Psychiatrists in 89128

Deborah Louise Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PhD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89128
I am dual licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Provider. I am able to perform both in-person and virtual appointments to meet your needs if you live in a rural, underserved area or are unable to attend in-office appointments due to lack of transportation or disability
I am dual licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Provider. I am able to perform both in-person and virtual appointments to meet your needs if you live in a rural, underserved area or are unable to attend in-office appointments due to lack of transportation or disability

Dr. Lawrence Abah, DNP, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider.
Dr. Lawrence Abah, DNP, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider.

Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.

Summerland Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89128
Our team of doctors have a lot of experience treating a variety of clients. We have found that many of our clients have more than just one diagnosis. They need specialized treatment from someone who knows how to treat each diagnosis independently as well as multiple diagnoses together. When you don't know what is wrong but are ready to start feeling like you again, this is where you start.
Our team of doctors have a lot of experience treating a variety of clients. We have found that many of our clients have more than just one diagnosis. They need specialized treatment from someone who knows how to treat each diagnosis independently as well as multiple diagnoses together. When you don't know what is wrong but are ready to start feeling like you again, this is where you start.

You’re ready to reconnect with your best self, perform at your peak, and maximize your potential. You know how it feels to create and perform in your flow state: you're completely in the moment, doing what you love, at your best. In the studio, your creativity flows and finds its voice. On the field or in the ring, your practice and training are a seamless part of you. Professionally, you can see all the moving parts and orchestrate them together in the most optimal way. Yet, you’re having trouble connecting with that version of yourself. You’re getting stuck in your head and not performing at the level you know is in you.
You’re ready to reconnect with your best self, perform at your peak, and maximize your potential. You know how it feels to create and perform in your flow state: you're completely in the moment, doing what you love, at your best. In the studio, your creativity flows and finds its voice. On the field or in the ring, your practice and training are a seamless part of you. Professionally, you can see all the moving parts and orchestrate them together in the most optimal way. Yet, you’re having trouble connecting with that version of yourself. You’re getting stuck in your head and not performing at the level you know is in you.

Holistic Behavioral and TMS therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89128
Lawrence Abah, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider that truly cares about your holistic wellness.
Lawrence Abah, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider that truly cares about your holistic wellness.

Navigating mental illness is not meant to be done alone. The first, the bravest, step is acknowledging that struggle and refusing to be isolated by it. Maya Angelou said it best: "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it." I believe in a collaborative approach. Whether or not medication management is right for your particular journey, we can determine the best path forward together.
Navigating mental illness is not meant to be done alone. The first, the bravest, step is acknowledging that struggle and refusing to be isolated by it. Maya Angelou said it best: "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it." I believe in a collaborative approach. Whether or not medication management is right for your particular journey, we can determine the best path forward together.

Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Chika Okechukwu has more than 7 years experience as a Nurse Practitioner. She is involved in the management of various mental health and behavioral health conditions including, mood disorders, Attention deficit and Hyperactivity disorder, Generalized anxiety disorder, Insomnia and substance use disorder. Every patient receives a personalized care plan after a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. She is passionate about patients having quick access to mental care.
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Chika Okechukwu has more than 7 years experience as a Nurse Practitioner. She is involved in the management of various mental health and behavioral health conditions including, mood disorders, Attention deficit and Hyperactivity disorder, Generalized anxiety disorder, Insomnia and substance use disorder. Every patient receives a personalized care plan after a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. She is passionate about patients having quick access to mental care.

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.

Billy Escaba Leonardo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my top priority is to provide compassionate and patient-centered care to individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns. I understand that every person who seeks treatment has unique issues, needs, and goals, and I am committed to working collaboratively with each of my patients to create a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to their specific situation. For individuals struggling with mental health concerns, my goal is to help them regain a sense of control over their lives. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment both collaborative & nonjudgmental.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my top priority is to provide compassionate and patient-centered care to individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns. I understand that every person who seeks treatment has unique issues, needs, and goals, and I am committed to working collaboratively with each of my patients to create a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to their specific situation. For individuals struggling with mental health concerns, my goal is to help them regain a sense of control over their lives. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment both collaborative & nonjudgmental.

