Psychiatrists in 89106
Bryan Bender
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Bryan Bender is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He was born in sunny Southern California, where he attended college, became a registered nurse, and worked for many years in emergency nursing. Bryan's life experiences and ability to connect with his patients sparked Bryan to further his education and pursue a career working as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has cared for a broad variety of patients ranging from children to geriatrics.
Bryan Bender is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He was born in sunny Southern California, where he attended college, became a registered nurse, and worked for many years in emergency nursing. Bryan's life experiences and ability to connect with his patients sparked Bryan to further his education and pursue a career working as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has cared for a broad variety of patients ranging from children to geriatrics.
Mental health is a balance between our emotions (feeling), Cognition (thinking) and Behavior (how we act). It is very important to maintain a balance to experience a quality life. We are all going through a very tough time and have been affected one way or the other. The good news is, there is help out there, so you do not have to feel alone or hopeless. Call our office today to get help with your emotions, thoughts and unstable behavior.
Mental health is a balance between our emotions (feeling), Cognition (thinking) and Behavior (how we act). It is very important to maintain a balance to experience a quality life. We are all going through a very tough time and have been affected one way or the other. The good news is, there is help out there, so you do not have to feel alone or hopeless. Call our office today to get help with your emotions, thoughts and unstable behavior.
Ada Ezeanolue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
“As a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring over eight years of rich experience to the table. My journey in this field has been driven by a singular vision: to provide empathetic, individualized care to each patient, treating them with the same consideration and respect I would seek for myself. My approach to mental health care goes beyond mere treatment; it’s about forging a bond of trust and understanding with my patients. I believe that mental wellness is a critical aspect of overall health, and my goal is to create a nurturing and safe environment.
“As a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring over eight years of rich experience to the table. My journey in this field has been driven by a singular vision: to provide empathetic, individualized care to each patient, treating them with the same consideration and respect I would seek for myself. My approach to mental health care goes beyond mere treatment; it’s about forging a bond of trust and understanding with my patients. I believe that mental wellness is a critical aspect of overall health, and my goal is to create a nurturing and safe environment.
Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, , APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Now Accepting New Patients! Our Clinic offers Therapy General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With therapy and/or medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! Our Clinic offers Therapy General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With therapy and/or medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
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.
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.
My goal is to promote mental and physical well-being of my clients. I am dedicated to help individuals and families find solutions to life's challenges.
My goal is to promote mental and physical well-being of my clients. I am dedicated to help individuals and families find solutions to life's challenges.
Dr. Jan Michael Arceo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CSAP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
I am Dr. Jan Michael Arceo DNP, PMHNP-BC (Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified). I have been practicing in my specialty in Psychiatric/Mental Health for over eight years. My staff and I strive to provide the highest standard of care and compassion to each of my patients. My motto has always been "Quality care over quantity." I treat/manage a wide variety of mental health psychiatric conditions and substance abuse/dependence/addiction conditions from pediatrics/adolescents to adults and elderly patients.
I am Dr. Jan Michael Arceo DNP, PMHNP-BC (Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified). I have been practicing in my specialty in Psychiatric/Mental Health for over eight years. My staff and I strive to provide the highest standard of care and compassion to each of my patients. My motto has always been "Quality care over quantity." I treat/manage a wide variety of mental health psychiatric conditions and substance abuse/dependence/addiction conditions from pediatrics/adolescents to adults and elderly patients.
Kee Essentials
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Hello from Kee Essentials NV & OH! I am Dr. Kee, a Doctoral-Prepared Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I offer comprehensive psychiatric treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, and seek to provide an individualized approach through medication management. My goal is to provide compassionate and professional care, and to truly understand the person seeking my help by listening, understanding, and collaborating with them. Additionally, I am an Adjunct Professor for Northern Kentucky University to train other Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to understand the treatment of mental health.
Hello from Kee Essentials NV & OH! I am Dr. Kee, a Doctoral-Prepared Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I offer comprehensive psychiatric treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, and seek to provide an individualized approach through medication management. My goal is to provide compassionate and professional care, and to truly understand the person seeking my help by listening, understanding, and collaborating with them. Additionally, I am an Adjunct Professor for Northern Kentucky University to train other Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to understand the treatment of mental health.
