Psychiatrists in Honolulu, HI

Photo of Alan Wolfson, Psychiatrist, MD
Alan Wolfson
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96817
Why do you have anxiety or depression? Where does the anger come from? How will this discomfort be alleviated? Why are you unhappy in the relationship? Why does the pattern continue to repeat itself? You want answers and you want to feel better, but in order to do so, we must look at every part of YOU, not just medication management.
Why do you have anxiety or depression? Where does the anger come from? How will this discomfort be alleviated? Why are you unhappy in the relationship? Why does the pattern continue to repeat itself? You want answers and you want to feel better, but in order to do so, we must look at every part of YOU, not just medication management.
(808) 745-1999 View (808) 745-1999
Photo of Kim Nguyen, Psychiatrist, MD
Kim Nguyen
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Optimal mental health is the goal, not just the absence of disease. The body, mind, and environment operate as a whole. You can’t treat a symptom without addressing the root cause. Extra time allows me to be thorough, listen to your story without interrupting, and discuss treatment plans in detail. This allows me to provide higher quality care and enables you to feel heard and understood in a way you may never have felt before.
Optimal mental health is the goal, not just the absence of disease. The body, mind, and environment operate as a whole. You can’t treat a symptom without addressing the root cause. Extra time allows me to be thorough, listen to your story without interrupting, and discuss treatment plans in detail. This allows me to provide higher quality care and enables you to feel heard and understood in a way you may never have felt before.
(808) 792-0988 View (808) 792-0988
Photo of Michele Wang - Michele Wang MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Michele Wang MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Honolulu, HI 96825
My primary goal is to help people achieve a state of wellness and the ability to live life to their full potential. I am licensed to see clients in Hawai'i, California and Texas. I worked as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Hawai'i, Manoa and I volunteered with the Entertainment Industries Council which advocates for accurate portrayal of mental health and substance abuse issues in entertainment and media. I know what type of stigma can be associated with mental health issues and what barriers my clients face on their path to wellness.
My primary goal is to help people achieve a state of wellness and the ability to live life to their full potential. I am licensed to see clients in Hawai'i, California and Texas. I worked as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Hawai'i, Manoa and I volunteered with the Entertainment Industries Council which advocates for accurate portrayal of mental health and substance abuse issues in entertainment and media. I know what type of stigma can be associated with mental health issues and what barriers my clients face on their path to wellness.
(808) 736-5397 View (808) 736-5397
Photo of Thomas Cook, Psychiatrist, MD
Thomas Cook
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
(808) 670-3475 View (808) 670-3475
Photo of Randall Sato, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Randall Sato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Honolulu, HI 96815
Aloha! As a highly experienced psychiatric provider born and raised in Hawai‘i, I understand the unique challenges of our island community. I am committed to providing high-quality, personalized mental health care. I offer compassionate, evidence-based care for anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, and other psychiatric conditions, tailoring treatment to your unique needs.
Aloha! As a highly experienced psychiatric provider born and raised in Hawai‘i, I understand the unique challenges of our island community. I am committed to providing high-quality, personalized mental health care. I offer compassionate, evidence-based care for anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, and other psychiatric conditions, tailoring treatment to your unique needs.
(808) 215-4640 View (808) 215-4640
Photo of Peter G Collori, Psychiatrist, MD
Peter G Collori
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I understand therapies - biological, psychological and mindfulness-based treatments - as ways to help you be more present in your life, face challenges in work and in love with confidence and feel secure enough to play. I understand feelings are not just symptoms but signals to be listened too and understood in their context. I also understand patients are people, not just victims of biology or inconvenient containers for medications. Our physical state is of great importance and still, it does not exist in a vacuum. It is intimately intertwined with our DNA, life circumstances, relationships, culture and past experiences.
I understand therapies - biological, psychological and mindfulness-based treatments - as ways to help you be more present in your life, face challenges in work and in love with confidence and feel secure enough to play. I understand feelings are not just symptoms but signals to be listened too and understood in their context. I also understand patients are people, not just victims of biology or inconvenient containers for medications. Our physical state is of great importance and still, it does not exist in a vacuum. It is intimately intertwined with our DNA, life circumstances, relationships, culture and past experiences.
(808) 495-0145 View (808) 495-0145
Photo of H. K. Blaisdell Brennan, Psychiatrist, MD
H. K. Blaisdell Brennan
Psychiatrist, MD
Honolulu, HI 96813
Trustworthy. Respectful. Understanding. Dr. Blaisdell-Brennan is a Medical Doctor board-certified in psychiatry and trained at Harvard, JABSOM, and UCLA. Call 808-427-2589 for a free consultation.
Trustworthy. Respectful. Understanding. Dr. Blaisdell-Brennan is a Medical Doctor board-certified in psychiatry and trained at Harvard, JABSOM, and UCLA. Call 808-427-2589 for a free consultation.
(808) 427-2589 View (808) 427-2589
Photo of David Guo - David Guo - Alani Clinic for Behavioral Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
David Guo - Alani Clinic for Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
We are accepting new patients. David Guo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to enhancing the well-being of his patients through a holistic and individualized approach to mental health care. He has since built a diverse clinical background, serving in community health settings in NYC and now in Honolulu. His experience ranges from conducting thorough psychiatric assessments to developing tailored treatment plans, all while emphasizing the importance of patient education and family involvement.
We are accepting new patients. David Guo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to enhancing the well-being of his patients through a holistic and individualized approach to mental health care. He has since built a diverse clinical background, serving in community health settings in NYC and now in Honolulu. His experience ranges from conducting thorough psychiatric assessments to developing tailored treatment plans, all while emphasizing the importance of patient education and family involvement.
