Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Dr. Ruben Mendez, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ruben Mendez
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Mendez obtained his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He subsequently completed his Psychiatry residency training at the same institution, UT Medical School in Houston. Dr. Mendez has extensive training in the field and is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After professional training, Dr. Mendez has had vast experience of 15 years primarily in the outpatient setting including ample experience with telemedicine services to patients.
Dr. Mendez obtained his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He subsequently completed his Psychiatry residency training at the same institution, UT Medical School in Houston. Dr. Mendez has extensive training in the field and is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After professional training, Dr. Mendez has had vast experience of 15 years primarily in the outpatient setting including ample experience with telemedicine services to patients.
(415) 915-7258 View (415) 915-7258
Photo of Kristie Boyce - Kristie Boyce MD, Integrative Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
I help people access their inner healing resources to live more productive and fulfilling lives. I work from the perspective that we all encounter struggles from time to time and in harnessing one's inner resources we can learn how to thrive in hard times and prevent further suffering. In my work with children, teens and adults I help identify effective coping strategies and stress management skills to improve wellbeing. My clients typically struggle with psychological, emotional, and spiritual challenges, including low mood, excess worry, difficulty with focus or attention, relationship and school or work issues.
I help people access their inner healing resources to live more productive and fulfilling lives. I work from the perspective that we all encounter struggles from time to time and in harnessing one's inner resources we can learn how to thrive in hard times and prevent further suffering. In my work with children, teens and adults I help identify effective coping strategies and stress management skills to improve wellbeing. My clients typically struggle with psychological, emotional, and spiritual challenges, including low mood, excess worry, difficulty with focus or attention, relationship and school or work issues.
(415) 231-5536 View (415) 231-5536
Photo of David Hirchak, Psychiatrist, DO
David Hirchak
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Hirchak is an experienced, Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, who emphasizes psychopharmacology and neurobiology in his treatment. Dr. Hirchak specializes in treating Anxiety, OCD, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. Dr. Hirchak collaborates closely with our therapists so he can provide treatment with both medication management and psychotherapy when indicated.
Dr. Hirchak is an experienced, Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, who emphasizes psychopharmacology and neurobiology in his treatment. Dr. Hirchak specializes in treating Anxiety, OCD, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. Dr. Hirchak collaborates closely with our therapists so he can provide treatment with both medication management and psychotherapy when indicated.
(628) 333-3149 View (628) 333-3149
Photo of Dr. Mu Xu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Mu Xu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Mu Xu, MD is a Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He obtained his medical doctorate degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and PhD from New York University. He completed his psychiatry residency at New York University. Dr Xu is licensed to practice in California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Dr. Xu provides both medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Dr. Xu is fluent in English and Mandarin.
Mu Xu, MD is a Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He obtained his medical doctorate degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and PhD from New York University. He completed his psychiatry residency at New York University. Dr Xu is licensed to practice in California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Dr. Xu provides both medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Dr. Xu is fluent in English and Mandarin.
(415) 886-0442 View (415) 886-0442
Photo of Andrei Kreutzberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrei Kreutzberg
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94110
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 Samantha Scherzinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Samantha Scherzinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
San Francisco, CA 94109
Samantha Scherzinger is a board-certified family psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Samantha has a broad range of experience working with patients from diverse backgrounds across the lifespan. She has worked in community mental health settings as well as John Hopkins Medical Center. Samantha focuses on empowering her patients to achieve their optimal level of health and quality of life.
Samantha Scherzinger is a board-certified family psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Samantha has a broad range of experience working with patients from diverse backgrounds across the lifespan. She has worked in community mental health settings as well as John Hopkins Medical Center. Samantha focuses on empowering her patients to achieve their optimal level of health and quality of life.
(628) 444-4882 View (628) 444-4882
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist, MD
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Naomi Jeanty, Psychiatrist, MD
Naomi Jeanty
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am a physician, a Miami native of rich Haitian-descent. I earned my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Natural Sciences in Chemistry from the University of South Florida in Tampa and later earned my medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine located in the lush green beautiful island of Dominica. I completed my residency training at the Larkin Community Hospital General Psychiatry Program in South Miami, Florida in Summer 2019.
I am a physician, a Miami native of rich Haitian-descent. I earned my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Natural Sciences in Chemistry from the University of South Florida in Tampa and later earned my medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine located in the lush green beautiful island of Dominica. I completed my residency training at the Larkin Community Hospital General Psychiatry Program in South Miami, Florida in Summer 2019.
(628) 277-4237 View (628) 277-4237
Photo of Samantha Williams, Psychiatrist, MD
Samantha Williams
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy practicing psychiatry from a holistic perspective, considering how biology, core beliefs, relationships and environment may be informing your current experience. I’m passionate about helping clients to feel empowered to create balance, stability, joy and connection in their lives using a combination of pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and teaching. Initially, I’ll focus on creating a safe space and deeply listening to your story, and once we have gained insight into the factors impacting your experience, together we will come up with a dynamic treatment strategy that aligns with your priorities.
I enjoy practicing psychiatry from a holistic perspective, considering how biology, core beliefs, relationships and environment may be informing your current experience. I’m passionate about helping clients to feel empowered to create balance, stability, joy and connection in their lives using a combination of pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and teaching. Initially, I’ll focus on creating a safe space and deeply listening to your story, and once we have gained insight into the factors impacting your experience, together we will come up with a dynamic treatment strategy that aligns with your priorities.
