Psychiatrists in Santa Barbara County, CA

I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. I practice an integrative style that uses a wide range of treatment options with a focus on addressing root cause issues. I have received training in psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, nutrition, supplements, and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Before going to medical school, I obtained a masters degree in herbal medicine. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make significant changes in their life and is open to addressing their issues with the help of empathic and knowledgeable guide to help them achieve optimal health.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. I practice an integrative style that uses a wide range of treatment options with a focus on addressing root cause issues. I have received training in psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, nutrition, supplements, and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Before going to medical school, I obtained a masters degree in herbal medicine. My ideal client is someone who is ready to make significant changes in their life and is open to addressing their issues with the help of empathic and knowledgeable guide to help them achieve optimal health.

Dr. Adham Malaty, an esteemed Psychiatrist, provides compassionate care to adults and seniors, catering to a wide range of mental health concerns. His expertise spans various areas, including, but not limited to, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, insomnias, and addiction medicine. Dr. Malaty completed his medical degree at Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt, and went on to pursue his residency in psychiatry at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. He holds dual board certifications in Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and Addiction Medicine
Dr. Adham Malaty, an esteemed Psychiatrist, provides compassionate care to adults and seniors, catering to a wide range of mental health concerns. His expertise spans various areas, including, but not limited to, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, insomnias, and addiction medicine. Dr. Malaty completed his medical degree at Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt, and went on to pursue his residency in psychiatry at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. He holds dual board certifications in Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and Addiction Medicine

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.

Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Southern California, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Biology. I received my medical doctorate from the U. C. Davis School of Medicine, and completed my residency training in both Psychiatry and Family and Community Medicine at U. C. Davis Medical Center in Sacramento. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Southern California, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Biology. I received my medical doctorate from the U. C. Davis School of Medicine, and completed my residency training in both Psychiatry and Family and Community Medicine at U. C. Davis Medical Center in Sacramento. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.

I am a psychiatrist treating anxiety, mood disorders, and suicidality. In addition to medication management, I use cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy. My journey to the West Coast started after finishing medical school in Ankara, Turkey, in 2010. I completed my residency in psychiatry at Mayo Clinic.
I am a psychiatrist treating anxiety, mood disorders, and suicidality. In addition to medication management, I use cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy. My journey to the West Coast started after finishing medical school in Ankara, Turkey, in 2010. I completed my residency in psychiatry at Mayo Clinic.

Charles Scribner, PMHNP-C, is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience, committed to supporting patients and their families through challenging times. He earned his Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Azusa Pacific University, graduating Magna Cum Laude.
Charles Scribner, PMHNP-C, is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience, committed to supporting patients and their families through challenging times. He earned his Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Azusa Pacific University, graduating Magna Cum Laude.

Hello, I’m Victoria Balogun, a dedicated Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I specialize in medication management for a range of mental health conditions. With a focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders, I bring over 5 years of experience in providing compassionate care and evidence-based treatment to my clients. My approach is rooted in understanding each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're navigating the challenges of mood disorders or seeking solutions for improved sleep, I am committed to empowering you on your journey to mental wellness.
Hello, I’m Victoria Balogun, a dedicated Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. I specialize in medication management for a range of mental health conditions. With a focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders, I bring over 5 years of experience in providing compassionate care and evidence-based treatment to my clients. My approach is rooted in understanding each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're navigating the challenges of mood disorders or seeking solutions for improved sleep, I am committed to empowering you on your journey to mental wellness.

Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.

Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.
Compassionate and mission-driven, Carolyn is a dual certified MFT and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a plethora of experience with outpatient psychiatric evaluations, evidence-based psychopharmacology, and collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams. She is committed to providing ethical and competent services to individuals, couples, and families. She is also dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, advocating for patients, and staying up to date with advancements in psychiatric care.

I specialize in ketamine/psychedelic assisted psychotherapy and psychiatric med management. Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself.
I specialize in ketamine/psychedelic assisted psychotherapy and psychiatric med management. Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself.

