Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
Dr. Ma is Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and Preventive Medicine. Bilingual, treating in both English and Mandarin Chinese 中文普通话, her track record is very successful in guiding people from diverse backgrounds through acute stress and life crises. With over 15 years of experience in major US cities, Dr. Ma has worked extensively with adult patients of 21-64, in many outpatient and hospital settings. She holds faculty position at UCSD and Chief of staff at SharpHealth, directs several outpatient programs at major San Diego hospitals and has privileges in several regional health systems, can accept pt anywhere in the state.
Dr. Ma is Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and Preventive Medicine. Bilingual, treating in both English and Mandarin Chinese 中文普通话, her track record is very successful in guiding people from diverse backgrounds through acute stress and life crises. With over 15 years of experience in major US cities, Dr. Ma has worked extensively with adult patients of 21-64, in many outpatient and hospital settings. She holds faculty position at UCSD and Chief of staff at SharpHealth, directs several outpatient programs at major San Diego hospitals and has privileges in several regional health systems, can accept pt anywhere in the state.
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.
Welcome! I am a board certified psychiatrist and fellowship trained psychopharmacologist who uses my skills to help adults become healthy and lead more productive, happier lives. I view psychiatry as a calling and spend a lot of time keeping up with advances in all areas of medicine. While I take it seriously, I love to have fun. I believe in empowering clients and work with them to develop treatment plans with which they are comfortable. I strongly believe in psychotherapy and frequently refer out when I cannot perform what is needed on my own.
Welcome! I am a board certified psychiatrist and fellowship trained psychopharmacologist who uses my skills to help adults become healthy and lead more productive, happier lives. I view psychiatry as a calling and spend a lot of time keeping up with advances in all areas of medicine. While I take it seriously, I love to have fun. I believe in empowering clients and work with them to develop treatment plans with which they are comfortable. I strongly believe in psychotherapy and frequently refer out when I cannot perform what is needed on my own.
Hello! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner provider, I am committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based, and individualized care to each of my patients. I believe that mental health care should be tailored to each person's specific needs and experiences.
Hello! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner provider, I am committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based, and individualized care to each of my patients. I believe that mental health care should be tailored to each person's specific needs and experiences.
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!
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
Welcome to Rula! My name is Kathy Hunter and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience in subacute detox, inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, a university counseling center, and inpatient pediatric psychiatry liaison. I am passionate about removing mental health stigma and focusing on health disparities in marginalized populations. I seek to have a strong working relationship with my patients, with a primary focus on autonomy, respect, relationships, and a deep understanding of how one's environment will have an impact on goals and progress.
Welcome to Rula! My name is Kathy Hunter and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience in subacute detox, inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, a university counseling center, and inpatient pediatric psychiatry liaison. I am passionate about removing mental health stigma and focusing on health disparities in marginalized populations. I seek to have a strong working relationship with my patients, with a primary focus on autonomy, respect, relationships, and a deep understanding of how one's environment will have an impact on goals and progress.
Ashlee Bolt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
I have a strong belief in mind-body wellness and encompasses an integrative approach using complementary treatments, pharmacogenetic testing, lifestyle modification, and medication management. I strive to create a welcoming and trusting environment allowing us to work together in addressing your concerns and achieving positive outcomes. Emphasizing quality care and accessibility, I am easily reachable even outside of regular appointment times via text, email, or phone.
I have a strong belief in mind-body wellness and encompasses an integrative approach using complementary treatments, pharmacogenetic testing, lifestyle modification, and medication management. I strive to create a welcoming and trusting environment allowing us to work together in addressing your concerns and achieving positive outcomes. Emphasizing quality care and accessibility, I am easily reachable even outside of regular appointment times via text, email, or phone.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
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.
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Matthew Geromi, D.O. is a board-certified physician practicing Psychiatry in the Carmel Valley area of San Diego, CA. He treats adults ages 18 and older including older adults and elders. Dr. Geromi has experience in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Matthew Geromi, D.O. is a board-certified physician practicing Psychiatry in the Carmel Valley area of San Diego, CA. He treats adults ages 18 and older including older adults and elders. Dr. Geromi has experience in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Natalie Love
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, MSN, MBA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Currently performing research only
Currently performing research only
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.
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
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.
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of emotional and self-esteem difficulties, via understanding the inter-relationship between the mind and the brain at various levels. Most of my patients come for consultation because of problems with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, problems in succeeding (or enjoying success), or difficulties making certain life transitions. Many have been experiencing marital/couple distress. I currently teach at UCSD Medical School and the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute.
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of emotional and self-esteem difficulties, via understanding the inter-relationship between the mind and the brain at various levels. Most of my patients come for consultation because of problems with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, problems in succeeding (or enjoying success), or difficulties making certain life transitions. Many have been experiencing marital/couple distress. I currently teach at UCSD Medical School and the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute.
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
May is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and diagnoses. Her background in mental health services spans over 20 years after receiving a MS in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2003. May has worked as a PMHNP-BC since 2022.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience in managing mental health disorders and issues that affect adolescents, adults and older adults, including memory issues, various psychoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My patients find me compassionate and empathetic, with good listening and clinical skills. I believe in a comprehensive assessment of not just your mental health symptoms but also of your entire health, including physical. A good psychiatrist, I firmly believe, is first a good medical doctor.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience in managing mental health disorders and issues that affect adolescents, adults and older adults, including memory issues, various psychoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My patients find me compassionate and empathetic, with good listening and clinical skills. I believe in a comprehensive assessment of not just your mental health symptoms but also of your entire health, including physical. A good psychiatrist, I firmly believe, is first a good medical doctor.
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
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA
500+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | ADHD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
77% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA see their clients
56% | Online Only | |
44% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
37% | 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.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.