Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Dr. Sherrell Lam, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sherrell Lam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Sherrell Lam is a board-certified Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She originally hails from the East Coast but has lived in most parts of the country. She attended the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford for medical school and completed a dual internal medicine/psychiatry residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Dr. Lam spent 13 years practicing as an Army psychiatrist and has worked as an outpatient psychiatrist, consult-liaison psychiatrist, inpatient psychiatrist and substance use disorder clinical consultant.
Dr. Sherrell Lam is a board-certified Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She originally hails from the East Coast but has lived in most parts of the country. She attended the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford for medical school and completed a dual internal medicine/psychiatry residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Dr. Lam spent 13 years practicing as an Army psychiatrist and has worked as an outpatient psychiatrist, consult-liaison psychiatrist, inpatient psychiatrist and substance use disorder clinical consultant.
(415) 619-6061 View (415) 619-6061
Photo of Peter Forster, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Peter Forster
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I believe that caring and respectful relationships are the basis for any kind of healing. In my work with patients I view what we do together as a collaboration. You are the expert in yourself and your feelings. I bring to that collaboration the expertise from my academic experience and training as well as from the care of thousands of patients with similar problems. Together we create a treatment plan that will lead to a sustained recovery from a mood or anxiety disorder.
I believe that caring and respectful relationships are the basis for any kind of healing. In my work with patients I view what we do together as a collaboration. You are the expert in yourself and your feelings. I bring to that collaboration the expertise from my academic experience and training as well as from the care of thousands of patients with similar problems. Together we create a treatment plan that will lead to a sustained recovery from a mood or anxiety disorder.
(415) 419-8201 View (415) 419-8201
Photo of Shantale Williams-Jules, Psychiatrist, MD
Shantale Williams-Jules
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Williams-Jules is an adult psychiatrist who focuses primarily on medication management in conjunction with supportive therapy. She completed her undergraduate training at Spelman College in Atlanta, GA followed by her masters in public health degree at New York Medical College. She has completed medical school at American University of Antigua and finished her residency in psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern. Dr. Williams-Jules has a passion for treating adults with mental health disorders, especially within the perinatal population.
Dr. Williams-Jules is an adult psychiatrist who focuses primarily on medication management in conjunction with supportive therapy. She completed her undergraduate training at Spelman College in Atlanta, GA followed by her masters in public health degree at New York Medical College. She has completed medical school at American University of Antigua and finished her residency in psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern. Dr. Williams-Jules has a passion for treating adults with mental health disorders, especially within the perinatal population.
(415) 417-2812 View (415) 417-2812
Photo of Rebecca Wu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Rebecca Wu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Rebecca Wu, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping adults across California navigate their mental health challenges with empathy and expertise. She provides a patientcentered, nonjudgmental approach that empowers clients to take an active role in their healing journey. With a focus on creating a safe and inclusive space, Rebecca ensures her clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward their mental wellness goals. Offering services such as medication management, she supports clients in addressing anxiety, depression, and obsessivecompulsive disorder, tailoring her care to meet individual needs and priorities.
Rebecca Wu, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping adults across California navigate their mental health challenges with empathy and expertise. She provides a patientcentered, nonjudgmental approach that empowers clients to take an active role in their healing journey. With a focus on creating a safe and inclusive space, Rebecca ensures her clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward their mental wellness goals. Offering services such as medication management, she supports clients in addressing anxiety, depression, and obsessivecompulsive disorder, tailoring her care to meet individual needs and priorities.
(510) 945-1523 View (510) 945-1523
Photo of Alejandra Ramos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Alejandra Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. My specialty is in Women’s Health and I focus on providing personalized treatment through an integrative approach to help women thrive in mind & body.
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. My specialty is in Women’s Health and I focus on providing personalized treatment through an integrative approach to help women thrive in mind & body.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Jennifer Brodsky - Tranquil Mind Telemedicine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tranquil Mind Telemedicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to my practice! I look forward to partnering with you to determine what medications are the right fit based on your goals and preferences. New client appts available within 1 week - I don't want to put you on a waitlist to start feeling better. My background in both Psychiatry and Family Medicine allows me to tailor a medication regimen specifically to you, taking into account the interconnected relationship of mental and physical health.