(808) 670-3271 View (808) 670-3271
Photo of Georgina Chamungwana, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Georgina Chamungwana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Honolulu, HI 96813
Georgina Chamungwana is a mental health enthusiast certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and trained in crisis prevention and intervention. She is passionate about whole body wellness and dedicated to providing the best patient care. She began her health care career working in palliative and hospice care and after graduating from nursing school, she immersed herself in mental health and spent several years acquiring skills and knowledge in inpatient psychiatric/mental health care. When she is not watching documentaries in her free time, you will find her gardening, listening to varying genre of music or exploring new places.
Georgina Chamungwana is a mental health enthusiast certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and trained in crisis prevention and intervention. She is passionate about whole body wellness and dedicated to providing the best patient care. She began her health care career working in palliative and hospice care and after graduating from nursing school, she immersed herself in mental health and spent several years acquiring skills and knowledge in inpatient psychiatric/mental health care. When she is not watching documentaries in her free time, you will find her gardening, listening to varying genre of music or exploring new places.
(808) 774-3178 View (808) 774-3178
Photo of Dr. Rissa Fedora - BrighterMind Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
BrighterMind Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At BrighterMind Psychiatry, we embrace a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health. Your unique needs, preferences, and goals are at the heart of everything we do. Beyond psychiatric evaluation and medication management, we integrate wellness practices to support your overall well-being. Our personalized treatment plans may include mindfulness exercises, stress management strategies, and lifestyle adjustments, empowering you to achieve lasting mental and emotional balance.
At BrighterMind Psychiatry, we embrace a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health. Your unique needs, preferences, and goals are at the heart of everything we do. Beyond psychiatric evaluation and medication management, we integrate wellness practices to support your overall well-being. Our personalized treatment plans may include mindfulness exercises, stress management strategies, and lifestyle adjustments, empowering you to achieve lasting mental and emotional balance.
(808) 736-0197 View (808) 736-0197
Photo of Christopher Aten, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RX, PMHNP, MSN
Christopher Aten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-RX, PMHNP, MSN
Honolulu, HI 96813
As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, my mission is to offer compassionate, individualized care that honors the unique experiences and needs of each person. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach where patients are active participants in their mental health journey. Together, we work toward achievable goals, using evidence-based treatments and therapies tailored specifically to the individual.
As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, my mission is to offer compassionate, individualized care that honors the unique experiences and needs of each person. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach where patients are active participants in their mental health journey. Together, we work toward achievable goals, using evidence-based treatments and therapies tailored specifically to the individual.
(808) 201-7852 View (808) 201-7852
Photo of Bradley Kuo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MEd, FNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Bradley Kuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MEd, FNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Looking for someone to work with who is compassionate, puts you at ease, and does not pass judgement? We will collaborate to develop an individualized plan facilitating stability and further growth and development. This includes medication management, therapy, and lifestyle modifications. We will work together to assess your goals, consider the best approaches to meet them, and continue to find ways to improve yourself, relationships, work, and overall life. We can work in a fluid and flexible fashion to enhance your life. If you already work with a therapist, we would be happy to assist with medication management.
Looking for someone to work with who is compassionate, puts you at ease, and does not pass judgement? We will collaborate to develop an individualized plan facilitating stability and further growth and development. This includes medication management, therapy, and lifestyle modifications. We will work together to assess your goals, consider the best approaches to meet them, and continue to find ways to improve yourself, relationships, work, and overall life. We can work in a fluid and flexible fashion to enhance your life. If you already work with a therapist, we would be happy to assist with medication management.
(808) 638-3661 View (808) 638-3661
Photo of Ulziibat Shirendeb Person, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Ulziibat Shirendeb Person
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
Most patients are suffering from burnout, stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mental health disorders. They want to return to a manageable life with a convenient, thorough, personalized treatment plan.
Most patients are suffering from burnout, stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mental health disorders. They want to return to a manageable life with a convenient, thorough, personalized treatment plan.
(808) 515-5998 View (808) 515-5998
Photo of Joseph Franklin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Joseph Franklin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Ultimately I want my clients to experience medication and counseling services in a similar fashion as I have during difficult periods in my own life. At the base of it all, I specialize in empathetic communication which is a nice way of saying I listen well, a skill often lost in our hectic world. My clients look to me to manage their mental health conditions through medication management as well as therapeutic counseling.
Ultimately I want my clients to experience medication and counseling services in a similar fashion as I have during difficult periods in my own life. At the base of it all, I specialize in empathetic communication which is a nice way of saying I listen well, a skill often lost in our hectic world. My clients look to me to manage their mental health conditions through medication management as well as therapeutic counseling.
(808) 353-5924 View (808) 353-5924
Photo of Ethan Pien, Psychiatrist, MD
Ethan Pien
Psychiatrist, MD
Honolulu, HI 96814
I am accepting new patients. I have 17 years of experience serving individuals ages 18+. Common problems I help with include depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, and bipolar disorders. Services may include both psychiatric medications and counseling. I graduated from Punahou and finished medical school at UH in the top 10% of my class there.
