Psychiatrists in Oakland, CA
![Photo of Amy Thomson, Amy Thomson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abe07984-34d4-4e6b-85bd-f9ebfc9eee9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who trained at the University of California, San Francisco. With a client- centered lens and evidence-based practice I provide psychiatric assessments, medications and psychotherapy for adults. I listen with a sincere interest to understanding your experience & concerns and with a compassionate approach teach adaptive strategies that foster wellness. Building a strong therapeutic connection is one of the aspects of this work I enjoy the most.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who trained at the University of California, San Francisco. With a client- centered lens and evidence-based practice I provide psychiatric assessments, medications and psychotherapy for adults. I listen with a sincere interest to understanding your experience & concerns and with a compassionate approach teach adaptive strategies that foster wellness. Building a strong therapeutic connection is one of the aspects of this work I enjoy the most.
![Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b837ff3c-5ebb-4eb5-b349-c97baf8170aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals., Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
![Photo of Walter E B Sipe - Walter E B Sipe MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7ce79fe-81a8-4cf8-9cfe-b925aacb3517/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I specialize in providing care and alleviating the suffering associated with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain states in young people and adults. I take an integrated approach to your care, combining mindfulness approaches based on meditative practices with more traditional psychotherapy and--where appropriate--careful use of medications and supplements. My commitment is that your therapy make a profound difference in the areas of your life that are most important to you.
As a psychiatrist, I specialize in providing care and alleviating the suffering associated with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain states in young people and adults. I take an integrated approach to your care, combining mindfulness approaches based on meditative practices with more traditional psychotherapy and--where appropriate--careful use of medications and supplements. My commitment is that your therapy make a profound difference in the areas of your life that are most important to you.
![Photo of Gail Bernstein, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf2ff0f2-88a1-4cf8-8925-4a0e994aef14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gail Bernstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in both family medicine and psychiatry/mental health. I completed my undergraduate degree in biological sciences from the University of California, Irvine. From there, I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from California State University, Long Beach. During my time at CSULB, I also finished my family practice certification to become a nurse practitioner. After several years of gaining experience in geriatrics, urgent care, and retail health, I went back to school to complete a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner certification.
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in both family medicine and psychiatry/mental health. I completed my undergraduate degree in biological sciences from the University of California, Irvine. From there, I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from California State University, Long Beach. During my time at CSULB, I also finished my family practice certification to become a nurse practitioner. After several years of gaining experience in geriatrics, urgent care, and retail health, I went back to school to complete a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner certification.
![Photo of Dr. Kushagra Nijhara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79092edb-6721-4b9f-b0d9-c99642a46e17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kushagra Nijhara aspires to empower patients to leverage their strengths, navigate challenges, and achieve holistic growth and healing. He focuses on addressing debilitating mood disorders, including the challenges of treatment-resistant depression and a comprehensive range of anxiety disorders. Dr. Nijhara's patient-focused and evidence-based approach sees each individual with strengths while collaboratively addressing areas of challenge using psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
Dr. Kushagra Nijhara aspires to empower patients to leverage their strengths, navigate challenges, and achieve holistic growth and healing. He focuses on addressing debilitating mood disorders, including the challenges of treatment-resistant depression and a comprehensive range of anxiety disorders. Dr. Nijhara's patient-focused and evidence-based approach sees each individual with strengths while collaboratively addressing areas of challenge using psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
![Photo of Mike Hoaglin - Gut Feelings Psychosomatic Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daa39865-eb71-42a3-8cd5-a8b5179e509c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat clients who have suffered from depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD or who simply feel that something is just not right with their mind or body and are looking for a diagnosis and/or relief. My clients are busy professionals who seek a real-world approach to psychiatric treatment. I meaningfully use technology to make interactions convenient, comfortable and no-nonsense.
I treat clients who have suffered from depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD or who simply feel that something is just not right with their mind or body and are looking for a diagnosis and/or relief. My clients are busy professionals who seek a real-world approach to psychiatric treatment. I meaningfully use technology to make interactions convenient, comfortable and no-nonsense.
![Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/767c13a6-2ac2-46f8-8479-7621bfd7b9c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
![Photo of Greg Roussett, NP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb00d303-3a92-47d0-921b-2457639f1b60/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greg Roussett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Are you looking to improve your mood while boosting your levels of productivity at work and/or home? I work with high achieving individuals and offer a full range of psychiatry services. I will help you gain control over your mood, focus, and stress levels.
Are you looking to improve your mood while boosting your levels of productivity at work and/or home? I work with high achieving individuals and offer a full range of psychiatry services. I will help you gain control over your mood, focus, and stress levels.
![Photo of Catvy Nguyen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1523c0c7-16ea-415f-ae8f-f74090fc0975/1/320x400.png)
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
Catvy Nguyen takes a unique and progressive approach to mental health illnesses. Treatment is personalized, based on evidence research, and encompasses on a myriad of treatment modalities. Kathy believes in the influence of three factors: one's past and upbringing, current life situations, and one's genetic makeup, affecting mental illness.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/952e2beb-1ff1-42fe-a946-f1e31eaaa863/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Marcus J (Bo) Houston, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cca9572c-8d1d-491c-9e42-0ae71a861b14/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in the East Bay. I am trained to address all of the major psychiatric diagnoses and specialize in both psychotherapy and medication management. My approach recognizes the practical necessity of diagnostic categories, but I also value and rely on the uniqueness of one's subjective experience to help guide the treatment process. It can be helpful for some people to hear that they may benefit from psychiatric or psychotherapeutic help even when a diagnosis may be unclear or unnecessary.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in the East Bay. I am trained to address all of the major psychiatric diagnoses and specialize in both psychotherapy and medication management. My approach recognizes the practical necessity of diagnostic categories, but I also value and rely on the uniqueness of one's subjective experience to help guide the treatment process. It can be helpful for some people to hear that they may benefit from psychiatric or psychotherapeutic help even when a diagnosis may be unclear or unnecessary.
