Psychiatrists in 85016

Michael Reese Lawrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My mission as a PMHNP is to provide compassionate and comprehensive care to those experiencing mental illness, while also increasing access to mental health care for all individuals. I believe in tailoring treatment plans to meet each person's unique needs, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and treatment modalities in the field. Above all, I am committed to treating every person with kindness, empathy, and respect, recognizing that mental illness can be a challenging and isolating experience. My goal is to help individuals achieve their fullest potential in all areas of their lives.
My mission as a PMHNP is to provide compassionate and comprehensive care to those experiencing mental illness, while also increasing access to mental health care for all individuals. I believe in tailoring treatment plans to meet each person's unique needs, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and treatment modalities in the field. Above all, I am committed to treating every person with kindness, empathy, and respect, recognizing that mental illness can be a challenging and isolating experience. My goal is to help individuals achieve their fullest potential in all areas of their lives.

I obtained my medical degree through the University of Illinois College of Medicine. I completed a Family Practice Residency at the University of Vermont in 1982 , served as Chief Resident and became Board Certified 1982 - 1989. This was followed by a Residency in Psychiatry at the University of Vermont and Board Certification in Psychiatry in 1986. I then became a member of the University of Vermont Psychiatry Department where I served as Director of Crisis Services of Chittenden County and Director of the Psychiatry Consultation - Liaison Service advancing to Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry.
I obtained my medical degree through the University of Illinois College of Medicine. I completed a Family Practice Residency at the University of Vermont in 1982 , served as Chief Resident and became Board Certified 1982 - 1989. This was followed by a Residency in Psychiatry at the University of Vermont and Board Certification in Psychiatry in 1986. I then became a member of the University of Vermont Psychiatry Department where I served as Director of Crisis Services of Chittenden County and Director of the Psychiatry Consultation - Liaison Service advancing to Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry.

I specialize in the Sinclair Method, which uses FDA-approved medication to gradually reduce your alcohol use.
I specialize in the Sinclair Method, which uses FDA-approved medication to gradually reduce your alcohol use.

Dr. Alexandra Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Dr. Alexandra Moore is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She began her training with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing through an accelerated program at St. Joseph’s Hospital campus of Grand Canyon University. Dr. Moore furthered her education with Grand Canyon University and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in nursing education.
Dr. Alexandra Moore is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She began her training with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing through an accelerated program at St. Joseph’s Hospital campus of Grand Canyon University. Dr. Moore furthered her education with Grand Canyon University and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in nursing education.

I have been in the medical field for the last 25 yrs and have worked my way up from being a behavioral health tech to a unit secretary, patient care tech, LPN, RN for over 17 yrs and then have been a nurse practitioner for the last 5 yrs.
I have been in the medical field for the last 25 yrs and have worked my way up from being a behavioral health tech to a unit secretary, patient care tech, LPN, RN for over 17 yrs and then have been a nurse practitioner for the last 5 yrs.

I have over 10 years of nursing experience working with individuals across the lifespan in various settings. I graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and from Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am enthusiastic about incorporating my experience, skills, and knowledge to establish an enduring and trusting relationship with clients and hope to make a difference in their lives.
I have over 10 years of nursing experience working with individuals across the lifespan in various settings. I graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and from Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am enthusiastic about incorporating my experience, skills, and knowledge to establish an enduring and trusting relationship with clients and hope to make a difference in their lives.

At Connect Mental Health and Wellness, we are dedicated to supporting each client with a blend of professionalism, loyalty, and warmth. Serving clients from age 6 onwards, our team passionately works to resolve a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether managing mood disorders, relationship conflicts, or life transitions, we approach each situation with encouragement and unwavering support, focusing on enhancing your overall well-being.
At Connect Mental Health and Wellness, we are dedicated to supporting each client with a blend of professionalism, loyalty, and warmth. Serving clients from age 6 onwards, our team passionately works to resolve a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether managing mood disorders, relationship conflicts, or life transitions, we approach each situation with encouragement and unwavering support, focusing on enhancing your overall well-being.

