Psychiatrists in South Pasadena, CA

Photo of Marvin Hoang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marvin Hoang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I utilize a holistic approach to mental health treatment which considers the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and social well-being. I believe in identifying and addressing the root cause of mental health issues instead of just treating the symptoms.
I utilize a holistic approach to mental health treatment which considers the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and social well-being. I believe in identifying and addressing the root cause of mental health issues instead of just treating the symptoms.
(626) 693-3454 View (626) 693-3454
Photo of Alexander Huang, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexander Huang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in Pasadena. Utilizing both psychotherapy and medication, I treat a wide variety of issues including ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Completing a Child & Adolescent Fellowship as well as an American Psychiatric Association SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) Minority Fellowship, I have a developmentally and culturally sensitive approach to patients--focusing on individualized bio-psycho-social formulation beyond a diagnosis.
(626) 642-9825 View (626) 642-9825
Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD, MD, Psychiatrist
The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
You've poured your heart and soul into your career, but now you're running on empty. It's normal to sometimes feel drained and unmotivated, but it's not okay to stay that way. Burnout is common among high-achieving professionals, like attorneys, tech sector experts, investment bankers, and physicians. Let’s work together to rediscover who you really are and what brings you joy so that you can feel whole and happy again. You deserve to feel better - not just in your career, but in all aspects of your life. ‍
You've poured your heart and soul into your career, but now you're running on empty. It's normal to sometimes feel drained and unmotivated, but it's not okay to stay that way. Burnout is common among high-achieving professionals, like attorneys, tech sector experts, investment bankers, and physicians. Let’s work together to rediscover who you really are and what brings you joy so that you can feel whole and happy again. You deserve to feel better - not just in your career, but in all aspects of your life. ‍
(323) 689-5148 View (323) 689-5148
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
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) 334-5035 View (424) 334-5035
Photo of Sandra Hah, MD, Psychiatrist
Sandra Hah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
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!
(213) 699-9235 View (213) 699-9235
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
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) 396-0455 View (424) 396-0455
Photo of Anita Red, MD, Psychiatrist
Anita Red
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry but see adults as well. I provide a treatment plan that is tailored to you. Medication is not always the right or first answer.
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry but see adults as well. I provide a treatment plan that is tailored to you. Medication is not always the right or first answer.
(626) 602-9462 View (626) 602-9462
Photo of Alysha Woods, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alysha Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Noticing it’s hard to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night. Cycles of sadness, nervousness, and tiredness that feel like they will continue forever. Feeling unsure of how to move past painful memories. Is this affecting self esteem, work, school performance, or achieving your goals? Wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Please know you are welcome in this space and life doesn't have to stay this way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Noticing it’s hard to wake up in the morning, get through the day, and sleep through the night. Cycles of sadness, nervousness, and tiredness that feel like they will continue forever. Feeling unsure of how to move past painful memories. Is this affecting self esteem, work, school performance, or achieving your goals? Wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Please know you are welcome in this space and life doesn't have to stay this way.
(818) 369-3384 View (818) 369-3384
Photo of Princess McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(747) 347-3657 View (747) 347-3657
Photo of Holly Olalia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(310) 360-7200 View (310) 360-7200
Photo of Cinthia Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(747) 349-8561 View (747) 349-8561
Photo of Tiffany Quach, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Quach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(747) 746-4550 View (747) 746-4550
Photo of Kailee Marin, DO , Psychiatrist
Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(747) 774-8128 View (747) 774-8128
Photo of Kenny Lin, MD, Psychiatrist
Kenny Lin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Dr. Lin is a Harvard and UCSF trained psychiatrist for children, teens, and adults. He is double boarded by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. He has an additional board certification in Lifestyle Medicine from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. He has had diverse experiences working with people of different ages, backgrounds, and mental health histories.
Dr. Lin is a Harvard and UCSF trained psychiatrist for children, teens, and adults. He is double boarded by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. He has an additional board certification in Lifestyle Medicine from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. He has had diverse experiences working with people of different ages, backgrounds, and mental health histories.
(626) 663-2063 View (626) 663-2063
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(310) 598-3938 View (310) 598-3938
Photo of Taylor Scheller, PA-C , CAQ, Physician Assistant
Taylor Scheller
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Verified Verified
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(323) 985-7648 View (323) 985-7648
Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD, Psychiatrist
Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging 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 Bonmente, 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. Now, welcoming new patients!
(747) 339-3564 View (747) 339-3564
Photo of Jay Timacdog, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jay Timacdog
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Are you one of those individuals needing mental health support but worried about the stigma that comes from talking to a therapist or psychiatrist? It's completely normal to feel concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health. But here's the thing: seeking help is a brave and important step towards feeling better. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there's no shame in taking care of your mental well-being. Finding a trustworthy provider can be challenging. Rest assured, here at HAWON Services, our patient’s privacy is our outmost priority.
Are you one of those individuals needing mental health support but worried about the stigma that comes from talking to a therapist or psychiatrist? It's completely normal to feel concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health. But here's the thing: seeking help is a brave and important step towards feeling better. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there's no shame in taking care of your mental well-being. Finding a trustworthy provider can be challenging. Rest assured, here at HAWON Services, our patient’s privacy is our outmost priority.
(619) 815-7812 View (619) 815-7812
Photo of Alice Wong, DO, Psychiatrist
Alice Wong
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who provides culturally sensitive integrative mental health care by listening with empathy, inquiring with curiosity, and understanding with humility. I have experience in working with diverse cultural backgrounds, with an added focus on Asian Americans, and understand the struggles one may face in wanting to assimilate while retaining their cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety/depression/trauma, managing family expectations, navigating transitions, or striving for a fulfilling life, I'm dedicated to walking this path with you.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist who provides culturally sensitive integrative mental health care by listening with empathy, inquiring with curiosity, and understanding with humility. I have experience in working with diverse cultural backgrounds, with an added focus on Asian Americans, and understand the struggles one may face in wanting to assimilate while retaining their cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety/depression/trauma, managing family expectations, navigating transitions, or striving for a fulfilling life, I'm dedicated to walking this path with you.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mojan Saberi, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mojan Saberi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you stuck in what feels like an endless cycle of symptom management and negative self-talk? Do you find yourself feeling like every visit just ends with a new med and you feeling unheard? If you're looking for an experienced professional who is compassionate and is here to understand your unique needs, I am here to help. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience working in the mental health fields of crisis stabilization and outpatient care.
Are you stuck in what feels like an endless cycle of symptom management and negative self-talk? Do you find yourself feeling like every visit just ends with a new med and you feeling unheard? If you're looking for an experienced professional who is compassionate and is here to understand your unique needs, I am here to help. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience working in the mental health fields of crisis stabilization and outpatient care.
(562) 561-2526 View (562) 561-2526

See more therapy options for South Pasadena

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in South Pasadena, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in South Pasadena, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Medication Management
95% ADHD
89% Sleep or Insomnia
84% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
85% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in South Pasadena, CA see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in South Pasadena?

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.