Behavioral Issues Psychiatrists in West Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Tina Thu-Ha Nguyen, Psychiatrist, MD
Tina Thu-Ha Nguyen
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My therapeutic approach includes psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), supportive therapy, play therapy for children, and family therapy.
I am a double board-certified Child, Adolescent, & Adult Psychiatrist, as well as Psychotherapist. I believe in taking the time to fully understand each person’s unique situation because one’s state of mind is inseparable from the family and social systems that surround us. Each patient is seen as an individual and encouraged to be an active participant and collaborator in their own treatment planning. For some, this will involve medications, after a thorough discussion of risks, benefits, and side effects. And for others the best course may be to start with psychotherapy or other supportive treatments before meds are considered.
My therapeutic approach includes psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), supportive therapy, play therapy for children, and family therapy.
I am a double board-certified Child, Adolescent, & Adult Psychiatrist, as well as Psychotherapist. I believe in taking the time to fully understand each person’s unique situation because one’s state of mind is inseparable from the family and social systems that surround us. Each patient is seen as an individual and encouraged to be an active participant and collaborator in their own treatment planning. For some, this will involve medications, after a thorough discussion of risks, benefits, and side effects. And for others the best course may be to start with psychotherapy or other supportive treatments before meds are considered.
(424) 407-0077 View (424) 407-0077
Photo of Sonia Parikh, Psychiatrist, MD
Sonia Parikh
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I enjoy working with people who want to truly understand and heal the underlying wounds that are holding them back in their life. I work well with those who are curious about their minds and have a goal to function in their lives from a place of grounded trust in themselves. Given my extensive medical and psychological training, I provide comprehensive and compassionate care for the people I treat and am adept at helping people move successfully through a range of difficulties.
I enjoy working with people who want to truly understand and heal the underlying wounds that are holding them back in their life. I work well with those who are curious about their minds and have a goal to function in their lives from a place of grounded trust in themselves. Given my extensive medical and psychological training, I provide comprehensive and compassionate care for the people I treat and am adept at helping people move successfully through a range of difficulties.
(424) 425-3950 View (424) 425-3950
Photo of Riz Ahmad, Psychiatrist, MD
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
A treatment plan may include therapy of various modalities, behavioral strategies, coaching, and medication management.
Welcoming New Patients! Riz Ahmad, known as Dr. Riz, is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Originally from New York, Dr. Riz grew up in a Pakistani-American family of 70+ first-degree relatives, an experience that piqued his interest in interpersonal relationships and human psychology. He is the recipient of multiple awards for excellence in psychiatric care and leadership and is known for bringing an unassuming familiarity in his everyday interactions.
A treatment plan may include therapy of various modalities, behavioral strategies, coaching, and medication management.
Welcoming New Patients! Riz Ahmad, known as Dr. Riz, is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Originally from New York, Dr. Riz grew up in a Pakistani-American family of 70+ first-degree relatives, an experience that piqued his interest in interpersonal relationships and human psychology. He is the recipient of multiple awards for excellence in psychiatric care and leadership and is known for bringing an unassuming familiarity in his everyday interactions.
(424) 232-0739 View (424) 232-0739
Photo of Brandi Lanae Parr - Headway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Headway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Hi, I’m Brandi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with additional certification in Family Practice. I provide psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and mood concerns. I work with people from all backgrounds—whether you’re a high-functioning professional facing burnout or feeling stuck and overwhelmed. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based, with treatment tailored to your goals. I offer a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change.
Hi, I’m Brandi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with additional certification in Family Practice. I provide psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and mood concerns. I work with people from all backgrounds—whether you’re a high-functioning professional facing burnout or feeling stuck and overwhelmed. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based, with treatment tailored to your goals. I offer a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change.
(323) 744-6237 View (323) 744-6237
Photo of Amanda Duggan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Duggan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcoming New Patients! Amanda is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Amanda is committed to providing compassionate, culturally sensitive, and nonjudgmental care utilizing the latest research and evidence-based practices. She approaches mental health care with expertise, empathy, and a robust understanding of complex patient needs. She has a deep passion for mental health and specializes in med management.
