with mood disorders, anxiety, or ADHD can feel overwhelming, leaving you drained, unfocused, and emotionally exhausted. You might struggle with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or a persistent sense of unease. My goal is to help you regain control by offering a tailored and supportive approach. Together, we can work toward finding balance and peace in your daily life.
Life with mood disorders, anxiety, or ADHD can feel overwhelming, leaving you drained, unfocused, and emotionally exhausted. You might struggle with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or a persistent sense of unease. My goal is to help you regain control by offering a tailored and supportive approach. Together, we can work toward finding balance and peace in your daily life.
(858) 808-1959 View (858) 808-1959
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(562) 210-0085 View (562) 210-0085
Photo of Lauren Prasek, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Prasek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
I am board-certified to see all ages but my primary focus is to empower women on their wellness journey by offering an approachable and causal setting for treatment.
I am board-certified to see all ages but my primary focus is to empower women on their wellness journey by offering an approachable and causal setting for treatment.
(619) 771-0505 View (619) 771-0505
Photo of Dr. Stephen Signer, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Stephen Signer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Dr. Stephen Signer focuses on neurobehavior and neuropsychiatry for adults.
Dr. Stephen Signer focuses on neurobehavior and neuropsychiatry for adults.
(858) 568-7546 View (858) 568-7546
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

500+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
80% Bipolar Disorder
77% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD
63% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

61% Female
38% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in San Diego?

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.