Psychiatrists in 86004
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bb3e6cb-d621-4f39-8c7d-18bb15735824/2/320x400.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 Chris Will, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc8e8c46-2838-43c0-89d8-03bc4e632adf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Will
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (Online Only)
I understand that seeking support for mental health can be daunting, and I appreciate the courage that it takes to ask for help. In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner I will take the time to listen to your story and work with you to create a care plan that addresses your needs and goals. My priority is to help clients achieve better mental health and wellbeing and live happy and fulfilling lives. I have worked in the field of mental health for many years and I understand the importance of being a flexible, consistent and trustworthy provider. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them achieve their goals.
I understand that seeking support for mental health can be daunting, and I appreciate the courage that it takes to ask for help. In my role as a psychiatric nurse practitioner I will take the time to listen to your story and work with you to create a care plan that addresses your needs and goals. My priority is to help clients achieve better mental health and wellbeing and live happy and fulfilling lives. I have worked in the field of mental health for many years and I understand the importance of being a flexible, consistent and trustworthy provider. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them achieve their goals.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d17963a-6726-4031-8bab-1f29d345de83/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
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 Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/162c2c9c-824b-4b04-b4d4-e1585e2d784b/2/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
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/6cc04ace-2a3d-4083-93c9-5a93ea43eb92/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay 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 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/4e484a74-26b7-439d-ad72-89f5a223ff63/2/320x400.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 Francisca Onyemize, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a947c5d-3dd5-4041-8a67-85117ec073eb/2/320x400.png)
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d1216fb-f205-42f1-b2c5-0b1e0c967f4d/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 Bert Antonio Marrero, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccebcc78-fdfd-4aa5-920f-994445019a02/4/320x400.jpeg)
Bert Antonio Marrero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (Online Only)
I am currently taking new patients of all ages. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression and preventing you from living? I can help you get your life back. Has trauma held you or your teen back from building loving relationships, holding high self-worth? I can feel your pain and suffering. I have experience treating veterans, pediatric, adult, and geriatric psychiatry. I combine holistic modalities with traditional medication management to get the optimal desired effect. Also certified in health coaching and addiction medicine. You do not need to suffer or feel alone. I am here to listen and help. Languages: English & Spanish.
I am currently taking new patients of all ages. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression and preventing you from living? I can help you get your life back. Has trauma held you or your teen back from building loving relationships, holding high self-worth? I can feel your pain and suffering. I have experience treating veterans, pediatric, adult, and geriatric psychiatry. I combine holistic modalities with traditional medication management to get the optimal desired effect. Also certified in health coaching and addiction medicine. You do not need to suffer or feel alone. I am here to listen and help. Languages: English & Spanish.
![Photo of Rebecca Blakesley, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21e00329-03f7-4a3b-951f-e224fc03f857/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Blakesley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management for ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I focus on helping people feel better using medications. I understand how these conditions can make life hard, and I'm here to make the treatment process easier and more effective. I work closely with my patients to figure out which medications might work best for them and to make sure they understand how these medications can help. Whether it's ADHD, depression, or anxiety, I listen carefully to their concerns and preferences to find the right treatment plan.
![Photo of Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, PLLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/130717cd-e0f4-4f2d-9296-bae5243bf4a1/1/320x400.png)
Sound Mynd, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. I also offer psychiatric care for oncology patients and psychological evaluation for surgeries. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. I also offer psychiatric care for oncology patients and psychological evaluation for surgeries. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
15 Second Videos
Shannon Bucciarelli
Edena Walden
Andrea Papa-Molter
Bert Antonio Marrero
Maria Ingalla
![Photo of Summer Williams, DNP, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28849d49-1e43-4fef-b281-7ef8b517c278/1/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (Online Only)
True Holistic Psychiatric care... rooted in the connection of mind-body-spirit. Are you recognizing that you are not living fully but don’t know how to put the puzzle pieces together? I honor and acknowledge the whole person, all of the complicated and beautiful aspects of you. Providing you the care you deserve requires a multidimensional approach. As we work together and examine the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual elements in your life I will help you optimize wellbeing through mind/body practices, vitamins/supplements, reconnecting with nature and psychotherapy, to name just a few.
True Holistic Psychiatric care... rooted in the connection of mind-body-spirit. Are you recognizing that you are not living fully but don’t know how to put the puzzle pieces together? I honor and acknowledge the whole person, all of the complicated and beautiful aspects of you. Providing you the care you deserve requires a multidimensional approach. As we work together and examine the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual elements in your life I will help you optimize wellbeing through mind/body practices, vitamins/supplements, reconnecting with nature and psychotherapy, to name just a few.
![Photo of Amara Megwa, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a37ee036-6151-4908-8478-f229319de580/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amara Megwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (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.
![Photo of Rebecca Blakesley - Psychiatric Personal Practitioners in Arizona!, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e22e97e-db9d-431e-a471-d16d1b3fe06c/1/320x400.png)
Psychiatric Personal Practitioners in Arizona!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
We recognize that psychiatric medications, like antidepressants and stimulants, represent just one aspect of treatment. We actively involve patients in exploring available treatment options, offering thorough education on the risks, benefits, and alternatives of each approach. Together, we evaluate the evidence and jointly determine a personalized course of action that aligns with their individual needs, values, and lifestyle.
We recognize that psychiatric medications, like antidepressants and stimulants, represent just one aspect of treatment. We actively involve patients in exploring available treatment options, offering thorough education on the risks, benefits, and alternatives of each approach. Together, we evaluate the evidence and jointly determine a personalized course of action that aligns with their individual needs, values, and lifestyle.
![Photo of Dr. Maria Ingalla, DNP, PMHNPBC, PMHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec1de0dd-1c4a-49b0-94b4-bed1ebd421bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Maria Ingalla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, PMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in evaluations and medication management. I own Paperflower Psychiatry. We are an inclusive practice that can help you decide on whether medication is right for you including risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision. We have providers who hold the same values..being real with you, none of this professionalism BS and we won't shame you for cannabis use :) I have trained a few of our NPs and provide mentorship to each of them. We see ages 6-24, and promise we can give you an amazing experience. LGBTQIA+ allied!
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in evaluations and medication management. I own Paperflower Psychiatry. We are an inclusive practice that can help you decide on whether medication is right for you including risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision. We have providers who hold the same values..being real with you, none of this professionalism BS and we won't shame you for cannabis use :) I have trained a few of our NPs and provide mentorship to each of them. We see ages 6-24, and promise we can give you an amazing experience. LGBTQIA+ allied!
![Photo of Rebecca K Nabosa - Heartland Mental health services, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/557527d5-6e77-4de0-8652-3f579e7a3df6/2/320x400.png)
Heartland Mental health services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Rebecca Nabosa is a Psychiatric mental health provider at Heartland Mental Health Services. She graduated from Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing in 2022. She is dedicated to serving adolescents and adults. Offering a comprehensive culturally diversified approach to mental health services. During her 14 years in health care as a nurse, she acquired special skills in different areas, for example, long term, assisted living, outpatient and inpatient mental health setting, crisis unit and admissions and community mental healthcare services.
Rebecca Nabosa is a Psychiatric mental health provider at Heartland Mental Health Services. She graduated from Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing in 2022. She is dedicated to serving adolescents and adults. Offering a comprehensive culturally diversified approach to mental health services. During her 14 years in health care as a nurse, she acquired special skills in different areas, for example, long term, assisted living, outpatient and inpatient mental health setting, crisis unit and admissions and community mental healthcare services.
See more therapy options for 86004
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 86004
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 86004 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
88% | ADHD |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Sleep or Insomnia |
76% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 86004 see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 86004?
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.