Welcoming New Patients! Amanda is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Amanda is committed to providing compassionate, culturally sensitive, and nonjudgmental care utilizing the latest research and evidence-based practices. She approaches mental health care with expertise, empathy, and a robust understanding of complex patient needs. She has a deep passion for mental health and specializes in med management.
(424) 544-3128 View (424) 544-3128
Photo of Dr. Jamila Harris, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jamila Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Treatment plans may include therapy, behavioral strategies, and medication when appropriate.
Welcoming Patients! Dr. Jamila Harris is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Dr. Harris provides psychiatric diagnostic assessments, medication consultation, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy services. She specializes in comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based medication management for a range of psychiatric and psychological disorders. She understands the complexities of mental health and is committed to delivering personalized care.
Treatment plans may include therapy, behavioral strategies, and medication when appropriate.
Welcoming Patients! Dr. Jamila Harris is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Dr. Harris provides psychiatric diagnostic assessments, medication consultation, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy services. She specializes in comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based medication management for a range of psychiatric and psychological disorders. She understands the complexities of mental health and is committed to delivering personalized care.
(818) 302-0075 View (818) 302-0075
Photo of Desiree Bonomo, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Desiree Bonomo
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
A treatment plan may include therapy, behavioral strategies, and medication when appropriate.
Welcoming New Patients! Desiree is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A Southern California native, she discovered her passion for psychiatry though her primary care patients, where she observed clients struggling to find psychological balance and healing. Desiree’s goal is to provide patients with a safe and comfortable environment to navigate their mental health and wellness.
A treatment plan may include therapy, behavioral strategies, and medication when appropriate.
Welcoming New Patients! Desiree is a board-certified physician assistant at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. A Southern California native, she discovered her passion for psychiatry though her primary care patients, where she observed clients struggling to find psychological balance and healing. Desiree’s goal is to provide patients with a safe and comfortable environment to navigate their mental health and wellness.
(310) 349-3712 View (310) 349-3712
Photo of Dr. Chelsea Neumann - Chelsea Neumann, MD at West Coast Integrative, Psychiatrist, MD
Chelsea Neumann, MD at West Coast Integrative
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Chelsea Neumann, MD is an integrative psychiatrist in California who is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Neumann practices using an integrative psychiatry model which incorporates the biological, psychological and social factors that contribute to the health and well-being of the whole person and family. She treats children, adolescents and adults of all ages. Her practice includes therapists and a nutritionist who provide all services within one mental health home at West Coast Integrative Mental Health.
Chelsea Neumann, MD is an integrative psychiatrist in California who is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Neumann practices using an integrative psychiatry model which incorporates the biological, psychological and social factors that contribute to the health and well-being of the whole person and family. She treats children, adolescents and adults of all ages. Her practice includes therapists and a nutritionist who provide all services within one mental health home at West Coast Integrative Mental Health.
(310) 870-1201 View (310) 870-1201

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Catherine Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catherine Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I understand the weight of mental health struggles and provides a compassionate, judgment-free space where clients can manage stress, improve relationships, navigate change, and foster growth and healing. My ideal client feels overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected and seeks clarity, coping strategies, and emotional balance.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I understand the weight of mental health struggles and provides a compassionate, judgment-free space where clients can manage stress, improve relationships, navigate change, and foster growth and healing. My ideal client feels overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected and seeks clarity, coping strategies, and emotional balance.
(562) 526-6539 View (562) 526-6539
Photo of Dr. Uchenna Okoye, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Okoye earned her medical degree from the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine and completed her residency in psychiatry at the UCLA Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior.
Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Okoye is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Known as "Dr. O," she is passionate about helping individuals achieve mental wellness and holistic health. Dr. Okoye treats clients with a patient-centered philosophy, fostering a collaborative and open therapeutic relationship, attentively listening to each patient's unique narrative, and respecting individual experiences and cultural backgrounds.
Okoye earned her medical degree from the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine and completed her residency in psychiatry at the UCLA Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior.
Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Okoye is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Known as "Dr. O," she is passionate about helping individuals achieve mental wellness and holistic health. Dr. Okoye treats clients with a patient-centered philosophy, fostering a collaborative and open therapeutic relationship, attentively listening to each patient's unique narrative, and respecting individual experiences and cultural backgrounds.