I am accepting new patients. I have 17 years of experience serving individuals ages 18+. Common problems I help with include depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, and bipolar disorders. Services may include both psychiatric medications and counseling. I graduated from Punahou and finished medical school at UH in the top 10% of my class there.
(808) 201-6840 View (808) 201-6840
Photo of Henry Lou-Goode - SynCare Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
SynCare Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Honolulu, HI 96813
Have you been spending some time in psychotherapy and wondering if medication might help with your progress and wellbeing? Have you recently moved and needed an expert to continue your psychiatric care? Do you feel that your psychiatric provider is not listening to you or rushing through your appointments? Aloha! my name is Henry and I am an experienced board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I invite you to schedule an appointment with me to discuss whether I could be of help with your journey to your best self.
Have you been spending some time in psychotherapy and wondering if medication might help with your progress and wellbeing? Have you recently moved and needed an expert to continue your psychiatric care? Do you feel that your psychiatric provider is not listening to you or rushing through your appointments? Aloha! my name is Henry and I am an experienced board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I invite you to schedule an appointment with me to discuss whether I could be of help with your journey to your best self.
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Photo of Hyesu Shin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Hyesu Shin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813
Aloha! I am Hyesu(HEY-SU), Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Health NP in Hawaii. With over 10 years of dedicated practice, I’ve gained diverse experience, serving the underprivileged population in the Bronx, NY to Medicare Kapuna in Hawaii. I aspire to be an advocate and reduce the stigma surrounding Psychiatry. My goal is to contribute to my community by promoting serene and contented mental health, helping individuals achieve their goals, and fostering meaningful life experiences.
Aloha! I am Hyesu(HEY-SU), Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Health NP in Hawaii. With over 10 years of dedicated practice, I’ve gained diverse experience, serving the underprivileged population in the Bronx, NY to Medicare Kapuna in Hawaii. I aspire to be an advocate and reduce the stigma surrounding Psychiatry. My goal is to contribute to my community by promoting serene and contented mental health, helping individuals achieve their goals, and fostering meaningful life experiences.
(808) 393-6566 View (808) 393-6566
Photo of Dr. Gretchen Gavero, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Gretchen Gavero
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Tailored care is essential to understand your unique biological, cultural, and psychological makeup to improve your health and develop the skills to overcome your life challenges. Your body and mind change when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Past experiences and anxieties about the future can keep you from living your best life now. I combine expert medical knowledge with real-life talk and individualized treatment to help you feel better and thrive. We'll address your health and emotional needs by working together.
Tailored care is essential to understand your unique biological, cultural, and psychological makeup to improve your health and develop the skills to overcome your life challenges. Your body and mind change when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Past experiences and anxieties about the future can keep you from living your best life now. I combine expert medical knowledge with real-life talk and individualized treatment to help you feel better and thrive. We'll address your health and emotional needs by working together.
(808) 353-4808 View (808) 353-4808
Photo of Dr. Jay Nichols, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jay Nichols
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, I invite you to take the first step towards a brighter future! I specialize in helping professionals who are experiencing burnout in their careers due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and have extensive experience working with professionals such as CEO’s, lawyers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to find renewed balance and reconnect with purpose in their lives. I also have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community who might be struggling with sexual identity and are ready to start experiencing their true authentic life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, I invite you to take the first step towards a brighter future! I specialize in helping professionals who are experiencing burnout in their careers due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and have extensive experience working with professionals such as CEO’s, lawyers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to find renewed balance and reconnect with purpose in their lives. I also have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community who might be struggling with sexual identity and are ready to start experiencing their true authentic life.
(808) 736-5912 View (808) 736-5912
Photo of Joanne Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Joanne Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Honolulu, HI 96815
Making the decision to consider medication management can be challenging, which is why it's so important to find the right provider. I feel compassion and understanding are essential, and it's important you feel cared for and confident that I can help you improve your mental health. I offer compassionate psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults and specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and developmental challenges.
Making the decision to consider medication management can be challenging, which is why it's so important to find the right provider. I feel compassion and understanding are essential, and it's important you feel cared for and confident that I can help you improve your mental health. I offer compassionate psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults and specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and developmental challenges.
(808) 563-5716 View (808) 563-5716

See more therapy options for Honolulu

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Honolulu, HI

50+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Honolulu, HI who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
79% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
70% ADHD
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Hawaii Medical Services Association
64% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Honolulu, HI see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
32% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Honolulu?

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.