Psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
San Diego, CA 92101
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.
View
Photo of Robert McLay, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Robert McLay
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Robert McLay is a psychiatrist and pain medicine physician who received board certifications in three areas: General Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Psychosomatic Medicine (the overlap between medical and mental health). He has a special focus on military, their families, and high-performance issues, but treats all mental health conditions. Dr. McLay received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Johns Hopkins University, and his Ph.D. in neuroscience and M.D. from Tulane University. He received specialty training from Naval Medical Center, the University of California San Diego, and the American Psychoanalytic Association.
Robert McLay is a psychiatrist and pain medicine physician who received board certifications in three areas: General Psychiatry, Pain Medicine, and Psychosomatic Medicine (the overlap between medical and mental health). He has a special focus on military, their families, and high-performance issues, but treats all mental health conditions. Dr. McLay received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Johns Hopkins University, and his Ph.D. in neuroscience and M.D. from Tulane University. He received specialty training from Naval Medical Center, the University of California San Diego, and the American Psychoanalytic Association.
(619) 393-7968 View (619) 393-7968
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
San Diego, CA 92127
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) 389-4461 View (858) 389-4461
Photo of Dmitriy Sivtsov, Psychiatrist, MD
Dmitriy Sivtsov
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Starting with the first phone call or email, our central location, knowledgeable staff, expert physicians, seamless process of evaluation, treatment planning and delivery all designed to take unnecessary stress off your shoulders. We will work behind the scenes so you and your doctor can focus on the one most important thing - fighting depression.
Starting with the first phone call or email, our central location, knowledgeable staff, expert physicians, seamless process of evaluation, treatment planning and delivery all designed to take unnecessary stress off your shoulders. We will work behind the scenes so you and your doctor can focus on the one most important thing - fighting depression.
(858) 230-7585 View (858) 230-7585
Photo of Samuel Schulze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Samuel Schulze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my passion lies in providing holistic and compassionate care for individuals navigating mental health challenges. With a focus on therapeutic support and a deliberate and intentional approach to medication, I strive to create an environment where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered on their journey to wellness. In my practice, I integrate medication management with a focus on personalized treatment plans that reflect your goals and values. My expertise in emerging therapies offers exciting options to those for whom traditional treatments are a poor fit.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my passion lies in providing holistic and compassionate care for individuals navigating mental health challenges. With a focus on therapeutic support and a deliberate and intentional approach to medication, I strive to create an environment where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered on their journey to wellness. In my practice, I integrate medication management with a focus on personalized treatment plans that reflect your goals and values. My expertise in emerging therapies offers exciting options to those for whom traditional treatments are a poor fit.
(858) 786-1671 View (858) 786-1671
Photo of David Ha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
David Ha
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: www.pwpsychiatry. com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry. com/CA
(619) 902-4185 View (619) 902-4185
Photo of Cara Niemeier, Psychiatrist, MD
Cara Niemeier
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Niemeier is a Board Certified Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.
Dr. Niemeier is a Board Certified Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.
(619) 268-8439 View (619) 268-8439
Photo of Nicolas Badre, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicolas Badre
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
The decision to seek treatment is often vast and complex, just like our lives. You may be struggling with a transition in your life, a difficult emotion in your mind, or a feeling of dissatisfaction with your sense of self. I very much enjoy clinical care and getting to know my patients. My practice is based on building close partnerships and trusting relationships. My goal is for you to gain self-understanding, self-actualization, and satisfaction in life.
The decision to seek treatment is often vast and complex, just like our lives. You may be struggling with a transition in your life, a difficult emotion in your mind, or a feeling of dissatisfaction with your sense of self. I very much enjoy clinical care and getting to know my patients. My practice is based on building close partnerships and trusting relationships. My goal is for you to gain self-understanding, self-actualization, and satisfaction in life.
(619) 493-3118 View (619) 493-3118
Photo of Ike Uzowulu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
(858) 221-9527 View (858) 221-9527
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 Thomas A. Gonda, Psychiatrist, MD
Thomas A. Gonda
Psychiatrist, MD
San Diego, CA 92103
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs.. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: San Diego and Oakland. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California..
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs.. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: San Diego and Oakland. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California..
(760) 274-8049 View (760) 274-8049
Photo of Mark Patrick Manning - SD Wellness Group , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
SD Wellness Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
San Diego, CA 92103
As a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals navigating the sometimes rocky seas of life. I draw my inspiration for my nursing practice from Jean Watsons’ theory on human caring. I view care interactions as sacred and meaningful. I specialize in working with gay men, offering a safe and affirming space to explore challenges related to mental health, relationships, identity, and overall wellness.