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![Photo of Jessica Bentzley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/116a38d8-6014-4df4-9e4a-5c9c50643485/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified adult psychiatrist. I am currently accepting new patients ages 18-60 who live in CA. I have expertise with a broad range of conditions and concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues, and concerns during pregnancy and postpartum. I am committed in getting to know you as a person and understanding the factors impacting your wellbeing from a holistic approach. I aim to thoughtfully create values-based, personalized treatment plans that may involve therapy, lifestyle changes, and/or medications.
Welcome! I am a Stanford-trained, board-certified adult psychiatrist. I am currently accepting new patients ages 18-60 who live in CA. I have expertise with a broad range of conditions and concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues, and concerns during pregnancy and postpartum. I am committed in getting to know you as a person and understanding the factors impacting your wellbeing from a holistic approach. I aim to thoughtfully create values-based, personalized treatment plans that may involve therapy, lifestyle changes, and/or medications.
![Photo of Joshua Kayman, MD, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84f3de66-3b32-4628-b8a5-da13e1af5b62/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a Psychiatrist specializing in Addiction, Sleep, Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, ADHD, and Psychosis. I see clients aged 16 and older in California. You can meet with me virtually. I do not take private insurance and I am happy to provide a superbill to submit to your provider. Please feel free to call for a 15 minute conversation to see if we are a good fit.
I’m a Psychiatrist specializing in Addiction, Sleep, Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, ADHD, and Psychosis. I see clients aged 16 and older in California. You can meet with me virtually. I do not take private insurance and I am happy to provide a superbill to submit to your provider. Please feel free to call for a 15 minute conversation to see if we are a good fit.
![Photo of Greg Roussett - Restorative Psychiatry: Be Well. Sleep Well., NP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f8d808-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Restorative Psychiatry: Be Well. Sleep Well.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Trouble sleeping or can't focus? Big meeting the next day and you're not at your 100%? For more than a decade, I’ve helped high achieving individuals overcome insomnia.
Trouble sleeping or can't focus? Big meeting the next day and you're not at your 100%? For more than a decade, I’ve helped high achieving individuals overcome insomnia.
![Photo of Nicholas Reeves - Nicholas Reeves, MD | Mindful Health Solutions, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc7c540-29a6-43cf-9d31-e772b5aae7a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I specialize in managing a range of mental health conditions, from mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder to treatment-resistant depression and various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, and panic disorder. I also have experience treating psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, as well as substance use disorders and addictions. My ultimate goal is to do more than just help my patients achieve remission. I aim to reduce their suffering and elevate their sense of peace so they can truly thrive and flourish in their lives.
As a psychiatrist, I specialize in managing a range of mental health conditions, from mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder to treatment-resistant depression and various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, and panic disorder. I also have experience treating psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, as well as substance use disorders and addictions. My ultimate goal is to do more than just help my patients achieve remission. I aim to reduce their suffering and elevate their sense of peace so they can truly thrive and flourish in their lives.
![Photo of Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c79b2695-0b6e-4172-a770-80a3617da8e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariam Fazil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94621 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
Hello, I'm Mariam Fazil, DNP, PMHNP,a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Are you or your loved ones struggling to balance mental and physical health? Are you suffering from anxiety? If this somewhat sounds familiar, I would like to help you in your healing journey. I provide in-person as well as telemedicine services so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best.
![Photo of Torri Taylor-Spencer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b56528a4-4c0f-4509-ba46-cc44eb7a523e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Torri Taylor-Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607 (Online Only)
I help adolescents & adults with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and ADHD who are seeking a return to a more positive emotional state with increased focus and productivity, better sleep, and more fulfillment and joy in their lives. I offer patient-centered holistic care that includes a unique blend of treatment modalities. I specialize in working with those part of vulnerable populations such as children, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities who have not had positive experiences with psychiatric treatment in the past, as well as working with peripartum women.
I help adolescents & adults with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and ADHD who are seeking a return to a more positive emotional state with increased focus and productivity, better sleep, and more fulfillment and joy in their lives. I offer patient-centered holistic care that includes a unique blend of treatment modalities. I specialize in working with those part of vulnerable populations such as children, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities who have not had positive experiences with psychiatric treatment in the past, as well as working with peripartum women.
![Photo of Dr. Kristin Gill, MD, PMH-C, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7ce39ed-925a-4786-bcd1-ce83af5b1727/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kristin Gill
Psychiatrist, MD, PMH-C, FAPA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether I'm helping you navigate a difficult life transition, manage a chronic mental health disorder, or simply providing a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, my primary goal is to facilitate growth and healing.
Whether I'm helping you navigate a difficult life transition, manage a chronic mental health disorder, or simply providing a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, my primary goal is to facilitate growth and healing.
![Photo of Orah Mahtov, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57dc72af-081a-464a-986d-02874c12c039/1/320x400.jpeg)
Orah Mahtov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
![Photo of Eric Nghe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0ee9823-4d5d-4f7f-8ce1-b1db2264734c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
Eric is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner. He received his PMHNP Certificate in Nursing from California State University, Los Angeles. Eric has gained a well-rounded knowledge in outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization for mental health. He offers evidence-based care while maintaining a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for his clients.
See more therapy options for Oakland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oakland, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Oakland, CA who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
82% | Medication Management |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | ADHD |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
85% | Optum |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Oakland, CA see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
36% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oakland?
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.