Psychiatrists in 84653

I was drawn to the mental health field due to a need to help those that are suffering from various mental health disorders and the mental health crisis taking place. I want to be able to provide competent, effective, and comprehensive mental health care on an outpatient basis to those in need in a rural community that doesn't have as much access to mental health care. I will actively work to help reduce stigma surrounding mental health concerns. I wish to be able to work in cooperation with my patients to find helpful solutions and treatments to their complaints, symptoms, concerns, and to make daily life better for them.
I was drawn to the mental health field due to a need to help those that are suffering from various mental health disorders and the mental health crisis taking place. I want to be able to provide competent, effective, and comprehensive mental health care on an outpatient basis to those in need in a rural community that doesn't have as much access to mental health care. I will actively work to help reduce stigma surrounding mental health concerns. I wish to be able to work in cooperation with my patients to find helpful solutions and treatments to their complaints, symptoms, concerns, and to make daily life better for them.
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I have a passion for helping individuals of all ages reach their goals and thrive through each chapter of their lives. I provide compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based psychiatric care. I like to understand the contributors to your mental health condition(s) and then take a holistic approach and help you with a plan to address the contributors in a healthy way. I love that at Ampelis Health I work with experts in psychiatry, positive psychology, marriage and family relations, nutrition, mindfulness, and wellness. This gives my patients access to the tools they need to overcome and manage their mental health concerns.
I have a passion for helping individuals of all ages reach their goals and thrive through each chapter of their lives. I provide compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based psychiatric care. I like to understand the contributors to your mental health condition(s) and then take a holistic approach and help you with a plan to address the contributors in a healthy way. I love that at Ampelis Health I work with experts in psychiatry, positive psychology, marriage and family relations, nutrition, mindfulness, and wellness. This gives my patients access to the tools they need to overcome and manage their mental health concerns.

At Harper Clinic, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health treatment for individuals and families in Utah. Our team of experienced professionals understands the complexity of mental health challenges and the importance of a holistic approach to healing that focuses on the gut-brain connection.
Whether you're seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health concerns, our team is committed to helping you achieve lasting wellness and emotional growth.
At Harper Clinic, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health treatment for individuals and families in Utah. Our team of experienced professionals understands the complexity of mental health challenges and the importance of a holistic approach to healing that focuses on the gut-brain connection.
Whether you're seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health concerns, our team is committed to helping you achieve lasting wellness and emotional growth.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to my work. My years as a labor and delivery nurse gave me a deep understanding of life’s transitional phases, and my own experience with postpartum depression inspires my compassionate approach to care. Whether you’re navigating a specific mental health diagnosis or simply seeking support for overall well-being, I am here to help you on your journey toward healing and balance.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to my work. My years as a labor and delivery nurse gave me a deep understanding of life’s transitional phases, and my own experience with postpartum depression inspires my compassionate approach to care. Whether you’re navigating a specific mental health diagnosis or simply seeking support for overall well-being, I am here to help you on your journey toward healing and balance.

Navigating the perinatal period—whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your family—can be overwhelming. I specialize in supporting pregnant, postpartum, and infertile women as they face the unique challenges this time brings. Many experience distressing, intrusive thoughts that can lead to heightened anxiety; I understand how isolating this can feel. I am certified in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold standard for treating OCD, which can also benefit those dealing with generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. I have a direct, yet compassionate approach, helping you to reclaim your peace of mind.
Navigating the perinatal period—whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your family—can be overwhelming. I specialize in supporting pregnant, postpartum, and infertile women as they face the unique challenges this time brings. Many experience distressing, intrusive thoughts that can lead to heightened anxiety; I understand how isolating this can feel. I am certified in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold standard for treating OCD, which can also benefit those dealing with generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. I have a direct, yet compassionate approach, helping you to reclaim your peace of mind.

Dr. Britney Palombo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
Dr. Palombo is skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, as well as individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She uses a collaborative approach to treatment, exploring the psychological, biological, behavioral, and social factors contributing to each individuals circumstance. She specializes in children and adolescents but has been managing outpatient psychiatric care for all ages as well as providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2017. She has had extensive training in TMS and utilizes cutting edge evidence-based research to provide not only effective but personalized treatment options.
Dr. Palombo is skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, as well as individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She uses a collaborative approach to treatment, exploring the psychological, biological, behavioral, and social factors contributing to each individuals circumstance. She specializes in children and adolescents but has been managing outpatient psychiatric care for all ages as well as providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2017. She has had extensive training in TMS and utilizes cutting edge evidence-based research to provide not only effective but personalized treatment options.