Integrated Health & Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89106 (Online Only)
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
Services at Vegas Cares, are compassionate and results driven. We are focused on providing the most secure and supportive environment for our patients giving them the feeling that they can achieve everything they can hope for and beyond their expectations in our program. We serve Children, Adults, Couples and Families. We address symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, PTSD/Trauma, Family issues, At-Risk Youth and Behavioral Issues, Defiance, Anger, Impulsiveness and an array of human behavioral diagnoses’ . We strive to gain the best results and outcomes for our patients. Call for a free consultation. Appointments are available Monday-Saturday 702-741-1938 (call/text), 725-206-5434 (call/office) 775-537-4417 (text)
Services at Vegas Cares, are compassionate and results driven. We are focused on providing the most secure and supportive environment for our patients giving them the feeling that they can achieve everything they can hope for and beyond their expectations in our program. We serve Children, Adults, Couples and Families. We address symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, PTSD/Trauma, Family issues, At-Risk Youth and Behavioral Issues, Defiance, Anger, Impulsiveness and an array of human behavioral diagnoses’ . We strive to gain the best results and outcomes for our patients. Call for a free consultation. Appointments are available Monday-Saturday 702-741-1938 (call/text), 725-206-5434 (call/office) 775-537-4417 (text)
More Psychiatrists Nearby
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. 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. Our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. 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. Our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
Sharlotte Tay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Las Vegas, NV 89036 (Online Only)
Sharlotte is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan in outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals. Her specialties include Anxiety disorders, Depression disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactive disorder, Panic disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Adjustment disorders, and more.
Sharlotte is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan in outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals. Her specialties include Anxiety disorders, Depression disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactive disorder, Panic disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Adjustment disorders, and more.
Lori Darnelle Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89113 (Online Only)
I am Lori Lewis, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For years, I have been committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. With a diverse background in healthcare, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My decision to specialize in mental health nursing came after a personal experience that transformed my life. As a survivor of sexual assault, I spent years running away from my own mental health struggles. As a mental health advocate, I strongly believe the significance of facing your fears while allowing yourself grace.
I am Lori Lewis, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For years, I have been committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. With a diverse background in healthcare, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. My decision to specialize in mental health nursing came after a personal experience that transformed my life. As a survivor of sexual assault, I spent years running away from my own mental health struggles. As a mental health advocate, I strongly believe the significance of facing your fears while allowing yourself grace.
Benevolent Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89149
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, ADHD, 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, ADHD, 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.
HarmonyCare Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89113 (Online Only)
In my practice, I often work with individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. I understand that seeking help is about more than just alleviating symptoms; it's about gaining a deeper understanding of oneself and one's mental well-being. I strive to be a compassionate and knowledgeable provider, actively listening to my clients and working collaboratively with them to create personalized treatment plans. My goal is to help my clients improve their mental health, enhance their quality of life, and develop coping strategies that empower them to navigate life's challenges.
In my practice, I often work with individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. I understand that seeking help is about more than just alleviating symptoms; it's about gaining a deeper understanding of oneself and one's mental well-being. I strive to be a compassionate and knowledgeable provider, actively listening to my clients and working collaboratively with them to create personalized treatment plans. My goal is to help my clients improve their mental health, enhance their quality of life, and develop coping strategies that empower them to navigate life's challenges.
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89115
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
Jacob Mearse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110 (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.
Karen Yesenia Linares
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89119 (Online Only)
I am a licensed, board certified advance FNP and a PMHNP (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner). I am also the founder of Care Anywhere Health & Wellness. 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. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, OCD, 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 am also the founder of Care Anywhere Health & Wellness. 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. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, OCD, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
We understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, and we want you to know that you are not alone. At Behavioral Health Solutions, we are here for you. We are currently accepting new patients for medication consultations, perinatal mental health support, Suboxone treatment, and a range of other psychiatric services. If you are facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or any other concerns that make it difficult for you to move forward in life, we invite you to reach out. Our compassionate team of therapists and psychiatrists is dedicated to providing the support you need in a warm and welcoming environment.
We understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, and we want you to know that you are not alone. At Behavioral Health Solutions, we are here for you. We are currently accepting new patients for medication consultations, perinatal mental health support, Suboxone treatment, and a range of other psychiatric services. If you are facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or any other concerns that make it difficult for you to move forward in life, we invite you to reach out. Our compassionate team of therapists and psychiatrists is dedicated to providing the support you need in a warm and welcoming environment.
See more therapy options for 89106
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 89106
10+
Average cost per session
$120
Psychiatrists in 89106 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
91% | ADHD |
91% | Anger Management |
91% | Bipolar Disorder |
91% | Behavioral Issues |
82% | Eating Disorders |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 89106 see their clients
91% | In Person and Online | |
9% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 89106?
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.