Psychiatrists in 85710
![Photo of Shon'tell LaRochelle, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f286d54-3540-440e-a5cf-976206856b76/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shon'tell LaRochelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710
Growing up at a time when LGBTQIA+ people were hidden, I want to provide you with a different experience. I create a safe place where you can see me as both a lesbian woman and a well-educated, empathetic healthcare provider. I hold space for all kinds of neurodivergent clients, and my office is personal and calming. With notice I can alter the lighting and scents, as well as fidgets, pillows, plushies, blankets, friendship bands and other items to make my office a comfortable space. I offer affirming assessments for late-diagnosis ADHD and Autism in adults, using strengths-based MIGDAS-2 approach.
Growing up at a time when LGBTQIA+ people were hidden, I want to provide you with a different experience. I create a safe place where you can see me as both a lesbian woman and a well-educated, empathetic healthcare provider. I hold space for all kinds of neurodivergent clients, and my office is personal and calming. With notice I can alter the lighting and scents, as well as fidgets, pillows, plushies, blankets, friendship bands and other items to make my office a comfortable space. I offer affirming assessments for late-diagnosis ADHD and Autism in adults, using strengths-based MIGDAS-2 approach.
![Photo of Dr. Colleen Green, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/704b0bc0-64aa-48ce-87de-c4726aef1ddc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Colleen Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710
Being a nurse practitioner is my second career after spending 13 years in sleep medicine. I have witnessed the impact of mental health/illness on every aspect of human life, both in my own sphere and in society. I have a passion for working with children and adolescents, as well as adults aged 65+. I am a Mother to four boys, two of whom are Deaf. I intimately understand the challenges and joys of parenting a child who has different abilities. I strive to partner with my clients and their families within a therapeutic, safe and supportive partnership to assist them in reaching their mental wellness goals.
Being a nurse practitioner is my second career after spending 13 years in sleep medicine. I have witnessed the impact of mental health/illness on every aspect of human life, both in my own sphere and in society. I have a passion for working with children and adolescents, as well as adults aged 65+. I am a Mother to four boys, two of whom are Deaf. I intimately understand the challenges and joys of parenting a child who has different abilities. I strive to partner with my clients and their families within a therapeutic, safe and supportive partnership to assist them in reaching their mental wellness goals.
![Photo of Az del Pino, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e0e49ab-d526-4820-9926-d2922a3ff77d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Az del Pino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710
Do you identify as LGBTQ2IA+ or neurodivergent? Do you experience sadness, irritability, nervousness, gender incongruence, difficulty focusing and concentrating, and low motivation? Do you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting out of bed? Do you feel stuck or held back from your full potential by your feelings? Have you experienced distressing events or a bad personal experience in healthcare? Do you hold back from sharing parts of your life for fear of experiencing judgment, shaming, or awkwardness? Are you searching for care that celebrates your diversity of relationship, gender, and sexual orientation?
Do you identify as LGBTQ2IA+ or neurodivergent? Do you experience sadness, irritability, nervousness, gender incongruence, difficulty focusing and concentrating, and low motivation? Do you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting out of bed? Do you feel stuck or held back from your full potential by your feelings? Have you experienced distressing events or a bad personal experience in healthcare? Do you hold back from sharing parts of your life for fear of experiencing judgment, shaming, or awkwardness? Are you searching for care that celebrates your diversity of relationship, gender, and sexual orientation?
![Photo of Carrie Cannon, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8638a99d-6bc8-4213-8376-2eb09daf34dc/1/320x400.png)
If you are facing challenges with emotional/stress eating, or eating disorders such as food addiction, bulimia, binge eating, that is my area of expertise, and I am here to offer my assistance. I see patients who are 18 years and older.
If you are facing challenges with emotional/stress eating, or eating disorders such as food addiction, bulimia, binge eating, that is my area of expertise, and I am here to offer my assistance. I see patients who are 18 years and older.
