Psychiatrists in 89118

Photo of Terry Lynn Bartmus, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Terry Lynn Bartmus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89118
I am a nurse practitioner and owner of Azure Mind Health with over 15 years of experience, board-certified in psychiatric mental health, family practice, and certified in emergency. My ideal client seeks comprehensive, empathetic, and evidence-based healthcare for a range of mental health, chronic, or acute health concerns. They need a personalized treatment plan that considers their physical, emotional, and social well-being. They appreciate empathetic support and collaborative care, aiming to improve their quality of life. Together, we can create a tailored plan to meet their needs and achieve their health goals.
I am a nurse practitioner and owner of Azure Mind Health with over 15 years of experience, board-certified in psychiatric mental health, family practice, and certified in emergency. My ideal client seeks comprehensive, empathetic, and evidence-based healthcare for a range of mental health, chronic, or acute health concerns. They need a personalized treatment plan that considers their physical, emotional, and social well-being. They appreciate empathetic support and collaborative care, aiming to improve their quality of life. Together, we can create a tailored plan to meet their needs and achieve their health goals.
(725) 745-2714 View (725) 745-2714
Photo of Rosa Bellota, MD, Psychiatrist
Rosa Bellota
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89118
The practice of Psychiatry is truly one of the last bastions in modern medicine that allows the practitioner to 'connect' with the patient, and one where the value of the patient's input is not underestimated. Understanding the impact of one's life experiences, and the interaction with a person''biology and temperament is an art that few have the opportunity to practice regularly. We are proud to announce Transcraneal magnetic stimulation ( TMS ) since 2014. for resistant treatment depression, anxiety, PTSD. TMS is covered by most insurances.
The practice of Psychiatry is truly one of the last bastions in modern medicine that allows the practitioner to 'connect' with the patient, and one where the value of the patient's input is not underestimated. Understanding the impact of one's life experiences, and the interaction with a person''biology and temperament is an art that few have the opportunity to practice regularly. We are proud to announce Transcraneal magnetic stimulation ( TMS ) since 2014. for resistant treatment depression, anxiety, PTSD. TMS is covered by most insurances.
(702) 830-5184 View (702) 830-5184
Photo of Dr. Bernice Ponce de Leon, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Bernice Ponce de Leon
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Not accepting new clients
YourStory Psychiatry was founded on the belief that the most important stories are the ones we tell about ourselves. Unfortunately when it comes to mental health, these stories are often filled with shame, fear, and confusion - but it doesn’t have to be like this. At YourStory Psychiatry, we pride ourselves on our holistic, strength-based, and culturally sensitive approach to mental health. By combining psychotherapy with conservative medication management, Dr. Ponce de Leon will help you change your story to one of hope and resilience.
YourStory Psychiatry was founded on the belief that the most important stories are the ones we tell about ourselves. Unfortunately when it comes to mental health, these stories are often filled with shame, fear, and confusion - but it doesn’t have to be like this. At YourStory Psychiatry, we pride ourselves on our holistic, strength-based, and culturally sensitive approach to mental health. By combining psychotherapy with conservative medication management, Dr. Ponce de Leon will help you change your story to one of hope and resilience.
(725) 226-8958 View (725) 226-8958
Photo of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Tms) Las Vegas - Mind Brain Institute, MD, Psychiatrist
Mind Brain Institute
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Nina Parikh, DO, Psychiatrist
Nina Parikh
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Hi there, it’s so nice to meet you! My private practice, Lucid Psychiatry, specializes in holistic psychiatry services for children, adolescents and young adults in Nevada. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and exceptional patient care here at Lucid.
Hi there, it’s so nice to meet you! My private practice, Lucid Psychiatry, specializes in holistic psychiatry services for children, adolescents and young adults in Nevada. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and exceptional patient care here at Lucid.
(702) 935-4564 View (702) 935-4564
Photo of Dr. Soroya Bacchus, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Soroya Bacchus
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Dr. Bacchus is highly-skilled, warm, well-regarded. Empathy, compassion and understanding buttress all evaluations. She is board certified in psychiatry, addiction medicine, psychosomatic medicine and geriatric psychiatry. Integrative psychiatry is a biopsychosocial approach to total health. Functional capability and full mind and body health restoration is the goal. This approach is comprehensive, simple, fast and highly customized for each patient. Dr. Bacchus is able to help you identify the core issues of difficulty and address them with medication assisted treatment and psychotherapy in the quickest and easiest way possible.
Dr. Bacchus is highly-skilled, warm, well-regarded. Empathy, compassion and understanding buttress all evaluations. She is board certified in psychiatry, addiction medicine, psychosomatic medicine and geriatric psychiatry. Integrative psychiatry is a biopsychosocial approach to total health. Functional capability and full mind and body health restoration is the goal. This approach is comprehensive, simple, fast and highly customized for each patient. Dr. Bacchus is able to help you identify the core issues of difficulty and address them with medication assisted treatment and psychotherapy in the quickest and easiest way possible.
(844) 616-1616 View (844) 616-1616
Photo of Dr. Uzma Zafar - Axis Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Axis Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
The specific needs of psych clients are unique therefore the goals of treatment also vary, but almost always involve improving overall mental health, developing coping skills, gaining insight and understanding into one's thoughts, behaviors and emotions. At our practice, I specialize in the biopsychosocial model — an interdisciplinary approach that examines the connection between psychology, biology, and social aspects of mental health. This model ensures that treatment is tailored to the most complex or simple concerns, and that patients will walk out feeling better than they did before.
The specific needs of psych clients are unique therefore the goals of treatment also vary, but almost always involve improving overall mental health, developing coping skills, gaining insight and understanding into one's thoughts, behaviors and emotions. At our practice, I specialize in the biopsychosocial model — an interdisciplinary approach that examines the connection between psychology, biology, and social aspects of mental health. This model ensures that treatment is tailored to the most complex or simple concerns, and that patients will walk out feeling better than they did before.
(702) 830-5698 View (702) 830-5698
Photo of Sam Zand, DO, Psychiatrist
Sam Zand
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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. 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.
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. 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.
(702) 710-0042 View (702) 710-0042

