Psychiatrists in 89104

Photo of Roudette Ferrer - Kee Essentials - Behavioral & Primary Medicine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGACNP, PMHNP, BC
Kee Essentials - Behavioral & Primary Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGACNP, PMHNP, BC
17 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89104
Hey! I get it. You feels overwhelmed by anxiety and burnout due to the pressure of perfectionism and fear of failure. Your issues may include a constant feeling of not being good enough, the inability to relax or enjoy accomplishments, or a pervasive fear of making mistakes. Your needs likely revolve around finding a sense of calm, learning effective stress management techniques, and redefining success. Your goals might include achieving a healthier work-life balance, and cultivating self-compassion. Ultimately, you want to feel confident, content, and fulfilled in both your personal and professional life.
Hey! I get it. You feels overwhelmed by anxiety and burnout due to the pressure of perfectionism and fear of failure. Your issues may include a constant feeling of not being good enough, the inability to relax or enjoy accomplishments, or a pervasive fear of making mistakes. Your needs likely revolve around finding a sense of calm, learning effective stress management techniques, and redefining success. Your goals might include achieving a healthier work-life balance, and cultivating self-compassion. Ultimately, you want to feel confident, content, and fulfilled in both your personal and professional life.
(301) 760-2977 View (301) 760-2977
Photo of Annette Kee - Kee Essentials - Behavioral Medicine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Kee Essentials - Behavioral Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89104
Hey There! I got you! I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for the past 22 years. I specialize in treating many disorders that stem from low neurotransmitter levels (e.g., serotonin, GABA, and dopamine). At times, I prescribe commonly used anti-anxiety/depressants that can be useful in the short- or long-term, depending on the situation. However, I look at the whole body, and many times, naturally restoring the brain's normal function resolves the need for prescription medication with the advantage of genetic medication testing, Neurofeedback, therapy, etc.
Hey There! I got you! I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for the past 22 years. I specialize in treating many disorders that stem from low neurotransmitter levels (e.g., serotonin, GABA, and dopamine). At times, I prescribe commonly used anti-anxiety/depressants that can be useful in the short- or long-term, depending on the situation. However, I look at the whole body, and many times, naturally restoring the brain's normal function resolves the need for prescription medication with the advantage of genetic medication testing, Neurofeedback, therapy, etc.
(725) 900-8493 View (725) 900-8493
Photo of Dr. Pheba Pappachan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Dr. Pheba Pappachan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety or social anxiety or panic attack or depressed mood or mood swings or going through loss and grief or having inattention and focus issues? please feel free to contact us to discuss about your concerns and possible medication management treatment plans.
Are you struggling with anxiety or social anxiety or panic attack or depressed mood or mood swings or going through loss and grief or having inattention and focus issues? please feel free to contact us to discuss about your concerns and possible medication management treatment plans.
(702) 935-2285 View (702) 935-2285
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
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Hola! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
Hola! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
(360) 288-4591 x2 View (360) 288-4591 x2
Photo of Reimund Serafica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Reimund Serafica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Reimund Serafica, I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. My expertise lies in adult mental health, particularly in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stressor-related disorders, attention deficit disorders, schizophrenia, and psychotic disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health, integrating both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic methods to address the diverse needs of my patients.
My name is Reimund Serafica, I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. My expertise lies in adult mental health, particularly in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stressor-related disorders, attention deficit disorders, schizophrenia, and psychotic disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health, integrating both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic methods to address the diverse needs of my patients.
(725) 215-2737 View (725) 215-2737
Photo of Nicollette Pizzoferrato, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicollette Pizzoferrato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Nicollette Pizzoferrato, and I have been a board-certified outpatient psychiatric nurse practitioner for 4 years. I love connecting with patients and getting to know them throughout our visits. Together we will find the medication combination most suitable to improve your symptoms. I love doing what I do and helping patients like you get back to your best self. During our sessions, we will utilize medications to help balance abnormalities in one’s brain chemistry and alleviate distress. Medications are not a be all end all to fix everything but they are a step in the process to alleviating symptoms.
My name is Nicollette Pizzoferrato, and I have been a board-certified outpatient psychiatric nurse practitioner for 4 years. I love connecting with patients and getting to know them throughout our visits. Together we will find the medication combination most suitable to improve your symptoms. I love doing what I do and helping patients like you get back to your best self. During our sessions, we will utilize medications to help balance abnormalities in one’s brain chemistry and alleviate distress. Medications are not a be all end all to fix everything but they are a step in the process to alleviating symptoms.
(725) 999-9517 View (725) 999-9517
Photo of Kelly Fink, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Kelly Fink
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am excited to get to know you. Please join me on this journey to get you back to where you'd like to be. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and re-evaluation. I ensure you are knowledgeable about your treatment plan, and that you are comfortable with the plan. We work together to find a solution that works for you.
I am excited to get to know you. Please join me on this journey to get you back to where you'd like to be. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and re-evaluation. I ensure you are knowledgeable about your treatment plan, and that you are comfortable with the plan. We work together to find a solution that works for you.
(725) 527-6309 View (725) 527-6309
Photo of Heather Blondin, Psychiatrist, DO
Heather Blondin
Psychiatrist, DO
Las Vegas, NV 89104
