Psychiatrists in Spring Valley, CA

Photo of Ogechukwun Ugwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ogechukwun Ugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, CA 91977  (Online Only)
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
Linda ugwu. License: PMHNP-BC, CNP. I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, I adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives. My expertise extends beyond the mere prescribing of medications; I approach each individual holistically, integrating therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs.
(559) 657-6955 View (559) 657-6955
Photo of Dormico Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dormico Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, CA 91977
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
Dormico Walker is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing who is dedicated to the promotion of improved healthcare outcomes. Symptoms management and patient advocacy encompass this provider's target goals in clinical care. My approach to therapy is a Patient-centered approach to individualized psychiatric care. I have worked with Children ages 5-17 and adults aged 18-59. Medication-assisted treatment such as suboxone, naltrexone, and vivitrol, to adults aged 18 and older. Generalized psych.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Dr. Valeria Serban, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Valeria Serban
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spring Valley, CA 91977
Dr. Valeria Serban is an experienced board-certified geriatric psychiatrist practicing for twenty years. She treats all patients between the ages of 18 to 120 years. As a geriatric psychiatrist, Dr. Serban can help individuals above 65 with age-related cognitive decline like delirium, depression, dementia, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and other medical conditions resulting in psychiatric symptoms. She offers tailored treatment plans based on hormonal, nutritional, and medical evaluations, for a full recovery. Alternatively, she chalks out customized treatment plans to control symptoms.
Dr. Valeria Serban is an experienced board-certified geriatric psychiatrist practicing for twenty years. She treats all patients between the ages of 18 to 120 years. As a geriatric psychiatrist, Dr. Serban can help individuals above 65 with age-related cognitive decline like delirium, depression, dementia, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and other medical conditions resulting in psychiatric symptoms. She offers tailored treatment plans based on hormonal, nutritional, and medical evaluations, for a full recovery. Alternatively, she chalks out customized treatment plans to control symptoms.
(650) 643-5645 View (650) 643-5645
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, CA 91977  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(714) 599-8634 View (714) 599-8634

