Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Brittany Murray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Brittany Murray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
San Diego, CA 92127
Note this provider does not prescribe Stimulant/ADHD medication like Adderall. To state: Note this provider does not prescribe Stimulant/ADHD medication like Adderall for New Patients. Note that prior to the first session taking place with the provider, LifeStance will require a credit card on file.
Note this provider does not prescribe Stimulant/ADHD medication like Adderall. To state: Note this provider does not prescribe Stimulant/ADHD medication like Adderall for New Patients. Note that prior to the first session taking place with the provider, LifeStance will require a credit card on file.
(858) 299-1253 View (858) 299-1253
Photo of Ashley Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Diego, CA 92108
I offer judgment-free, personalized mental health care that meets you exactly where you are. You can have psychiatry appointments online from the comfort of your home, or wherever you feel most at ease. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel supported, heard, and empowered to move forward. You can self-schedule your appointment at www. pwpsychiatry. com/CA
I offer judgment-free, personalized mental health care that meets you exactly where you are. You can have psychiatry appointments online from the comfort of your home, or wherever you feel most at ease. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel supported, heard, and empowered to move forward. You can self-schedule your appointment at www. pwpsychiatry. com/CA
(619) 836-6989 View (619) 836-6989
Photo of Dr. Asher Gorelik - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
San Diego, CA 92123
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(858) 289-6126 View (858) 289-6126
Photo of Shannon Moore-Langston, Psychiatrist, MD
Shannon Moore-Langston
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hello, I'm Shannon Moore-Langston, MD, a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. I welcome patients 18 and over from all backgrounds into my practice and have experience with a range of concerns, including problems related to mood, trauma, substance use, anxiety, and psychosis. I use a combination of medication management, supportive and psychodynamic approaches, somatic tools, and cognitive behavioral interventions to help people understand and work through difficult feelings, thoughts, and situations.
Hello, I'm Shannon Moore-Langston, MD, a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. I welcome patients 18 and over from all backgrounds into my practice and have experience with a range of concerns, including problems related to mood, trauma, substance use, anxiety, and psychosis. I use a combination of medication management, supportive and psychodynamic approaches, somatic tools, and cognitive behavioral interventions to help people understand and work through difficult feelings, thoughts, and situations.
(619) 550-4925 View (619) 550-4925
Photo of Heather Dougherty, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Heather Dougherty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
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.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Trenice Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(951) 557-6019 View (951) 557-6019
Photo of Nicole Bellisario, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CNL
Nicole Bellisario
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CNL
San Diego, CA 92101
Hi there, my name is Nicole Bellisario. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice, a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Clinical Nurse Leader. I provide both medication management and eclectic psychotherapy in caring for the mental health of women, men, adolescents, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, healthcare workers, first responders, and trauma survivors. My current focus is clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. I have extensive nursing experience with diverse patient populations in both psychiatric and medical inpatient and outpatient settings.
Hi there, my name is Nicole Bellisario. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice, a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Clinical Nurse Leader. I provide both medication management and eclectic psychotherapy in caring for the mental health of women, men, adolescents, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, healthcare workers, first responders, and trauma survivors. My current focus is clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. I have extensive nursing experience with diverse patient populations in both psychiatric and medical inpatient and outpatient settings.
(562) 580-4068 View (562) 580-4068
Photo of Esther Lee`, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Lee`
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Esther Lee is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and a post-master’s certificate from West Coast University. She brings extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with a background in critical care, including cardiac and pre/post-transplant care. Her diverse clinical experience allows her to provide compassionate, evidence-based care across the lifespan.