My ideal client may be struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, or psychosis. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider who listens and tailors care to their unique needs. Their goal is to regain emotional balance, improve daily functioning, and build resilience. They want to feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve mental wellness in a safe, non-judgmental space. They value collaboration and seek a treatment plan that aligns with their personal goals and life circumstances.
My ideal client may be struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, or psychosis. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider who listens and tailors care to their unique needs. Their goal is to regain emotional balance, improve daily functioning, and build resilience. They want to feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve mental wellness in a safe, non-judgmental space. They value collaboration and seek a treatment plan that aligns with their personal goals and life circumstances.
(702) 297-7615 View (702) 297-7615
Photo of Kristen Cox - Benevolent Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Benevolent Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89104
Kristen Cox, PMHNP-BC, and Rommel Cinco, PMHNP-BC both enjoy working with people of all ages. We especially enjoy working with children and teenagers. We are LGBTQ+ and sex work positive. We have experience treating depression, anxiety, DMDD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. We have experience treating emotional disturbances related to an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. We also have experience working in corrections. We do not do neuropsychological evaluations.
Kristen Cox, PMHNP-BC, and Rommel Cinco, PMHNP-BC both enjoy working with people of all ages. We especially enjoy working with children and teenagers. We are LGBTQ+ and sex work positive. We have experience treating depression, anxiety, DMDD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. We have experience treating emotional disturbances related to an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. We also have experience working in corrections. We do not do neuropsychological evaluations.
(702) 623-4818 View (702) 623-4818
Photo of Irene Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Irene Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Imagine your child grappling with intense mood swings, defiance, or emotional turmoil, feeling unheard and misunderstood. As a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner and clinic owner, I dedicate my expertise to assisting teenagers with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Dysthymic Disorder (DMDD) in finding stability and hope. My team and I provide prompt appointments, offering compassionate and expert care through a combination of psychiatry and talk therapy. Your child’s well-being is my utmost priority, because every young person deserves the opportunity to flourish and feel understood.
Imagine your child grappling with intense mood swings, defiance, or emotional turmoil, feeling unheard and misunderstood. As a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner and clinic owner, I dedicate my expertise to assisting teenagers with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Dysthymic Disorder (DMDD) in finding stability and hope. My team and I provide prompt appointments, offering compassionate and expert care through a combination of psychiatry and talk therapy. Your child’s well-being is my utmost priority, because every young person deserves the opportunity to flourish and feel understood.
(725) 356-6552 View (725) 356-6552
Photo of Dr. Fidelis Moseri - Recovery Psychiatric Services, LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Recovery Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice. I have been in the field of Mental Health for over 15 years, with an extensive experience in the treatment of mental health disorders ranging from Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Impulse Control Disorder, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, to Substance Abuse. The treatment modalities I offer include: Medication management (Pharmacotherapy) and Psychotherapy.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice. I have been in the field of Mental Health for over 15 years, with an extensive experience in the treatment of mental health disorders ranging from Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Impulse Control Disorder, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, to Substance Abuse. The treatment modalities I offer include: Medication management (Pharmacotherapy) and Psychotherapy.
(702) 978-8215 View (702) 978-8215
Photo of Eunice Ugochukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Eunice Ugochukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
I am a caring and competent Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years experience in Psychiatric -Mental Health Care and Treatment. I give each patient my focused attention, and pride myself on delivering the best treatment possible. I am genuinely devoted to the well-being of my patients. I am proficient in the art and science of mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals and families with psychiatric disorders or impending disorders utilizing my full scope of therapeutic abilities, which include the prescription of medication and medication management.
I am a caring and competent Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years experience in Psychiatric -Mental Health Care and Treatment. I give each patient my focused attention, and pride myself on delivering the best treatment possible. I am genuinely devoted to the well-being of my patients. I am proficient in the art and science of mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals and families with psychiatric disorders or impending disorders utilizing my full scope of therapeutic abilities, which include the prescription of medication and medication management.
(702) 766-9146 View (702) 766-9146
Photo of Ryan Thebo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(702) 297-8695 View (702) 297-8695
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
Serves Area
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 Merle Tolentino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Merle Tolentino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Serves Area
Merle Tolentino is a board certified psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner in both Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She has acquire several years of experience in various settings to treat individuals with mental illness.
Merle Tolentino is a board certified psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner in both Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She has acquire several years of experience in various settings to treat individuals with mental illness.
(702) 466-1705 View (702) 466-1705
Photo of Melissa Ferrell - Active Recovery Care, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Active Recovery Care, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Serves Area
Active Recovery Care specializes in the individualized and integrative treatment of common mental health disorders such as, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance and alcohol use disorders.
Active Recovery Care specializes in the individualized and integrative treatment of common mental health disorders such as, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance and alcohol use disorders.
(520) 438-6262 View (520) 438-6262

