Psychiatrists in 85005

Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
(480) 923-7422 View (480) 923-7422
Photo of Shukairo 'shay' Baker, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, LCSW, LCAS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shukairo 'shay' Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client struggles with mental health issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, or trauma, faces life transitions, or has low self-esteem and chronic stress. They need a thorough assessment, personalized care plan that sometimes includes medication, ongoing support, and educational resources. Their goals include improving mental health, boosting self-esteem, navigating life changes smoothly, and achieving work-life balance. They seek relief from symptoms, personal growth, stability, and a supportive therapeutic relationship to lead a more fulfilling life.
My ideal client struggles with mental health issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, or trauma, faces life transitions, or has low self-esteem and chronic stress. They need a thorough assessment, personalized care plan that sometimes includes medication, ongoing support, and educational resources. Their goals include improving mental health, boosting self-esteem, navigating life changes smoothly, and achieving work-life balance. They seek relief from symptoms, personal growth, stability, and a supportive therapeutic relationship to lead a more fulfilling life.
(704) 286-8446 View (704) 286-8446
Photo of Martha Akinbile - Anavota Behavioral Health PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anavota Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Anavota Behavioral Health. SAME-DAY Appointments Available. Do you feel anxious, or overwhelmed? Do you feel you are on the right treatment plan? We understand that seeking help can be a daunting process, but you're not alone. Our primary mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can openly discuss your feelings and thoughts. We consistently receive high satisfaction ratings from our patients for our empathetic approach, quality of care, and commitment to improving their mental health.
Welcome to Anavota Behavioral Health. SAME-DAY Appointments Available. Do you feel anxious, or overwhelmed? Do you feel you are on the right treatment plan? We understand that seeking help can be a daunting process, but you're not alone. Our primary mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can openly discuss your feelings and thoughts. We consistently receive high satisfaction ratings from our patients for our empathetic approach, quality of care, and commitment to improving their mental health.
(520) 433-9823 View (520) 433-9823
Photo of Heather Bradley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Bradley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to my practice! I help individuals struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, and/or personality disorders achieve holistic wellness, strengthen adaptability and coping skills, promote self-acceptance, and find a sense of peace. I provide personalized, integrative treatment plans that may include medication management, lifestyle interventions, nutrition protocols, psychotherapy, specialized lab testing, and mind-body connections to address root causes and empower clients to take charge of their well-being. Additionally, I am a safe space for those in the LGBTQ+ and Polyamory communities.
Welcome to my practice! I help individuals struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, and/or personality disorders achieve holistic wellness, strengthen adaptability and coping skills, promote self-acceptance, and find a sense of peace. I provide personalized, integrative treatment plans that may include medication management, lifestyle interventions, nutrition protocols, psychotherapy, specialized lab testing, and mind-body connections to address root causes and empower clients to take charge of their well-being. Additionally, I am a safe space for those in the LGBTQ+ and Polyamory communities.
(480) 420-4656 View (480) 420-4656
Photo of Ijeoma Esther Ofokansi - Alpha Life Mental Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP , APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alpha Life Mental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Alpha Mental Health and Wellness Center, we treat various psychiatric conditions in children, adolescents, or geriatrics. We strive to provide the highest quality, safe, effective, and evidence-based care to the patients we serve. We also instill hope, insight, inspiration, and empowerment that allows you to embrace psychiatric treatment and achieve your treatment outcome. Our process is simple: Request an appointment, fill out a health questionnaire, then make a payment, or provide insurance information before a virtual visit. You will get same-day appointments in most cases.
At Alpha Mental Health and Wellness Center, we treat various psychiatric conditions in children, adolescents, or geriatrics. We strive to provide the highest quality, safe, effective, and evidence-based care to the patients we serve. We also instill hope, insight, inspiration, and empowerment that allows you to embrace psychiatric treatment and achieve your treatment outcome. Our process is simple: Request an appointment, fill out a health questionnaire, then make a payment, or provide insurance information before a virtual visit. You will get same-day appointments in most cases.
(321) 221-5497 View (321) 221-5497
Photo of Melinda Hansen, MD, Psychiatrist
Melinda Hansen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Someone who is committed to improving the quality of their life and mental health. Someone looking for a trusted partner in their journey to achieving success in their life.
Someone who is committed to improving the quality of their life and mental health. Someone looking for a trusted partner in their journey to achieving success in their life.
(786) 321-4001 View (786) 321-4001
Photo of Ugonna Okafor, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ugonna Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides diagnostic services, medication management and Psychotherapy to individuals from 13 years old to older adults via telehealth in Texas, Washington and Arizona. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give all my patient the best care possible. I have more than 7 years extensive psychiatric experience in various setting. At this time, I am only providing virtual visits. At every visit, Ugonna provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
(480) 207-3630 View (480) 207-3630
Photo of Fuanjia Fuangunyi, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fuanjia Fuangunyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dually Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.
Dually Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.
(520) 841-5943 View (520) 841-5943
Photo of Tanya Renee' Sorrell, PhD, NP-C, MS, Psychiatric Nurse
Tanya Renee' Sorrell
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, NP-C, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
(928) 212-5142 View (928) 212-5142

