Psychiatrists in 85383

Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85383
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 18 years of experience in the medical field. She will provide general psychiatric services for children age 6 and up, 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 18 years of experience in the medical field. She will provide general psychiatric services for children age 6 and up, adult, and geriatrics patients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, trauma, drug and alcohol abuse.

White Peak Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Vanessa has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years. She has extensive experience and knowledge treating adults with chronic mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorders, bipolar and PTSD. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has treated those with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders. Her well rounded experience provides her with the ability to identify and treat different mental health conditions with evidence-based treatment options.
Vanessa has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years. She has extensive experience and knowledge treating adults with chronic mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorders, bipolar and PTSD. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has treated those with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders. Her well rounded experience provides her with the ability to identify and treat different mental health conditions with evidence-based treatment options.

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.

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.

Now accepting new clients! My approach doesn't include rushed prescriptions or a "one-size-fits all" solution. Instead, I will collaborate with you on a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My hope is that you will leave our session with a sense of relief, knowing that you have a provider who hears you, and a treatment plan that reflects deep consideration of your needs.
Now accepting new clients! My approach doesn't include rushed prescriptions or a "one-size-fits all" solution. Instead, I will collaborate with you on a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My hope is that you will leave our session with a sense of relief, knowing that you have a provider who hears you, and a treatment plan that reflects deep consideration of your needs.

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

Currently only taking new adult patients. I enjoy working with a variety of patients. My goal is to establish a relationship with my patients that allows for open communication about current and past challenges. This may include medications and psychotherapy in order to allow for rapid improvements.
Currently only taking new adult patients. I enjoy working with a variety of patients. My goal is to establish a relationship with my patients that allows for open communication about current and past challenges. This may include medications and psychotherapy in order to allow for rapid improvements.

Jessica Cummings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
How many times have you felt unheard as a patient, especially when it comes to your mental wellness? Have you been offered medications that either don’t seem to be benefiting you or are you looking for other options? In medicine, for every ill, there is a pill. For every pill, there is a potential side effect. Sometimes it’s about the skills, not just the pills. With over 20 years in healthcare, the desire to treat patients better as a “whole” along with the COVID pandemic of 2020, I nearly walked away from providing care entirely. Essentially, I was fed up. My focus shifted to treating the mental health of patients & families.
How many times have you felt unheard as a patient, especially when it comes to your mental wellness? Have you been offered medications that either don’t seem to be benefiting you or are you looking for other options? In medicine, for every ill, there is a pill. For every pill, there is a potential side effect. Sometimes it’s about the skills, not just the pills. With over 20 years in healthcare, the desire to treat patients better as a “whole” along with the COVID pandemic of 2020, I nearly walked away from providing care entirely. Essentially, I was fed up. My focus shifted to treating the mental health of patients & families.

Irina V Ashamalla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383
I offer services for the entire family to help to repair interpersonal relationship, provide life coaching and guidance though both medication management and therapy approach combined on-demand and tailored specifically for individual patient needs. I offer services for young children who don't qualify for medication management through play therapy starting from 4 years of age. I like to raise awareness for mental health issues and break the stigma because it’s “ok not to be ok”. Psychological problems can affect anyone and when one family member has a mental health problem like “anxiety” or a “mood disorder”, it affects everyone.
I offer services for the entire family to help to repair interpersonal relationship, provide life coaching and guidance though both medication management and therapy approach combined on-demand and tailored specifically for individual patient needs. I offer services for young children who don't qualify for medication management through play therapy starting from 4 years of age. I like to raise awareness for mental health issues and break the stigma because it’s “ok not to be ok”. Psychological problems can affect anyone and when one family member has a mental health problem like “anxiety” or a “mood disorder”, it affects everyone.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

A dedicated PMHNP-BC and an FNP-BC, providing comprehensive & compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan. I have developed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, phobias, substance abuse, and addiction etc. My approach to care is holistic, integrating evidence-based practices with a compassionate understanding of each patient’s unique circumstances. My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of my patients, advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma
A dedicated PMHNP-BC and an FNP-BC, providing comprehensive & compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan. I have developed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, phobias, substance abuse, and addiction etc. My approach to care is holistic, integrating evidence-based practices with a compassionate understanding of each patient’s unique circumstances. My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of my patients, advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma

