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Find a psychiatrist in California — covered by insurance

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top psychiatrists in California accepting new patients

Headway brings mental health support to California residents with 1,042 empowering providers ready to help. With sessions available virtually or in-person and accepted by 70+ insurance plans, many clients save significantly on their mental health care.

Christina Wilson

Christina Wilson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe meaningful care begins with truly listening and creating a space where you feel heard, respected, and comfortable being yourself.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Christina Stelly

Christina Stelly

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Rafael, CA


Helping people reclaim their mental health and quality of life is not just my profession — it is my purpose. I am Christina Stelly, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Martinez, California, with a deep commitment to compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care. My path to this work has been shaped by years of experience across diverse, high-acuity clinical settings, and I bring both clinical expertise and genuine care to every patient I serve.

My educational foundation includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Touro University — all built upon over a decade of hands-on clinical nursing experience.

I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and crisis intervention for veterans navigating conditions including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and substance use disorders. Prior to this role, I completed an advanced NP residency focused on forensic psychiatry and crisis stabilization, and served as Patient Care Director overseeing high-risk maternal mental health at the University of Illinois Chicago.

I specialize in caring for diverse and underserved populations, including veterans, individuals with severe mental illness, co-occurring disorders, and those in acute psychiatric crisis. My perinatal psychiatry background also provides a unique perspective for supporting individuals through some of life's most vulnerable transitions.

Beyond direct patient care, I am an active mental health policy advocate, contributing to state advisory councils and national nursing organizations. I believe every person deserves dignified, individualized care — and if you are ready to take the next step, I warmly welcome the opportunity to connect and support you.

Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Maternal mental health
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Janet Gichau

Janet Gichau

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Corona, CA


“My open-minded strategic approach and accepting individualism help me let the patient guide in discussing their personal health struggles.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Tayo (Omotayo) Alamutu

Dr. Tayo (Omotayo) Alamutu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fairfield, CA


Glad to meet you!

I am Dr. Tayo (Omotayo) Alamutu, a Doctoral Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with an advanced training in diagnostic evaluation, psychopharmacology, and evidence‐based treatment for psychiatric conditions, Including anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD. I provide diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy using evidence-based approaches.

ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Francesca Mephors

Francesca Mephors

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I take the time to understand my patients' needs and concerns, and I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to you as an individual.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Creative, Direct, Energetic
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Kulwinder Bhullar

Kulwinder Bhullar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I am board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing telehealth services throughout California. I believe mental health care should feel supportive, respectful, and tailored to your unique needs.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Alexander Lee

Alexander Lee

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a supportive and judgment-free space where clients feel heard, supported, and involved in their care.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Ifeoma Ubadike

Ifeoma Ubadike

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their treatment journey.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Christina Stelly

Christina Stelly

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call or text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. You can text us your info or email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

Hi! I'm Christina Stelly, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC — a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Martinez, CA. With over 15 years of clinical experience across inpatient psychiatry, maternal health, and advanced practice, I am deeply committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to every person I serve.

I specialize in treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety, etc.

My academic background includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Touro University. I also completed an intensive NP residency focused on advanced psychiatric care, crisis stabilization, and forensic psychiatry, which further strengthened my clinical expertise.

Earlier in my career, I specialized in maternal mental health, serving as a Patient Care Director for high-risk obstetric populations and contributing to perinatal mental health policy at the state and national levels. This background gives me a uniquely broad, whole-person perspective on psychiatric care across the lifespan.

My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, individualized care. I take time to fully understand your history, concerns, and goals before collaboratively building a treatment plan tailored to you. I have also served on health policy committees and presented at national nursing conferences, reflecting my commitment to psychiatric care.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
David Cao

David Cao

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I’m David Cao, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing online psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults throughout California. I especially enjoy working with young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, overthinking, or feeling overwhelmed.

If reaching out for psychiatric care feels intimidating, my goal is to make the process feel approachable. My style is calm, laid-back, and collaborative. Our sessions are more like conversations than interrogations, and I want you to feel comfortable being yourself. I’ll be there for the difficult conversations, celebrate the small wins with you, and make room for a little humor along the way.

With over 7 years of experience in mental health care, I understand how difficult it can be to balance everyday responsibilities while struggling with your mental health.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Anna Hadilaksono

Anna Hadilaksono

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I use evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based techniques.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kelsey Wehrmann

Kelsey Wehrmann

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is not simply to treat symptoms, but to help you feel better, function more fully, and build a stronger foundation for your overall well-being.”
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Kie Washington

Dr. Kie Washington

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe good mental health care starts with connection—taking the time to listen, understand the whole person, and create a treatment plan together.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Mercy Nyeche

Mercy Nyeche

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Mercy Nyeche, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping adults regain clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.

Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming especially when you’re used to being the strong one for everyone else. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, life transitions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, you don’t have to do it alone.

My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based. I take time to truly listen, understand your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your life, not just your symptoms.

