Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Christopher E Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Christopher E Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Over the past 20 years working in mental healthcare, I have enjoyed the great opportunity to serve patients and their families. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I worked first at the San Francisco VA Medical Center, through their post-graduate residency program, and then for the past several years, I worked with medically underserved populations throughout New Mexico, first in person and then via telehealth.
Over the past 20 years working in mental healthcare, I have enjoyed the great opportunity to serve patients and their families. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I worked first at the San Francisco VA Medical Center, through their post-graduate residency program, and then for the past several years, I worked with medically underserved populations throughout New Mexico, first in person and then via telehealth.
(669) 322-8228 View (669) 322-8228
Photo of Joshua Flatow, Psychiatrist, MD
Joshua Flatow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(424) 396-2687 View (424) 396-2687
Photo of Jasbir Virk, Psychiatrist, MD
Jasbir Virk
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
It is a unique privilege to listen and connect with patients, to understand one's story, and to be a part of their healing process. My goal is to help individuals navigate the struggles, by finding comprehensive ways to address their mental health needs.
It is a unique privilege to listen and connect with patients, to understand one's story, and to be a part of their healing process. My goal is to help individuals navigate the struggles, by finding comprehensive ways to address their mental health needs.
(844) 748-2375 View (844) 748-2375
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(424) 334-5078 View (424) 334-5078
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(408) 684-5708 View (408) 684-5708
Photo of Joy Nnebe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Joy Nnebe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and major life transitions. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, which help clients reframe negative thought patterns, build self-awareness, and enhance emotional resilience. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health assessments, psychoeducation, and personalized treatment plans that may include therapy and
I am a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and major life transitions. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, which help clients reframe negative thought patterns, build self-awareness, and enhance emotional resilience. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health assessments, psychoeducation, and personalized treatment plans that may include therapy and
(408) 709-7284 View (408) 709-7284
Photo of Heidi Clark, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Heidi Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I help adults achieve an enhanced sense of well being and contentment to manage anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders and environmental stress by evaluating and treating biological, psychological and mind-body imbalances. I offer medication management, supportive therapy, integrative health interventions and practical techniques for clients to manage problematic habits and thought patterns. I have treated adults with psychiatric conditions for 20 years and share my time and knowledge to thoroughly explore one’s concerns, making sure to understand the complexities and nuances of the individual.
I help adults achieve an enhanced sense of well being and contentment to manage anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders and environmental stress by evaluating and treating biological, psychological and mind-body imbalances. I offer medication management, supportive therapy, integrative health interventions and practical techniques for clients to manage problematic habits and thought patterns. I have treated adults with psychiatric conditions for 20 years and share my time and knowledge to thoroughly explore one’s concerns, making sure to understand the complexities and nuances of the individual.
(408) 539-9305 View (408) 539-9305
Photo of Karla Miranda, Psychiatrist, MD
Karla Miranda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I grew up in Texas and attended medical school at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. I completed residency and fellowship at the University of New Mexico. Throughout my training, I have worked with patients and families from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I have training in a wide range of mental health conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders and anxiety.
I grew up in Texas and attended medical school at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. I completed residency and fellowship at the University of New Mexico. Throughout my training, I have worked with patients and families from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I have training in a wide range of mental health conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders and anxiety.
(844) 748-2375 View (844) 748-2375
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
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.
(669) 338-2808 View (669) 338-2808
Photo of Haoyu Lee, Psychiatrist, MD
Haoyu Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
One thing that inspires me is our ability as humans to change our own circumstances with the help of family and community using self-awareness, imagination, and our own unique strengths. I believe that achieving this integrity is a worthy result that can accompany treatment. It takes risk, energy, and investment to pursue this and it is a privilege for me to be a part of one’s journey.
One thing that inspires me is our ability as humans to change our own circumstances with the help of family and community using self-awareness, imagination, and our own unique strengths. I believe that achieving this integrity is a worthy result that can accompany treatment. It takes risk, energy, and investment to pursue this and it is a privilege for me to be a part of one’s journey.
(844) 748-2375 View (844) 748-2375
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist, MD
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
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.
(408) 351-7422 View (408) 351-7422
Photo of Felix Ahmedov, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Felix Ahmedov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Nurse Practitioner that works in the healthcare sector, interacting directly with patients to ensure that they receive quality care, understand physician instructions, and have access to the services needed to maintain optimal health.
I am a Nurse Practitioner that works in the healthcare sector, interacting directly with patients to ensure that they receive quality care, understand physician instructions, and have access to the services needed to maintain optimal health.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Anita Garloff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anita Garloff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Anita is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience helping patients with anxiety and mood disorders.
Anita is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience helping patients with anxiety and mood disorders.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Charlene Hanson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Charlene Hanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to share with you all that I know about healing and recovery from mental health challenges. I work with all populations across the lifespan, from ages 8yrs to 85yrs. I believe that informed patients are better equipped to navigate life's challenges, and together we can explore the pros and cons of medications, as well as allow for a discussion and exploration of supplements, nutrition, sleep and stress management, all of which influence our wellbeing.
My goal as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to share with you all that I know about healing and recovery from mental health challenges. I work with all populations across the lifespan, from ages 8yrs to 85yrs. I believe that informed patients are better equipped to navigate life's challenges, and together we can explore the pros and cons of medications, as well as allow for a discussion and exploration of supplements, nutrition, sleep and stress management, all of which influence our wellbeing.
(408) 916-4038 View (408) 916-4038
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(424) 361-1770 View (424) 361-1770
Photo of Jamie Fauth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jamie Fauth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jamie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating women’s issues, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community. During sessions, I use a compassion focused and client centered therapeutic approach. I take a holistic perspective on mental health medication treatment and will carefully evaluate your background, lifestyle, and health history to help you choose the right medication.
Hi, I’m Jamie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating women’s issues, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community. During sessions, I use a compassion focused and client centered therapeutic approach. I take a holistic perspective on mental health medication treatment and will carefully evaluate your background, lifestyle, and health history to help you choose the right medication.
(619) 826-0863 View (619) 826-0863
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(408) 677-2941 View (408) 677-2941
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(408) 692-9134 View (408) 692-9134
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95112
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) 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 (Telepsychiatry) 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
(408) 413-0269 View (408) 413-0269
Photo of Dr. Shweta Karve, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Shweta Karve
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Dr. Shweta Karve specializes in general adult psychiatry with a strong interest in cultural psychiatry. Dr. Karve treats anxiety, bipolar, depression, obsessive-compulsive, panic, personality, post-traumatic stress, and psychotic spectrum disorders, and psychosomatic illnesses. She is passionate about breaking the stigma associated with receiving mental health care. Dr. Karve offers comprehensive care to her patients and empowers them to live fulfilling lives. She completed her residency in psychiatry at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Dr. Shweta Karve specializes in general adult psychiatry with a strong interest in cultural psychiatry. Dr. Karve treats anxiety, bipolar, depression, obsessive-compulsive, panic, personality, post-traumatic stress, and psychotic spectrum disorders, and psychosomatic illnesses. She is passionate about breaking the stigma associated with receiving mental health care. Dr. Karve offers comprehensive care to her patients and empowers them to live fulfilling lives. She completed her residency in psychiatry at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
1
...

See more therapy options for San Jose

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA

200+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
94% Depression
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Optum

How Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

61% Female
39% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in San Jose?

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.