Psychiatrists in 85233

Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP,, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Gilbert, AZ 85233
Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness is currently accepting new patients. Latoya C. Murphy is a Doctoral prepared, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18yrs of experience in the medical field. She will provide general psychiatric services for adolescent’s, adult, and geriatrics patients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, trauma, drug, and alcohol abuse.
Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness is currently accepting new patients. Latoya C. Murphy is a Doctoral prepared, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18yrs of experience in the medical field. She will provide general psychiatric services for adolescent’s, adult, and geriatrics patients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, trauma, drug, and alcohol abuse.

Our Ideal client is someone that has struggled with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, or addictions. They want to be heard and their specific story heard and understood. They want to be seen as an individual and be treated as a unique person, not just another prescription to fill. Our clients want richer and more vibrant lives. They want to wake up with Hope, looking forward to seeing their family, friends and co workers. They want to feel like they did before...
Our Ideal client is someone that has struggled with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, or addictions. They want to be heard and their specific story heard and understood. They want to be seen as an individual and be treated as a unique person, not just another prescription to fill. Our clients want richer and more vibrant lives. They want to wake up with Hope, looking forward to seeing their family, friends and co workers. They want to feel like they did before...

I’m excited you’re here! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with people across the lifespan, from childhood/adolescence through to older adulthood, who have struggled to move forward or even stay afloat. I have been in mental health for 20 years across various settings (inpatient, outpatient, emergency psych, and community treatment) and patient populations (general mental health to severe mental illness). I have earned Bachelor's Degrees in both Psychology and Nursing and a Master's Degree as a psych NP.
I’m excited you’re here! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with people across the lifespan, from childhood/adolescence through to older adulthood, who have struggled to move forward or even stay afloat. I have been in mental health for 20 years across various settings (inpatient, outpatient, emergency psych, and community treatment) and patient populations (general mental health to severe mental illness). I have earned Bachelor's Degrees in both Psychology and Nursing and a Master's Degree as a psych NP.

Life at times can be a challenging journey but the good news is that you do not have to take the journey alone. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am here to walk the path with you through the ups and downs. I graduated from Eastern Kentucky University and have over 20 years of healthcare experience. My approach to care is client centered offering holistic care that encompasses the needs of the client’s mind, body and spirit.
Life at times can be a challenging journey but the good news is that you do not have to take the journey alone. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am here to walk the path with you through the ups and downs. I graduated from Eastern Kentucky University and have over 20 years of healthcare experience. My approach to care is client centered offering holistic care that encompasses the needs of the client’s mind, body and spirit.

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

Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.

Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) 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 (Telepsychiatry) 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

Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.

Foothills Psychiatric Service PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Foothills psychiatric services offer mobile and telepsychiatry services in the valley and surrounding areas. We provide psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, medication management, and therapy. We specialize in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, personality disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, treatment-resistant depression, among others.
Foothills psychiatric services offer mobile and telepsychiatry services in the valley and surrounding areas. We provide psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, medication management, and therapy. We specialize in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, personality disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, treatment-resistant depression, among others.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults grappling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and disordered eating. With a strong foundation in mental health care, I am dedicated to providing personalized support that addresses both the emotional and psychological needs of my patients. My therapeutic approach combines medication management with evidence-based interventions, drawing from dialectical, cognitive, behavioral, and solution-focused therapies to create a well-rounded treatment plan.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults grappling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and disordered eating. With a strong foundation in mental health care, I am dedicated to providing personalized support that addresses both the emotional and psychological needs of my patients. My therapeutic approach combines medication management with evidence-based interventions, drawing from dialectical, cognitive, behavioral, and solution-focused therapies to create a well-rounded treatment plan.

Vanessa Curry (Summit Place Mental Health Llc)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
(**NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS**- PRACTICE IS TELEHEALTH) Are you struggling with Depression? Anxiety? Mood swings? Do you have chronic medical conditions which are impacting your mental state? Are your medications not working, or are you looking for other ways to help your symptoms without taking another pill? Have you lost your insurance, or can't find anyone who takes your insurance? If any of these questions sound familiar, we can help!
(**NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS**- PRACTICE IS TELEHEALTH) Are you struggling with Depression? Anxiety? Mood swings? Do you have chronic medical conditions which are impacting your mental state? Are your medications not working, or are you looking for other ways to help your symptoms without taking another pill? Have you lost your insurance, or can't find anyone who takes your insurance? If any of these questions sound familiar, we can help!

Life is difficult. Finding a prescribing mental health professional who understands your needs shouldn't be. At Platinum Psychiatry, we are committed to helping you have the experience that you deserve. We are an outpatient clinic that serves men and women ages 6 and up, who struggle with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and more. We have a team approach to treating mental illness. We will work with you to understand your symptoms and to improve your quality of life. In a field full of confusion, stigma, and poor customer service, we offer a new way of experiencing mental health services.
Life is difficult. Finding a prescribing mental health professional who understands your needs shouldn't be. At Platinum Psychiatry, we are committed to helping you have the experience that you deserve. We are an outpatient clinic that serves men and women ages 6 and up, who struggle with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and more. We have a team approach to treating mental illness. We will work with you to understand your symptoms and to improve your quality of life. In a field full of confusion, stigma, and poor customer service, we offer a new way of experiencing mental health services.

