Psychiatrists in 85741

I'm a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents. I am proud to provide services to all ages by treating individuals and families at my private practice. I have extensive experience treating ADHD, behavioral issues, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric conditions. All treatments start with a comprehensive assessment to guide and personalize your care. I use a variety of evidence based treatments that include a wide range of therapies and behavioral approaches as well as pharmacological and non-pharmacological options. I enjoy working as a team to reach our goals.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents. I am proud to provide services to all ages by treating individuals and families at my private practice. I have extensive experience treating ADHD, behavioral issues, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric conditions. All treatments start with a comprehensive assessment to guide and personalize your care. I use a variety of evidence based treatments that include a wide range of therapies and behavioral approaches as well as pharmacological and non-pharmacological options. I enjoy working as a team to reach our goals.

Pusch Ridge Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85741
We now offer Deep TMS. We are the only ones in Tucson with Deep TMS! We are a small group practice providing mental health services, including assessments, medication management, and individual, family, and group psychotherapy. Our diverse team is trained to treat a wide range of challenges including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, anxiety, trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, self-harm, substance use, grief, and relational/family conflict. We work with clients ranging from age six through adulthood.
We now offer Deep TMS. We are the only ones in Tucson with Deep TMS! We are a small group practice providing mental health services, including assessments, medication management, and individual, family, and group psychotherapy. Our diverse team is trained to treat a wide range of challenges including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, anxiety, trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, self-harm, substance use, grief, and relational/family conflict. We work with clients ranging from age six through adulthood.

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.

Willie Lynch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ask about new small Groups for Grief/Loss and CBT skills. led by experienced therapist.. Trauma informed care that focuses on the individual not only the disease process. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or other psychological stressors, I offer compassionate care that combines the best clinical research and treatment possible. NOW offering TMS services as a non pharmaceutical treatment for depression, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Depression...
Ask about new small Groups for Grief/Loss and CBT skills. led by experienced therapist.. Trauma informed care that focuses on the individual not only the disease process. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or other psychological stressors, I offer compassionate care that combines the best clinical research and treatment possible. NOW offering TMS services as a non pharmaceutical treatment for depression, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Depression...
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Milagro Behavioral Health-Dr. Shannon Padilla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719
No waiting list for appointments! Offering In Person Appointments! Telemedicine visits available for services throughout the state of Arizona! Call 602-460-8416. Dr. Shannon Padilla, DNP, PMHNP, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing adult psychiatric services. She has 25 years experience working in the mental health setting with teens and adults across their life span. Dr. Padilla specializes in diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral and addiction disorders. She has strong skills in psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral and addiction disorders.
No waiting list for appointments! Offering In Person Appointments! Telemedicine visits available for services throughout the state of Arizona! Call 602-460-8416. Dr. Shannon Padilla, DNP, PMHNP, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing adult psychiatric services. She has 25 years experience working in the mental health setting with teens and adults across their life span. Dr. Padilla specializes in diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral and addiction disorders. She has strong skills in psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral and addiction disorders.

Effulgence Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Effulgence Psychiatry. With a deep-rooted belief in the interconnectedness of spirit, body, and soul, I strive to be a guiding light for those navigating the complex journey of mental health. I approach mental wellness from a holistic perspective, recognizing that true healing occurs when all aspects of our being are in harmony. I believe that when the spirit, body, and soul are aligned, individuals can experience a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.
My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Effulgence Psychiatry. With a deep-rooted belief in the interconnectedness of spirit, body, and soul, I strive to be a guiding light for those navigating the complex journey of mental health. I approach mental wellness from a holistic perspective, recognizing that true healing occurs when all aspects of our being are in harmony. I believe that when the spirit, body, and soul are aligned, individuals can experience a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.