Life is so often overwhelming. I want to work with you to find small ways and big ways to make meaningful changes to your everyday life. I approach my work with a compassionate, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed lens. I believe you deserve a provider who takes the time to listen, understand, and collaborate with you to develop a plan to fits your unique journey. My typical intake appointments are 90 minutes long and my follow-ups are typically 30 minutes. I want to make sure you have the time to be heard and understood. - - - Currently only accepting new patients with perinatal/infertility/pregnancy/postpartum concerns.
Life is so often overwhelming. I want to work with you to find small ways and big ways to make meaningful changes to your everyday life. I approach my work with a compassionate, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed lens. I believe you deserve a provider who takes the time to listen, understand, and collaborate with you to develop a plan to fits your unique journey. My typical intake appointments are 90 minutes long and my follow-ups are typically 30 minutes. I want to make sure you have the time to be heard and understood. - - - Currently only accepting new patients with perinatal/infertility/pregnancy/postpartum concerns.

Tammie Resendez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 9 years of experience in mental health care. Specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders, I provide patient-centered care to individuals across the lifespan. With a strong background in psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy, I work collaboratively with patients to create personalized treatment plans that promote mental well-being.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 9 years of experience in mental health care. Specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders, I provide patient-centered care to individuals across the lifespan. With a strong background in psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy, I work collaboratively with patients to create personalized treatment plans that promote mental well-being.

I am licensed and board certified in psychiatry and neurology. I am a seasoned psychiatrist with 17 years experience. After earning my medical degree at University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in 2002, I then completed my residency at University of Colorado School of Medicine, specializing in General Adult Psychiatry. Previous to joining Serenity, I gained valuable experience as an Attending In-Patient Physician at several award-winning hospitals in Denver, Colorado.
I am licensed and board certified in psychiatry and neurology. I am a seasoned psychiatrist with 17 years experience. After earning my medical degree at University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in 2002, I then completed my residency at University of Colorado School of Medicine, specializing in General Adult Psychiatry. Previous to joining Serenity, I gained valuable experience as an Attending In-Patient Physician at several award-winning hospitals in Denver, Colorado.

Brianne Terrell- Psychiatric Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? ADD/ADHD or OCD? Considering medication or need to tweak your prescription for better results? Personalized medication management can help you achieve emotional wellness, optimizing benefits and reducing side effects. Compassionate, comprehensive care addresses both symptoms and root causes. In a safe, non- judgmental environment, you can expect compassionate care based on your unique experiences and goals. With ongoing support, you will be heard. Call today for an initial appointment. Start your journey toward calm, balance, and focus. I would love to hear your story.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? ADD/ADHD or OCD? Considering medication or need to tweak your prescription for better results? Personalized medication management can help you achieve emotional wellness, optimizing benefits and reducing side effects. Compassionate, comprehensive care addresses both symptoms and root causes. In a safe, non- judgmental environment, you can expect compassionate care based on your unique experiences and goals. With ongoing support, you will be heard. Call today for an initial appointment. Start your journey toward calm, balance, and focus. I would love to hear your story.
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YuWellnes Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to YuWellnes Telepsychiatry! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate and personalized care to individuals struggling with mental health concerns. My goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental wellness and achieve their full potential.
Welcome to YuWellnes Telepsychiatry! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate and personalized care to individuals struggling with mental health concerns. My goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental wellness and achieve their full potential.

With 3 decades of experience as a registered nurse with six of those years spent caring for varied population with mental, behavioral and substance use disorders, I have a versatile skills in making a great impact in the lives of individuals, groups and families with mental health challenges. The knowledge I gained from earning an advanced degree in conjunction with my wealth of experience, accord me with capabilities to use evidence-based assessment tools to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and systematically in collaboration with you reduce and overtime eliminate them with medications and psychotherapy.
With 3 decades of experience as a registered nurse with six of those years spent caring for varied population with mental, behavioral and substance use disorders, I have a versatile skills in making a great impact in the lives of individuals, groups and families with mental health challenges. The knowledge I gained from earning an advanced degree in conjunction with my wealth of experience, accord me with capabilities to use evidence-based assessment tools to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and systematically in collaboration with you reduce and overtime eliminate them with medications and psychotherapy.

Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering medication management. As a healthcare professional, I believe it’s my responsibility to provide as much education about psychiatric conditions and psychotropic medications to you as I can, to help you make an informed decision about treatment. You know better than anyone else what your experience is and what your goals are. My goal is that we come up with a treatment plan together that is appropriate and doable, whether that includes medications or not. I believe that medications won’t always solve everything. Support is just as important, if not more.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering medication management. As a healthcare professional, I believe it’s my responsibility to provide as much education about psychiatric conditions and psychotropic medications to you as I can, to help you make an informed decision about treatment. You know better than anyone else what your experience is and what your goals are. My goal is that we come up with a treatment plan together that is appropriate and doable, whether that includes medications or not. I believe that medications won’t always solve everything. Support is just as important, if not more.

