Psychiatrists in 89101

Photo of Patrick Ollar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Patrick Ollar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I specialize in supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or challenging life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed by mood swings, racing thoughts, hallucinations, or a sense of disconnection, struggling to find stability or hope. Whether you're navigating the complexities of a mental health condition, seeking balance after a life change, or longing for clarity, I’m here to partner with you on your journey toward healing.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I specialize in supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or challenging life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed by mood swings, racing thoughts, hallucinations, or a sense of disconnection, struggling to find stability or hope. Whether you're navigating the complexities of a mental health condition, seeking balance after a life change, or longing for clarity, I’m here to partner with you on your journey toward healing.
(725) 257-7618 View (725) 257-7618
Photo of Izehi Eromosele Pmhnp-Bc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Izehi Eromosele Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89101
I am current accepting clients from New York, Nevada, Oregon, Washington state Arizona and New Mexico. I specialize in Anxiety and depression, OCD, PTSD ,ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders. Do you have trouble organizing and staying focused. Ever question whether what you're feeling is normal? Do you need help with forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or getting easily distracted? Does getting out of bed in the morning feel challenging, and you've lost the motivation to engage in life, sometimes feeling sad without an apparent reason? We prioritize your mental health. we prioritize you! contact us today.
I am current accepting clients from New York, Nevada, Oregon, Washington state Arizona and New Mexico. I specialize in Anxiety and depression, OCD, PTSD ,ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders. Do you have trouble organizing and staying focused. Ever question whether what you're feeling is normal? Do you need help with forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or getting easily distracted? Does getting out of bed in the morning feel challenging, and you've lost the motivation to engage in life, sometimes feeling sad without an apparent reason? We prioritize your mental health. we prioritize you! contact us today.
(725) 677-5195 View (725) 677-5195
Photo of Olubukola Komolafe - Bethel Hills Integrated Healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSN/Ed
Bethel Hills Integrated Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSN/Ed
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We provide psychiatric care, medication management, we have weekend and evening appointments. We also provide primary care and work with other specialties. We specialized in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, personality disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, treatment-resistant depression, among others. We also provide Medically supervised weight loss management
We provide psychiatric care, medication management, we have weekend and evening appointments. We also provide primary care and work with other specialties. We specialized in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, personality disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, treatment-resistant depression, among others. We also provide Medically supervised weight loss management
(702) 757-6025 View (702) 757-6025
Photo of Dominique Sanders, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
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.
(702) 996-4994 View (702) 996-4994
Photo of Dr. David E Guinn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Dr. David E Guinn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Online Only
An ideal Nevada client is someone who has been struggling with depression, anxiety or feeling scattered and having difficulty focusing on everyday things. These problems have been interfering with their personal and professional life leading to decreased enjoyment or productivity.
An ideal Nevada client is someone who has been struggling with depression, anxiety or feeling scattered and having difficulty focusing on everyday things. These problems have been interfering with their personal and professional life leading to decreased enjoyment or productivity.
(906) 256-1673 View (906) 256-1673
Photo of Dr. Faith Murray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Dr. Faith Murray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who holds licenses in multiple states, including NY, GA, MN, FL, MD, ND, UT, and NV. As a compassionate healthcare professional, I specialize in providing virtual visits through telehealth, offering a convenient and accessible solution for individuals in need. My expertise lies in addressing the challenges faced by those grappling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia. Ideal clients seeking my support are often individuals navigating the complexities of these mental health conditions, seeking understanding, relief, and effective strategies for improvement.
I am a Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who holds licenses in multiple states, including NY, GA, MN, FL, MD, ND, UT, and NV. As a compassionate healthcare professional, I specialize in providing virtual visits through telehealth, offering a convenient and accessible solution for individuals in need. My expertise lies in addressing the challenges faced by those grappling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia. Ideal clients seeking my support are often individuals navigating the complexities of these mental health conditions, seeking understanding, relief, and effective strategies for improvement.
(404) 737-7024 View (404) 737-7024
Photo of Katy Rose Waldorf, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katy Rose Waldorf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
(530) 424-2783 View (530) 424-2783