(415) 763-6086 View (415) 763-6086
Photo of Scott Smolar, Psychiatrist, DO, DFASAM, PC
Scott Smolar
Psychiatrist, DO, DFASAM, PC
San Francisco, CA 94111
Dr. Smolar's extensive experience treating a full range of ages, backgrounds, mental health and addiction issues makes him well suited to help individuals struggling with a multitude of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Smolar's extensive experience treating a full range of ages, backgrounds, mental health and addiction issues makes him well suited to help individuals struggling with a multitude of psychiatric conditions.
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
San Francisco, CA 94111
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.
(415) 966-2491 View (415) 966-2491
Photo of Dr. Shafi Lodhi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Shafi Lodhi
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94102
Dr. Shafi Lodhi is a neuropsychiatrist with expertise in ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related disorders. Dr. Lodhi his known for his dedication to understanding his patients and staying on the cutting edge of treatment.
Dr. Shafi Lodhi is a neuropsychiatrist with expertise in ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related disorders. Dr. Lodhi his known for his dedication to understanding his patients and staying on the cutting edge of treatment.
(650) 487-1151 View (650) 487-1151
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
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
(415) 938-3959 View (415) 938-3959
Photo of Neha Chaudhary, Psychiatrist, MD
Neha Chaudhary
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94133
On faculty at Harvard / Mass General, I'm a double-boarded child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist who offers telemedicine-based evaluation and treatment of kids, adolescents, and adults. I take a comprehensive approach, considering all aspects of you or your child’s lifestyle in order to create an individualized treatment program that meets you where you are. I believe that for treatment to be successful, you or your child will need to be evaluated and treated within the broader context of who you are, considering genetics, family dynamics, social supports, romantic relationships, careers, hobbies, habits, and unique stressors.
On faculty at Harvard / Mass General, I'm a double-boarded child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist who offers telemedicine-based evaluation and treatment of kids, adolescents, and adults. I take a comprehensive approach, considering all aspects of you or your child’s lifestyle in order to create an individualized treatment program that meets you where you are. I believe that for treatment to be successful, you or your child will need to be evaluated and treated within the broader context of who you are, considering genetics, family dynamics, social supports, romantic relationships, careers, hobbies, habits, and unique stressors.
(628) 265-8883 View (628) 265-8883
Photo of John Hartmann, Psychiatrist, MD
John Hartmann
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. I use an integrative approach that includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication to provide individualized treatment to each patient. As a therapist, I believe that healing and growth come from uncovering new ways of understanding ourselves and how we relate to the world and that this occurs most effectively in the context of a safe and deeply authentic therapeutic relationship. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic, but I integrate CBT and mindfulness techniques as needed to provide the best care.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. I use an integrative approach that includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication to provide individualized treatment to each patient. As a therapist, I believe that healing and growth come from uncovering new ways of understanding ourselves and how we relate to the world and that this occurs most effectively in the context of a safe and deeply authentic therapeutic relationship. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic, but I integrate CBT and mindfulness techniques as needed to provide the best care.
(415) 610-5420 View (415) 610-5420
Photo of Raghu Kiran Appasani, Psychiatrist, MD
Raghu Kiran Appasani
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
Dr. Raghu Kiran Appasani is an Integrative Psychiatrist, Neuroscientist, and Social Entrepreneur focused on bridging the gap between western and eastern practices to create a wholesome society by taking a proactive approach to health. His current interests lie at the intersection of psychodynamic psychotherapy, integrative/nutritional psychiatry, mental health literacy, advocacy, wellness, entrepreneurship, and psychedelics.
Dr. Raghu Kiran Appasani is an Integrative Psychiatrist, Neuroscientist, and Social Entrepreneur focused on bridging the gap between western and eastern practices to create a wholesome society by taking a proactive approach to health. His current interests lie at the intersection of psychodynamic psychotherapy, integrative/nutritional psychiatry, mental health literacy, advocacy, wellness, entrepreneurship, and psychedelics.
(415) 426-2654 View (415) 426-2654
Photo of Theresa Bui, Psychiatrist, DO
Theresa Bui
Psychiatrist, DO
San Francisco, CA 94102
Dr. Bui completed her General Psychiatry Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Dr. Bui has experience in early identification of mental conditions as well as long term stabilization measures for psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Dr. Bui completed her General Psychiatry Residency at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Dr. Bui has experience in early identification of mental conditions as well as long term stabilization measures for psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
(628) 345-8411 View (628) 345-8411
Photo of Jenny Chouang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP
Jenny Chouang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP
San Francisco, CA 94115
Mental health is manageable with professional help. My goal is to provide optimal solutions to help sustain your health and live life to its fullest potential.
Mental health is manageable with professional help. My goal is to provide optimal solutions to help sustain your health and live life to its fullest potential.
(415) 965-8864 View (415) 965-8864
Photo of Stephanie Michael Stewart, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephanie Michael Stewart
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
As a holistic, integrative psychiatrist, I believe healing is both collaborative and deeply personal. Together, we’ll uncover the path that aligns with your unique needs, values, and aspirations. Whether you seek clarity, growth, or relief. I’m here to support and guide you every step of the way. Your journey is important, and I’m honored to walk alongside you toward meaningful transformation and well-being.
As a holistic, integrative psychiatrist, I believe healing is both collaborative and deeply personal. Together, we’ll uncover the path that aligns with your unique needs, values, and aspirations. Whether you seek clarity, growth, or relief. I’m here to support and guide you every step of the way. Your journey is important, and I’m honored to walk alongside you toward meaningful transformation and well-being.
(415) 301-3519 View (415) 301-3519
Photo of Mariam Fazil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
(415) 825-8714 View (415) 825-8714

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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
72% Bipolar Disorder
71% Medication Management
70% Trauma and PTSD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

64% Female
35% 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.