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tyisha R Fletcher, MSN , FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tyisha R Fletcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89052
Greetings, I am dual-certified in family and psychiatric mental health care as a Nurse Practitioner. I believe in treating my patients with respect and compassion. I have practiced for over six years in a variety of settings, including internal medicine, family medicine, and mental health. I enjoy working with diverse people from a variety of cultures, and I specialize in working with people of color to provide a safe space to focus on complete mental health.
Greetings, I am dual-certified in family and psychiatric mental health care as a Nurse Practitioner. I believe in treating my patients with respect and compassion. I have practiced for over six years in a variety of settings, including internal medicine, family medicine, and mental health. I enjoy working with diverse people from a variety of cultures, and I specialize in working with people of color to provide a safe space to focus on complete mental health.
(725) 373-2652 View (725) 373-2652
Photo of Merle Tolentino, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Merle Tolentino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
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 Grant Bullock, DO, Psychiatrist
Grant Bullock
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
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 Dithra Cotton-Lewis, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dithra Cotton-Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Providing the highest quality, compassionate health care to our clients, families, and others in need, facing challenges in there daily lifestyle.
Providing the highest quality, compassionate health care to our clients, families, and others in need, facing challenges in there daily lifestyle.
(702) 935-5106 View (702) 935-5106
Photo of Eucheria Mbata - Integrated Health & Wellness Center LLC, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrated Health & Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
(206) 222-4602 View (206) 222-4602
Photo of Rohzan Altre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rohzan Altre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89052
By working closely with families and multidisciplinary teams, I focus on early identification, tailored treatment plans, and empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health journey. I am dedicated to helping individuals, especially children, navigate their mental health challenges and achieve long-term well-being.
By working closely with families and multidisciplinary teams, I focus on early identification, tailored treatment plans, and empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health journey. I am dedicated to helping individuals, especially children, navigate their mental health challenges and achieve long-term well-being.
(818) 740-7426 View (818) 740-7426
Photo of Nkemdilim Nwofor, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkemdilim Nwofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89123
Hello, I have over 9 years of experience working in healthcare. My ideal client should be motivated/committed to healing, value open communication, and take accountability through active engagement in the treatment process. For example, I encourage weekly journaling to help guide your treatment plan. Second, my ideal client should be honest and transparent. Third, I value collaboration and mutual respect. This ensures a safe treatment plan and helps me meet your unique needs/goals for seeking help.
Hello, I have over 9 years of experience working in healthcare. My ideal client should be motivated/committed to healing, value open communication, and take accountability through active engagement in the treatment process. For example, I encourage weekly journaling to help guide your treatment plan. Second, my ideal client should be honest and transparent. Third, I value collaboration and mutual respect. This ensures a safe treatment plan and helps me meet your unique needs/goals for seeking help.
(725) 215-1037 View (725) 215-1037
Photo of Magdalene Coleman, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magdalene Coleman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Magdalene Coleman is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I currently accept Arizona, Washington, Oregon, New York, and Nevada clients. There are many turns and turns in life, and mental health issues can occasionally make the road seem too tricky. I'm here to help you through these challenges as your nurse practitioner, pointing you toward a better, more emotionally stable future. They aim to control their symptoms, improve emotional well-being, and lead a more balanced life. My biggest strengths include working with clients who struggle with ADD, ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, insomnia, and Bipolar disorder.