![Photo of Rose Sivilli - Dr. Rose Sivilli | Wildflower Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2903ef3b-dd4e-4420-9dc7-3e76331f0380/2/320x400.jpeg)
I prioritize approaching each person with humanity and respect, creating a space where they are encouraged to be their authentic self. My goal is to provide you with thorough, personalized, collaborative, evidence-based psychiatric care that helps you thrive in your life. This typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation, medical workup, narrowing of diagnoses and discussion of treatment goals that might be best suited to you. I believe in taking a whole-person approach, looking at ways to optimize your lifestyle through nutrition, exercise and mindfulness.
I prioritize approaching each person with humanity and respect, creating a space where they are encouraged to be their authentic self. My goal is to provide you with thorough, personalized, collaborative, evidence-based psychiatric care that helps you thrive in your life. This typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation, medical workup, narrowing of diagnoses and discussion of treatment goals that might be best suited to you. I believe in taking a whole-person approach, looking at ways to optimize your lifestyle through nutrition, exercise and mindfulness.
![Photo of Keri Biscoe - Dr. Keri Biscoe | Wildflower Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ee93d35-a7cc-40a9-968e-47eed9a38046/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am here to help you feel that your experiences are seen and supported, the struggles and the wins. This attentive listening is part of my holistic approach to providing customized, evidence-based psychiatric care designed to help you thrive. We'll start with a comprehensive evaluation and medical workup. From there I create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and is adaptable to progress that we track together.
I am here to help you feel that your experiences are seen and supported, the struggles and the wins. This attentive listening is part of my holistic approach to providing customized, evidence-based psychiatric care designed to help you thrive. We'll start with a comprehensive evaluation and medical workup. From there I create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and is adaptable to progress that we track together.
![Photo of Stephen Streitfeld, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdaeb37-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Streitfeld, M.D. is board certified in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He treats every patient as a unique individual in assessing their mental health issues and needs. His practice is focused on treating patients with the latest and best available psychiatric treatment options available combining compassion with excellent clinical skills in a safe, confidential treatment environment. Patients are provided with an individualized comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan that allows then to evaluate their treatment options allowing them to make the best informed decision regarding their care.
Stephen Streitfeld, M.D. is board certified in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He treats every patient as a unique individual in assessing their mental health issues and needs. His practice is focused on treating patients with the latest and best available psychiatric treatment options available combining compassion with excellent clinical skills in a safe, confidential treatment environment. Patients are provided with an individualized comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan that allows then to evaluate their treatment options allowing them to make the best informed decision regarding their care.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95ff952c-6188-42fe-9019-b04ce654ee18/2/320x400.png)
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.
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.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75976122-a8b7-4637-a9a8-325e2ea1e08a/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65fb086f-ab54-4bec-bed7-b07d9fa0432a/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6a22693-6432-405d-83aa-6130a402b797/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85710
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
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Az del Pino
Dr. Rose Sivilli | Wildflower Psychiatry
Allen Masry
Michelle McCarthy
Lydia Hammond
Shannon Bucciarelli
Andrea Papa-Molter
Greg Capocy
![Photo of Lydia Hammond, PMHNPBC, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dad6573b-b7f0-405a-b8c7-bbe5fdc7af40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lydia Hammond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, CNM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710 (Online Only)
I provide telehealth care in New Mexico, Arizona and Oregon. Appts are currently scheduled on MST. I am driven to help people find the best way to navigate their mental health. I offer education, brief counseling, and herbal and medication management services. I start by hearing people's stories, what brought them to seeking mental healthcare, and what they seek to gain from it. I strongly believe that client active participation in their mental healthcare is the path to healing and meeting their goals. I have 6 children and love working with youth. My experience as a midwife over the last 14 years fosters my love for serving.
