Psychiatrists in 85086

John Garofalo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anthem, AZ 85086
I am a thorough, caring, and compassionate family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to helping you overcome challenges and achieve whole-person health and wellness. I work with people who struggle with sleep, excessive stress, professional burnout, overweight/obesity, chronic illnesses, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. My holistic and individualized approach includes conservative, conventional medication regimens, complementary/integrative therapies, and lifestyle interventions. I coordinate my care plans with those of your medical team so you stay safer and everyone is on the same page.
I am a thorough, caring, and compassionate family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to helping you overcome challenges and achieve whole-person health and wellness. I work with people who struggle with sleep, excessive stress, professional burnout, overweight/obesity, chronic illnesses, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. My holistic and individualized approach includes conservative, conventional medication regimens, complementary/integrative therapies, and lifestyle interventions. I coordinate my care plans with those of your medical team so you stay safer and everyone is on the same page.
(928) 628-6494 View (928) 628-6494
Photo of Dr. David Tanis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. David Tanis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anthem, AZ 85086
Transform Your Mental Health with Ketamine Treatment. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD? Traditional therapies and medications don’t always provide the relief you need. I offer innovative ketamine treatment designed to help you reclaim your life. Why Choose Ketamine? Rapid Relief: Many patients experience improvement within hours, not weeks. Effective for Treatment-Resistant Conditions: Ketamine is a breakthrough option for those who have not responded to conventional treatments. Safe and Supervised: Our expert team provides personalized care in a comfortable, private setting.
Transform Your Mental Health with Ketamine Treatment. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD? Traditional therapies and medications don’t always provide the relief you need. I offer innovative ketamine treatment designed to help you reclaim your life. Why Choose Ketamine? Rapid Relief: Many patients experience improvement within hours, not weeks. Effective for Treatment-Resistant Conditions: Ketamine is a breakthrough option for those who have not responded to conventional treatments. Safe and Supervised: Our expert team provides personalized care in a comfortable, private setting.
(928) 693-4527 View (928) 693-4527
Photo of Pinky P Villamor, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pinky P Villamor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Have you ever felt that the life you envisioned is too far out of reach? Life can be very difficult at times. Certain aspects of life such as family, personal relationships, school, or work can be overwhelmingly challenging. They can get you to the point where you feel empty, hopeless, and even anxious. Discussing those emotions with a trained professional can be lifesaving. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adult and child psychiatry. My passion is to accompany and help you attain your mental health goals.
Have you ever felt that the life you envisioned is too far out of reach? Life can be very difficult at times. Certain aspects of life such as family, personal relationships, school, or work can be overwhelmingly challenging. They can get you to the point where you feel empty, hopeless, and even anxious. Discussing those emotions with a trained professional can be lifesaving. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adult and child psychiatry. My passion is to accompany and help you attain your mental health goals.
(928) 291-2078 View (928) 291-2078
Photo of Ana McNabb, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ana McNabb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ana loves working with a diverse spectrum of patients. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she works with patients of ages 5 and older, and very passionate about providing them the care they need. Whether looking to address mood dysregulation, poor focus and attention, depression, anxiety or other mental health symptoms, she can offer the medication management support you need to be your "best self." Her approachable, kind nature, makes her super popular with her patients!
Ana loves working with a diverse spectrum of patients. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she works with patients of ages 5 and older, and very passionate about providing them the care they need. Whether looking to address mood dysregulation, poor focus and attention, depression, anxiety or other mental health symptoms, she can offer the medication management support you need to be your "best self." Her approachable, kind nature, makes her super popular with her patients!
(480) 252-5152 View (480) 252-5152
Strategies for Success
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsychNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Psychiatrist (MD) with a positive, caring and down to earth approach, I take a holistic view of your medication management experience. In addition to medications, I also believe in lifestyle changes, psychotherapy and wellness activities that contribute to your overall well being. My goal is by working together, we can work on helping you achieve the best quality of life you can have. I will listen, and take time to make sure you are heard. I will also take the time to make sure you understand my recommendations, and answer questions that you have about recommendations for any medications that I may make for you.
As a Psychiatrist (MD) with a positive, caring and down to earth approach, I take a holistic view of your medication management experience. In addition to medications, I also believe in lifestyle changes, psychotherapy and wellness activities that contribute to your overall well being. My goal is by working together, we can work on helping you achieve the best quality of life you can have. I will listen, and take time to make sure you are heard. I will also take the time to make sure you understand my recommendations, and answer questions that you have about recommendations for any medications that I may make for you.