(424) 688-7374 View (424) 688-7374
Photo of Tracey H. Preston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tracey H. Preston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
With over a decade of nursing experience, I work with individuals across the lifespan and am committed to caring for patients of all populations, backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and actively involved in your care.
With over a decade of nursing experience, I work with individuals across the lifespan and am committed to caring for patients of all populations, backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and actively involved in your care.
(951) 889-0387 View (951) 889-0387
Photo of Anita Red, Psychiatrist, MD
Anita Red
Psychiatrist, MD
Pasadena, CA 91106
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry but see adults as well. I provide a treatment plan that is tailored to you. Medication is not always the right or first answer.
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry but see adults as well. I provide a treatment plan that is tailored to you. Medication is not always the right or first answer.
(626) 602-9462 View (626) 602-9462
Photo of Dr. Roberto Montenegro, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Dr. Roberto Montenegro
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
I specialize in addressing a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, offering support for concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, behavioral challenges, attention deficit disorders, low self-esteem, "impostor syndrome," and the unique stress of physician burnout.
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
I specialize in addressing a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, offering support for concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, behavioral challenges, attention deficit disorders, low self-esteem, "impostor syndrome," and the unique stress of physician burnout.
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
(206) 202-3435 View (206) 202-3435
Photo of Keeban Nam, Psychiatrist, MD
Keeban Nam
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Our team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, therapists, and tele- behavioral health clinicians are skilled in treating children and adults dealing with ADHD, addiction, anxiety, and depression, among many other conditions.
I chose a career in psychiatry because of its approach toward narrative healing; it comes with an understanding and appreciation for the complexity of life and suffering that go beyond medical diagnoses and treatment protocols. Each patient coming into my office brings a different life and unique perspective, and I am privileged to be a guide in their path.
Our team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, therapists, and tele- behavioral health clinicians are skilled in treating children and adults dealing with ADHD, addiction, anxiety, and depression, among many other conditions.
I chose a career in psychiatry because of its approach toward narrative healing; it comes with an understanding and appreciation for the complexity of life and suffering that go beyond medical diagnoses and treatment protocols. Each patient coming into my office brings a different life and unique perspective, and I am privileged to be a guide in their path.
(949) 506-4921 View (949) 506-4921
Photo of Kimberly G Galindo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kimberly G Galindo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs, including CBT, DBT, psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, and play therapy.
Hello, I’m Kimberly G. Galindo, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) serving adolescents, adults, seniors, veterans, and Spanish-speaking individuals throughout California. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, and medication management. With over 20 years of healthcare experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care through evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered.
I utilize evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs, including CBT, DBT, psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, and play therapy.
Hello, I’m Kimberly G. Galindo, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) serving adolescents, adults, seniors, veterans, and Spanish-speaking individuals throughout California. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, and medication management. With over 20 years of healthcare experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care through evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered.
(323) 917-8974 View (323) 917-8974
Photo of Albert Mcnames, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Albert Mcnames
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I graduated with a BA in Psychology from University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou). I earned an ADN from Santa Monica College, Masters in Nursing Education from Phoenix University and PMHNP Post Masters Cert from Maryville University. I worked inpatient for about 3 years then switched to education. I have been an LVN instructor and director of nursing. I developed the Mental Health course for the ADN program. I taught ADN students and later became the Director of Nursing. I finished my PMHNP certificate while I was the ADN director then switched to working at Foresight full-time.
I graduated with a BA in Psychology from University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou). I earned an ADN from Santa Monica College, Masters in Nursing Education from Phoenix University and PMHNP Post Masters Cert from Maryville University. I worked inpatient for about 3 years then switched to education. I have been an LVN instructor and director of nursing. I developed the Mental Health course for the ADN program. I taught ADN students and later became the Director of Nursing. I finished my PMHNP certificate while I was the ADN director then switched to working at Foresight full-time.
(818) 794-1049 View (818) 794-1049
Photo of Dr. Ian Tofler - Dr. Ian Tofler, MD | Mindful Health Solutions , Psychiatrist, MD
Ian Tofler, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who treats patients of all ages with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, trauma, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. Dr. Tofler adopts an empathetic and collaborative working style, as he knows it’s vulnerable for patients to seek mental health care. He treats everyone with dignity and respect and meets each patient’s unique needs. He is diligent in collaborating with the whole treatment team, which is critical to the overall success of patient outcomes. Ian Tofler, MD, believes all patients provide a unique perspective and require understanding and empathy.