We all go through difficult times. However, if you have been struggling with mood issues for more than a few weeks, or your loved ones have suggested you get help, you might benefit from a further evaluation. Dr. DeLong helps people get back on track and functioning at their best. She does medication assessments and evaluations for people age 21 years of age and older.
We all go through difficult times. However, if you have been struggling with mood issues for more than a few weeks, or your loved ones have suggested you get help, you might benefit from a further evaluation. Dr. DeLong helps people get back on track and functioning at their best. She does medication assessments and evaluations for people age 21 years of age and older.

Dr. Tamara Broadhead
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner with a doctor of nursing practice degree and certifications in family practice and psychiatry. This unique combination allows her to treat the whole person - mind, body and spirit. I understand that a blend of hereditary and environmental factors trigger changes in how you feel, think and act. When this happens, it is necessary to seek outside professional help. Dr. Broadhead is here to guide you in order to discover your best self.
I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner with a doctor of nursing practice degree and certifications in family practice and psychiatry. This unique combination allows her to treat the whole person - mind, body and spirit. I understand that a blend of hereditary and environmental factors trigger changes in how you feel, think and act. When this happens, it is necessary to seek outside professional help. Dr. Broadhead is here to guide you in order to discover your best self.

Samuel currently provides care through Numinus Wellness Utah at the Murray location! Sam graduated Cum Lade from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science Exercise Science degree, and a Master in Public Health degree. Samuel received a Master of Science, Physician Assistant Studies degree from the Pacific University College of Health Professions in Hillsboro Oregon. Samuel currently provides care at Numinus Wellness Utah at the Murray location!
Samuel currently provides care through Numinus Wellness Utah at the Murray location! Sam graduated Cum Lade from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science Exercise Science degree, and a Master in Public Health degree. Samuel received a Master of Science, Physician Assistant Studies degree from the Pacific University College of Health Professions in Hillsboro Oregon. Samuel currently provides care at Numinus Wellness Utah at the Murray location!

Welcome to Alliance Behavioral Psychiatry! We have offices in Orem (near the University Mall) and Lehi (off of Main Street, close to Saratoga Springs). We offer medication management and psychotherapy as well as pharmacogenetic testing, where appropriate. Our providers are: David Paulson, MD, Traci Naylor, APRN, PMHNP; Mekenzie Cooper, APRN, PMHNP; Rebecca Harvey, APRN, DNP; Joel Covington, APRN, DNP; Dan Muster, APRN, DNP; Corrine Freeman, APRN, DNP; Brooke Merrill, APRN, PMHNP; and Karina McDonald APRN, PMHNP. We believe patients receive the best care when they have strong alliance with their providers.
Welcome to Alliance Behavioral Psychiatry! We have offices in Orem (near the University Mall) and Lehi (off of Main Street, close to Saratoga Springs). We offer medication management and psychotherapy as well as pharmacogenetic testing, where appropriate. Our providers are: David Paulson, MD, Traci Naylor, APRN, PMHNP; Mekenzie Cooper, APRN, PMHNP; Rebecca Harvey, APRN, DNP; Joel Covington, APRN, DNP; Dan Muster, APRN, DNP; Corrine Freeman, APRN, DNP; Brooke Merrill, APRN, PMHNP; and Karina McDonald APRN, PMHNP. We believe patients receive the best care when they have strong alliance with their providers.

My goal is to provide patients with a safe and supportive environment where they feel heard, valued, and receive the tools they need to thrive and reach their personal goals. I help individuals who have psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, panic disorder, and treatment resistant depression, among others.
My goal is to provide patients with a safe and supportive environment where they feel heard, valued, and receive the tools they need to thrive and reach their personal goals. I help individuals who have psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, panic disorder, and treatment resistant depression, among others.

Andrew Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Online Only
Know that you are not alone & that healing is possible for you. Any mental anguish you experience in connection with growing up; encountering bullying, tragedy, or violence; losing someone or something dear to you; or facing overwhelming circumstances does not define who you are. You are so much more than your depression, your anxiety, your loss, or what happened to you. My treatment philosophy incorporates the Swedish principle of LAGOM: "Not too little, not too much; just right. Being in perfect balance.” Together, we’ll tailor a personalized treatment plan that capitalizes on your strengths & moves you toward your best life.
Know that you are not alone & that healing is possible for you. Any mental anguish you experience in connection with growing up; encountering bullying, tragedy, or violence; losing someone or something dear to you; or facing overwhelming circumstances does not define who you are. You are so much more than your depression, your anxiety, your loss, or what happened to you. My treatment philosophy incorporates the Swedish principle of LAGOM: "Not too little, not too much; just right. Being in perfect balance.” Together, we’ll tailor a personalized treatment plan that capitalizes on your strengths & moves you toward your best life.

