Psychiatrists in 87110

Photo of Ugochi Irikannu, PMHNP, FNP-C, DrPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ugochi Irikannu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, DrPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
Are you managing a demanding life or career while dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or drug and alcohol addiction? Discover a personalized, confidential, and integrative concierge approach to mental wellness, designed specifically for young adults, busy professionals, and executives. I offer flexible in-home and virtual consultations, evaluations, and treatment, tailored to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. My services are available across Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
Are you managing a demanding life or career while dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or drug and alcohol addiction? Discover a personalized, confidential, and integrative concierge approach to mental wellness, designed specifically for young adults, busy professionals, and executives. I offer flexible in-home and virtual consultations, evaluations, and treatment, tailored to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. My services are available across Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
(505) 657-5001 View (505) 657-5001
Photo of Kontasha Wise - BeeWell Medical Center, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BeeWell Medical Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
As a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing holistic care, I am committed to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental wellness. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and evidence-based practices, ensuring that each client receives personalized treatment that meets their unique needs. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be daunting, and I want to assure you that you are not alone on this path.
As a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing holistic care, I am committed to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental wellness. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and evidence-based practices, ensuring that each client receives personalized treatment that meets their unique needs. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be daunting, and I want to assure you that you are not alone on this path.
(505) 560-8922 View (505) 560-8922
Photo of Christine Farley, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine Farley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110
My clients come from a variety of economic and cultural backgrounds, some with a history of complex PTSD. The majority of my career, I've worked in settings serving the LGBT+/SGM communities. My goal is providing a secure, judgement free space for clients to reflect and express themselves while exploring self-generated emotional growth. Cultivating a sense of personal well-being is a dynamic process conditioning our capability to regulate our response to stressors- internal and external. The fast-paced nature advancing contemporary society generates a profound sense of disconnection from our emotional needs. Reconnection is vital.
My clients come from a variety of economic and cultural backgrounds, some with a history of complex PTSD. The majority of my career, I've worked in settings serving the LGBT+/SGM communities. My goal is providing a secure, judgement free space for clients to reflect and express themselves while exploring self-generated emotional growth. Cultivating a sense of personal well-being is a dynamic process conditioning our capability to regulate our response to stressors- internal and external. The fast-paced nature advancing contemporary society generates a profound sense of disconnection from our emotional needs. Reconnection is vital.
(505) 588-7109 View (505) 588-7109
Photo of Shashwat Pandhi - Desert Bloom Health Collaborative , MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Desert Bloom Health Collaborative
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Pandhi enjoys serving child, teenage, and adult clients. He facilitates the healing process for patients with Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. For over a decade, he successfully treated thousands of patients struggling with trauma, grief, and other significant life issues. He accomplishes this by connecting with patients and understanding how these conditions affect their quality of life. He partners with people to create an individualized medication and/or therapy plan suited for their specific needs and circumstances.
Dr. Pandhi enjoys serving child, teenage, and adult clients. He facilitates the healing process for patients with Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. For over a decade, he successfully treated thousands of patients struggling with trauma, grief, and other significant life issues. He accomplishes this by connecting with patients and understanding how these conditions affect their quality of life. He partners with people to create an individualized medication and/or therapy plan suited for their specific needs and circumstances.
(505) 391-4928 View (505) 391-4928
Photo of Jane O Hardwrick - ABQ Behavioral Services/ABQ Psychiatric Services , MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ABQ Behavioral Services/ABQ Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
To receive the best and favorable care entails the provider to be an expert and know you as a person. Understanding emotions & behaviors can be challenging and we are all distinctive people with unique life experiences, relationships, and strengths.. I join with the patient to help them explore meaning and purpose. Due to my pragmatic nature, I also pay attention to their behaviors. I have demonstrated expertise in in supporting patients with multiple chronic co morbidities including diagnosing, treating and initiating medication, performing diagnostic interventions and executing follow ups as required. Fashioned treatment.
To receive the best and favorable care entails the provider to be an expert and know you as a person. Understanding emotions & behaviors can be challenging and we are all distinctive people with unique life experiences, relationships, and strengths.. I join with the patient to help them explore meaning and purpose. Due to my pragmatic nature, I also pay attention to their behaviors. I have demonstrated expertise in in supporting patients with multiple chronic co morbidities including diagnosing, treating and initiating medication, performing diagnostic interventions and executing follow ups as required. Fashioned treatment.
(505) 278-6669 View (505) 278-6669
Photo of Fallon Gravely - Labyrinth Behavioral Health, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Labyrinth Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing uncontrolled anxiety or panic attacks? Do you have trouble in social settings? Let us help you. We are a telepsychiatry practice that provides quality, convenient mental health care. We assist clients by providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and more. Appointments are 100% online through a HIPAA-compliant, secure platform.
Are you experiencing uncontrolled anxiety or panic attacks? Do you have trouble in social settings? Let us help you. We are a telepsychiatry practice that provides quality, convenient mental health care. We assist clients by providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and more. Appointments are 100% online through a HIPAA-compliant, secure platform.
(505) 209-8377 View (505) 209-8377
Photo of Fadekemi Olude, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fadekemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Offerring comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Offerring comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder
(505) 591-1457 View (505) 591-1457
Photo of Margaret Oliver, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
(505) 666-5661 View (505) 666-5661
