Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

Photo of La Tanya Wallace, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
La Tanya Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Welcome! Are you experiencing life’s transitions, self-esteem, or relationship struggles which leave you feeling lost and overwhelmed? Do you find yourself yearning for clarity, a renewed sense of purpose, and meaningful connections? In these moments, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. With holistic support and guidance, it is possible to find balance and regain control over your life. Together, we can explore the path to healing and growth, illuminating a way forward to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Consider a Mental Emotional Release Session - Yes, You Can Heal Now!
Welcome! Are you experiencing life’s transitions, self-esteem, or relationship struggles which leave you feeling lost and overwhelmed? Do you find yourself yearning for clarity, a renewed sense of purpose, and meaningful connections? In these moments, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. With holistic support and guidance, it is possible to find balance and regain control over your life. Together, we can explore the path to healing and growth, illuminating a way forward to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Consider a Mental Emotional Release Session - Yes, You Can Heal Now!
(619) 473-7437 View (619) 473-7437
Photo of David Lindley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Lindley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
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 Bianca Best, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bianca Best
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Hello, I'm Bianca, a Board-certified PMHNP dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological well-being. I'm here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate any challenges you're facing and promote a healthier, happier you. My approach to providing care is centered around creating a compassionate, empathetic, and supportive environment for my patients. I tailor my therapeutic methods to each individual's unique needs, combining various evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible outcomes.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Chaitanya Pabbati - Headlight / San Diego, MD, Psychiatrist
Headlight / San Diego
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
Headlight is proud to offer San Diego, CA a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer San Diego, CA a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
(858) 221-9820 View (858) 221-9820
Photo of Ashok Parameswaran, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashok Parameswaran
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
Dr. Ashok Parameswaran is a licensed and board-certified psychiatrist. Born outside of Philadelphia PA, he moved to San Diego for residency. In San Diego, he has worked in a variety of outpatient clinical care settings serving patients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Dr. Ashok Parameswaran is a licensed and board-certified psychiatrist. Born outside of Philadelphia PA, he moved to San Diego for residency. In San Diego, he has worked in a variety of outpatient clinical care settings serving patients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
(858) 630-6582 View (858) 630-6582
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(424) 339-0459 View (424) 339-0459
Photo of Joshua Flatow, MD, Psychiatrist
Joshua Flatow
Psychiatrist, MD
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) 367-1395 View (424) 367-1395
Photo of Uchenna Okoye, MD, Psychiatrist
Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (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!
(619) 374-0533 View (619) 374-0533
Photo of Olga Korelova, MD, Psychiatrist
Olga Korelova
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation with evidence based psychopharmacological treatment to adults with respect to their values and goals. I take time to really know my patients and develop a collaborative plan to improve their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing. I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety and panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, stress induced adjustment disorders with attention to life style modifications to achieve the best outcome.
I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation with evidence based psychopharmacological treatment to adults with respect to their values and goals. I take time to really know my patients and develop a collaborative plan to improve their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing. I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety and panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, stress induced adjustment disorders with attention to life style modifications to achieve the best outcome.
(858) 437-8754 View (858) 437-8754
Photo of Heather Dougherty, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Dougherty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Heather helps with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and postpartum conditions. She has a holistic, evidence-based, and trauma-informed approach.
Heather helps with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and postpartum conditions. She has a holistic, evidence-based, and trauma-informed approach.
(858) 568-7546 View (858) 568-7546
Photo of Carla Hammond - Brainpower Wellness Institute, Psychiatrist
Brainpower Wellness Institute
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92111
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
(858) 293-1573 View (858) 293-1573
Photo of Mae Caragay, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant
Mae Caragay
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
Accepting New Patients - I am a board-certified Psychiatric Physician Associate (PA) with extensive training in Family Practice, Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. My journey has taken me from rural to urban communities, equipping me with a diverse skill set to better serve my patients. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and empathy, I strive to provide the highest quality of care.
(619) 848-3095 View (619) 848-3095
Photo of Janet Revels, PMHNP, MSN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Revels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
The state of mental health among youth in the United States demands attention. The most basic definition of childhood mental health is " healthy social development, the achievement of development and emotional milestones, and effective coping skills, so all children have a positive quality of life and can function well in school, at home, and in their communities”. Effective treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral health disorders is required for children to avoid the negative impact on the individual, their families, and society which can be devastating and long-lasting.
The state of mental health among youth in the United States demands attention. The most basic definition of childhood mental health is " healthy social development, the achievement of development and emotional milestones, and effective coping skills, so all children have a positive quality of life and can function well in school, at home, and in their communities”. Effective treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral health disorders is required for children to avoid the negative impact on the individual, their families, and society which can be devastating and long-lasting.
(858) 779-2934 View (858) 779-2934
Photo of Pamela Velardi, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Velardi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Pamela helps adolescents and adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia.
Pamela helps adolescents and adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia.
(619) 332-0810 View (619) 332-0810
Photo of Genesis Vasconez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Genesis Vasconez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
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 Bruce Hubbard - Bruce Hubbard M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Bruce Hubbard M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I can't imagine an ideal client because I see a broad range of clients and I enjoy helping them all. The typical patient who comes to me needs help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, addiction, or another disorder and may have a family history of these symptoms or diagnoses. They are usually wanting to understand their symptoms and gain an accurate understanding or diagnosis. Medication may be appropriate for some of these patients. For patients who do not find relief from medication or who experience side effects, we offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) which is non-drug treatment for depression and anxiety
I can't imagine an ideal client because I see a broad range of clients and I enjoy helping them all. The typical patient who comes to me needs help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, addiction, or another disorder and may have a family history of these symptoms or diagnoses. They are usually wanting to understand their symptoms and gain an accurate understanding or diagnosis. Medication may be appropriate for some of these patients. For patients who do not find relief from medication or who experience side effects, we offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) which is non-drug treatment for depression and anxiety
(619) 485-6837 View (619) 485-6837
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

400+

Average cost per session

$220

Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
79% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Trauma and PTSD
61% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA see their clients

57% Online Only
43% 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.