Psychiatrists in San Rafael, CA

Photo of Sally Daganzo, Psychiatrist, MD, FACP, CEDS
Sally Daganzo
Psychiatrist, MD, FACP, CEDS
San Rafael, CA 94903
Psychiatry and Internal Medicine specializing in highly personalized care for those with eating disorders and their complications as well as in complex or difficult to diagnose symptoms including POTS, Long Covid, ME/CFS. Primary care psychiatric services offered. All care available in person and/or virtual.
Psychiatry and Internal Medicine specializing in highly personalized care for those with eating disorders and their complications as well as in complex or difficult to diagnose symptoms including POTS, Long Covid, ME/CFS. Primary care psychiatric services offered. All care available in person and/or virtual.
(415) 649-4312 View (415) 649-4312
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
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!
(415) 825-8335 View (415) 825-8335
Photo of Eugene L Schoenfeld, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Eugene L Schoenfeld
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Online Only
I do general psychiatry, medication management, addiction medicine, and consult with attorneys on issues involving criminal and civil issues. For details about my work and background see my Website at www.eugeneschoenfeld.com
I do general psychiatry, medication management, addiction medicine, and consult with attorneys on issues involving criminal and civil issues. For details about my work and background see my Website at www.eugeneschoenfeld.com
(415) 446-1369 View (415) 446-1369
Photo of Gurpreet Aujla - Gurpreet Aujla, MD | Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Aujla is a second-generation Psychiatrist with a deep appreciation for mental health and wellness, an awareness of our common humanity, and a drive to help those who are suffering. With a focus on compassion, respect, and collaboration, she aligns with her patients’ needs and goals to create a comprehensive treatment plan that helps them achieve an improved quality of life. Together, she helps her patients find a way forward, trying new therapies, lifestyle changes, and both medication and non-medication treatment options based on their personal preferences.
Dr. Aujla is a second-generation Psychiatrist with a deep appreciation for mental health and wellness, an awareness of our common humanity, and a drive to help those who are suffering. With a focus on compassion, respect, and collaboration, she aligns with her patients’ needs and goals to create a comprehensive treatment plan that helps them achieve an improved quality of life. Together, she helps her patients find a way forward, trying new therapies, lifestyle changes, and both medication and non-medication treatment options based on their personal preferences.
(628) 345-7293 View (628) 345-7293
Photo of Sarah J Polfliet, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarah J Polfliet
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
(415) 685-4127 View (415) 685-4127
Photo of Edward Oklan, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Edward Oklan
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
San Rafael, CA 94903
Waitlist for new clients
I am an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist with 45 years of experience serving the entire San Francisco Bay Area. Please Note: I am working 1/4 time and am not accepting new patients currently. Openings do occasionally arise however. I also may be able to assist you with a consultation or referral. Before seeing a psychiatrist, it may be useful to first obtain a comprehensive psychological evaluation. For an excellent initial evaluation and for individual or family psychotherapy, I recommend contacting Ari Oklan, PhD. He can be reached by phone at 510-621-7098 or Google Ari Oklan PhD.
I am an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist with 45 years of experience serving the entire San Francisco Bay Area. Please Note: I am working 1/4 time and am not accepting new patients currently. Openings do occasionally arise however. I also may be able to assist you with a consultation or referral. Before seeing a psychiatrist, it may be useful to first obtain a comprehensive psychological evaluation. For an excellent initial evaluation and for individual or family psychotherapy, I recommend contacting Ari Oklan, PhD. He can be reached by phone at 510-621-7098 or Google Ari Oklan PhD.
(628) 203-1984 View (628) 203-1984
Photo of Michael Adam Ciranni, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Michael Adam Ciranni
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
San Rafael, CA 94901
I earned a Ph.D. in cognitive neuropsychology from UC Berkeley before attending medical school at UC San Francisco and later specializing in psychiatry at New York University. As a result, I have a thorough understanding of the neural pathways involved in emotions and cognition, how they develop, how they are regulated, and the relevant neurotransmitters. I have applied my training to develop a specific expertise in identifying and treating ADHD in adults. While neural pathways affect behavior, your mind doesn't exist in a vacuum. Your mind developed and operates under distinct circumstances.
I earned a Ph.D. in cognitive neuropsychology from UC Berkeley before attending medical school at UC San Francisco and later specializing in psychiatry at New York University. As a result, I have a thorough understanding of the neural pathways involved in emotions and cognition, how they develop, how they are regulated, and the relevant neurotransmitters. I have applied my training to develop a specific expertise in identifying and treating ADHD in adults. While neural pathways affect behavior, your mind doesn't exist in a vacuum. Your mind developed and operates under distinct circumstances.
(415) 969-5443 View (415) 969-5443
Photo of Kim Salinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, AHN, APRN
Kim Salinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, AHN, APRN
San Rafael, CA 94903
Integrative Psychiatry with specialty in creative, unique, highly sensitive and neurodiverse individuals. ​I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note we do not prescribe controlled substances, this includes stimulants for attention issues. We emphasize positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness & optimizing your individual potential. . Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
Integrative Psychiatry with specialty in creative, unique, highly sensitive and neurodiverse individuals. ​I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note we do not prescribe controlled substances, this includes stimulants for attention issues. We emphasize positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness & optimizing your individual potential. . Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
(415) 797-0687 View (415) 797-0687
Photo of Kim Schurman, Psychiatrist, MD
Kim Schurman
Psychiatrist, MD
San Rafael, CA 94901
Dr. Kim Schurman is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a focused interest in working with patients who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety. Her style of psychiatry is a warm, curious, and empathic approach to working with patients. She prefers to work collaboratively in order to help patients understand themselves and their treatment process.