Photo of Pantira Aguilera, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Pantira Aguilera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based medication management for individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions. With a solid understanding of the intricate connection between mental and physical well-being, I am committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of their mental health journey.
As a dedicated Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based medication management for individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions. With a solid understanding of the intricate connection between mental and physical well-being, I am committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of their mental health journey.
(661) 214-3086 View (661) 214-3086
Photo of Our Wellness Project - Kevin Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Our Wellness Project - Kevin Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my experience includes multiple behavioral health outpatient clinics as well as substance abuse clinics throughout New York City. Through these experiences, I have always felt a calling to assist individuals with mental health issues. My training crosses a life-span while utilizing Evidence-Based Practice. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as utilizing various treatment modalities to adequately treat each individual client. I am capable of helping individuals who are experiencing difficulties with the ability to physically function, due to the inability to manage their emotions.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my experience includes multiple behavioral health outpatient clinics as well as substance abuse clinics throughout New York City. Through these experiences, I have always felt a calling to assist individuals with mental health issues. My training crosses a life-span while utilizing Evidence-Based Practice. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as utilizing various treatment modalities to adequately treat each individual client. I am capable of helping individuals who are experiencing difficulties with the ability to physically function, due to the inability to manage their emotions.
(718) 736-2261 View (718) 736-2261
Photo of Gregory P Brown - Gregory P Brown, MD, Prof Corp, Psychiatrist, MD
Gregory P Brown, MD, Prof Corp
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
The ideal client has motivation to give them the energy and focus to truly work with and on the problems that bring them for care. The ability to discuss life issues and symptoms is key to understanding and change. While treating anxiety and depression, a great goal is a focus on achieving more in life rather than simply the removal of symptoms. 7th Path Self Hypnosis training is included as part of sessions as a means of self work to be done between sessions, which is a unique form of insight generating self hypnosis.
The ideal client has motivation to give them the energy and focus to truly work with and on the problems that bring them for care. The ability to discuss life issues and symptoms is key to understanding and change. While treating anxiety and depression, a great goal is a focus on achieving more in life rather than simply the removal of symptoms. 7th Path Self Hypnosis training is included as part of sessions as a means of self work to be done between sessions, which is a unique form of insight generating self hypnosis.
(702) 941-6959 View (702) 941-6959
Photo of Michelle Fontenelle-Gilmer - Finding Hope, Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
Finding Hope
Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
Serves Area
Finding Hopes mission is to help children, teens and adults obtain exceptional mental health care. We offer mental health care services in multiple states across the country. We have local offices for in person visits in Las Vegas Nevada. We also offer telehealth services for those 18+ in the states of Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Washington.
Finding Hopes mission is to help children, teens and adults obtain exceptional mental health care. We offer mental health care services in multiple states across the country. We have local offices for in person visits in Las Vegas Nevada. We also offer telehealth services for those 18+ in the states of Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Washington.
(702) 381-6508 View (702) 381-6508
Photo of Jessica Hubbard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Jessica Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Providing mental health services that give patients the time and attention that they need and deserve is my ultimate goal. I have a passion for mental health and I want to make a difference in the patients I serve.
Providing mental health services that give patients the time and attention that they need and deserve is my ultimate goal. I have a passion for mental health and I want to make a difference in the patients I serve.
(725) 999-4907 View (725) 999-4907
Photo of Antonio L Eddings Sr., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Antonio L Eddings Sr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Antonio is a Dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is passionate about helping all people have the best physical and mental health as possible. He is the owner and founder of All About You Healthcare Family Practice & Behavioral Health that was founded in 2017. He has been in healthcare for over 24 years working in various clinical settings. He graduated from TSU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in IDS with concentration in Psychology and Social Work, 2005 with BSN, 2012 with MSN/FNP, and Aug 2021 Post Certification as PMHNP from Western Kentucky University.
Antonio is a Dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is passionate about helping all people have the best physical and mental health as possible. He is the owner and founder of All About You Healthcare Family Practice & Behavioral Health that was founded in 2017. He has been in healthcare for over 24 years working in various clinical settings. He graduated from TSU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in IDS with concentration in Psychology and Social Work, 2005 with BSN, 2012 with MSN/FNP, and Aug 2021 Post Certification as PMHNP from Western Kentucky University.
(615) 709-6180 View (615) 709-6180