Daniel Lamanna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Tucson, Arizona and the co-owner of Manzanita Mind Institute. I provide diagnostic assessment and evaluation and prescribe psychiatric medication to address a wide variety of mental health concerns. I work from an integrated biological, psychological, social framework and tailor my care to meet the unique needs of each patient.
I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Tucson, Arizona and the co-owner of Manzanita Mind Institute. I provide diagnostic assessment and evaluation and prescribe psychiatric medication to address a wide variety of mental health concerns. I work from an integrated biological, psychological, social framework and tailor my care to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Harmony Haven Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Nadene Barker, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I help adults with general mental health disorders who are struggling with irritability, fluctuation in mood, inability to concentrate, poor interpersonal relationships, insomnia, decreased or increased appetite, fear and worrying for unknown reasons among other symptoms to improve their lifestyle and become more productive and successful in their daily tasks. I offer integrative psychiatric care that goes beyond medication management and includes solution-oriented psychotherapy, lifestyle coaching, supplements. and mindfulness meditation.
I am Nadene Barker, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I help adults with general mental health disorders who are struggling with irritability, fluctuation in mood, inability to concentrate, poor interpersonal relationships, insomnia, decreased or increased appetite, fear and worrying for unknown reasons among other symptoms to improve their lifestyle and become more productive and successful in their daily tasks. I offer integrative psychiatric care that goes beyond medication management and includes solution-oriented psychotherapy, lifestyle coaching, supplements. and mindfulness meditation.

Stephanie L. Weingard graduated from Florida International University, achieving a post-masters certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in inpatient, outpatient and intensive outpatient settings over the past 8 years. She is also a United States Air Force Reservist and works providing mental health care to both active duty and reserve members.
Stephanie L. Weingard graduated from Florida International University, achieving a post-masters certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in inpatient, outpatient and intensive outpatient settings over the past 8 years. She is also a United States Air Force Reservist and works providing mental health care to both active duty and reserve members.

At Health and Wellness Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized treatment to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and we are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can feel comfortable seeking help. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges faced by individuals with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and other mental health disorders.
At Health and Wellness Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized treatment to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and we are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can feel comfortable seeking help. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges faced by individuals with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and other mental health disorders.

Amy Stoetzel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults grappling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, 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 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, bipolar, 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 cognitive, behavioral, and solution-focused therapies to create a well-rounded treatment plan.

At Arizona Restorative Psychiatry we seek to get to know each patient on an individualized level and develop a treatment plan using our four core values to fully restore physical and mental health. We have 4 providers at our office. David Chong M.D and Josi Bernal PA-C who enjoy working with general mental health (Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mood Disorder, ADHD) and Brad Zehring D.O and Erica Neal PA-C who specialize in Eating Disorder.
At Arizona Restorative Psychiatry we seek to get to know each patient on an individualized level and develop a treatment plan using our four core values to fully restore physical and mental health. We have 4 providers at our office. David Chong M.D and Josi Bernal PA-C who enjoy working with general mental health (Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mood Disorder, ADHD) and Brad Zehring D.O and Erica Neal PA-C who specialize in Eating Disorder.

Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.

Charissa Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
You shouldn't have to struggle to get through the day nor should you have to settle for just feeling "OK". I believe the mind, body, and spirit should work together in harmony so that we may become our best selves, cope well during difficult times, and live the lives we truly deserve. I've found this can be achieved through psychotherapy, collaborating with other providers, good nutrition and sleep hygiene, physical exercise, discovering what brings us joy and in some cases medication management. Ultimately, I believe in a holistic & individualized approach, and if you think we may be a good fit, please reach out!
You shouldn't have to struggle to get through the day nor should you have to settle for just feeling "OK". I believe the mind, body, and spirit should work together in harmony so that we may become our best selves, cope well during difficult times, and live the lives we truly deserve. I've found this can be achieved through psychotherapy, collaborating with other providers, good nutrition and sleep hygiene, physical exercise, discovering what brings us joy and in some cases medication management. Ultimately, I believe in a holistic & individualized approach, and if you think we may be a good fit, please reach out!

Paula Winsor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Reaching out for help can be daunting, but you don't have to face your challenges alone. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use issues, or other mental health concerns, taking the first step is courageous. I'm here to offer a compassionate ear. Together, we can explore your thoughts and feelings, understand your unique needs, and develop a personalized plan to achieve your mental health goals. No matter where you are on your journey, I'm committed to supporting you as you move forward with hope, healing, and more positive outcomes.
Reaching out for help can be daunting, but you don't have to face your challenges alone. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use issues, or other mental health concerns, taking the first step is courageous. I'm here to offer a compassionate ear. Together, we can explore your thoughts and feelings, understand your unique needs, and develop a personalized plan to achieve your mental health goals. No matter where you are on your journey, I'm committed to supporting you as you move forward with hope, healing, and more positive outcomes.

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.
See more therapy options for 85383
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 85383
< 10
Psychiatrists in 85383 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
89% | Depression |
89% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 85383 see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 85383?
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.