Welcome to my practice! I look forward to partnering with you to determine what medications are the right fit based on your goals and preferences. New client appts available within 1 week - I don't want to put you on a waitlist to start feeling better. My background in both Psychiatry and Family Medicine allows me to tailor a medication regimen specifically to you, taking into account the interconnected relationship of mental and physical health.
(628) 212-7814 View (628) 212-7814
Photo of Jennifer Ruthenburg, Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Jennifer Ruthenburg
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I take an integrative approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, psycho-oncologic and end of life issues. I have special training and expertise in treating mental health symptoms and disorders relating to pregnancy/postpartum, perimenopause and PMDD. I also have training in a range of psychotherapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, Jungian, mindfulness-based, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. My last name was previously Hagstrom.
I take an integrative approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, psycho-oncologic and end of life issues. I have special training and expertise in treating mental health symptoms and disorders relating to pregnancy/postpartum, perimenopause and PMDD. I also have training in a range of psychotherapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, Jungian, mindfulness-based, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. My last name was previously Hagstrom.
(415) 942-5772 View (415) 942-5772
Photo of Andrei Kreutzberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrei Kreutzberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Not accepting new clients
I'm a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Psychiatric medications can help control symptoms such as anxiety, depression, inattention, and insomnia, which may be impairing your ability to live a full and productive life. My approach is pragmatic and evidence based; medications, evidence based supplements, and lifestyle modifications may enhance your ability to move through life feeling effective and feeling good. I offer sessions both virtually and in person.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist offering psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Psychiatric medications can help control symptoms such as anxiety, depression, inattention, and insomnia, which may be impairing your ability to live a full and productive life. My approach is pragmatic and evidence based; medications, evidence based supplements, and lifestyle modifications may enhance your ability to move through life feeling effective and feeling good. I offer sessions both virtually and in person.
(415) 723-4199 View (415) 723-4199
Photo of James Reich, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
James Reich
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Everyone from time to time needs a helping hand. I am experienced with professor appointments at UCSF and Stanford. I treat outpatients in person and by telepsychiatry with medication management and psychotherapy (CBT and Mindfulness). My patients tend to be talented professionals (doctors, lawyers, tech) who have done well but have hit a bump with emotional symptoms, stress, or life difficulties. I believe each patient has unique needs that must be individually assessed and addressed. When indicated I use medication. I am a good choice for someone seeking a therapist and psychiatrist in one person.
Everyone from time to time needs a helping hand. I am experienced with professor appointments at UCSF and Stanford. I treat outpatients in person and by telepsychiatry with medication management and psychotherapy (CBT and Mindfulness). My patients tend to be talented professionals (doctors, lawyers, tech) who have done well but have hit a bump with emotional symptoms, stress, or life difficulties. I believe each patient has unique needs that must be individually assessed and addressed. When indicated I use medication. I am a good choice for someone seeking a therapist and psychiatrist in one person.
(415) 594-4412 View (415) 594-4412
Photo of Jenny Chouang - optimal health solutions , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP
optimal health solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
We all have breakpoints, and the breakpoints are not final. Let's get professional help. Then, you will become stronger and stand up again.
We all have breakpoints, and the breakpoints are not final. Let's get professional help. Then, you will become stronger and stand up again.
(415) 965-8864 View (415) 965-8864
Photo of Alyssa Estrada, Psychiatrist, MD
Alyssa Estrada
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Estrada takes a comprehensive approach toward treating mental illness, utilizing medication, lifestyle changes, spirituality, and psychotherapy. She applies evidence-based medicine to her practice and is detail-oriented and thorough in gathering information for an accurate diagnosis. She cares about helping her patients experience life to the fullest and treats a majority of mental health conditions.
Dr. Estrada takes a comprehensive approach toward treating mental illness, utilizing medication, lifestyle changes, spirituality, and psychotherapy. She applies evidence-based medicine to her practice and is detail-oriented and thorough in gathering information for an accurate diagnosis. She cares about helping her patients experience life to the fullest and treats a majority of mental health conditions.