Ian Tofler, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who treats patients of all ages with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, trauma, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. Dr. Tofler adopts an empathetic and collaborative working style, as he knows it’s vulnerable for patients to seek mental health care. He treats everyone with dignity and respect and meets each patient’s unique needs. He is diligent in collaborating with the whole treatment team, which is critical to the overall success of patient outcomes. Ian Tofler, MD, believes all patients provide a unique perspective and require understanding and empathy.
(628) 265-3105 View (628) 265-3105
Photo of Dr. Randall Bailey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Randall Bailey
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) 396-1080 View (424) 396-1080
Photo of Karen Linares, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Karen Linares
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
13 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting NEW Patients. I am a licensed, board certified advance FNP and a PMHNP (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner). I provide medication management for individuals 6 years and older. I have about 8 years of experience in mental health nursing caring for hundreds of patients with a diverse range of mental health diagnosis in internal and family practice. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD, Schizophrenia, Autism ADHD- please be advised these are thorough assessments which will require a QB Tech assessment and or sufficient medical records to support a diagnosis.
Accepting NEW Patients. I am a licensed, board certified advance FNP and a PMHNP (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner). I provide medication management for individuals 6 years and older. I have about 8 years of experience in mental health nursing caring for hundreds of patients with a diverse range of mental health diagnosis in internal and family practice. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD, Schizophrenia, Autism ADHD- please be advised these are thorough assessments which will require a QB Tech assessment and or sufficient medical records to support a diagnosis.
(725) 525-9849 View (725) 525-9849
Photo of Vassilis N Panagopoulos, Psychiatrist, MD
Vassilis N Panagopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I oftentimes use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice in combination with techniques from other schools of psychotherapy such as the psychodynamic approach, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy depending on the current needs and goals of the patient.
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of...I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician...
I oftentimes use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice in combination with techniques from other schools of psychotherapy such as the psychodynamic approach, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy depending on the current needs and goals of the patient.
DON'T MISS work to see your psychiatrist! I work outside of regular business hours (esp. early mornings and late evenings) which works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of...I am a Yale and Washington University-trained double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients as I just launched my online practice and work exclusively online. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practicing over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician...
(747) 337-4674 View (747) 337-4674

See more therapy options for West Los Angeles

FAQ - Behavioral Issues Psychiatrists
How can a behavioral psychiatrists help?
Behavioral issues is a general term used to encompass conditions like Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD), which significantly impact the behavior and emotional functioning of children and adolescents. These disorders are characterized by disruptive behaviors that create substantial challenges for children and their family across emotional, academic, and social domains. Psychiatrists specializing in behavioral issues have expertise in diagnosing these conditions and crafting treatment plans. Their approach typically integrates therapy and medication while helping families navigate supportive services. Psychiatrists may also address underlying factors—such as trauma—that may fuel behavioral disturbances.

What treatment approaches are used for behavioral issues?
Because behavioral issues can present in a variety of ways, treatment is usually very individualized. Psychotherapeutic approaches—such as age-appropriate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), or play therapy—are commonly used to help children improve emotional regulation and communication skills. For parents and caregivers, psychiatrists can also offer support—such as by helping them manage challenging behaviors and strengthen parent-child trust. Medications can also be effective in some cases to help manage symptoms and help regulate mood. When medication is recommended, it is typically paired with behavioral strategies and ongoing monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.

How can I find a psychiatrist who specializes in behavioral issues?
Psychology Today's online directory serves as a valuable resource for families seeking qualified psychiatrists (MDs) or psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) who specialize in behavioral issues. The platform's search filters enable users to identify providers with specific expertise in areas such as oppositional behavior, medication management, and psychological evaluation. Families can refine their search based on multiple criteria including age group specialization (e.g. children or adolescents), accepted insurance plans, geographic location, and session fees. When evaluating potential psychiatrists, families should inquire about their specific treatment philosophy, as well as their commitment to collaborating with school professionals and other members of the child's care team.