Derick Moody has been working as a psychiatric PA for over 8 years. Over this time he has acquired an expertise in managing a variety of conditions including: MDD, GAD, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar, impulse control and psychotic disorders. Derick is also one of the pioneers of psychedelic-based treatments and is one of most experienced psychedelic providers in the state of Utah.
Derick Moody has been working as a psychiatric PA for over 8 years. Over this time he has acquired an expertise in managing a variety of conditions including: MDD, GAD, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar, impulse control and psychotic disorders. Derick is also one of the pioneers of psychedelic-based treatments and is one of most experienced psychedelic providers in the state of Utah.

Jamie Lange
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland, UT 84003
My wide array of experience and training has helped me develop a compassionate, empathic, and holistic approach to mental health treatment. I believe that an individual’s mental health is shaped by their own unique life experiences, including childhood, trauma, relationships, lifestyle, health, and environment. I strive to form trusting relationships with clients, facilitating the collaboration of a personalized treatment plan based on individual needs and evidence-based practices. I love helping people rediscover their passions and improve their overall quality of life.
My wide array of experience and training has helped me develop a compassionate, empathic, and holistic approach to mental health treatment. I believe that an individual’s mental health is shaped by their own unique life experiences, including childhood, trauma, relationships, lifestyle, health, and environment. I strive to form trusting relationships with clients, facilitating the collaboration of a personalized treatment plan based on individual needs and evidence-based practices. I love helping people rediscover their passions and improve their overall quality of life.

Patient-centered care is important to me. Mental health can be complex and often requires a team effort, with psychotherapy being a big component. This is why I am doing a Dmsc program focusing on Motivational interviewing and Cognitive behavioral therapy.
Patient-centered care is important to me. Mental health can be complex and often requires a team effort, with psychotherapy being a big component. This is why I am doing a Dmsc program focusing on Motivational interviewing and Cognitive behavioral therapy.

Josh Bentley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
Dr. Bentley graduated with an Associate’s Degree of Science in Nursing from Weber State University, a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing from Western Governor’s University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Utah. He has been working in healthcare for the past 8 years with a wide variety of experience including patients of all ages, while in inpatient, outpatient, and homecare settings.
Dr. Bentley graduated with an Associate’s Degree of Science in Nursing from Weber State University, a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing from Western Governor’s University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Utah. He has been working in healthcare for the past 8 years with a wide variety of experience including patients of all ages, while in inpatient, outpatient, and homecare settings.

Now accepting new clients with same week availability! Are you struggling with the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, the relentless cycle of OCD, or the constant mind-jumping of ADHD? My approach goes beyond hurried prescriptions and quick fixes. I take the time to truly listen and create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered to open up about your struggles and goals. Together, we’ll work to uncover the root of your challenges and build a personalized plan that brings hope, healing, and clarity.
Now accepting new clients with same week availability! Are you struggling with the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, the relentless cycle of OCD, or the constant mind-jumping of ADHD? My approach goes beyond hurried prescriptions and quick fixes. I take the time to truly listen and create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered to open up about your struggles and goals. Together, we’ll work to uncover the root of your challenges and build a personalized plan that brings hope, healing, and clarity.

I am now accepting new clients, with availability within a week of booking! You may be navigating the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, the constant mind-jumping of ADHD, or the relentless cycle of OCD. Whatever you're facing, your struggles are valid, and seeking help is a courageous step. You deserve a provider who listens without judgment, collaborates on solutions that feel right for you, and truly sees you—not just your diagnosis. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, peace, and the life you deserve. Let’s take this journey, one step at a time, together.
I am now accepting new clients, with availability within a week of booking! You may be navigating the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, the constant mind-jumping of ADHD, or the relentless cycle of OCD. Whatever you're facing, your struggles are valid, and seeking help is a courageous step. You deserve a provider who listens without judgment, collaborates on solutions that feel right for you, and truly sees you—not just your diagnosis. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, peace, and the life you deserve. Let’s take this journey, one step at a time, together.

Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.

Lin Clark is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner, who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2018 with a degree in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan. Lin sees patients ages 12+. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and ADHD. In her spare time, Lin enjoys delicious food, going on walks, and bathing her hairless pets.
Lin Clark is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner, who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2018 with a degree in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan. Lin sees patients ages 12+. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and ADHD. In her spare time, Lin enjoys delicious food, going on walks, and bathing her hairless pets.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 84653
< 10
Psychiatrists in 84653 who prioritize treating:
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 84653 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 84653?
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.