Psychiatrists in 87124

Photo of Chikodili Obianuju Oji, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chikodili Obianuju Oji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Chikodili Oji, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) in Houston Texas, Nevada and New Mexico. My goal is to assist individuals like you overcome life challenges and improve their overall well-being.
My name is Chikodili Oji, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) in Houston Texas, Nevada and New Mexico. My goal is to assist individuals like you overcome life challenges and improve their overall well-being.
(505) 596-4249 View (505) 596-4249
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
Photo of Ross Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ross Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ross A Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he was an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For 15 years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology. He worked in social services at AIDS Services of Austin in Austin, TX providing case management to individuals with advanced HIV, then completed a postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. He cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ affirming mental health care.
Ross A Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he was an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For 15 years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology. He worked in social services at AIDS Services of Austin in Austin, TX providing case management to individuals with advanced HIV, then completed a postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. He cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ affirming mental health care.
(360) 549-9229 x2 View (360) 549-9229 x2
Photo of Jacqueline E Willis, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline E Willis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive mental health services that integrate primary care with psychopharmacology. I am trained to diagnose, assess, order, and interpret diagnostic tests and create a treatment plan for clients across the life span. I treat clients of all ages by providing individual, family, and group therapy. Patients can be seen face to face office visits or via telepsychiatry which is available for those who are unable to take time off from work and family or other important activities to drive two or more hours to see a specialist; the wait time is reduced to 2 hours or less.
As a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive mental health services that integrate primary care with psychopharmacology. I am trained to diagnose, assess, order, and interpret diagnostic tests and create a treatment plan for clients across the life span. I treat clients of all ages by providing individual, family, and group therapy. Patients can be seen face to face office visits or via telepsychiatry which is available for those who are unable to take time off from work and family or other important activities to drive two or more hours to see a specialist; the wait time is reduced to 2 hours or less.
(505) 305-0676 View (505) 305-0676
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(480) 418-7422 View (480) 418-7422
Photo of Eunice Mwaura, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Eunice Mwaura
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Reach out- Asking for help takes courage and sometimes it can be hard to make sense of difficult life events and to even seek help. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I help my clients go deeper into understanding their struggles. I specialize in providing psychiatric assessment ,medication management and the treatment of mental health conditions such as: Major Depressive Disorder Bipolar Disorder Anxiety and Panic Disorders Trauma and PTSD Substance Use Disorders Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders Sleep Disorders.
Reach out- Asking for help takes courage and sometimes it can be hard to make sense of difficult life events and to even seek help. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I help my clients go deeper into understanding their struggles. I specialize in providing psychiatric assessment ,medication management and the treatment of mental health conditions such as: Major Depressive Disorder Bipolar Disorder Anxiety and Panic Disorders Trauma and PTSD Substance Use Disorders Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders Sleep Disorders.
(505) 337-3268 View (505) 337-3268
Photo of Eunice W Mwaura - Eunice Mwaura, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eunice Mwaura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with Depression or anxious thoughts? I specialize in treating depression,bipolar disorder, anxiety/ PTSD , psychosis & sleep problems. I help my patients not just with medications but also in other areas of their life so they can achieve their full potential. I focus on providing thoughtful, unique and individualized care to my clients. In addition to medications, I also incorporate holistic approach and supportive therapy. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you in overcoming challenges. Please reach out and I'll be honored to work with you. Thank you
Are you struggling with Depression or anxious thoughts? I specialize in treating depression,bipolar disorder, anxiety/ PTSD , psychosis & sleep problems. I help my patients not just with medications but also in other areas of their life so they can achieve their full potential. I focus on providing thoughtful, unique and individualized care to my clients. In addition to medications, I also incorporate holistic approach and supportive therapy. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you in overcoming challenges. Please reach out and I'll be honored to work with you. Thank you
(210) 964-3846 View (210) 964-3846
Photo of Fadekemi Olude, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fadekemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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 Chikodili O Oji, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Chikodili O Oji
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Chikodili Oji, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) in Houston Texas, Nevada and New Mexico. My goal is to assist individuals like you overcome life challenges and improve their overall well-being.
My name is Chikodili Oji, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) in Houston Texas, Nevada and New Mexico. My goal is to assist individuals like you overcome life challenges and improve their overall well-being.
(775) 363-7952 View (775) 363-7952
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) 591-4656 View (505) 591-4656
Photo of Lucia Marquez, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatrist
Lucia Marquez
Psychiatrist, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I aim to work with, understand, and advocate for patients suffering from mental illnesses. I am committed to providing the highest quality of care and ending the stigma associated with mental health conditions.
As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I aim to work with, understand, and advocate for patients suffering from mental illnesses. I am committed to providing the highest quality of care and ending the stigma associated with mental health conditions.
(575) 900-5407 View (575) 900-5407
Photo of Fallon Gravely - Labyrinth Behavioral Health, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Labyrinth Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
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 Yuliya Caprietta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yuliya Caprietta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering exceptional and empathetic care. I perform psychiatric evaluations and medication management with consideration of each patient’s history, traumatic life events, current circumstances, and personal preferences. While my primary focus is medication management, I integrate various therapeutic techniques, ensuring a comprehensive approach to mental well-being.
I am a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering exceptional and empathetic care. I perform psychiatric evaluations and medication management with consideration of each patient’s history, traumatic life events, current circumstances, and personal preferences. While my primary focus is medication management, I integrate various therapeutic techniques, ensuring a comprehensive approach to mental well-being.
(505) 391-3552 View (505) 391-3552
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
Serves Area
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 Belinda B Nkaime - Amethyst Psychiatry &Wellness Clinic, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amethyst Psychiatry &Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am deeply committed to being an active listener, offering compassion, and showing genuine care in every interaction. I hold a deep respect for human dignity, understanding that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of respect. I believe that safe practice, honesty, accountability, and integrity are the foundations of effective care. These principles guide me in providing a safe and nurturing environment for my patients. I strongly embrace a Patient-Centered Approach, where the individual’s needs, preferences, and experiences are at the heart of all decisions. I incorporate Positive Reinforcement and Holistic Care into my
I am deeply committed to being an active listener, offering compassion, and showing genuine care in every interaction. I hold a deep respect for human dignity, understanding that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of respect. I believe that safe practice, honesty, accountability, and integrity are the foundations of effective care. These principles guide me in providing a safe and nurturing environment for my patients. I strongly embrace a Patient-Centered Approach, where the individual’s needs, preferences, and experiences are at the heart of all decisions. I incorporate Positive Reinforcement and Holistic Care into my
(505) 498-4104 View (505) 498-4104
Photo of Brence Brooks, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(505) 391-1399 View (505) 391-1399
Photo of Margaret Oliver, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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) 421-3498 View (505) 421-3498
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) 437-4925 View (505) 437-4925
Photo of Shannon Starkey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Starkey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new clients, I work with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and developmental challenges, as well as a wide range of other concerns. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management services through telehealth and in-person visits. I also offer guidance in mindfulness.
Accepting new clients, I work with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and developmental challenges, as well as a wide range of other concerns. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management services through telehealth and in-person visits. I also offer guidance in mindfulness.
(505) 657-8734 View (505) 657-8734
Photo of Tonya Rezmer, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tonya Rezmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Tonya is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018. She received her bachelor’s degree and Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Michigan-Flint. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, Addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Tonya is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018. She received her bachelor’s degree and Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Michigan-Flint. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, Addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(505) 397-6161 View (505) 397-6161

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 87124

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 87124 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
95% Bipolar Disorder
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Medication Management
70% Addiction
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 87124 see their clients

85% Online Only
15% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 87124?

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.