Although, I treat most mental health challenges I have a special passion for helping those who struggle with ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression which have personally affected both myself and my family. I will work to address systemic factors that go beyond effective medication management to include lifestyle changes, evidence based supplements, and other approaches to dramically impact outcomes. Effective treatment starts with a careful assessment of the challenges you face and I will take the time necessary to do this right.
Although, I treat most mental health challenges I have a special passion for helping those who struggle with ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression which have personally affected both myself and my family. I will work to address systemic factors that go beyond effective medication management to include lifestyle changes, evidence based supplements, and other approaches to dramically impact outcomes. Effective treatment starts with a careful assessment of the challenges you face and I will take the time necessary to do this right.

I assist my clients in optimizing their cognitive, emotional, physical and spiritual health. We are all unique and require diverse approaches in order to achieve our maximum potential. I will listen to your specific concerns and tailor a treatment plan which reflects your priorities. I will never cease in my commitment to helping you achieve your goals.
I assist my clients in optimizing their cognitive, emotional, physical and spiritual health. We are all unique and require diverse approaches in order to achieve our maximum potential. I will listen to your specific concerns and tailor a treatment plan which reflects your priorities. I will never cease in my commitment to helping you achieve your goals.

Dr. Maria Ingalla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, PMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in evaluations and medication management. I own Paperflower Psychiatry. We are an inclusive practice that can help you decide on whether medication is right for you including risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision. We have providers who hold the same values..being real with you, none of this professionalism BS and we won't shame you for cannabis use :) I have trained a few of our NPs and provide mentorship to each of them. We see ages 6-24, and promise we can give you an amazing experience. LGBTQIA+ allied!
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in evaluations and medication management. I own Paperflower Psychiatry. We are an inclusive practice that can help you decide on whether medication is right for you including risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision. We have providers who hold the same values..being real with you, none of this professionalism BS and we won't shame you for cannabis use :) I have trained a few of our NPs and provide mentorship to each of them. We see ages 6-24, and promise we can give you an amazing experience. LGBTQIA+ allied!

Esther Amuzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBBS, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health is never something to be ashamed of. Health is wholeness in both body and mind. Esther is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in Arizona. Call or email today to schedule a 15-minute consultation to determine if we are a good fit for each other. Esther believes that keeping the mind healthy is each and every one of our responsibilities. Her passion for helping others achieve wholeness and mental well-being has seen her practice in various capacities in the healthcare field, first as a medical officer for several years before relocation to the USA, where she continued her education.
Mental health is never something to be ashamed of. Health is wholeness in both body and mind. Esther is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in Arizona. Call or email today to schedule a 15-minute consultation to determine if we are a good fit for each other. Esther believes that keeping the mind healthy is each and every one of our responsibilities. Her passion for helping others achieve wholeness and mental well-being has seen her practice in various capacities in the healthcare field, first as a medical officer for several years before relocation to the USA, where she continued her education.

Are your struggling with your depression and anxiety and have found that traditional antidepressants have not been effective? Approximately 66% of the population with depression do not find relief from antidepressants. Call us for a consultation and learn about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). TMS is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes MRI technology by sending magnetic pulses directly to areas of the brain that regulate mood, improving symptoms of depression. TMS therapy is highly effective. TMS therapy is Long-lasting. TMS therapy is covered by insurances. TMS therapy is Medication Free. No side effects.
Are your struggling with your depression and anxiety and have found that traditional antidepressants have not been effective? Approximately 66% of the population with depression do not find relief from antidepressants. Call us for a consultation and learn about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). TMS is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes MRI technology by sending magnetic pulses directly to areas of the brain that regulate mood, improving symptoms of depression. TMS therapy is highly effective. TMS therapy is Long-lasting. TMS therapy is covered by insurances. TMS therapy is Medication Free. No side effects.

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.
See more therapy options for 85016
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 85016
70+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in 85016 who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | ADHD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Aetna |
79% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 85016 see their clients
65% | Online Only | |
35% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 85016?
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.