Dr. Kim Schurman is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a focused interest in working with patients who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety. Her style of psychiatry is a warm, curious, and empathic approach to working with patients. She prefers to work collaboratively in order to help patients understand themselves and their treatment process.
(628) 345-7293 View (628) 345-7293
Photo of Rudy Roque, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rudy Roque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
(657) 256-3763 View (657) 256-3763
Photo of Brittany Lute, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(424) 317-9053 View (424) 317-9053
Photo of Steve Balt, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Steve Balt
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
San Rafael, CA 94903
I am a psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults and adolescents with addictions, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and psychosis. I offer both medication management and psychotherapy. My approach to medications is a conservative one: I use medications (including Suboxone) only when patients have a full understanding of their risks and benefits, and I am willing to help patients taper or discontinue medications that provide little benefit, or which cause harm. At all times, I am eager to collaborate with other providers (therapists, counselors, alternative medicine specialists) to provide the optimal care for my patients.
I am a psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults and adolescents with addictions, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and psychosis. I offer both medication management and psychotherapy. My approach to medications is a conservative one: I use medications (including Suboxone) only when patients have a full understanding of their risks and benefits, and I am willing to help patients taper or discontinue medications that provide little benefit, or which cause harm. At all times, I am eager to collaborate with other providers (therapists, counselors, alternative medicine specialists) to provide the optimal care for my patients.
(415) 789-3715 View (415) 789-3715
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
San Rafael, CA 94901
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, 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. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, 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. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence-bas medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(559) 404-6296 View (559) 404-6296
Photo of Samir Hamed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(951) 467-4506 View (951) 467-4506
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(707) 532-2144 View (707) 532-2144
Photo of Samir Hamed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(909) 531-4083 View (909) 531-4083
Photo of Sylvie G Djoumessi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sylvie G Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Sylvie G! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Texas, Washington, and California. My practice focuses on treating depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and related mental health conditions, with flexible scheduling options to accommodate working professionals. I provide holistic, individualized care centered on identifying root causes rather than just symptoms, combining comprehensive health assessments with medication management and therapy recommendations tailored to your unique needs.
Hi there, I'm Sylvie G! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Texas, Washington, and California. My practice focuses on treating depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and related mental health conditions, with flexible scheduling options to accommodate working professionals. I provide holistic, individualized care centered on identifying root causes rather than just symptoms, combining comprehensive health assessments with medication management and therapy recommendations tailored to your unique needs.
(818) 351-1731 View (818) 351-1731
Photo of Rebecca Blakesley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Rebecca Blakesley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
(510) 988-5401 View (510) 988-5401
Photo of Bruce W. Scotton, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, CJA
Bruce W. Scotton
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, CJA
Serves Area
I am especially interested in working with people who see healing their wounds and problems as only one part of an ongoing effort to develop themselves as far as possible. This effort includes development beyond the personal into familial, community, global, and spiritual realms. Seeking to promote this perspective I am the senior editor of Textbook of Transpersonal Psychiatry and Psychology for which we won the Will Solimene Award for Excellence in Medical Communication. This perspective also values learning the accumulated knowledge of other cultures.
I am especially interested in working with people who see healing their wounds and problems as only one part of an ongoing effort to develop themselves as far as possible. This effort includes development beyond the personal into familial, community, global, and spiritual realms. Seeking to promote this perspective I am the senior editor of Textbook of Transpersonal Psychiatry and Psychology for which we won the Will Solimene Award for Excellence in Medical Communication. This perspective also values learning the accumulated knowledge of other cultures.
(650) 924-9400 View (650) 924-9400
Photo of Marc I Schwartz, Psychiatrist, MD
Marc I Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am committed the relief of distress in the mind emotions and difficulty functioning in youth, adults and those in advanced years. A comprehensive evaluation, a treatment plan developed collaboratively attends to the biologic psychic and interpersonal issues present. After training as a pediatrician, my fascination with the development of the brain and mind lead me to retrain as a psychiatrist. I enjoy making the process of therapy feel engaging and safe and attempt to be actively useful in guiding people develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which the mind works. There is a map to how we create our emotional states.
I am committed the relief of distress in the mind emotions and difficulty functioning in youth, adults and those in advanced years. A comprehensive evaluation, a treatment plan developed collaboratively attends to the biologic psychic and interpersonal issues present. After training as a pediatrician, my fascination with the development of the brain and mind lead me to retrain as a psychiatrist. I enjoy making the process of therapy feel engaging and safe and attempt to be actively useful in guiding people develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which the mind works. There is a map to how we create our emotional states.
(628) 212-7676 View (628) 212-7676

See more therapy options for San Rafael

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in San Rafael, CA

40+

Average cost per session

$275

Psychiatrists in San Rafael, CA who prioritize treating:

86% Anxiety
83% Medication Management
81% Depression
74% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
57% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
79% Anthem
79% Optum

How Psychiatrists in San Rafael, CA see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Male
44% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in San Rafael?

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.