Psychiatrists in 87105

Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(505) 405-7187 View (505) 405-7187
Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(505) 557-1464 View (505) 557-1464
Photo of Raphael Mprah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Raphael Mprah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare that focuses on patient-centered care. My focus area includes diagnosing and treating a wide area of psychiatry and mental health disorders including Depression, anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, Substance abuse disorder, etc., as well as promoting well-being through prevention and education, in addition to assessment, diagnosis, care, and treatment of mental health.
I am a Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare that focuses on patient-centered care. My focus area includes diagnosing and treating a wide area of psychiatry and mental health disorders including Depression, anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, Substance abuse disorder, etc., as well as promoting well-being through prevention and education, in addition to assessment, diagnosis, care, and treatment of mental health.
(505) 578-1664 View (505) 578-1664
Photo of Emma Loftus, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emma Loftus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Emma Loftus and I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner. I assist my patients in developing a plan of care that will assist them in becoming the best version of themselves on their mental wellness journey. I have experience working with patients who have various diagnoses including but not limited to depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, and insomnia.
My name is Emma Loftus and I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner. I assist my patients in developing a plan of care that will assist them in becoming the best version of themselves on their mental wellness journey. I have experience working with patients who have various diagnoses including but not limited to depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, and insomnia.
(505) 594-5072 View (505) 594-5072
Photo of Susan Gilbert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Susan is a board certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been in private practice for over 3 years. Susan has built a sound reputation in this area as a Practitioner who is deeply invested in the wellness of her patient and has a vast knowledge of the body, health, and nutrition. Susan has achieved positive and astounding results with many of her clients and she has patients who remain with her due to these astounding results.
Susan is a board certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been in private practice for over 3 years. Susan has built a sound reputation in this area as a Practitioner who is deeply invested in the wellness of her patient and has a vast knowledge of the body, health, and nutrition. Susan has achieved positive and astounding results with many of her clients and she has patients who remain with her due to these astounding results.
(505) 578-7289 View (505) 578-7289
Photo of Shirrin Ahmadi-Davis - Brave Health, Psychiatrist
Brave Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
We are a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
(505) 622-3266 View (505) 622-3266
Photo of Mutiat Olawunmi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mutiat Olawunmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mutiat Olawunmi. Highly trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Doctoral Degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) offering well-developed interpersonal, acute care treatment and relationship-building skills. Promoting pleasant personalities and skills helps patients stay calm and communicative. Resourceful PMHNP with multiple state licenses including California, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Texas and Washington who is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages. Expertise in performing admission assessments and discharges and participating in crisis interventions.
Mutiat Olawunmi. Highly trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Doctoral Degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) offering well-developed interpersonal, acute care treatment and relationship-building skills. Promoting pleasant personalities and skills helps patients stay calm and communicative. Resourceful PMHNP with multiple state licenses including California, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Texas and Washington who is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages. Expertise in performing admission assessments and discharges and participating in crisis interventions.
(505) 591-8845 View (505) 591-8845
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(505) 509-5383 View (505) 509-5383
Photo of Jelya Fatawu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jelya Fatawu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, meet Jelya Fatawu, I am a licensed Practitioner based in New Mexico. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective teletherapy services, focusing on helping individuals achieve a sense of stability, balance, and improved emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the struggles that individuals encounter, my therapy practice is tailored to support those who are navigating difficult life transitions, experiencing anxiety or depression, or coping with trauma.
Hi there, meet Jelya Fatawu, I am a licensed Practitioner based in New Mexico. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective teletherapy services, focusing on helping individuals achieve a sense of stability, balance, and improved emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the struggles that individuals encounter, my therapy practice is tailored to support those who are navigating difficult life transitions, experiencing anxiety or depression, or coping with trauma.
(505) 594-9938 View (505) 594-9938
Photo of Lovette Agatha Agbomma Ndubisi - Harmony Haven, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harmony Haven
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; I specialize in providing comprehensive medication management to individuals navigating a range of mental health challenges. With a passion for fostering well-being, I work with clients facing anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, sleep difficulty, obsessive-compulsive disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, and Impulsive disorder.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; I specialize in providing comprehensive medication management to individuals navigating a range of mental health challenges. With a passion for fostering well-being, I work with clients facing anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, sleep difficulty, obsessive-compulsive disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, and Impulsive disorder.
(505) 657-9416 View (505) 657-9416
Photo of Uchechi Dibia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Uchechi Dibia
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Uchechi Sharon Dibia, PMHNP-BC Licenses: Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for patients across the lifespan. My approach is personalized, blending therapy, medication management, and active collaboration to address each patient’s unique needs. I am committed to creating a supportive, judgment-free space where patients feel heard, empowered, and in control of their mental health journey.
Hi there, I'm Uchechi Sharon Dibia, PMHNP-BC Licenses: Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for patients across the lifespan. My approach is personalized, blending therapy, medication management, and active collaboration to address each patient’s unique needs. I am committed to creating a supportive, judgment-free space where patients feel heard, empowered, and in control of their mental health journey.
(505) 391-4555 View (505) 391-4555
Photo of Steve Liu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steve Liu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I’m Steve! My name is Steve Liu, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Albuquerque, NM. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, drinking problem and other substance use disorders, using both Medication Treatment and CBT to help my clients control their lives and start recovery and feeling better. My approach to Medication Treatment and CBT varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Medication Treatment and TEAM-CBT, as research show using both Medication Treatment and Psychotherapy will result in best clients’ outcomes.