Please note that I do not provide disability paperwork, leave of absence documentation, FMLA forms, legal letters, school accommodation letters, or other administrative forms. The only documentation I provide is a work excuse note for the date of your appointment and, when clinically appropriate based on my evaluation and professional judgment, up to three (3) days off from work. If you require any of the services or documentation listed above, I kindly ask that you schedule with another provider who offers those services. Thank you for your understanding and for helping ensure that your healthcare needs are matched with the appropriate provider.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Erica Metu

Erica Metu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My communication style is warm, empathetic, and collaborative. In sessions, I create a tone that is open and nonjudgmental, so patients feel safe sharing their experiences honestly.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Angel Aguilera M.D.

Dr. Angel Aguilera M.D.

Psychiatrist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“After more than 12 years of clinical experience, I believe that mental health care, done well, can change the entire trajectory of a person's life.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders, Maternal mental health
Holistic, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Julie Ann Therese De Los Santos

Julie Ann Therese De Los Santos

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My approach to care is collaborative and patient-centered—your body, your mind, and your voice matter.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anna Ross

Anna Ross

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


  • Outstanding Patient Reviews - Google reviews (Access Psych Meds)
  • Experienced Mental Health Provider (13 years) assisting clients with ADHD (adult) Anxiety Depression Chronic Pain Chronic Sleep problems Mood disorder PTSD: Military combat, childhood & sexual trauma Alcohol Use Disorder
  • Dual Master’s Prepared
  • ANCC Dual Board Certified - Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Veteran 22 yrs retired US Navy Commander/O-5
  • Licensed in 5 States - AZ, CA, OR, MD, WA
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Meagan Pruden

Meagan Pruden

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I value genuine connection and believe healing happens best in a safe, respectful space where you feel truly heard.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Anetka Giz

Anetka Giz

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Known for her warm, open-minded, and empowering approach, Anetka is an active listener who prioritizes building strong rapport with her clients.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Rebecca Pak

Rebecca Pak

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am passionate about helping individuals achieve meaningful, lasting wellness so they can live fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I see our relationship as a true partnership. While I bring clinical knowledge and evidence-based treatment approaches, you bring the most important element—intimate knowledge of your own experience, strengths, and goals.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • East Palo Alto, CA


I'm Holly, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 23 years of clinical experience in psychiatric care and maternal-child health. This dual background has shaped how I see mental health: not as something separate from the rest of your life, but deeply woven into every transition, relationship, and challenge you face. My work taught me that women's mental health—especially during pregnancy, postpartum, and hormonal transitions—requires specialized understanding and individualized care.

I provide comprehensive psychiatric treatment for adults across a broad spectrum of conditions: perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum conditions. I have particular expertise in women's mental health throughout the reproductive years, though I welcome anyone seeking compassionate, evidence-based care.

My approach is straightforward: effective treatment should fit your real life. I combine psychiatric interventions—including medication management when appropriate—with practical therapeutic strategies and lifestyle modifications that actually work for you. I'll help you understand what's happening, why it's happening, and what options make sense for your unique situation.

What matters most to me is seeing you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis. You have strengths, values, relationships, and goals that deserve attention alongside your symptoms. Whether you're managing a long-standing condition, processing trauma, navigating major life changes, or simply seeking better balance, you deserve a provider who recognizes your potential and partners with you toward sustainable wellness.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Antionette Sob

Antionette Sob

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I’m Antionette Sob, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to empowering individuals to live fuller, more balanced lives. With over a decade of nursing experience and advanced training in mental health, I aim to provide safe, supportive, and compassionate care. I believe that everyone can heal and grow — sometimes we need the right tools and guidance.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, OCD
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Serge' Nelson

Dr. Serge' Nelson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am committed to delivering personalized, high-quality care in a respectful, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered in their treatment.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Brandi Parr

Brandi Parr

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I take a collaborative, down-to-earth approach to care. Appointments are unhurried and focused on understanding you as a whole person — not just a list of symptoms.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Davidson Etoamaihe

Dr. Davidson Etoamaihe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care in a safe, judgment-free space.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo

Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“I specialize in treating adults and adolescents dealing with serious mental illness, including mood disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, psychotic disorders, ADHD, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and geriatric...”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Diana Pena

Diana Pena

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • El Segundo, CA


“I've dedicated my practice to supporting those who may have struggled to find providers comfortable with their complexity.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Grief or loss
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My care rests on three things: respect for your dignity, evidence-based treatment, and a firm belief in your ability to heal and grow.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Yaifeh Chafeh

Yaifeh Chafeh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes everyone deserves to feel heard, supported, and treated with kindness. I create a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free space where you can feel comfortable being yourself. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, mood changes, and other mental health concerns. Along with medication management, I also use supportive therapy techniques, including CBT and motivational interviewing, to help clients build healthy coping skills and feel more confident in their daily lives.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Bernadette Akpengbe

Bernadette Akpengbe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Bernardino, CA


“I use a holistic, consultative and empathetic approach to make sure I understand the 360 view of my patients.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Linda Uzoukwu

Linda Uzoukwu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Linda Uzoukwu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide compassionate, personalized psychiatric care to adults.