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Meghan Baker, PMHNPBC, PMHC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meghan Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, PMHC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Psychiatric medications can be life-saving scaffolding in the journey to managing your mental health. Sometimes they are a lifelong; sometimes they are a situation- or life-season- specific – but you are completely in control of that long-term plan and it will always be an ongoing discussion. I am a huge advocate of integrating non-medication tools into your toolbox– self-awareness, routine, practical life changes, sunlight, activity, community, and self-compassion (the list goes on) can be small-but-huge steps to transformation. Sometimes medication can be the step to take in order to be able to build in life management skills.
Psychiatric medications can be life-saving scaffolding in the journey to managing your mental health. Sometimes they are a lifelong; sometimes they are a situation- or life-season- specific – but you are completely in control of that long-term plan and it will always be an ongoing discussion. I am a huge advocate of integrating non-medication tools into your toolbox– self-awareness, routine, practical life changes, sunlight, activity, community, and self-compassion (the list goes on) can be small-but-huge steps to transformation. Sometimes medication can be the step to take in order to be able to build in life management skills.
(480) 442-2924 View (480) 442-2924
Photo of Dr. John Sparks, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. John Sparks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone experiencing challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. They may feel overwhelmed by their mental health and seek clarity, support, and effective treatment to regain control. Their goals are to manage their symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and achieve a balanced life. They want compassionate, comprehensive care that addresses both mental and physical well-being, ensuring long-term success in managing their conditions.
My ideal client is someone experiencing challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. They may feel overwhelmed by their mental health and seek clarity, support, and effective treatment to regain control. Their goals are to manage their symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and achieve a balanced life. They want compassionate, comprehensive care that addresses both mental and physical well-being, ensuring long-term success in managing their conditions.
(520) 329-4901 View (520) 329-4901
Photo of Ottilia Sibanda - Depression, anxiety, and ADHD , MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Depression, anxiety, and ADHD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you or your child struggling with depression or ADHD? Or are you dealing with anxiety that leads to fears, worries, or panic? If so, you don't have to face these challenges alone. With compassion & understanding, having a space where feelings can be explored, insights gained, & effective ways to manage symptoms are considered (whether counseling or medication management), there is a better way forward. Together, we can work towards a brighter, more fulfilling future, empowering you & your family to overcome such emotional distress & achieve the balance & peace you all deserve.
Are you or your child struggling with depression or ADHD? Or are you dealing with anxiety that leads to fears, worries, or panic? If so, you don't have to face these challenges alone. With compassion & understanding, having a space where feelings can be explored, insights gained, & effective ways to manage symptoms are considered (whether counseling or medication management), there is a better way forward. Together, we can work towards a brighter, more fulfilling future, empowering you & your family to overcome such emotional distress & achieve the balance & peace you all deserve.
(520) 779-5592 View (520) 779-5592
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
(480) 405-3782 View (480) 405-3782
Photo of Daniel Chandler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
My name is Daniel Chandler. I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychotherapy and medication management for those who want to improve their mental health and well-being. My focus is on those suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. I am comfortable treating all conditions within my specialty. My therapeutic approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and compassion focused. I use motivational interviewing, with supportive care, to address all of your goals. I want to help you find the right medication regimen at the lowest dose that works for you.
(928) 395-6993 View (928) 395-6993
Photo of Charlotte Toms, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlotte Toms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis and medication management. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis and medication management. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
(520) 346-6561 View (520) 346-6561
Photo of Shannon McNamara, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon McNamara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m Shannon McNamara, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in mental health specialties.
I’m Shannon McNamara, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in mental health specialties.
