Psychiatrists in Sunnyvale, CA

Photo of Dr. Rashmi Parmar, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Rashmi Parmar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Dr. Rashmi Parmar is a dual board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Parmar's treatment philosophy involves making patients and their families feel heard and understood while tailoring their treatment goals. She educates her patients to make well-informed treatment choices and believes in achieving the overall well-being of an individual rather than targeting the illness itself.
Dr. Rashmi Parmar is a dual board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Parmar's treatment philosophy involves making patients and their families feel heard and understood while tailoring their treatment goals. She educates her patients to make well-informed treatment choices and believes in achieving the overall well-being of an individual rather than targeting the illness itself.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Ann Irorere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ann Irorere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087  (Online Only)
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues.
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues.
(562) 620-8846 View (562) 620-8846
Photo of Dr. Roselin Arunachalam, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Roselin Arunachalam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Dr. Roseline Arunachalam has over 20 years of experience as a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist. Dr. Arunachalam strives to understand her patients and watch them blossom. She brings a holistic approach to psychiatry and offers same-day initial evaluations. Dr. Arunachalam completed her residency at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and her fellowship at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. She was led to psychiatry by the quote, "Every disease starts in the mind, and so does every healing."
Dr. Roseline Arunachalam has over 20 years of experience as a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist. Dr. Arunachalam strives to understand her patients and watch them blossom. She brings a holistic approach to psychiatry and offers same-day initial evaluations. Dr. Arunachalam completed her residency at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and her fellowship at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. She was led to psychiatry by the quote, "Every disease starts in the mind, and so does every healing."
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Uchenna Okoye, MD , Psychiatrist
Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (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!
(408) 550-1766 View (408) 550-1766
Photo of Joshua Flatow, MD, Psychiatrist
Joshua Flatow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, Psychotherapy, Telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(669) 248-8808 View (669) 248-8808
Photo of Thomas Mottsin, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas Mottsin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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-Bonmente knows 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.
(844) 993-0717 View (844) 993-0717
Photo of Catalina Villa, MD , Psychiatrist
Catalina Villa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (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!
(408) 617-8952 View (408) 617-8952
Photo of Kailee Marin, DO, Psychiatrist
Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (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!
(408) 547-2335 View (408) 547-2335
Photo of Catherine Shir, MD, Psychiatrist
Catherine Shir
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Stanford-trained, Bay Area-based psychiatrist and therapist offering personalized and compassionate care. My practice is devoted to alleviating suffering and helping people live fulfilling and meaningful lives. If you are someone who is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to grapple with difficult thoughts and feelings, I can help guide you toward healing, purpose, and recovery.
I am a Stanford-trained, Bay Area-based psychiatrist and therapist offering personalized and compassionate care. My practice is devoted to alleviating suffering and helping people live fulfilling and meaningful lives. If you are someone who is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to grapple with difficult thoughts and feelings, I can help guide you toward healing, purpose, and recovery.
(408) 703-6683 View (408) 703-6683
Photo of Moira Kessler - Moira Kessler, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Moira Kessler, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
I currently am accepting new patients, including early evening hours. My strongest clinical background is in treating adults, older children, and adolescents with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. I offer individual psychotherapy as well as medication management appointments. I also have expertise in consulting with schools to help best support students. I have worked extensively with patients and families in improving relationships and communication. I have clinical expertise in providing diagnostic assessments, consultation, and care linkage for children, adolescents, and adults as well.
I currently am accepting new patients, including early evening hours. My strongest clinical background is in treating adults, older children, and adolescents with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. I offer individual psychotherapy as well as medication management appointments. I also have expertise in consulting with schools to help best support students. I have worked extensively with patients and families in improving relationships and communication. I have clinical expertise in providing diagnostic assessments, consultation, and care linkage for children, adolescents, and adults as well.
(650) 542-0240 View (650) 542-0240
Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD , Psychiatrist
Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (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!
(408) 413-4826 View (408) 413-4826
