Psychiatrists in West Hollywood, CA

Photo of Jaqueta Williams - HarmonyCare Solutions , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
HarmonyCare Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In my practice, I often work with individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. I understand that seeking help is about more than just alleviating symptoms; it's about gaining a deeper understanding of oneself and one's mental well-being. I strive to be a compassionate and knowledgeable provider, actively listening to my clients and working collaboratively with them to create personalized treatment plans. My goal is to help my clients improve their mental health, enhance their quality of life, and develop coping strategies that empower them to navigate life's challenges.
In my practice, I often work with individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. I understand that seeking help is about more than just alleviating symptoms; it's about gaining a deeper understanding of oneself and one's mental well-being. I strive to be a compassionate and knowledgeable provider, actively listening to my clients and working collaboratively with them to create personalized treatment plans. My goal is to help my clients improve their mental health, enhance their quality of life, and develop coping strategies that empower them to navigate life's challenges.
(323) 843-9057 View (323) 843-9057
Photo of Terrance L Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Terrance L Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
17 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping patients achieve a higher quality of life through compassionate, personalized care. My telehealth platform provides a safe, accessible space for patients to explore their mental health, build resilience, and develop coping skills. I am committed to empowering each person I work with, supporting them in finding balance, purpose, and a renewed sense of well-being.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping patients achieve a higher quality of life through compassionate, personalized care. My telehealth platform provides a safe, accessible space for patients to explore their mental health, build resilience, and develop coping skills. I am committed to empowering each person I work with, supporting them in finding balance, purpose, and a renewed sense of well-being.
(323) 849-2316 View (323) 849-2316
Photo of Leroy Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leroy Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Specialist in Mental Health and Wellness as a whole. Comprehensive Medication Management- NOT currently offering talk therapy. obtained my Psychiatric training from Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I utilize the most up to date, advanced researched driven standards including biogenetic testing to identify the most optimal medication based on your gene testing.
Specialist in Mental Health and Wellness as a whole. Comprehensive Medication Management- NOT currently offering talk therapy. obtained my Psychiatric training from Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I utilize the most up to date, advanced researched driven standards including biogenetic testing to identify the most optimal medication based on your gene testing.
(800) 378-5668 View (800) 378-5668
Photo of Tina Chen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Tina Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic care for individuals facing mental health challenges. I offer a combination of medication management and talk therapy to address a wide range of concerns, from anxiety and depression to mood disorders, trauma, and more. My approach is grounded in building a strong, collaborative therapeutic relationship with each of my patients. I take time to listen carefully to your unique concerns, and together, we develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic care for individuals facing mental health challenges. I offer a combination of medication management and talk therapy to address a wide range of concerns, from anxiety and depression to mood disorders, trauma, and more. My approach is grounded in building a strong, collaborative therapeutic relationship with each of my patients. I take time to listen carefully to your unique concerns, and together, we develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
(424) 500-0552 View (424) 500-0552
Photo of Sauntrice O'Quin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sauntrice O'Quin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
My name is Sauntrice O'Quin, I've been in the social service field for over two decades. I've been a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner for 4 years. I have a non-judgmental approach to the clients I serve, and I believe that everyone has the right to live life to their fullest potential. I treat a diverse group of patients. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
(213) 698-5645 View (213) 698-5645
Photo of Cecelia Hammond, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cecelia Hammond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Cecelia Lipscomb-Hammond, NP, is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in the power of human connection and quality care. With a heart devoted to helping others, Cecelia is known for her kind and open demeanor, making her easy to communicate with, and she is committed to providing the highest standard of mental health care to her clients.
Cecelia Lipscomb-Hammond, NP, is a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in the power of human connection and quality care. With a heart devoted to helping others, Cecelia is known for her kind and open demeanor, making her easy to communicate with, and she is committed to providing the highest standard of mental health care to her clients.
(424) 610-8229 View (424) 610-8229
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
WellPsyche Medical Group
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!
(424) 372-8277 View (424) 372-8277
Photo of Dr. Uchenna Okoye, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(747) 269-1272 View (747) 269-1272
Photo of Holly Ann Olalia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Holly Ann Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(747) 350-2162 View (747) 350-2162
Photo of Hyunjib Sean Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hyunjib Sean Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Now, Welcoming New Patients! We know that 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 that 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.
(747) 361-0377 View (747) 361-0377
Photo of Mottsin Thomas - Bonmente, Psychiatrist, MD
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Now, Welcoming New Patients! We know that 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 that 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.
(323) 274-1500 View (323) 274-1500
Photo of Twanna Davis Arnold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Twanna Davis Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Now, Welcoming New Patients! We know that 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 that 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.
(818) 875-5805 View (818) 875-5805
Photo of Taylor Scheller, Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Taylor Scheller
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Online Only
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Welcome to Bonmente! We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(747) 285-8940 View (747) 285-8940
Photo of Adel Mostafavi - Wellpsyche Medical Group Inc, Psychiatrist, MD
Wellpsyche Medical Group Inc
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!
(424) 866-8018 View (424) 866-8018
Photo of Lizette Sayo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lizette Sayo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(747) 318-4054 View (747) 318-4054
Photo of Lauren Toneck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lauren Toneck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(818) 431-2083 View (818) 431-2083
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
West Hollywood, CA 90069
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!
(310) 879-1097 View (310) 879-1097
Photo of Nicole Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.
My name is Nicole Miller, and I am a double-board-certified nurse practitioner. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have found that patients are more compliant with their treatment plan if they participate in their care. Each patient receives individualized treatment plans and participates in care decisions from the first visit. I also utilize a multi-disciplinary approach in my practice.
(747) 351-3150 View (747) 351-3150
Photo of Elio Pedroso Conroy, Psychiatrist, MD
Elio Pedroso Conroy
Psychiatrist, MD
West Hollywood, CA 90046
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. After graduating from medical school, I worked as a primary care physician in Brazil for few years gaining extra experience in general medicine. After that, I completed 4 years of Psychiatry residency training at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington DC. Treating patients with severe mental illness during my formal training gave me vast experience in medication management.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. After graduating from medical school, I worked as a primary care physician in Brazil for few years gaining extra experience in general medicine. After that, I completed 4 years of Psychiatry residency training at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington DC. Treating patients with severe mental illness during my formal training gave me vast experience in medication management.
(209) 264-5197 View (209) 264-5197
Photo of Farnaz Trasandes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Farnaz Trasandes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients - We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Accepting New Patients - We're now accepting new patients and accept all major insurances! 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. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(818) 616-6872 View (818) 616-6872

See more therapy options for West Hollywood

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in West Hollywood, CA

70+

Average cost per session

$255

Psychiatrists in West Hollywood, CA who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
93% Anxiety
84% Medication Management
81% ADHD
77% Trauma and PTSD
76% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in West Hollywood, CA see their clients

69% Online Only
31% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

64% Female
34% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in West Hollywood?

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.