Now Accepting New Patients! At Thrive Psychiatry LLC, you’ll receive personalized, compassionate care where you’re heard, never rushed, and treated as a partner in your treatment planning. I take a holistic approach to your well-being, believing that medication is most effective when combined with strong therapeutic support. With over 22 years of experience as a junior high and high school teacher, I have a deep passion for working with adolescents, but I welcome patients of all ages. As a solution-focused psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to help you realize your full potential and live a fulfilling, meaningful life.
Now Accepting New Patients! At Thrive Psychiatry LLC, you’ll receive personalized, compassionate care where you’re heard, never rushed, and treated as a partner in your treatment planning. I take a holistic approach to your well-being, believing that medication is most effective when combined with strong therapeutic support. With over 22 years of experience as a junior high and high school teacher, I have a deep passion for working with adolescents, but I welcome patients of all ages. As a solution-focused psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to help you realize your full potential and live a fulfilling, meaningful life.

Hello and welcome! I’m Janet Foster, a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I work with individuals navigating mental health journeys, seeking balance and well-being. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, or other concerns, I'm here for you. I understand your unique needs, strengths, and challenges, and I’m committed to providing a safe and empathetic environment where you feel heard, understood, and supported. Let's embark on your mental health journey together.
Hello and welcome! I’m Janet Foster, a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I work with individuals navigating mental health journeys, seeking balance and well-being. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, or other concerns, I'm here for you. I understand your unique needs, strengths, and challenges, and I’m committed to providing a safe and empathetic environment where you feel heard, understood, and supported. Let's embark on your mental health journey together.

I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.

Lee is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner at Paradigm Psychiatry. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University in 2014. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Massachusetts - Amherst, a Master of Science in Biology from Yonsei University in Korea, and a diploma in Clinical Research from Toronto. With over 10 years of nursing experience primarily in hospitals and clinical research trials in Massachusetts and Toronto, Lee brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice.
Lee is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner at Paradigm Psychiatry. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University in 2014. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Massachusetts - Amherst, a Master of Science in Biology from Yonsei University in Korea, and a diploma in Clinical Research from Toronto. With over 10 years of nursing experience primarily in hospitals and clinical research trials in Massachusetts and Toronto, Lee brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice.

At Summit Mental Health & Wellness, PLLC, Stephanie helps provide a compassionate & comprehensive range of services to support your emotional well-being & mental health. Stephanie is committed to partner with you to navigate life's challenges & empower you to lead a fulfilling life. Visit summitmentalhealthaz.com for more information.
At Summit Mental Health & Wellness, PLLC, Stephanie helps provide a compassionate & comprehensive range of services to support your emotional well-being & mental health. Stephanie is committed to partner with you to navigate life's challenges & empower you to lead a fulfilling life. Visit summitmentalhealthaz.com for more information.

TELEPSYCH and in person visits available! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Finding the correct medication can be life transforming and allow you to live the life you have always envisioned for your child or yourself. I approach psychiatric care holistically and will provide you with nonmedication suggestions and resources that can enhance your recovery process. Our practice also offers ketamine infusion therapy and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
TELEPSYCH and in person visits available! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Finding the correct medication can be life transforming and allow you to live the life you have always envisioned for your child or yourself. I approach psychiatric care holistically and will provide you with nonmedication suggestions and resources that can enhance your recovery process. Our practice also offers ketamine infusion therapy and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).

I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.

Brian Thomas is a psychiatric NP, located in Tempe, AZ, seeing clients at Thriving Mind Solutions. He has worked in mental health field and community in many diverse environments bringing clinical expertise and experience to support his clients.
His commitment is evident through his dedicated efforts to foster collaborative relationships with clients. Brian specializes in creating personalized treatment plans to enhance mental health and overall well-being, catering specifically to individuals dealing with ADHD, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally, he works with individuals struggling with OCD, trauma, and more.
Brian Thomas is a psychiatric NP, located in Tempe, AZ, seeing clients at Thriving Mind Solutions. He has worked in mental health field and community in many diverse environments bringing clinical expertise and experience to support his clients.
His commitment is evident through his dedicated efforts to foster collaborative relationships with clients. Brian specializes in creating personalized treatment plans to enhance mental health and overall well-being, catering specifically to individuals dealing with ADHD, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally, he works with individuals struggling with OCD, trauma, and more.
See more therapy options for 85233
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 85233
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 85233 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
96% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
96% | Bipolar Disorder |
91% | Depression |
87% | ADHD |
83% | Sleep or Insomnia |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 85233 see their clients
83% | In Person and Online | |
17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 85233?
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.