Photo of David Lindley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Lindley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I approach psychiatric care with a holistic perspective and a focus on your overall well-being. My practice is grounded in psychotropic medication management, bolstered by a commitment to your lifestyle, diet, exercise, and daily habits. I specialize in caring for individuals aged 18 to 65, with a focus on psychotropic medication management. I am most comfortable treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and Panic Disorder.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Daria A Pasca
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Daria Pasca, M.D. is board certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology as well as the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Pasca received her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. She completed her Adult Psychiatry residency at Caritas St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, a Tufts University affiliated program in Boston, Massachusetts.
Daria Pasca, M.D. is board certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology as well as the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Pasca received her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. She completed her Adult Psychiatry residency at Caritas St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, a Tufts University affiliated program in Boston, Massachusetts.
(408) 676-2074 View (408) 676-2074
Photo of Jordan Rose, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
Jordan is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and behavioral health settings. With a specialized focus on pediatric and adolescent psychiatry, Jordan has a proven track record of delivering empathetic and therapeutic care to patients of all ages.
(408) 413-3685 View (408) 413-3685
Photo of Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khadija Hamisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence based medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
Khadija Hamisi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. The influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness Being trained and current with the best evidence based medication treatment strategy, he places a strong emphasis on psychosocial, and psychodynamic factors as the foundation of his treatment. Many psychiatric conditions have an underlying biological and genetic component of treatment.
(415) 630-2542 View (415) 630-2542
Photo of Bruce Wermuth - LGTC Group, MD, Psychiatrist
LGTC Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Comprehensive Mental Health Practice comprised of Psychiatrists, Psychiatric nurse practitioners, Psychiatric Physician Assistants and Psychotherapists. Members of our team from various disciplines collaborate and coordinate interventions in order to provide the most effective and current treatment options.
Comprehensive Mental Health Practice comprised of Psychiatrists, Psychiatric nurse practitioners, Psychiatric Physician Assistants and Psychotherapists. Members of our team from various disciplines collaborate and coordinate interventions in order to provide the most effective and current treatment options.
(669) 221-8926 View (669) 221-8926
Photo of Dr. Prital Desai, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Prital Desai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087  (Online Only)
Prital Desai, MD is board-certified in Child/Adolescent as well as Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Desai graduated from the University of Virginia, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. Prior to that, she completed her general psychiatry training at St. Elizabeths Hospital, D.C. In addition, Dr. Desai obtained a MPH (Master of Public Health) degree from California State University, Long Beach. With her public health background, she has a keen interest in the promotion of preventive and comprehensive care for her patients.
Prital Desai, MD is board-certified in Child/Adolescent as well as Adult Psychiatry. Dr. Desai graduated from the University of Virginia, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. Prior to that, she completed her general psychiatry training at St. Elizabeths Hospital, D.C. In addition, Dr. Desai obtained a MPH (Master of Public Health) degree from California State University, Long Beach. With her public health background, she has a keen interest in the promotion of preventive and comprehensive care for her patients.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Gol Ara, MD, Psychiatrist
Gol Ara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
Accepting New Patients - Dr. Ara completed her fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP) at UCLA. CLP is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on treating mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions. Before her fellowship training, she completed her psychiatry residency at the University of New Mexico and earned her M.D. degree from Tehran University.
(628) 313-4197 View (628) 313-4197
Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94089  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(951) 557-6019 View (951) 557-6019
Photo of Tameka Dyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tameka Dyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94089  (Online Only)
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
Tameka Dyce PMHNP-BC, as a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to care emphasizes holistic, patient-centered treatment, integrating both medication management and therapeutic interventions to address mental health needs comprehensively. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, with a commitment to fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being for my patients.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Sunnyvale, CA

60+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Sunnyvale, CA who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
89% Depression
80% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
98% Cigna and Evernorth
98% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Sunnyvale, CA see their clients

59% Online Only
41% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Sunnyvale?

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.