Dr. Kim D.N. Le is a board-certified Integrative Psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care that harmonizes the mind, body, and spirit. With a deep understanding of both conventional psychiatry and complementary therapies, Dr. Le offers a unique and compassionate approach to mental wellness. Dr. Le holds an MD from UC Davis School of Medicine and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Le's passion lies in merging evidence-based treatments with alternative practices, offering her patients a wider spectrum of options to achieve lasting mental wellness.
Dr. Kim D.N. Le is a board-certified Integrative Psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care that harmonizes the mind, body, and spirit. With a deep understanding of both conventional psychiatry and complementary therapies, Dr. Le offers a unique and compassionate approach to mental wellness. Dr. Le holds an MD from UC Davis School of Medicine and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Le's passion lies in merging evidence-based treatments with alternative practices, offering her patients a wider spectrum of options to achieve lasting mental wellness.

I’m a board-certified Physician Associate with 13+ years of experience and a Master’s from the Keck School of Medicine at USC. At American Riviera Wellness, I offer private-pay medication management for ADHD, anxiety, and depression in teens (11+) and adults. For adults, I also treat addiction, PTSD, and postpartum depression. I work closely with Dr. Zev Nathan, MD, PhD—a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and former UCLA faculty member—to ensure collaborative, patient-centered care. Superbills available.
You will find that I have a unique and refreshing approach to medication management and treatment with a collaborative approach.
I’m a board-certified Physician Associate with 13+ years of experience and a Master’s from the Keck School of Medicine at USC. At American Riviera Wellness, I offer private-pay medication management for ADHD, anxiety, and depression in teens (11+) and adults. For adults, I also treat addiction, PTSD, and postpartum depression. I work closely with Dr. Zev Nathan, MD, PhD—a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and former UCLA faculty member—to ensure collaborative, patient-centered care. Superbills available.
You will find that I have a unique and refreshing approach to medication management and treatment with a collaborative approach.

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.

Blossoming Wellbeing Telepsychiatry company that understands the barriers people face every day in accessing health care. Through the use of technology, patients are able to access care from anywhere without taking time off work, traveling long distances, or on vacation. Healthcare at your fingertips through our secure online patient portal with the convenient, 24-hour access to your personal health information, upload documents/pictures, schedule appointments, and email your provider directly. Patients will be able to see and speak to their provider through Healow Televisits.
Blossoming Wellbeing Telepsychiatry company that understands the barriers people face every day in accessing health care. Through the use of technology, patients are able to access care from anywhere without taking time off work, traveling long distances, or on vacation. Healthcare at your fingertips through our secure online patient portal with the convenient, 24-hour access to your personal health information, upload documents/pictures, schedule appointments, and email your provider directly. Patients will be able to see and speak to their provider through Healow Televisits.

Mindpath College Health provides outpatient mental health care for college and university students, staff, and the surrounding community. We provide a broad spectrum of individual and group therapy, relationship counseling, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management and psychiatry. Mindpath College Health helps patients 18+ with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, gender and sexual identity, grief, life changes, OCD, relationships, and trauma and PTSD.
Mindpath College Health provides outpatient mental health care for college and university students, staff, and the surrounding community. We provide a broad spectrum of individual and group therapy, relationship counseling, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management and psychiatry. Mindpath College Health helps patients 18+ with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, gender and sexual identity, grief, life changes, OCD, relationships, and trauma and PTSD.

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!

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management. Originally from Tennessee but culturally identifying as a Californian, I blend my Southern hospitality, West Coast inclusivity, and home-grown empathy to create a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free atmosphere. I use a flexible, modern biopsychosocial approach to authentically connect with people to fully understand their unique selves, journeys, struggles, and goals. We will collaboratively develop a holistic, whole-person wellness plan tailored to your individualized needs and goals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management. Originally from Tennessee but culturally identifying as a Californian, I blend my Southern hospitality, West Coast inclusivity, and home-grown empathy to create a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free atmosphere. I use a flexible, modern biopsychosocial approach to authentically connect with people to fully understand their unique selves, journeys, struggles, and goals. We will collaboratively develop a holistic, whole-person wellness plan tailored to your individualized needs and goals.

I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.

Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Santa Barbara County, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Santa Barbara County, CA who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
87% | ADHD |
85% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Santa Barbara County, CA see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
57% | Female | |
43% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Santa Barbara County?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.