I provide telehealth care in New Mexico, Arizona and Oregon. Appts are currently scheduled on MST. I am driven to help people find the best way to navigate their mental health. I offer education, brief counseling, and herbal and medication management services. I start by hearing people's stories, what brought them to seeking mental healthcare, and what they seek to gain from it. I strongly believe that client active participation in their mental healthcare is the path to healing and meeting their goals. I have 6 children and love working with youth. My experience as a midwife over the last 14 years fosters my love for serving.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f90467b-8081-44db-a707-94041d47272f/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Argie J Rivera, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f992984c-ea15-46c2-8954-97b4710c33ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Argie J Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85710 (Online Only)
Argie Rivera is a doctorally-prepared, board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner in Arizona and Nevada. She utilizes an individualized, client-centered, and collaborative approach. She provides individual psychotherapy, cognitive function development therapy, and medication management to patients 8 yrs old and above.
Argie Rivera is a doctorally-prepared, board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner in Arizona and Nevada. She utilizes an individualized, client-centered, and collaborative approach. She provides individual psychotherapy, cognitive function development therapy, and medication management to patients 8 yrs old and above.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58c12713-a143-48fb-8abf-32f45b4fc461/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Kris Adams - HPC Care ADHD Management , MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d9c7e4b-c832-4304-9646-51c1a0d9ae61/2/320x400.jpeg)
HPC Care ADHD Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85710 (Online Only)
Empowering You to Thrive with ADHD Are you constantly battling to keep your focus? Does staying organized feel impossible? At HPC, we understand ADHD's challenges and are here to help. We offer thorough assessments, medication management, CBT, mindfulness, and flexible telehealth options. Our personalized approach ensures you get the care you need. With a blend of expertise and compassion, we provide a supportive environment to help you overcome your ADHD challenges. Take the first step towards a more organized and focused life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Empowering You to Thrive with ADHD Are you constantly battling to keep your focus? Does staying organized feel impossible? At HPC, we understand ADHD's challenges and are here to help. We offer thorough assessments, medication management, CBT, mindfulness, and flexible telehealth options. Our personalized approach ensures you get the care you need. With a blend of expertise and compassion, we provide a supportive environment to help you overcome your ADHD challenges. Take the first step towards a more organized and focused life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
![Photo of Francisca Onyemize, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1acce243-544b-42ff-9df8-468ff2ba977a/2/320x400.png)
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85710
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.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c48f84f1-800c-4de7-8cc5-19eb6c947bb6/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Greg Capocy, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/486785c1-9be4-4406-b6c1-0a18f76b5c7e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Greg Capocy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710 (Online Only)
My goal is to help my patients achieve optimal psychiatric and mental health through a patient-centered, holistic approach. I strive for clients to feel listened to and understood in a therapeutic relationship of empathy and trust. My mission is to understand your perspective, experieces, and challenges. I will collaborate with you to discern your issues, needs, and a treatment plan. It is my goal to provide you with the most effective care to achieve your optimal mental health and psychiatric wellness.
My goal is to help my patients achieve optimal psychiatric and mental health through a patient-centered, holistic approach. I strive for clients to feel listened to and understood in a therapeutic relationship of empathy and trust. My mission is to understand your perspective, experieces, and challenges. I will collaborate with you to discern your issues, needs, and a treatment plan. It is my goal to provide you with the most effective care to achieve your optimal mental health and psychiatric wellness.
![Photo of Jennifer Lynn Mitchell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/271f7630-b49a-4c4f-93b9-6768608638e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Lynn Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710
Feeling stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or difficulty focusing? I am here to listen, to support, and to provide compassionate care. I have a 15-plus-year background in behavioral health, including inpatient, outpatient, and skilled facilities. I believe it is important to feel heard, understood, and supported. I provide medication management, promote positivity, and therapy to improve your emotional well being. I look forward to working with you in your journey. “All great achievements require time" Maya Angelou
Feeling stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or difficulty focusing? I am here to listen, to support, and to provide compassionate care. I have a 15-plus-year background in behavioral health, including inpatient, outpatient, and skilled facilities. I believe it is important to feel heard, understood, and supported. I provide medication management, promote positivity, and therapy to improve your emotional well being. I look forward to working with you in your journey. “All great achievements require time" Maya Angelou
See more therapy options for 85710
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 85710
10+
Average cost per session
$237
Psychiatrists in 85710 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
95% | ADHD |
84% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Medication Management |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 85710 see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 85710?
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.