Psychiatrists in 89044

Tami is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. She has experience working with patients ages 13-64 years old. She specializes in treating disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and mental health conditions related to chronic illness and chronic pain for OR & WA patients. Prior to psychiatry, Tami worked in cardiovascular nursing. When she is not working, Tami can be found outdoors spending time with her family and her pitbull Coco.
Tami is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. She has experience working with patients ages 13-64 years old. She specializes in treating disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and mental health conditions related to chronic illness and chronic pain for OR & WA patients. Prior to psychiatry, Tami worked in cardiovascular nursing. When she is not working, Tami can be found outdoors spending time with her family and her pitbull Coco.

I am currently accepting new patients! Although I am presently not offering controlled substances, I assist individuals in dealing with anxiety and depression by addressing specific mental health needs through coaching, counseling, psychoeducation, medication management, and other psychotherapeutic interventions. Maintaining a person-centered focus and approach to helping others reach their mental wellness goals allows me to provide treatment in a safe, effective manner using evidence-based practice tools.
I am currently accepting new patients! Although I am presently not offering controlled substances, I assist individuals in dealing with anxiety and depression by addressing specific mental health needs through coaching, counseling, psychoeducation, medication management, and other psychotherapeutic interventions. Maintaining a person-centered focus and approach to helping others reach their mental wellness goals allows me to provide treatment in a safe, effective manner using evidence-based practice tools.

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in FL, CO, WA, KS, MN and NV, my passion is helping individuals navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, OCD, and ADHD. Our Florida office offers IV hydration, Vitamin injections like B12, and Ketamine assisted therapy. I understand that seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming, but I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and compassionate environment where you can share your experiences openly and without judgment. Together, we will work to identify the root causes of your struggles and develop strategies that lead to meaningful and lasting change.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in FL, CO, WA, KS, MN and NV, my passion is helping individuals navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, OCD, and ADHD. Our Florida office offers IV hydration, Vitamin injections like B12, and Ketamine assisted therapy. I understand that seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming, but I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and compassionate environment where you can share your experiences openly and without judgment. Together, we will work to identify the root causes of your struggles and develop strategies that lead to meaningful and lasting change.

Most psychiatric conditions arise out of stress and trauma. Healing and recovery require a holistic, trauma-centered approach rather than a narrow "pill for a problem" approach. A good psychiatrist uses medications when necessary, and combines them with psychotherapy and active collaboration with other service providers and loved ones. A good psychiatrist creates a partnership with patients in what is called "integrative collaborative care." This approach goes beyond a pathology-based, diagnosis-driven treatment approach to a collaborative, patient-centered approach that builds on each patient's unique strengths, hopes and dreams.
Most psychiatric conditions arise out of stress and trauma. Healing and recovery require a holistic, trauma-centered approach rather than a narrow "pill for a problem" approach. A good psychiatrist uses medications when necessary, and combines them with psychotherapy and active collaboration with other service providers and loved ones. A good psychiatrist creates a partnership with patients in what is called "integrative collaborative care." This approach goes beyond a pathology-based, diagnosis-driven treatment approach to a collaborative, patient-centered approach that builds on each patient's unique strengths, hopes and dreams.

Journey Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Journey Health and Wellness, we understand that life is a journey filled with questions and uncertainties. Questions like, "Where am I going?" "Why am I going there?" "How did I get here?" "Where should I go?" "How do I get from here to there?" and "Why can’t I move forward?" are ones we all grapple with at various stages of our lives. It is our privilege to accompany you on your unique path as you explore, navigate, and embrace your personal journey. Sometimes you just need more than the 7-10 minutes you get at your PCP appointments. We can help!
At Journey Health and Wellness, we understand that life is a journey filled with questions and uncertainties. Questions like, "Where am I going?" "Why am I going there?" "How did I get here?" "Where should I go?" "How do I get from here to there?" and "Why can’t I move forward?" are ones we all grapple with at various stages of our lives. It is our privilege to accompany you on your unique path as you explore, navigate, and embrace your personal journey. Sometimes you just need more than the 7-10 minutes you get at your PCP appointments. We can help!