As a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals navigating the sometimes rocky seas of life. I draw my inspiration for my nursing practice from Jean Watsons’ theory on human caring. I view care interactions as sacred and meaningful. I specialize in working with gay men, offering a safe and affirming space to explore challenges related to mental health, relationships, identity, and overall wellness.
(619) 598-0295 View (619) 598-0295
Photo of Jon Deam - Aveo Wellness: Ketamine, Psychiatry, & Therapy, Psychiatrist, LCSW, MD
Aveo Wellness, the practice of Dr. Jon Deam, helps you face the challenge of leaning into profound growth. Dr. Jon, psychiatrist, and Salina Bambic, LCSW, offer different options to support you through therapy, life coaching, or medication optimization. The journey inward to find strength, resilience, and meaning is not easy, but it is one we were never meant to take alone.
Aveo Wellness, the practice of Dr. Jon Deam, helps you face the challenge of leaning into profound growth. Dr. Jon, psychiatrist, and Salina Bambic, LCSW, offer different options to support you through therapy, life coaching, or medication optimization. The journey inward to find strength, resilience, and meaning is not easy, but it is one we were never meant to take alone.
(619) 367-8158 View (619) 367-8158
Photo of Tiffany Quach, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffany Quach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Now, welcoming new patients! We know that 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 that 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.
(619) 649-6434 View (619) 649-6434
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
San Diego, CA 92101
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(562) 210-0085 View (562) 210-0085
Photo of Gisela Ayub, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Gisela Ayub
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Gisela Ayub is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with an advanced degree, as Doctor in Nursing Practice. She is also licensed in different states as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Gisela holds two Masters in Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees. Her first MSN degree with emphasis on Psychiatry as a Clinical Nurse Specialist from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, CA, and her second MSN degree emphasis in Psychiatry as a Nurse Practitioner from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA.
Gisela Ayub is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with an advanced degree, as Doctor in Nursing Practice. She is also licensed in different states as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Gisela holds two Masters in Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees. Her first MSN degree with emphasis on Psychiatry as a Clinical Nurse Specialist from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, CA, and her second MSN degree emphasis in Psychiatry as a Nurse Practitioner from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA.
(858) 901-7076 View (858) 901-7076
Photo of Milka Galvez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Milka Galvez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Milka Galvez, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's degree in nursing from Walden University. My vision of a world where mental well-being is prioritized and breaking down societal stigmas surrounding mental health inspires me to work in the field of mental health care. I start by fosteringa trusting relationship where patients feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings. This is achieved through active listening and open-ended questions during initial assessments to gather insights about their personal beliefs, cultural background and past experiences with mental health care.
I am Milka Galvez, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's degree in nursing from Walden University. My vision of a world where mental well-being is prioritized and breaking down societal stigmas surrounding mental health inspires me to work in the field of mental health care. I start by fosteringa trusting relationship where patients feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings. This is achieved through active listening and open-ended questions during initial assessments to gather insights about their personal beliefs, cultural background and past experiences with mental health care.
(858) 723-0277 View (858) 723-0277
Photo of Halee Fullerton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(818) 824-8119 View (818) 824-8119
Photo of Marina Bourke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ACNP, AGCNS
Marina Bourke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ACNP, AGCNS
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92154
My ideal client is someone seeking clarity and healing, facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. They may be navigating personal transitions, health struggles, or emotional hurdles that feel overwhelming. They want a compassionate, non-judgmental partner in their journey who listens deeply, understands their unique concerns, and empowers them to find relief and achieve a better quality of life. Their ultimate goal is to feel balanced, confident, and capable of managing their mental and physical well-being.
My ideal client is someone seeking clarity and healing, facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. They may be navigating personal transitions, health struggles, or emotional hurdles that feel overwhelming. They want a compassionate, non-judgmental partner in their journey who listens deeply, understands their unique concerns, and empowers them to find relief and achieve a better quality of life. Their ultimate goal is to feel balanced, confident, and capable of managing their mental and physical well-being.
(310) 879-8554 View (310) 879-8554
Photo of Deval A Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Deval A Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
San Diego, CA 92130
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
(858) 926-5815 View (858) 926-5815
1
...

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
80% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
76% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

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.