(928) 256-5119 View (928) 256-5119
Photo of Elizabeth Burnett Rogers, DNP, PMHNP, CICMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Burnett Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CICMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Hello! At this time I am only accepting patients who are in the nursing profession as patients. However, I am part of a practice with immediate availability for those seeking psychiatric care for children or adults. Please reach out to the practice for more information at 480-939-6137 or go to our website at smfamilypsych.com. I also work with the AZ Board of Nursing providing individual psychotherapy and hold a weekly, very supportive, in person and/or virtual Nurse Recovery Group - join us!
Hello! At this time I am only accepting patients who are in the nursing profession as patients. However, I am part of a practice with immediate availability for those seeking psychiatric care for children or adults. Please reach out to the practice for more information at 480-939-6137 or go to our website at smfamilypsych.com. I also work with the AZ Board of Nursing providing individual psychotherapy and hold a weekly, very supportive, in person and/or virtual Nurse Recovery Group - join us!
(480) 470-3986 View (480) 470-3986
Photo of David Chong - Arizona Restorative Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Arizona Restorative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
At Arizona Restorative Psychiatry we seek to get to know each patient on an individualized level and develop a treatment plan using our four core values to fully restore physical and mental health. We have 4 providers at our office. David Chong M.D and Josi Bernal PA-C who enjoy working with general mental health (Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mood Disorder, ADHD) and Brad Zehring D.O and Erica Neal PA-C who specialize in Eating Disorder.
At Arizona Restorative Psychiatry we seek to get to know each patient on an individualized level and develop a treatment plan using our four core values to fully restore physical and mental health. We have 4 providers at our office. David Chong M.D and Josi Bernal PA-C who enjoy working with general mental health (Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mood Disorder, ADHD) and Brad Zehring D.O and Erica Neal PA-C who specialize in Eating Disorder.
(480) 741-1352 View (480) 741-1352
Photo of Michael James DePalma - Dr. DePalma Psychiatrist, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. DePalma Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Please go to onepsychiatry.com to schedule appointments and for more information about my practice or call us. I use a combination of methods tailored to each individual patient. Methods used range from medication management to psychotherapy to mindfulness based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and drawing from a broad background in psychopharmacology, molecular biology and combining this psychotherapy training. I am a non-judgmental a provider that will use every tool in my arsenal to help you . To schedule an appointment or to get more information, see onepsychiatry.com.
Please go to onepsychiatry.com to schedule appointments and for more information about my practice or call us. I use a combination of methods tailored to each individual patient. Methods used range from medication management to psychotherapy to mindfulness based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and drawing from a broad background in psychopharmacology, molecular biology and combining this psychotherapy training. I am a non-judgmental a provider that will use every tool in my arsenal to help you . To schedule an appointment or to get more information, see onepsychiatry.com.
(623) 257-7264 View (623) 257-7264
Photo of Cooper Johnson - Advanced Mental Health & Wellness, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Advanced Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner in the State of Arizona. For over fifteen years, I have worked in the healthcare field. I received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, a Masters of Science Family Practice degree from Frontier Nursing University and a post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health certificate from Wilkes University. I incorporate my training from these specialties to provide a holistic approach in order to help my clients achieve the best outcomes possible.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner in the State of Arizona. For over fifteen years, I have worked in the healthcare field. I received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, a Masters of Science Family Practice degree from Frontier Nursing University and a post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health certificate from Wilkes University. I incorporate my training from these specialties to provide a holistic approach in order to help my clients achieve the best outcomes possible.
(928) 916-6235 View (928) 916-6235

See more therapy options for 85005

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 85005

< 10

Psychiatrists in 85005 who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Bipolar Disorder
89% Medication Management
78% Depression
78% Addiction
78% ADHD

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
88% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 85005 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 85005?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.