Photo of LaShaun Perry - Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness, MSN,  , APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, , APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Now Accepting New Patients! Our Clinic offers Therapy General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With therapy and/or medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! Our Clinic offers Therapy General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With therapy and/or medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
(702) 710-5562 View (702) 710-5562
Photo of Emmanuel Nji - Gateway Psychiatric Services, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gateway Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Mental health can impact various aspect of your life, but you don't have to live this way. I am here to bring mental health solutions to your door step. I treat ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Eating disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and many more. You are not alone, reach out for help with you mental health issues.
Mental health can impact various aspect of your life, but you don't have to live this way. I am here to bring mental health solutions to your door step. I treat ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Eating disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and many more. You are not alone, reach out for help with you mental health issues.
(505) 805-2235 View (505) 805-2235
Photo of Oyeronke Ajiboye-Lala, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oyeronke Ajiboye-Lala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
Do you feel exhausted, alone, anxious, depressed, sad, empty, hopeless, guilty, and afraid? Maybe you feel like you are not living your best life. These feelings are distracting you from being the best version of yourself.
Do you feel exhausted, alone, anxious, depressed, sad, empty, hopeless, guilty, and afraid? Maybe you feel like you are not living your best life. These feelings are distracting you from being the best version of yourself.
(520) 652-1449 View (520) 652-1449
Photo of Paula Zuccaro - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(605) 309-8731 View (605) 309-8731
Photo of Sophie Gwelo - Healing Continually Behavioral, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Continually Behavioral
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with clients through empathy, respect, dignity, and humility. I have a passion for restoring dignity and reducing stigma in all mental health aspects including Substance use, anxiety, PTSD, Depression, Schizophrenia, and ADHD.
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with clients through empathy, respect, dignity, and humility. I have a passion for restoring dignity and reducing stigma in all mental health aspects including Substance use, anxiety, PTSD, Depression, Schizophrenia, and ADHD.
(623) 343-5212 View (623) 343-5212
Photo of Eunice O Nsofor - Healing Hope Behavioral Clinic LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Hope Behavioral Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Eunice Nsofor PMHNP-BC, is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 14 years’ experience in Psychiatry. Eunice provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual needs. She treats a wide range of mental health issues such as: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders. She also offers one-on-one psychotherapy. She is Flexible in accommodating clients needs.
Eunice Nsofor PMHNP-BC, is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 14 years’ experience in Psychiatry. Eunice provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual needs. She treats a wide range of mental health issues such as: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders. She also offers one-on-one psychotherapy. She is Flexible in accommodating clients needs.
(214) 466-1629 View (214) 466-1629
Photo of Nonye Frances Nwokoro - Mind Haven Behavioral Clinic, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Haven Behavioral Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
Nonye Nwokoro is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric care, I am dedicated to promoting mental wellness and empowering my clients to achieve their optimal level of functioning. I prioritize active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental support in my interactions with clients. I also integrate psychoeducation and cognitive-behavioral strategies to empower clients to take an active role in their mental health recovery.
Nonye Nwokoro is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric care, I am dedicated to promoting mental wellness and empowering my clients to achieve their optimal level of functioning. I prioritize active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental support in my interactions with clients. I also integrate psychoeducation and cognitive-behavioral strategies to empower clients to take an active role in their mental health recovery.
(469) 896-3807 View (469) 896-3807
Photo of Jennifer Foresman - Balance Psychiatric Services, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(515) 717-7437 View (515) 717-7437
Sage Neuroscience Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Sage Neuroscience Center, www.sageclinic.org. Psychiatry; Child and Adolescent services; individual and group therapy; addictions treatment; Intensive Outpatient Programs; Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for depression; Primary Care/Family Practice; onsite pharmacy. We provide comprehensive mental health services integrating with primary care and pharmacy to address whole-person care.
Sage Neuroscience Center, www.sageclinic.org. Psychiatry; Child and Adolescent services; individual and group therapy; addictions treatment; Intensive Outpatient Programs; Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for depression; Primary Care/Family Practice; onsite pharmacy. We provide comprehensive mental health services integrating with primary care and pharmacy to address whole-person care.
(505) 718-4072 View (505) 718-4072
Photo of L. A. Willinghurst, MD, Psychiatrist
L. A. Willinghurst
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
I accept adult patients with all manner of general psychiatric issues. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, women's issues including phase of life challenges and domestic violence, addiction and chronic pain.
I accept adult patients with all manner of general psychiatric issues. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, women's issues including phase of life challenges and domestic violence, addiction and chronic pain.
(505) 465-4910 View (505) 465-4910
Photo of Nwamaka Emeruem, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nwamaka Emeruem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110
@Ease Psychiatry is now licensed to offer our services in the state of New Mexico. Our goal is to provide accessibility to mental health services and treatment options, through our telepsychiatry network. Here @Ease Psychiatry, we are attentive the needs of our patients', and work with them to provide the best care options.
@Ease Psychiatry is now licensed to offer our services in the state of New Mexico. Our goal is to provide accessibility to mental health services and treatment options, through our telepsychiatry network. Here @Ease Psychiatry, we are attentive the needs of our patients', and work with them to provide the best care options.
(469) 423-8066 View (469) 423-8066
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(253) 544-4674 View (253) 544-4674
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 87110

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 87110 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
78% Bipolar Disorder
74% Sleep or Insomnia
70% Trauma and PTSD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
61% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
84% Aetna
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 87110 see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 87110?

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.