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Summyji Groom, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
(303) 479-3448 View (303) 479-3448
Photo of Jacob Mearse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacob Mearse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there! My name is Dr. Jake Mearse. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing in Nevada. I take a "whole person care" approach to mental healthcare, recognizing that mind and body are deeply connected. I practice a very client-centered model of care. My no. 1 rule of healthcare is that no one knows you better than you do! What you need from me may be very different than someone else with the same diagnosis. By listening and truly getting to know you, I aim to provide care that best fits your individual needs.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Jake Mearse. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing in Nevada. I take a "whole person care" approach to mental healthcare, recognizing that mind and body are deeply connected. I practice a very client-centered model of care. My no. 1 rule of healthcare is that no one knows you better than you do! What you need from me may be very different than someone else with the same diagnosis. By listening and truly getting to know you, I aim to provide care that best fits your individual needs.
(725) 527-8807 View (725) 527-8807
Photo of Akisha Toussaint, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC
Akisha Toussaint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89015
At Rejuven Health, we know health challenges impact both body and mind. You may be struggling with chronic conditions, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or stress. Perhaps you're seeking better overall wellness or support for mental health concerns. You want comprehensive, compassionate care from a provider who listens and works with you to achieve lasting health. You need a provider who can address both physical and mental health in one place. You want a personalized approach that considers your lifestyle, not just quick fixes.
At Rejuven Health, we know health challenges impact both body and mind. You may be struggling with chronic conditions, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or stress. Perhaps you're seeking better overall wellness or support for mental health concerns. You want comprehensive, compassionate care from a provider who listens and works with you to achieve lasting health. You need a provider who can address both physical and mental health in one place. You want a personalized approach that considers your lifestyle, not just quick fixes.
(702) 983-7976 View (702) 983-7976

See more therapy options for 89104

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 89104

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 89104 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
94% Depression
94% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
88% ADHD
71% Trauma and PTSD
65% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 89104 see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 89104?

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.