At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone. Our areas of expertise include: Opioid treatment (Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, Lucemyra, a
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone. Our areas of expertise include: Opioid treatment (Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, Lucemyra, a

ReNewing Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Keesha is experienced in the mental health care field, offering personalized and compassionate solutions that promote your holistic well-being. We aim to break down barriers and debunk myths surrounding mental health by fostering understanding, empathy, and support. With a dedicated team of professionals, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and support without fear of judgment or stigma. We cater our services to pediatrics, adolescents, and adults. Our goal is to remove the stigma and normalize mental health care for everyone, especially black and brown patients.
Dr. Keesha is experienced in the mental health care field, offering personalized and compassionate solutions that promote your holistic well-being. We aim to break down barriers and debunk myths surrounding mental health by fostering understanding, empathy, and support. With a dedicated team of professionals, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and support without fear of judgment or stigma. We cater our services to pediatrics, adolescents, and adults. Our goal is to remove the stigma and normalize mental health care for everyone, especially black and brown patients.

Dr. John Reitano, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist trained at The Hospital of The University of Pennsylvania. He has 25 years of experience treating patients in all types of settings including private practice, community mental health, inpatient, couples, and family therapy as well as unique situations involving family businesses and the workplace.
Dr. John Reitano, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist trained at The Hospital of The University of Pennsylvania. He has 25 years of experience treating patients in all types of settings including private practice, community mental health, inpatient, couples, and family therapy as well as unique situations involving family businesses and the workplace.

Tina Mobley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. I'm invested in providing personalized service by combining functional and traditional medicine. This integrative approach improves quality of life by focusing on whole body wellness.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. I'm invested in providing personalized service by combining functional and traditional medicine. This integrative approach improves quality of life by focusing on whole body wellness.

Dr. Suba completed his residency training in Psychiatry from the University of Nevada School of Medicine where he served as Chief resident of his program. He is board certified by the American board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Suba is currently on faculty with the UNLV School of Medicine where he received the faculty of the year award in 2013, 2014, and 2016 from the Department of Psychiatry. He is adjunct faculty at Touro University in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dr. Suba has previously served as President of the Las Vegas branch of Nevada Psychiatric Association. Currently he serves as Medical Director of MonteVista hospital.
Dr. Suba completed his residency training in Psychiatry from the University of Nevada School of Medicine where he served as Chief resident of his program. He is board certified by the American board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Suba is currently on faculty with the UNLV School of Medicine where he received the faculty of the year award in 2013, 2014, and 2016 from the Department of Psychiatry. He is adjunct faculty at Touro University in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dr. Suba has previously served as President of the Las Vegas branch of Nevada Psychiatric Association. Currently he serves as Medical Director of MonteVista hospital.

Behavior Innovation
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Behavior Innovation is a safe space for you to talk about your mental health. Somewhere that you can turn to for help when you’re struggling. Visits are conducted 100% through video which allows you to schedule an appointment when it’s convenient for you to talk and you will receive medication management and compassionate care from a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Behavior Innovation is a safe space for you to talk about your mental health. Somewhere that you can turn to for help when you’re struggling. Visits are conducted 100% through video which allows you to schedule an appointment when it’s convenient for you to talk and you will receive medication management and compassionate care from a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.

Ashley Sweeney is a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in NV, TX, CO, OR, WA, and NV for telemedicine appointments. She believes in establishing trusting relationships, strengthening her client's decision-making process, and providing evidence-based information. She believes education and collaboration are the best methods to sustain long-term treatment success. Ashey offers Christain faith-based services when requested. She is passionate about helping her clients become the best version of themselves while they walk their life's journey. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.
Ashley Sweeney is a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in NV, TX, CO, OR, WA, and NV for telemedicine appointments. She believes in establishing trusting relationships, strengthening her client's decision-making process, and providing evidence-based information. She believes education and collaboration are the best methods to sustain long-term treatment success. Ashey offers Christain faith-based services when requested. She is passionate about helping her clients become the best version of themselves while they walk their life's journey. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. With extensive experience treating a wide range of conditions - including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other complex disorders - I take a holistic approach to mental health care. Committed to providing comprehensive treatment, I incorporate the bio-psycho-social model in developing personalized treatment plans. A firm believer in the importance of early intervention, I work to create lasting, positive impacts, particularly for younger patients, setting the foundation for a brighter, healthier future.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. With extensive experience treating a wide range of conditions - including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other complex disorders - I take a holistic approach to mental health care. Committed to providing comprehensive treatment, I incorporate the bio-psycho-social model in developing personalized treatment plans. A firm believer in the importance of early intervention, I work to create lasting, positive impacts, particularly for younger patients, setting the foundation for a brighter, healthier future.