Dr. Magdalene Coleman is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I currently accept Arizona, Washington, Oregon, New York, and Nevada clients. There are many turns and turns in life, and mental health issues can occasionally make the road seem too tricky. I'm here to help you through these challenges as your nurse practitioner, pointing you toward a better, more emotionally stable future. They aim to control their symptoms, improve emotional well-being, and lead a more balanced life. My biggest strengths include working with clients who struggle with ADD, ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, insomnia, and Bipolar disorder.
(509) 368-7918 View (509) 368-7918
Photo of Dr. David E Guinn, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. David E Guinn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
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 Grace Korir, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Grace Korir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Grace Korir, a Primary Healthcare Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I provide mental health care via telehealth throughout the state. My goal is to provide exceptional mental health care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges by providing support and treatment for better mental health outcomes. I am passionate about destigmatizing and promoting mental health wellness. My clients know me for my empathetic approach, excellent communication skills, and ability to build trusting relationship with individuals of diverse backgrounds.
My name is Grace Korir, a Primary Healthcare Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I provide mental health care via telehealth throughout the state. My goal is to provide exceptional mental health care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges by providing support and treatment for better mental health outcomes. I am passionate about destigmatizing and promoting mental health wellness. My clients know me for my empathetic approach, excellent communication skills, and ability to build trusting relationship with individuals of diverse backgrounds.
(725) 307-4937 View (725) 307-4937
Photo of Lori Gonzales, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori Gonzales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a doctorate prepared board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Lori completed her doctorate in nursing practice at Walden University and her graduate degrees at both Purdue University and Texas Tech University. Due to being double board certified and working in both Internal medicine and Psychiatry, Lori is well rounded to provide care to a diverse population. She has a large amount of experience in testing and treating psychiatric disorders throughout the lifespan. I like an open communication style where the patient has their choice in the treatment being provided.
As a doctorate prepared board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Lori completed her doctorate in nursing practice at Walden University and her graduate degrees at both Purdue University and Texas Tech University. Due to being double board certified and working in both Internal medicine and Psychiatry, Lori is well rounded to provide care to a diverse population. She has a large amount of experience in testing and treating psychiatric disorders throughout the lifespan. I like an open communication style where the patient has their choice in the treatment being provided.
(725) 262-2812 View (725) 262-2812
Photo of April Sullivan - Prestige Mental Health, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prestige Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89144
My personal approach to understanding your mental health condition is what makes me different. I spend the extra time to understand and address these issues individually. To create the kind of practice I want for patients, I operate a “concierge-like” psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven one. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity and on personalized service and accessibility over volume.
My personal approach to understanding your mental health condition is what makes me different. I spend the extra time to understand and address these issues individually. To create the kind of practice I want for patients, I operate a “concierge-like” psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven one. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity and on personalized service and accessibility over volume.
(702) 887-1878 View (702) 887-1878

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 89118

< 10

Psychiatrists in 89118 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% ADHD
88% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 89118 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 89118?

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.