Esther Lee is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and a post-master’s certificate from West Coast University. She brings extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with a background in critical care, including cardiac and pre/post-transplant care. Her diverse clinical experience allows her to provide compassionate, evidence-based care across the lifespan.
(619) 279-5518 View (619) 279-5518
Photo of Dormico Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dormico Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
(858) 422-1331 View (858) 422-1331
Photo of Mihir Upadhyaya, Psychiatrist, MD
Mihir Upadhyaya
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My patients can expect experience, empathy, and compassion. I’m well-rounded, and able to quickly identify with some aspect of my patients’ background.
My patients can expect experience, empathy, and compassion. I’m well-rounded, and able to quickly identify with some aspect of my patients’ background.
(858) 465-5548 View (858) 465-5548
Photo of Janet Revels, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Janet Revels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
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 Dr. Mukesh Sanghadia - San Diego Psychiatry, PC, Psychiatrist, MD
San Diego Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. I can help with a wide range of conditions that affect adolescents, adults, and older adults. My patients find me compassionate and empathetic, and a good listener. Most mental health issues have both, a mind and a body component, and as a physician, I believe that a good psychiatric assessment involves looking at both to arrive at a good diagnosis, which is the cornerstone of a good treatment outcome. I also integrate evidence-based alternative practices to help you feel normal and well - not just symptom free!
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. I can help with a wide range of conditions that affect adolescents, adults, and older adults. My patients find me compassionate and empathetic, and a good listener. Most mental health issues have both, a mind and a body component, and as a physician, I believe that a good psychiatric assessment involves looking at both to arrive at a good diagnosis, which is the cornerstone of a good treatment outcome. I also integrate evidence-based alternative practices to help you feel normal and well - not just symptom free!
(858) 400-4941 View (858) 400-4941
Photo of Varun Mohan, Psychiatrist, DO
Varun Mohan
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Varun Mohan, D.O. has a Bachelor of Arts degree from New York University and is a graduate of the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his residency in General Psychiatry at Nassau University Medical Center in Long Island, New York with additional fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York where he served as a Chief Resident. Dr. Mohan provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults.
Varun Mohan, D.O. has a Bachelor of Arts degree from New York University and is a graduate of the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his residency in General Psychiatry at Nassau University Medical Center in Long Island, New York with additional fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York where he served as a Chief Resident. Dr. Mohan provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults.
(858) 434-7085 View (858) 434-7085
Photo of William Bresnick - San Diego Adult ADHD, Anxiety & Depression Center, Psychiatrist, MD
Get MD Board-Certified Expert evaluation and/or treatment for Adult ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. UCSD, UCLA & UCSF trained, former UC Faculty. Private & Confidential, deluxe Downtown Office setting. Concierge 24/7 availability, new patients seen within 1 - 3 business days. Self-pay, but FSA & HSA accepted, with Health Plan PPO & Fed IRS reimbursement may be possible. “Sliding Scale” fees offered if with Financial Hardship. Covid-19 vaccinated Docs. For more information, please go to: www.SDaaaDC.com
Get MD Board-Certified Expert evaluation and/or treatment for Adult ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. UCSD, UCLA & UCSF trained, former UC Faculty. Private & Confidential, deluxe Downtown Office setting. Concierge 24/7 availability, new patients seen within 1 - 3 business days. Self-pay, but FSA & HSA accepted, with Health Plan PPO & Fed IRS reimbursement may be possible. “Sliding Scale” fees offered if with Financial Hardship. Covid-19 vaccinated Docs. For more information, please go to: www.SDaaaDC.com
(619) 888-6130 View (619) 888-6130
Photo of Charlene Lacambra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Charlene Lacambra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 our website.
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 our website.
(619) 514-0673 View (619) 514-0673
Photo of Ifeoma Cynthia Aniemeka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ifeoma Cynthia Aniemeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I am a dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is Licensed Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health disorders and behavioral therapy. I received my master's from the University of Charles R Drew University in 2020 and prior to that I also graduated with a master’s degree in Family Nurse practitioner in 2018 and have been practicing for 6 years. I began my career with underserved populations, this deepened my devotion to helping people struggling with mental health. My goal is to develop strong therapeutic relationships with each patient, grounded in trust and empathy.