(480) 339-0570 View (480) 339-0570
Photo of Sherri Crespin, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherri Crespin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Provider accepting new patients as of March 2025- call to book. My ideal clients are individuals who are seeking a comprehensive, holistic approach to their mental health care. They typically come to me with complex mental health challenges. These clients are often at a point where they're ready for a change. They've tried other treatments or providers but haven't found the relief they're seeking. They're open to innovative approaches and are willing to actively participate in their treatment process.
Provider accepting new patients as of March 2025- call to book. My ideal clients are individuals who are seeking a comprehensive, holistic approach to their mental health care. They typically come to me with complex mental health challenges. These clients are often at a point where they're ready for a change. They've tried other treatments or providers but haven't found the relief they're seeking. They're open to innovative approaches and are willing to actively participate in their treatment process.
(602) 800-4699 View (602) 800-4699
Photo of Dr. Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(520) 527-7846 View (520) 527-7846
Photo of Taylor English, PA, Physician Assistant
Taylor English
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal is to provide individualized treatment in order to help patients achieve long term success. I am qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe for children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with individuals who are working toward being their best self. This frequently involves prescribing medications to target the specific symptoms that a patient may be experiencing. I want to help my patients overcome issues with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and several other mental health disorders.
My goal is to provide individualized treatment in order to help patients achieve long term success. I am qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe for children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with individuals who are working toward being their best self. This frequently involves prescribing medications to target the specific symptoms that a patient may be experiencing. I want to help my patients overcome issues with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and several other mental health disorders.
(602) 536-5810 View (602) 536-5810
Photo of Bert Antonio Marrero, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bert Antonio Marrero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am currently taking new patients of all ages. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression and preventing you from living? I can help you get your life back. Has trauma held you or your teen back from building loving relationships, holding high self-worth? I can feel your pain and suffering. I have experience treating veterans, pediatric, adult, and geriatric psychiatry. I combine holistic modalities with traditional medication management to get the optimal desired effect. Also certified in health coaching and addiction medicine. You do not need to suffer or feel alone. I am here to listen and help. Languages: English & Spanish.
I am currently taking new patients of all ages. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression and preventing you from living? I can help you get your life back. Has trauma held you or your teen back from building loving relationships, holding high self-worth? I can feel your pain and suffering. I have experience treating veterans, pediatric, adult, and geriatric psychiatry. I combine holistic modalities with traditional medication management to get the optimal desired effect. Also certified in health coaching and addiction medicine. You do not need to suffer or feel alone. I am here to listen and help. Languages: English & Spanish.
(623) 399-9056 View (623) 399-9056
Photo of Tatiana Sanabria, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tatiana Sanabria
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(480) 613-7901 View (480) 613-7901
Photo of Michael Reese Lawrence, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Reese Lawrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
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.
(480) 906-4297 View (480) 906-4297
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
Photo of Anita Sassaman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anita Sassaman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Anita has more than 8 yrs experience as psychiatric nurse practitioner, and experience as telepsych provider for more than 4 yrs. Her experiences include outpatient, inpatient, military, and civilian; works with children and adult populations.
Anita has more than 8 yrs experience as psychiatric nurse practitioner, and experience as telepsych provider for more than 4 yrs. Her experiences include outpatient, inpatient, military, and civilian; works with children and adult populations.
(520) 263-1613 View (520) 263-1613
Photo of Allison Solarz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Solarz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Neighborhood Psychiatry offers mental health services for adults and children, including evaluation, medication management, supportive psychotherapy, behavior modification, health screening, referrals, animal letters, and work-related accommodations. Services are offered in-clinic, in-home, or via HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Ms. Solarz is accepting most commercial insurance plans and private/cash pay. Same-day, next-day, weekend, and evening appointments are available.
Neighborhood Psychiatry offers mental health services for adults and children, including evaluation, medication management, supportive psychotherapy, behavior modification, health screening, referrals, animal letters, and work-related accommodations. Services are offered in-clinic, in-home, or via HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Ms. Solarz is accepting most commercial insurance plans and private/cash pay. Same-day, next-day, weekend, and evening appointments are available.
(623) 343-6877 View (623) 343-6877