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Anil Patel, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anil Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92069
Dr. Anil Patel is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who treats attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other behavioral issues.
Dr. Anil Patel is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who treats attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other behavioral issues.
(760) 840-2068 View (760) 840-2068
Photo of Genevieve Saeturn, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Genevieve Saeturn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92069
Genevieve helps adolescents and adults improve their mental health to study, work, and maintain healthy relationships with family and friends.
Genevieve helps adolescents and adults improve their mental health to study, work, and maintain healthy relationships with family and friends.
(760) 840-2068 View (760) 840-2068
Photo of Dmitriy Sivtsov, MD, Psychiatrist
Dmitriy Sivtsov
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Starting with the first phone call or email, our central location, knowledgeable staff, expert physicians, seamless process of evaluation, treatment planning and delivery all designed to take unnecessary stress off your shoulders. We will work behind the scenes so you and your doctor can focus on the one most important thing - fighting depression.
Starting with the first phone call or email, our central location, knowledgeable staff, expert physicians, seamless process of evaluation, treatment planning and delivery all designed to take unnecessary stress off your shoulders. We will work behind the scenes so you and your doctor can focus on the one most important thing - fighting depression.
(858) 230-7585 View (858) 230-7585
Photo of Connected Minds - Connected Minds, MD, Psychiatrist
Connected Minds
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110
Connected Minds is currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person appointments! We are a mental health wellness clinic licensed in the state of Georgia, California, and New York (accepting California and New York clients for virtual medication visits only). We have a particular interest in working with adults and high profile clients. However, all referral requests are welcome for review. Allow our team of mental health experts to help you today!
Connected Minds is currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person appointments! We are a mental health wellness clinic licensed in the state of Georgia, California, and New York (accepting California and New York clients for virtual medication visits only). We have a particular interest in working with adults and high profile clients. However, all referral requests are welcome for review. Allow our team of mental health experts to help you today!
(678) 383-9532 View (678) 383-9532
Photo of Chika Agulanna, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chika Agulanna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Hello, I am Chika. I am a compassionate mental health provider that offer a safe and supportive environment for a patient's healing journey. I understand the complexities of mental health and the impact it can have on an individual's life. With a deep understanding of various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma and more.
Hello, I am Chika. I am a compassionate mental health provider that offer a safe and supportive environment for a patient's healing journey. I understand the complexities of mental health and the impact it can have on an individual's life. With a deep understanding of various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma and more.
(562) 784-5068 View (562) 784-5068
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92023  (Online Only)
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.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Charlene Frando, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlene Frando
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
Hi there. I’m Charlene and I’m a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management and solution focused brief therapy. I know if you’re reading this you’re probably in a place where you know something needs to change with your mental health.
Hi there. I’m Charlene and I’m a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management and solution focused brief therapy. I know if you’re reading this you’re probably in a place where you know something needs to change with your mental health.
(562) 669-4048 View (562) 669-4048
Photo of Chandra Rogers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chandra Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
Mental health is much more than the absence of mental challenges. It encompasses the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of our being and is highly complex and unique to each individual. It is a privilege and a great responsibility when an individual chooses to allow me to participate in their journey. My experiences have taught me that collaboration and teamwork are necessary in any partnership, and working together to find a solution that is attainable and aligns with our goals is a priority.
(760) 824-3841 View (760) 824-3841
Photo of Michael Lukowski, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Lukowski
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
(415) 843-7948 View (415) 843-7948
Photo of Integrative Psychiatrist - Patricia Pop, MD, Psychiatrist
Integrative Psychiatrist - Patricia Pop
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
Suspect or diagnosed with ADHD? Spinning your wheels but somehow getting nowhere?! Self-compassion and a thoughtful approach can help you shift from overwhelm to peace. I’m a Stanford-trained psychiatrist specializing in working women with ADHD and anxiety, offering medications & more (supplements, exercise, nutrition, mind-body skills, ADHD coaching) in a way that is warm, detailed, and thorough. Medications are just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Together, we’ll take a whole-person, whole-body approach. We'll consider your life, and all that makes you unique when making discerning decisions together.
Suspect or diagnosed with ADHD? Spinning your wheels but somehow getting nowhere?! Self-compassion and a thoughtful approach can help you shift from overwhelm to peace. I’m a Stanford-trained psychiatrist specializing in working women with ADHD and anxiety, offering medications & more (supplements, exercise, nutrition, mind-body skills, ADHD coaching) in a way that is warm, detailed, and thorough. Medications are just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Together, we’ll take a whole-person, whole-body approach. We'll consider your life, and all that makes you unique when making discerning decisions together.
View
Photo of Jordan Blaine Udeshi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Blaine Udeshi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - 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 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.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - 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 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.
(424) 232-0542 View (424) 232-0542
Photo of Ashley Cyronak - Carative Psychiatry , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92113  (Online Only)
Welcome to Carative Psychiatry! Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. At Carative Psychiatry, we desire to provide health services to our clients that focus on improving their mental health but also to educate and prevent future issues. Carative Psychiatry is a Nurse practitioner owned psychiatric practice that uses evidenced based practice to improve the quality of life of their clients. We see our clients through zoom
Welcome to Carative Psychiatry! Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. At Carative Psychiatry, we desire to provide health services to our clients that focus on improving their mental health but also to educate and prevent future issues. Carative Psychiatry is a Nurse practitioner owned psychiatric practice that uses evidenced based practice to improve the quality of life of their clients. We see our clients through zoom
(415) 326-1374 View (415) 326-1374
Photo of Dr. Stephen Signer, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Stephen Signer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Dr. Stephen Signer focuses on neurobehavior and neuropsychiatry for adults.
Dr. Stephen Signer focuses on neurobehavior and neuropsychiatry for adults.
(858) 568-7546 View (858) 568-7546
Photo of Genesis Vasconez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Genesis Vasconez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Halee Fullerton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
(818) 824-8119 View (818) 824-8119
Photo of Juliet Morgan, MD, Psychiatrist
Juliet Morgan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Waitlist for new clients
Juliet Morgan MD is an integrative psychiatrist and neurologist practicing in the Bay Area. She completed her undergraduate studies at Duke University and medical school at Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Morgan completed both neurology and psychiatry residencies, and a fellowship in integrative medicine at the University of California San Francisco. She sees patients in-person in San Francisco and also offers virtual appointments.
Juliet Morgan MD is an integrative psychiatrist and neurologist practicing in the Bay Area. She completed her undergraduate studies at Duke University and medical school at Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Morgan completed both neurology and psychiatry residencies, and a fellowship in integrative medicine at the University of California San Francisco. She sees patients in-person in San Francisco and also offers virtual appointments.
(415) 853-4572 View (415) 853-4572

See more therapy options for Spring Valley

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Spring Valley, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Spring Valley, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
75% Grief
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

25 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Spring Valley, CA see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Spring Valley?

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.