Welcome to a world of psychiatry that's more than just medication. I am an experienced psychiatrist with a deep interest in healing and a down-to-earth approach. I provide in-person treatment to patients in Tucson, AZ and telepsychiatry to patients in Washington and Arizona. My practice includes adults (21+) with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and OCD in addition to those navigating relationship challenges or life transitions. I also welcome those who are simply feeling stuck or who wish to take a liberating dive into self-exploration. (Note: I am not currently in-network with any insurance plans)
Welcome to a world of psychiatry that's more than just medication. I am an experienced psychiatrist with a deep interest in healing and a down-to-earth approach. I provide in-person treatment to patients in Tucson, AZ and telepsychiatry to patients in Washington and Arizona. My practice includes adults (21+) with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and OCD in addition to those navigating relationship challenges or life transitions. I also welcome those who are simply feeling stuck or who wish to take a liberating dive into self-exploration. (Note: I am not currently in-network with any insurance plans)

Holistic & Integrative Psychiatry for creative, unique and neurodiverse individuals. I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. Emphasizing positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Focus on now and future forward (no dredging up the past). Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
Holistic & Integrative Psychiatry for creative, unique and neurodiverse individuals. I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. Emphasizing positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Focus on now and future forward (no dredging up the past). Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.

Amara Megwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Advanced Psychiatric Health PLLC is an outpatient Telepsychiatry practice. We provide personalized and holistic psychiatric care treatment to help you find relief from your mental health symptoms. We are here for you to become a better you. We provide private, convenient Telepsychiatry services so that you can conveniently be seen from the comfort of your home for psychiatry evaluations and medication management without the need to travel. I specialize in medication management for depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Advanced Psychiatric Health PLLC is an outpatient Telepsychiatry practice. We provide personalized and holistic psychiatric care treatment to help you find relief from your mental health symptoms. We are here for you to become a better you. We provide private, convenient Telepsychiatry services so that you can conveniently be seen from the comfort of your home for psychiatry evaluations and medication management without the need to travel. I specialize in medication management for depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.

Lizman Behavior Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719
Are you struggling emotionally, mentally, or spiritually? Lizman Behavior Health PLLC is able to assist you in improving your quality of life. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral, and addiction disorders prescribing medications to treat these conditions. The practice style is Evidence-based, goal-oriented (mutual goal setting), holistic, client-focused, and inclusion/ equity-focused. I have worked in the nursing field for over 30 years and as a nurse practitioner for over 22 years with a broad spectrum of clinical experience.
Are you struggling emotionally, mentally, or spiritually? Lizman Behavior Health PLLC is able to assist you in improving your quality of life. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral, and addiction disorders prescribing medications to treat these conditions. The practice style is Evidence-based, goal-oriented (mutual goal setting), holistic, client-focused, and inclusion/ equity-focused. I have worked in the nursing field for over 30 years and as a nurse practitioner for over 22 years with a broad spectrum of clinical experience.

Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Jossy Mossle, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years of nursing experience. My career has been driven by a passion for mental health and a deep commitment to providing compassionate and accessible care for those in need.
I earned my Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Arizona, where I specialized in psychiatry and completed my residency in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions. I'm fluent in both English & French
Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Jossy Mossle, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years of nursing experience. My career has been driven by a passion for mental health and a deep commitment to providing compassionate and accessible care for those in need.
I earned my Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Arizona, where I specialized in psychiatry and completed my residency in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions. I'm fluent in both English & French

Taking new patients age 15 and older. Dr. Canelos is a Tucson native and fluent in English and Spanish. She treats a wide range of psychiatric illness ranging from mild to moderate anxiety or depression to persistent illness such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. In addition, Dr. Canelos specializes in perinatal mental health and reproductive psychiatry—focusing on psychiatric disorders associated with female reproductive function including premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), pregnancy-related mood disturbance, postpartum psychiatric illness, and peri- and post- menopausal depression and anxiety.
Taking new patients age 15 and older. Dr. Canelos is a Tucson native and fluent in English and Spanish. She treats a wide range of psychiatric illness ranging from mild to moderate anxiety or depression to persistent illness such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. In addition, Dr. Canelos specializes in perinatal mental health and reproductive psychiatry—focusing on psychiatric disorders associated with female reproductive function including premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), pregnancy-related mood disturbance, postpartum psychiatric illness, and peri- and post- menopausal depression and anxiety.