Welcome to CITI MD, Your Partner in Comprehensive Healthcare At, CITI MD we pride ourselves on being more than just a healthcare provider- we are your partner in achieving optimal health and wellness. With a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual, we are dedicated to serving all members of our community, regardless of background, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Diverse Services to Meet Your Needs At our clinic, we understand that healthcare is not one-size-fits-all. That's why we offer a wide array of services designed to address the diverse needs of our patients.
Welcome to CITI MD, Your Partner in Comprehensive Healthcare At, CITI MD we pride ourselves on being more than just a healthcare provider- we are your partner in achieving optimal health and wellness. With a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual, we are dedicated to serving all members of our community, regardless of background, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Diverse Services to Meet Your Needs At our clinic, we understand that healthcare is not one-size-fits-all. That's why we offer a wide array of services designed to address the diverse needs of our patients.

Karen Linares
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89113
I am a licensed, board certified advance FNP and a PMHNP (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner). I provide medication management for individuals 6 years and older. I have about 6 years of experience in mental health nursing caring for hundreds of patients with a diverse range of mental health diagnosis in internal and family practice. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
I am a licensed, board certified advance FNP and a PMHNP (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner). I provide medication management for individuals 6 years and older. I have about 6 years of experience in mental health nursing caring for hundreds of patients with a diverse range of mental health diagnosis in internal and family practice. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.

Katy Rose Waldorf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89149
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or life transitions? I’m Katy Rose Waldorf, PMHNP, here to help you feel balanced, focused, and empowered through personalized medication management and compassionate care
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or life transitions? I’m Katy Rose Waldorf, PMHNP, here to help you feel balanced, focused, and empowered through personalized medication management and compassionate care

Hagop Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89002
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/NV
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/NV

Life is challenging and coping with mental illness is not easy. I want to help by providing medication management for conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-partum mental illness, and more. We will work together to find the best treatment. We will discuss your symptoms, review past medications or lack of treatment, and decide on a plan to meet your health needs.
Life is challenging and coping with mental illness is not easy. I want to help by providing medication management for conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-partum mental illness, and more. We will work together to find the best treatment. We will discuss your symptoms, review past medications or lack of treatment, and decide on a plan to meet your health needs.

Hi I’m Liz! I’m a board-certified Physician Assistant from Eastern Michigan University with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan and a strong focus in psychiatry and mental health care. At Axis Psychiatry, I provide comprehensive psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and psychosocial assessments.
With a foundation in both medical and behavioral health, I take a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. I am dedicated to building therapeutic relationships and empowering patients through evidence-based treatment and support. I have 10 years of mental health experience.
Hi I’m Liz! I’m a board-certified Physician Assistant from Eastern Michigan University with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan and a strong focus in psychiatry and mental health care. At Axis Psychiatry, I provide comprehensive psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and psychosocial assessments.
With a foundation in both medical and behavioral health, I take a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. I am dedicated to building therapeutic relationships and empowering patients through evidence-based treatment and support. I have 10 years of mental health experience.

Olamide Kolawole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you seeking compassionate care and evidence-based treatment for your mental health concerns? Look no further! I'm Olamide, a Psychiatric Mental Health NP dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to holistic well-being. Whether you're struggling with mood disturbances, stress-related issues, or life transitions, I'm here to provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Your mental health matters, and I'm honored to be a part of your journey towards healing.
Are you seeking compassionate care and evidence-based treatment for your mental health concerns? Look no further! I'm Olamide, a Psychiatric Mental Health NP dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to holistic well-being. Whether you're struggling with mood disturbances, stress-related issues, or life transitions, I'm here to provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Your mental health matters, and I'm honored to be a part of your journey towards healing.
See more therapy options for 89044
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 89044
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 89044 who prioritize treating:
92% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
92% | Medication Management |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Stress |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 89044 see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 89044?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.