Hi there, I’m Steve! My name is Steve Liu, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Albuquerque, NM. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, drinking problem and other substance use disorders, using both Medication Treatment and CBT to help my clients control their lives and start recovery and feeling better. My approach to Medication Treatment and CBT varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Medication Treatment and TEAM-CBT, as research show using both Medication Treatment and Psychotherapy will result in best clients’ outcomes.
(505) 393-2378 View (505) 393-2378
Photo of Helen Lancy, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(505) 551-3454 View (505) 551-3454
Photo of Eunice Mwaura, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eunice Mwaura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Eunice Mwaura, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Texas. I have experience with people suffering from depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, addiction, and sleep disorders. My approach to mental health is being open-minded, non-judgmental, warm, relational, and present-centered. My work focuses on psychiatric medication management and supportive therapy. I challenge negative self-talk and ineffective behaviors through positive communication, behavioral interventions, and improved self-care. I continuously follow up with my clients and keep your line of communication always open.
Hello, I'm Eunice Mwaura, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Texas. I have experience with people suffering from depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, addiction, and sleep disorders. My approach to mental health is being open-minded, non-judgmental, warm, relational, and present-centered. My work focuses on psychiatric medication management and supportive therapy. I challenge negative self-talk and ineffective behaviors through positive communication, behavioral interventions, and improved self-care. I continuously follow up with my clients and keep your line of communication always open.
(505) 498-2850 View (505) 498-2850
Photo of Keisha Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keisha Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Keisha Ellis, a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have also worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner since 2016. I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC), with over 13 combined years of clinical experience. I am flexible with late, weekend, and non-traditional hours. My ideal client would be someone who is ready to improve their mental health and is interested in evidence-based medication management and therapy.
My name is Keisha Ellis, a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have also worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner since 2016. I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC), with over 13 combined years of clinical experience. I am flexible with late, weekend, and non-traditional hours. My ideal client would be someone who is ready to improve their mental health and is interested in evidence-based medication management and therapy.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Toksy Akinleye, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toksy Akinleye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients! Looking for someone who provides non-rushed appointments or someone who’s not looking to just provide a quick prescription. I understand that mental health issues can be debilitating and that seeking mental health care can be challenging. I work closely with individuals who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, OCD, PTSD, sleep issues, perinatal issues, and more. My passion is to help my patients achieve and improve their mental well-being. My goal is equitable and inclusive care for every individual I care for. You have taken the first step toward mental health and emotional wellness!
Accepting new clients! Looking for someone who provides non-rushed appointments or someone who’s not looking to just provide a quick prescription. I understand that mental health issues can be debilitating and that seeking mental health care can be challenging. I work closely with individuals who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, OCD, PTSD, sleep issues, perinatal issues, and more. My passion is to help my patients achieve and improve their mental well-being. My goal is equitable and inclusive care for every individual I care for. You have taken the first step toward mental health and emotional wellness!
(865) 351-6256 View (865) 351-6256
Photo of Rose Munuve'-Akinnola, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rose Munuve'-Akinnola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Rose Munuve'-Akinnola, PMHNP, FNP. My approach to mental health care is holistic, addressing not only the immediate symptoms but also the underlying issues of mind, body, spirit, and relationship issues that contribute to clients' struggles. A major focus of my work is depressive disorders, bipolar and related disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, and stress-related disorders. I offer a personalized model of care that explores the patient's worries and fears and seeks to know and understand the patient's values, hopes, and priorities.
My name is Rose Munuve'-Akinnola, PMHNP, FNP. My approach to mental health care is holistic, addressing not only the immediate symptoms but also the underlying issues of mind, body, spirit, and relationship issues that contribute to clients' struggles. A major focus of my work is depressive disorders, bipolar and related disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, and stress-related disorders. I offer a personalized model of care that explores the patient's worries and fears and seeks to know and understand the patient's values, hopes, and priorities.
(505) 657-5867 View (505) 657-5867

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Yvonne Amune, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yvonne Amune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87102
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
(505) 560-0301 View (505) 560-0301
Photo of Dr. Rebeccah Lyles, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Rebeccah Lyles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Accepting new clients for medication management and therapy at the Mind Medicine Clinic in New Mexico. Rebeccah is a BIPOC, queer, and trans-affirming provider who holds space for you to explore what brings you joy. Her intersectional approach reframes experiences, allowing you to untangle and name the personal and societal factors that have stopped you from living your best life. She also prescribes medication to support you along the way.
Accepting new clients for medication management and therapy at the Mind Medicine Clinic in New Mexico. Rebeccah is a BIPOC, queer, and trans-affirming provider who holds space for you to explore what brings you joy. Her intersectional approach reframes experiences, allowing you to untangle and name the personal and societal factors that have stopped you from living your best life. She also prescribes medication to support you along the way.
(505) 560-9306 View (505) 560-9306
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients in New Mexico for telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present with loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Also accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients in New Mexico for telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present with loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Also accepting some insurances.
(833) 531-0387 View (833) 531-0387

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 87105

10+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in 87105 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
94% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
94% Bipolar Disorder
76% ADHD
65% Addiction
65% Anger Management

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 87105 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 87105?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.