Don't you want to finally feel better? Helping people who have experienced multiple medication failures is a passion of mine. Partial alleviation of symptoms is not good enough. Every person has a unique combination of medications that will work best for them. My goal is to work with you to find that perfect combination, so that you can feel your best.
Don't you want to finally feel better? Helping people who have experienced multiple medication failures is a passion of mine. Partial alleviation of symptoms is not good enough. Every person has a unique combination of medications that will work best for them. My goal is to work with you to find that perfect combination, so that you can feel your best.

My patients receive individualized treatment that is focused on them as a “whole person” with a unique set of needs and goals that guide their lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. I take the time and listen to my patients' needs to understand their symptoms and to identify the correct diagnosis(es). Then, we will work together to integrate my wealth of knowledge and experience into each treatment decision we mutually reach. My approach is scientific and constructivist, as I focus on the physiological aspects of disorders with the understanding that each person's perception of the world is unique.
My patients receive individualized treatment that is focused on them as a “whole person” with a unique set of needs and goals that guide their lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. I take the time and listen to my patients' needs to understand their symptoms and to identify the correct diagnosis(es). Then, we will work together to integrate my wealth of knowledge and experience into each treatment decision we mutually reach. My approach is scientific and constructivist, as I focus on the physiological aspects of disorders with the understanding that each person's perception of the world is unique.

I'm Preston Eyerman, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I understand the challenges that individuals face when seeking mental health support, and I'm here to help you on your journey toward improved well-being. I believe in a personalized approach to psychiatric medication management. Drawing from my own experience with addiction and a comprehensive healthcare background, I offer a unique blend of empathy and expertise to guide you through your recovery. With a focus on evidence-based treatment and individualized care.
I'm Preston Eyerman, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I understand the challenges that individuals face when seeking mental health support, and I'm here to help you on your journey toward improved well-being. I believe in a personalized approach to psychiatric medication management. Drawing from my own experience with addiction and a comprehensive healthcare background, I offer a unique blend of empathy and expertise to guide you through your recovery. With a focus on evidence-based treatment and individualized care.

Mountain Dew Behavioral Health is an out patient psychiatry clinic that takes care of mental illness such as depression, PTSD, anxiety disorders, panic disorders, bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, medication management of alcohol and opioid related cravings, and total management of mental health issues.
Mountain Dew Behavioral Health is an out patient psychiatry clinic that takes care of mental illness such as depression, PTSD, anxiety disorders, panic disorders, bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, medication management of alcohol and opioid related cravings, and total management of mental health issues.

Jeffrey Wright Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward? Life can be challenging, and it's okay to ask for help. I provide a compassionate and supportive space where you can explore your concerns, feel heard, and start to heal. My ideal client is someone who is actively engaged in their care, open to a holistic approach, and willing to break free from habits that no longer serve you to help you take control of your mental health. Together, we'll create a plan that supports lasting change, and I'll be rooting for you along side you with every step.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward? Life can be challenging, and it's okay to ask for help. I provide a compassionate and supportive space where you can explore your concerns, feel heard, and start to heal. My ideal client is someone who is actively engaged in their care, open to a holistic approach, and willing to break free from habits that no longer serve you to help you take control of your mental health. Together, we'll create a plan that supports lasting change, and I'll be rooting for you along side you with every step.

Pusch Ridge Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
Therapy appointments available! We now offer Deep TMS. We are the only ones in Tucson with Deep TMS! We are a small group practice providing mental health services, including assessments, medication management, and individual, family, and group psychotherapy. Our diverse team is trained to treat a wide range of challenges including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, anxiety, trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, self-harm, substance use, grief, and relational/family conflict. We work with clients ranging from age six through adulthood.
Therapy appointments available! We now offer Deep TMS. We are the only ones in Tucson with Deep TMS! We are a small group practice providing mental health services, including assessments, medication management, and individual, family, and group psychotherapy. Our diverse team is trained to treat a wide range of challenges including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, anxiety, trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders, personality disorders, self-harm, substance use, grief, and relational/family conflict. We work with clients ranging from age six through adulthood.

I utilize a multi-layer approach (nutrition, lifestyle, gut health, etc.) to mental and physical health. 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.
I utilize a multi-layer approach (nutrition, lifestyle, gut health, etc.) to mental and physical health. 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.
See more therapy options for 85741
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 85741
< 10
Psychiatrists in 85741 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 85741 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 85741?
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.