Psychiatrists in Van Nuys, CA

Photo of Daniel Chandler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Daniel Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
(747) 836-4606 View (747) 836-4606
Photo of Louella D Cunanan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Louella D Cunanan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91411
You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. Whether you’re overwhelmed, stuck, or just need someone to truly listen, I’m here to support you with empathy and care. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can explore your experiences together. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither are you. I tailor our work to your unique needs—whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or seeking growth. If you’re ready to take the first step, I’d be honored to walk with you.
You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. Whether you’re overwhelmed, stuck, or just need someone to truly listen, I’m here to support you with empathy and care. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where we can explore your experiences together. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither are you. I tailor our work to your unique needs—whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or seeking growth. If you’re ready to take the first step, I’d be honored to walk with you.
(323) 991-9579 View (323) 991-9579
Photo of Brittnai Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
My name is Brittnai Johnson. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 12 years of experience in the field of Psychiatry. I use a person-centered approach to therapy and have a broad focus, such as Trauma, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and many others! I use person-centered care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment and cater to each person for an individualized treatment plan.
(747) 277-2322 View (747) 277-2322
Photo of Sara Blue - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist
Van Nuys, CA 91405
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) 205-7808 View (213) 205-7808
Photo of Ehab S Yacoub - Ehab Yacoub MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Ehab Yacoub MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Ehab Yacoub, M.D. is a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorder, Psychosis, Autism, Intellectual disability, and Certified Addiction Specialist (Certified by AAAP for Opiod Dependence Treatment). He also conducts evaluations for weight loss surgeries. Dr. Yacoub had his fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at USC. Dr.Yacoub has practiced in regional centers as well as private practices in Los Angeles, Northridge and Gardena offices.
Ehab Yacoub, M.D. is a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorder, Psychosis, Autism, Intellectual disability, and Certified Addiction Specialist (Certified by AAAP for Opiod Dependence Treatment). He also conducts evaluations for weight loss surgeries. Dr. Yacoub had his fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at USC. Dr.Yacoub has practiced in regional centers as well as private practices in Los Angeles, Northridge and Gardena offices.
(310) 515-8113 View (310) 515-8113
Photo of Dr. Sarah Blue, Psychiatrist, MD-BC
Dr. Sarah Blue
Psychiatrist, MD-BC
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!
(323) 395-5116 View (323) 395-5116
Photo of Sandra Hah - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(415) 936-8132 View (415) 936-8132
Photo of Dr. Taiye Owareye Osawe - Salvage Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
Salvage Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Taiye Osawe is a highly skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience. As the CEO of Salvage Psychiatry, she brings a wealth of expertise in providing top-notch mental health care. Taiye Osawe specializes in working with all populations and has extensive experience in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD etc. At Salvage Psychiatry, clients find a supportive community of mental health experts offering personalized, compassionate, affordable, and high-quality services.
Taiye Osawe is a highly skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience. As the CEO of Salvage Psychiatry, she brings a wealth of expertise in providing top-notch mental health care. Taiye Osawe specializes in working with all populations and has extensive experience in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD etc. At Salvage Psychiatry, clients find a supportive community of mental health experts offering personalized, compassionate, affordable, and high-quality services.
(747) 298-5333 View (747) 298-5333
Photo of Rosie Aguero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rosie Aguero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Ike Uzowulu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders. I tend to be practical and hands-on rather than presuming or committing to one treatment approach. My goal is to work with you to find what works best for you. I provide urgent & routine telehealth Psychiatric services that is interactive, urgent and seamless; such that fosters continuity of care while improving access to patient's in need.
(530) 453-6088 View (530) 453-6088
Photo of Amber Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Amber Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Great to meet you! I am Amber Mitchell. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have over 18 years in the medical field. I practice general adult psychiatry and specializes in major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I am versed in perinatal and reproductive psychiatry including postpartum depression and preconception counseling.
Great to meet you! I am Amber Mitchell. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have over 18 years in the medical field. I practice general adult psychiatry and specializes in major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I am versed in perinatal and reproductive psychiatry including postpartum depression and preconception counseling.
(424) 484-8151 View (424) 484-8151
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(747) 281-4045 View (747) 281-4045
Photo of Dr. Sarah Blue, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sarah Blue
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(415) 855-7718 View (415) 855-7718
Photo of Sara Blue - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(415) 634-4552 View (415) 634-4552
Photo of Thad Matthew Makowski, Psychiatrist, MD
Thad Matthew Makowski
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Best Psychiatric Care for adults and children same day appointment available if you need help with mental health, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance use, we have a team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners. We use holistic and medication management.
Best Psychiatric Care for adults and children same day appointment available if you need help with mental health, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance use, we have a team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners. We use holistic and medication management.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Tochi Nwachukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tochi Nwachukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Tochi Nwachukwu is Compassionate and energetic Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner professionally-driven and eager to help patients of varying ages mitigate personal challenges, and achieve mental health wellness.
Tochi Nwachukwu is Compassionate and energetic Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner professionally-driven and eager to help patients of varying ages mitigate personal challenges, and achieve mental health wellness.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Dr. Sarah Blue, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sarah Blue
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(916) 587-8067 View (916) 587-8067
Surendra Chaganti
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
(424) 786-6579 View (424) 786-6579

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Avis Hershfield, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Avis Hershfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Avis, a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric–Mental Health (PMHNP-C) with over 38 years of experience, and an authentic passion for building strong, therapeutic relationships with those I serve. I am the founder of Balance Psychiatry and Mental Health, a Professional Nursing Corporation, where I take a holistic, comprehensive, bio-psycho-social approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment — focusing on you as a whole person, not just your symptoms or diagnosis.
Hi there, I'm Avis, a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric–Mental Health (PMHNP-C) with over 38 years of experience, and an authentic passion for building strong, therapeutic relationships with those I serve. I am the founder of Balance Psychiatry and Mental Health, a Professional Nursing Corporation, where I take a holistic, comprehensive, bio-psycho-social approach to psychiatric evaluation and treatment — focusing on you as a whole person, not just your symptoms or diagnosis.
(858) 330-5472 View (858) 330-5472
Photo of Benedicta Osuji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PHN, PMHNP, BC
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PHN, PMHNP, BC
Los Angeles, CA 90047
Dr. Benedicta Osuji DNP, APRN, PHN, PMHNP-BC is a passionate and caring provider to her patients, She has been a PMHNP for about Five years with vast experience in psychiatric mental health. I employ evidence-based practices and a holistic approach to provide personalized care for optimal mental health outcomes that enable her patients to return to their baseline functioning. She believes that it is important to consider biological, psychological, and social factors when addressing behavioral health concerns. She is warm and approachable. She has a special interest in patient education, psychiatry, and medication management.
Dr. Benedicta Osuji DNP, APRN, PHN, PMHNP-BC is a passionate and caring provider to her patients, She has been a PMHNP for about Five years with vast experience in psychiatric mental health. I employ evidence-based practices and a holistic approach to provide personalized care for optimal mental health outcomes that enable her patients to return to their baseline functioning. She believes that it is important to consider biological, psychological, and social factors when addressing behavioral health concerns. She is warm and approachable. She has a special interest in patient education, psychiatry, and medication management.
(213) 238-6834 View (213) 238-6834

See more therapy options for Van Nuys

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Van Nuys, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Van Nuys, CA who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
89% ADHD
89% Bipolar Disorder
83% Depression
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Trauma and PTSD
67% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Van Nuys, CA see their clients

61% Online Only
39% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Van Nuys?

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.