(415) 968-1552 x1 View (415) 968-1552 x1
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist, MD
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(415) 301-4583 View (415) 301-4583
Photo of Elizabeth Rawson, Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
Elizabeth Rawson
Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
(415) 767-1598 View (415) 767-1598
Photo of Catvy Nguyen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catvy Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
(415) 942-9985 View (415) 942-9985
Photo of Ryan Thebo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(415) 980-8997 View (415) 980-8997
Photo of Dr. Amie Chen Greene, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Amie Chen Greene
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and thank you for your interest in my practice! I treat each patient as a whole person. Sometimes psychiatric symptoms are only the tip of the iceberg, so I am dedicated to investigating and solving underlying issues rather than provide short-term bandaids. I also understand that active symptoms are not only distressing but can consume valuable time of our lives, so safe and timely relief of symptoms is just as crucial to treatment. I incorporate various therapy elements and medications, with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for anxiety, depression, stress management, and trauma recovery.
Hello and thank you for your interest in my practice! I treat each patient as a whole person. Sometimes psychiatric symptoms are only the tip of the iceberg, so I am dedicated to investigating and solving underlying issues rather than provide short-term bandaids. I also understand that active symptoms are not only distressing but can consume valuable time of our lives, so safe and timely relief of symptoms is just as crucial to treatment. I incorporate various therapy elements and medications, with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for anxiety, depression, stress management, and trauma recovery.
(916) 252-5575 View (916) 252-5575
Photo of Israel Katz, Psychiatrist, MD
Israel Katz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
If you are feeling anxious, sad, overwhelmed, or facing relationship issues, you might sense that something isn’t quite right. Working with a skilled professional can provide the support and solutions you need to address these challenges. There is great value in expressing your thoughts in an environment that fosters acceptance, careful listening, and understanding. This process can help you discover new ways of thinking and feeling, opening up fresh possibilities and experiences. Ultimately, this can assist you in achieving your goals while finding greater freedom and peace of mind.
If you are feeling anxious, sad, overwhelmed, or facing relationship issues, you might sense that something isn’t quite right. Working with a skilled professional can provide the support and solutions you need to address these challenges. There is great value in expressing your thoughts in an environment that fosters acceptance, careful listening, and understanding. This process can help you discover new ways of thinking and feeling, opening up fresh possibilities and experiences. Ultimately, this can assist you in achieving your goals while finding greater freedom and peace of mind.
(415) 549-0020 View (415) 549-0020
Dr. Rachel Sherhart
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Rachel Sherhart is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 4 years. Dr. Sherhart specializes in medication management with 30-minute follow-up visits. This may be accompanied by elements of supportive therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. If more in-depth work is needed, she may refer patients to a collaborating psychotherapist.
Dr. Rachel Sherhart is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 4 years. Dr. Sherhart specializes in medication management with 30-minute follow-up visits. This may be accompanied by elements of supportive therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. If more in-depth work is needed, she may refer patients to a collaborating psychotherapist.
(510) 896-3526 View (510) 896-3526
Photo of Tessie Eberhart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Tessie Eberhart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Feeling weighed down by life's challenges? Does each day feel like an uphill climb, and you’re searching for someone who will truly listen and understand? If you're ready to move beyond just getting by and want to start thriving, Tessie is here to support you. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, she treats a range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, offering telehealth designed just for you.
Feeling weighed down by life's challenges? Does each day feel like an uphill climb, and you’re searching for someone who will truly listen and understand? If you're ready to move beyond just getting by and want to start thriving, Tessie is here to support you. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, she treats a range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, offering telehealth designed just for you.
(510) 896-3671 View (510) 896-3671
Jenya Kaufman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I offer a collaborative approach to helping clients achieve their goals. I believe in treating each person as a unique individual and together finding the best way toward wellbeing. This begins with a comprehensive evaluation which can last from one to four sessions where we will attempt to understand the current difficulties and discuss treatment options. I have experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate. In my practice I offer psychotherapy and medication evaluation/management to patients who are already in therapy.
I offer a collaborative approach to helping clients achieve their goals. I believe in treating each person as a unique individual and together finding the best way toward wellbeing. This begins with a comprehensive evaluation which can last from one to four sessions where we will attempt to understand the current difficulties and discuss treatment options. I have experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate. In my practice I offer psychotherapy and medication evaluation/management to patients who are already in therapy.
(415) 233-9412 View (415) 233-9412
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA

600+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
72% ADHD
71% Bipolar Disorder
70% Medication Management
69% Trauma and PTSD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
76% Optum

How Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

63% Female
36% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in San Francisco?

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.