Hi! I am a dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is Licensed Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health disorders and behavioral therapy. I received my master's from the University of Charles R Drew University in 2020 and prior to that I also graduated with a master’s degree in Family Nurse practitioner in 2018 and have been practicing for 6 years. I began my career with underserved populations, this deepened my devotion to helping people struggling with mental health. My goal is to develop strong therapeutic relationships with each patient, grounded in trust and empathy.
(619) 759-6774 View (619) 759-6774
Photo of Angelica Luciano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angelica Luciano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Angelica Luciano. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I was licensed in 2017. I use a bio-psycho-social framework. Understanding that psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, the effects of certain medications, or genetic predisposition. I incorporate multiple modalities, including medication management, education, and brief supportive therapeutic interventions to treat you as a unique individual and not a textbook. I treat adults, typically between the ages of 18-60, for a broad range of psychiatric conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Angelica Luciano. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I was licensed in 2017. I use a bio-psycho-social framework. Understanding that psychiatric illnesses may have biological causes, the effects of certain medications, or genetic predisposition. I incorporate multiple modalities, including medication management, education, and brief supportive therapeutic interventions to treat you as a unique individual and not a textbook. I treat adults, typically between the ages of 18-60, for a broad range of psychiatric conditions, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
(213) 463-5315 View (213) 463-5315
Photo of Noah Stashower-Marcus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Noah Stashower-Marcus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Diego, CA 92122
Living with ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, or depression can feel like a constant challenge, impacting your ability to focus, regulate emotions, or maintain stability in daily life. These experiences can leave you searching for support and tools to manage symptoms effectively. I specialize in providing compassionate, individualized care to help you navigate these challenges, fostering personal growth and creating a path to greater balance. Together, we’ll explore strategies that align with your values and goals, empowering you to build a more fulfilling and centered life.
Living with ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, or depression can feel like a constant challenge, impacting your ability to focus, regulate emotions, or maintain stability in daily life. These experiences can leave you searching for support and tools to manage symptoms effectively. I specialize in providing compassionate, individualized care to help you navigate these challenges, fostering personal growth and creating a path to greater balance. Together, we’ll explore strategies that align with your values and goals, empowering you to build a more fulfilling and centered life.
(858) 223-7951 View (858) 223-7951
Photo of Ryan Wilke, Psychiatrist, DO, DFAPA
Ryan Wilke
Psychiatrist, DO, DFAPA
San Diego, CA 92127
Dr. Wilke is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is currently the Deputy Chief of Staff and Clinical Direction of Outpatient Programs at Aurora Behavioral Healthcare, San Diego. He also maintains an outpatient private practice in Rancho Bernardo. It is Dr. Wilke's goal to provide accessible and affordable healthcare of the highest quality to his home community.
Dr. Wilke is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is currently the Deputy Chief of Staff and Clinical Direction of Outpatient Programs at Aurora Behavioral Healthcare, San Diego. He also maintains an outpatient private practice in Rancho Bernardo. It is Dr. Wilke's goal to provide accessible and affordable healthcare of the highest quality to his home community.
(858) 780-5026 x108 View (858) 780-5026 x108
Photo of David Ha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
David Ha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
San Diego, CA 92108
I offer judgment-free, personalized mental health care that meets you exactly where you are. You can have psychiatry appointments online from the comfort of your home—or wherever you feel most at ease. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel supported, heard, and empowered to move forward. You can self-schedule your appointment at www.pwpsychiatry. com/CA
I offer judgment-free, personalized mental health care that meets you exactly where you are. You can have psychiatry appointments online from the comfort of your home—or wherever you feel most at ease. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel supported, heard, and empowered to move forward. You can self-schedule your appointment at www.pwpsychiatry. com/CA
(619) 626-1263 View (619) 626-1263

See more therapy options for San Diego

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

500+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
79% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
73% Optum

How Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

65% Female
34% 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.