Psychiatrists in Glendale, CA
Lorraine Nxumalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
I am Lorraine Nxumalo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in diverse mental health settings. I prioritize compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals facing mental health challenges. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I aim to work closely with patients, respecting their beliefs and unique needs, and ensuring their voices are heard. My goal is to provide tailored, patient-centered care.
I am Lorraine Nxumalo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in diverse mental health settings. I prioritize compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals facing mental health challenges. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I aim to work closely with patients, respecting their beliefs and unique needs, and ensuring their voices are heard. My goal is to provide tailored, patient-centered care.
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Hello, my name is Shanshan. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience as a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, working with outpatient mental health patients.
Hello, my name is Shanshan. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience as a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, working with outpatient mental health patients.
Julio A. Quijada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Accepting new patients. Fear of the unknown is a trait we all share; not knowing what to do or how, when, and where to seek professional help can cause stress, and for people suffering from a mental disorder, that fear and frustration only aggravate their condition more. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult it is to ask for help or find a trustworthy provider. I assist my patients in navigating the confusing and complex road to recovery. My main focus is advocating for my patients, educating them about their condition, and making them feel safe, heard, and at peace.
Accepting new patients. Fear of the unknown is a trait we all share; not knowing what to do or how, when, and where to seek professional help can cause stress, and for people suffering from a mental disorder, that fear and frustration only aggravate their condition more. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult it is to ask for help or find a trustworthy provider. I assist my patients in navigating the confusing and complex road to recovery. My main focus is advocating for my patients, educating them about their condition, and making them feel safe, heard, and at peace.
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
Discover balance and clarity in today's digital world with Dr. Cristian Penciu. If you or someone you know is grappling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, let's navigate these challenges together. Recognized among the top psychiatrists for contemporary mental health solutions in our digital age, my approach focuses on the latest techniques for depression relief, anxiety management, and ADHD therapy. With a consistent ranking among top results for best psychiatrist and online mental health consultation, my digital reach ensures you're connecting with renowned expertise.
Matthew White is a Psychiatric, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. Matt graduated from Cal State, Long Beach with a master's degree in clinical Psychiatry. Matt believes in an honest and straight forward approach to care, taking the time required to appropriately help those in need. Matt's areas of focus include Bipolar disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Schizophrenia. In his spare time, Matt enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and hiking in the Hollywood Hills.
Matthew White is a Psychiatric, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. Matt graduated from Cal State, Long Beach with a master's degree in clinical Psychiatry. Matt believes in an honest and straight forward approach to care, taking the time required to appropriately help those in need. Matt's areas of focus include Bipolar disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Schizophrenia. In his spare time, Matt enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and hiking in the Hollywood Hills.
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
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Dr. Tiffany Cao is board-certified and works collaboratively with her patients’ individual needs and treats them with medication management and therapy.
Dr. Tiffany Cao is board-certified and works collaboratively with her patients’ individual needs and treats them with medication management and therapy.
Holly Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Leila Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91204 (Online Only)
Leila is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Her knowledge and training as a mental health clinician started with the adult and geriatric population in behavioral health units at several acute care hospitals in the community, holding positions of leadership as a clinical educator, supervisor, and emergency room liaison. For the past four years, Leila’s skills in medication management have been dedicated to serving adults, children, and adolescents with mental disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and mood disorders.
Leila is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Her knowledge and training as a mental health clinician started with the adult and geriatric population in behavioral health units at several acute care hospitals in the community, holding positions of leadership as a clinical educator, supervisor, and emergency room liaison. For the past four years, Leila’s skills in medication management have been dedicated to serving adults, children, and adolescents with mental disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and mood disorders.
Pablo Ghersi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Pablo and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Pablo Ghersi is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 14 years’ experience in healthcare. Pablo's passion for mental health sprung from his experience as a firefighter and paramedic in the city of Atlanta, working with the underserved population of the city. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Pablo and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Pablo Ghersi is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 14 years’ experience in healthcare. Pablo's passion for mental health sprung from his experience as a firefighter and paramedic in the city of Atlanta, working with the underserved population of the city. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
Jessica Abreu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Jessica and directly schedule, please click "my website" below. Jessica is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of experience in diverse settings, including community health, Telehealth, outpatient settings, and inpatient hospitals. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing from SUNY Stony Brook University. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Jessica and directly schedule, please click "my website" below. Jessica is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of experience in diverse settings, including community health, Telehealth, outpatient settings, and inpatient hospitals. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing from SUNY Stony Brook University. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below.
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Richard works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Richard believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Richard works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. He seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Richard believes that establishing a strong alliance with his clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, he partners with his clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Joesph Aguirre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Joseph and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Joseph is skilled at creating a supportive and understanding environment, encouraging his clients to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a safe space. His treatment plans are tailored to each individual, ensuring that they receive care that is not only effective but also respectful of their specific life experiences. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Joseph and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Joseph is skilled at creating a supportive and understanding environment, encouraging his clients to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a safe space. His treatment plans are tailored to each individual, ensuring that they receive care that is not only effective but also respectful of their specific life experiences. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
See more therapy options for Glendale
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Glendale, CA
50+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Glendale, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
95% | Medication Management |
84% | ADHD |
84% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Depression |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
96% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
94% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Glendale, CA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
55% | Female | |
45% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Glendale?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.