I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, life transitions, and perinatal or postpartum mental health concerns. I understand that mental health challenges can affect every part of your life, and my goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and actively involved in your care.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Vladlen Pogorelov

Vladlen Pogorelov

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I focus on practical, results-driven care. My goal is to help you feel better quickly while building a plan that's sustainable long-term.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Nimish Chakarwarti

Nimish Chakarwarti

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I provide medication management alongside supportive therapy-informed care. My approach is comprehensive and collaborative...”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My goal isn't to "fix" you—you're not broken. Instead, I'm here to help you understand your conditions, develop effective coping strategies, and build the fulfilling life you deserve.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]

For the most current schedule and openings, please book directly on our website at https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 415-968-6515.

As a PMHNP-BC who specializes in autism, complex cases, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, schizophrenia/psychosis disorders, and substance use, I've built my practice around understanding that every person's mental health journey is unique—especially when multiple conditions interact or when traditional approaches haven't worked.

I also provide comprehensive treatment for depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar disorder, always with an understanding that these conditions often overlap and influence each other in complex ways. What I want you to know is this: your experiences are valid, your struggles make sense in the context of your life, and there's no such thing as being "too much" for treatment.

Whether you're masking autistic traits, battling compulsive behaviors, managing intense emotions, processing trauma, questioning reality, or struggling with substances, I meet you exactly where you are without trying to force you into a predetermined mold. My approach combines evidence-based treatments with deep respect for your individual needs and experiences.

You deserve a provider who doesn't see complexity as a problem to solve, but as a roadmap to understanding how to best support your unique path to wellness.

Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Lindsay Fisher

Lindsay Fisher

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Stevenson Ranch, CA


“I understand that starting or adjusting psychiatric medication can feel overwhelming... I've made it my mission to change that experience.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Rebecca Blakesley

Rebecca Blakesley

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Long Beach, CA


“My treatment philosophy emphasizes both celebrating neurodivergent strengths and addressing genuine challenges.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Maddie Asghari

Maddie Asghari

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“My practice serves those who may have felt misunderstood by traditional approaches, particularly within diverse cultural contexts.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
41 - 80 of

About our psychiatrists serving California

Number of psychiatrists serving California
There are over 1,045 psychiatrists in California accepting new patients.
1,045+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
6 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 99%Depression
  • 99%Anxiety
  • 87%ADD/ADHD
  • 85%PTSD
  • 85%Bipolar disorder
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 98%Aetna
  • 96%Cigna
  • 89%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 85%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 57%United Healthcare
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 99%English
  • 8%Spanish
  • 5%Tagalog
  • 4%Igbo
  • 3%Hindi
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 73%Woman
  • 27%Man
License types
Watercolor illustration of license
  • 91%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Medical Doctor
  • 1%Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Treatment approaches
Watercolor illustration of treatment approach
  • 96%Individual therapy
  • 18%Family therapy
  • 7%Couples therapy
  • 7%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

Find the right psychiatrist for you

Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Therapist in California

Searching for psychiatrists in California starts with understanding the type of care you’re looking for. Psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication, while therapists focus on talk therapy and behavioral support. Both can be valid entry points, depending on your needs. If you’re looking for support with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or medication management, look for a psychiatrist whose listed specialties and clinical background match what you want to address. Across California’s urban, suburban, and rural areas, available psychiatrists and areas of focus may vary, so reading profiles can help you narrow the options with more confidence.

Practical fit matters, too. A psychiatrist in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego may offer in-person visits, virtual appointments, or both, and the right format often depends on your schedule, location, and preference. Psychiatric appointments for medication management are usually shorter and less frequent than therapy sessions, though some psychiatrists also provide therapy. Some people work with both a therapist and a prescriber as part of their care. As you compare options, check whether the psychiatrist is accepting new patients, has appointment times that fit your calendar, and offers a free phone consultation. Provider bios can also show how they communicate, what session structure may look like, and whether their approach fits your goals.

Psychiatric care in California can be a significant expense without insurance, and using in-network coverage is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs. Headway helps you find psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners who are accepting new patients with your plan. You can enter your insurance details to check coverage, see your estimated out-of-pocket cost before booking, and choose between virtual and in-person options when available. Nationally, Headway partners with over 100 insurance plans. You can enter your insurance details on Headway to confirm what coverage is available for your plan and location, then browse providers, review bios, and book directly when you’re ready.

If you're already taking psychiatric medication and considering switching providers, talk to your current prescriber before changing or stopping any medication — most psychiatric medications shouldn't be stopped abruptly. Anyone experiencing thoughts of self-harm or in acute crisis should call 988 or go to the nearest emergency department rather than wait for an outpatient appointment.

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.