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Olayinka Osinloye, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olayinka Osinloye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is NP Osinloye, I graduated from PMHNP in June 2021 and I've been practicing since. I have experience in in-patient, out-patient, and correction. I also have experience in primary care. I'm a psychiatry provider, been in practice over 2 years. I see client from 8 years old and above, prescribing medications and brief counseling. I'm also FNP. I'm compassionate, treat people with respect, and listen to patient's concern.
My name is NP Osinloye, I graduated from PMHNP in June 2021 and I've been practicing since. I have experience in in-patient, out-patient, and correction. I also have experience in primary care. I'm a psychiatry provider, been in practice over 2 years. I see client from 8 years old and above, prescribing medications and brief counseling. I'm also FNP. I'm compassionate, treat people with respect, and listen to patient's concern.
(623) 288-5647 View (623) 288-5647
Photo of Peter Njogu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peter Njogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
I focus on keeping my patients healthy and providing top-notch care. I treat various conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and substance abuse. My goal is to improve your mental health through medication and treatment options.
I focus on keeping my patients healthy and providing top-notch care. I treat various conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and substance abuse. My goal is to improve your mental health through medication and treatment options.
(520) 524-4765 View (520) 524-4765
Photo of Brian T McCullough - Serene Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serene Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
At Serene Psychiatry, it is our dedication and vision to create a healthy quality of life through psychiatric care. Serene Psychiatry utilizes the most up to date psychopharmacology in psychiatry and psychotherapy to bring wellness, peace, and serenity back to our client's lives.
At Serene Psychiatry, it is our dedication and vision to create a healthy quality of life through psychiatric care. Serene Psychiatry utilizes the most up to date psychopharmacology in psychiatry and psychotherapy to bring wellness, peace, and serenity back to our client's lives.
(623) 323-9606 View (623) 323-9606
Photo of Lindsey Dunning, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsey Dunning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Lindsey Dunning is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) who embodies empathy and compassion in her approach to mental health care. She is dedicated to providing support for individuals navigating mental health disorders, believing deeply in the power of collaboration. Lindsey treats each individual uniquely, understanding we are all different and strives to optimize your well-being. Lindsey works closely with clients, their families, and healthcare teams to ensure that each individual’s needs and goals are met.
Lindsey Dunning is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) who embodies empathy and compassion in her approach to mental health care. She is dedicated to providing support for individuals navigating mental health disorders, believing deeply in the power of collaboration. Lindsey treats each individual uniquely, understanding we are all different and strives to optimize your well-being. Lindsey works closely with clients, their families, and healthcare teams to ensure that each individual’s needs and goals are met.
(928) 842-8298 View (928) 842-8298
Photo of Nicholas C. Eisemann-Astone, PMHNP, MSN, BS, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicholas C. Eisemann-Astone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BS, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The brain is a complex and delicate organ, influenced by nearly every aspect of human existence. Childhood upbringing, exposure to trauma, environment, genetics, biological makeup, diet, and both individual and collective experiences are just a few of the critical factors that shape brain development, function, and mental health. You are a unique individual who deserves to be heard and listened to in a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe environment. I pledge to meet you wherever you are in life's voyage and to provide the compassionate and personalized care necessary to foster your personal growth and healing.
The brain is a complex and delicate organ, influenced by nearly every aspect of human existence. Childhood upbringing, exposure to trauma, environment, genetics, biological makeup, diet, and both individual and collective experiences are just a few of the critical factors that shape brain development, function, and mental health. You are a unique individual who deserves to be heard and listened to in a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe environment. I pledge to meet you wherever you are in life's voyage and to provide the compassionate and personalized care necessary to foster your personal growth and healing.
(602) 560-6548 View (602) 560-6548
Photo of Brenda Sanchez, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Health is a complex relationship between mind, body and environment, and deep healing requires more than just medication. At Esperanza Mental Health, I take on a whole person approach by addressing both the biological and psychological factors to restore balance and foster a lifetime of healing. I specialize in supporting teens and professionals through life's challenges, whether it's managing ADHD, supporting mothers with postpartum depression and survivors of sexual trauma, or finding stability amidst change. I value traditional psychiatry and believe in the power of combining complementary and alternative medicine.
Health is a complex relationship between mind, body and environment, and deep healing requires more than just medication. At Esperanza Mental Health, I take on a whole person approach by addressing both the biological and psychological factors to restore balance and foster a lifetime of healing. I specialize in supporting teens and professionals through life's challenges, whether it's managing ADHD, supporting mothers with postpartum depression and survivors of sexual trauma, or finding stability amidst change. I value traditional psychiatry and believe in the power of combining complementary and alternative medicine.
(602) 853-4600 View (602) 853-4600

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 85086

10+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in 85086 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
93% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
93% Trauma and PTSD
86% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 85086 see their clients

64% Online Only
36% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 85086?

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.