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jordan Carley - Balanced Life Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Balanced Life Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89103
I am passionate about working with clients and listening to their unique journeys that have led them to seek help at Balanced Life Behavioral Health. My mission is to help people experience optimal behavioral health balance through not only medication management but with skilled support to enhance their quality of life. I strive to ensure that each client has sufficient time during our appointment sessions to address their issues, needs, and goals. I aspire to assist clients in exploring all treatment options to find a balanced solution for their behavioral health needs.
I am passionate about working with clients and listening to their unique journeys that have led them to seek help at Balanced Life Behavioral Health. My mission is to help people experience optimal behavioral health balance through not only medication management but with skilled support to enhance their quality of life. I strive to ensure that each client has sufficient time during our appointment sessions to address their issues, needs, and goals. I aspire to assist clients in exploring all treatment options to find a balanced solution for their behavioral health needs.
(702) 276-7155 View (702) 276-7155
Photo of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Tms) Las Vegas - Mind Brain Institute, Psychiatrist, MD
Mind Brain Institute
Psychiatrist, MD
Las Vegas, NV 89118
“The choice to seek help for a mental health condition can be a difficult one. Depression and other mental health conditions can be very painful, confusing, and isolating, making it hard for people to recognize that they may be experiencing an illness. Patients often come to see us in a time of crisis, sometimes after years of suffering without treatment or trying multiple therapies with little success. No matter where you are along your path, we’re here to help. Hablamos Espanol. No sufra mas.
“The choice to seek help for a mental health condition can be a difficult one. Depression and other mental health conditions can be very painful, confusing, and isolating, making it hard for people to recognize that they may be experiencing an illness. Patients often come to see us in a time of crisis, sometimes after years of suffering without treatment or trying multiple therapies with little success. No matter where you are along your path, we’re here to help. Hablamos Espanol. No sufra mas.
(702) 935-1682 View (702) 935-1682
Photo of Michelle Lobrin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Michelle Lobrin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89117
Life can be overwhelming at times, and if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood changes, you're not alone. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered on your mental health journey. Whether you're facing daily challenges or seeking guidance during tough times, I’m here to help you move forward with confidence.
Life can be overwhelming at times, and if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood changes, you're not alone. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered on your mental health journey. Whether you're facing daily challenges or seeking guidance during tough times, I’m here to help you move forward with confidence.
(702) 830-9588 View (702) 830-9588
Photo of Grant Bullock, Psychiatrist, DO
Grant Bullock
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89103
It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on improving yourself for a while, it is my mission to help you achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and overall happiness. Although my training is in general psychiatry, addiction recovery, and psychotherapy, our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on improving yourself for a while, it is my mission to help you achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and overall happiness. Although my training is in general psychiatry, addiction recovery, and psychotherapy, our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
(725) 303-1956 View (725) 303-1956
Photo of Chika Okechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Chika Okechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Las Vegas, NV 89107
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Chika Okechukwu has more than 7 years experience as a Nurse Practitioner. She is involved in the management of various mental health and behavioral health conditions including, mood disorders, Attention deficit and Hyperactivity disorder, Generalized anxiety disorder, Insomnia and substance use disorder. Every patient receives a personalized care plan after a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. She is passionate about patients having quick access to mental care.
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Chika Okechukwu has more than 7 years experience as a Nurse Practitioner. She is involved in the management of various mental health and behavioral health conditions including, mood disorders, Attention deficit and Hyperactivity disorder, Generalized anxiety disorder, Insomnia and substance use disorder. Every patient receives a personalized care plan after a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. She is passionate about patients having quick access to mental care.
(702) 766-5696 View (702) 766-5696
Photo of Armando Javier Brito, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Armando Javier Brito
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Las Vegas, NV 89123
I provide compassionate, non-judgmental and patient-centered care to individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns. I understand that not every treatment option may work for everyone.
I provide compassionate, non-judgmental and patient-centered care to individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns. I understand that not every treatment option may work for everyone.
(541) 854-2933 View (541) 854-2933
Photo of Dr. Keesha Davis - ReNewing Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
ReNewing Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
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.
(702) 766-9868 View (702) 766-9868

See more therapy options for 89101

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 89101

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 89101 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% ADHD
85% Medication Management
77% Trauma and PTSD
62% Bipolar Disorder
62% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 89101 see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 89101?

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.