Catherine D. Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA-C, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! Welcome to Zenful Minds! I'm Catherine (Cathy),a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise with individuals across the lifespan, ages 5 to 99. WIth advanced degrees in both Nursing and Counseling (Trauma Crisis & PTSD), my practice integrates evidence-based psychiatric care with person-centered approach.
I believe in fostering compassionate, collaborative partnerships with my clients. My approach is holistic-blending traditional psychiatric interventions with mindfulness practices & lifestyle adjustments to promote overall well-being.
Hello! Welcome to Zenful Minds! I'm Catherine (Cathy),a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise with individuals across the lifespan, ages 5 to 99. WIth advanced degrees in both Nursing and Counseling (Trauma Crisis & PTSD), my practice integrates evidence-based psychiatric care with person-centered approach.
I believe in fostering compassionate, collaborative partnerships with my clients. My approach is holistic-blending traditional psychiatric interventions with mindfulness practices & lifestyle adjustments to promote overall well-being.

Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Hey! I'm Liz and I'm a PA-C committed to providing high-quality mental health care to patients of all ages with 10 years of experience in the field. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I earned my MSW degree in 2017 at the University of Michigan and my Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Eastern Michigan in 2021. I worked as a therapist prior to PA school and was hired directly out of school to work in psychiatry. A lot of my sessions will include some therapy:)
You can find me at Access Psychiatric Associates :)
Hey! I'm Liz and I'm a PA-C committed to providing high-quality mental health care to patients of all ages with 10 years of experience in the field. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I earned my MSW degree in 2017 at the University of Michigan and my Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Eastern Michigan in 2021. I worked as a therapist prior to PA school and was hired directly out of school to work in psychiatry. A lot of my sessions will include some therapy:)
You can find me at Access Psychiatric Associates :)

Please visit my website at www.healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.
Please visit my website at www.healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.

My name is DeRoy Obilor, and I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing individualized mental health care. My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication. I specialize in treating ADHD, mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorders, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.
My name is DeRoy Obilor, and I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing individualized mental health care. My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication. I specialize in treating ADHD, mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorders, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.

Childhood is a wonderful time of growth and development and we cannot get these precious few years back. Seeing a child psychiatrist is much more than simply receiving a diagnosis. While giving something a name can help (e.g. obtaining services, school interventions), the real strength comes from building a team and making a plan to get your kiddo back on track.
Childhood is a wonderful time of growth and development and we cannot get these precious few years back. Seeing a child psychiatrist is much more than simply receiving a diagnosis. While giving something a name can help (e.g. obtaining services, school interventions), the real strength comes from building a team and making a plan to get your kiddo back on track.

Antonio L Eddings Sr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Antonio is a Dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is passionate about helping all people have the best physical and mental health as possible. He is the owner and founder of All About You Healthcare Family Practice & Behavioral Health that was founded in 2017. He has been in healthcare for over 24 years working in various clinical settings. He graduated from TSU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in IDS with concentration in Psychology and Social Work, 2005 with BSN, 2012 with MSN/FNP, and Aug 2021 Post Certification as PMHNP from Western Kentucky University.
Antonio is a Dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is passionate about helping all people have the best physical and mental health as possible. He is the owner and founder of All About You Healthcare Family Practice & Behavioral Health that was founded in 2017. He has been in healthcare for over 24 years working in various clinical settings. He graduated from TSU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in IDS with concentration in Psychology and Social Work, 2005 with BSN, 2012 with MSN/FNP, and Aug 2021 Post Certification as PMHNP from Western Kentucky University.

My name is DeRoy Obilor, and I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing individualized mental health care. My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication. I specialize in treating ADHD, mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorders, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.
My name is DeRoy Obilor, and I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing individualized mental health care. My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication. I specialize in treating ADHD, mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorders, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.

Welcome! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and military veteran. Our clinic focuses on medication management for adults, adolescents, and children with a variety of psychiatric conditions. I look forward to working with you! Serving the Las Vegas and surrounding areas!
Welcome! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and military veteran. Our clinic focuses on medication management for adults, adolescents, and children with a variety of psychiatric conditions. I look forward to working with you! Serving the Las Vegas and surrounding areas!

Chidiogo Carole Nwokike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89107
Dr. Chidiogo Nwokike is a compassionate and competent Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in treating individuals with mental illness. My Objective is to help my clients achieve overall wellness by offering treatments that produce desired results. I am attentive to my clients’ complaints and provide best-evidence based treatment. Mental health is more than just the absence of illness; hence, I utilized a holistic approach in treating my clients.
Dr. Chidiogo Nwokike is a compassionate and competent Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in treating individuals with mental illness. My Objective is to help my clients achieve overall wellness by offering treatments that produce desired results. I am attentive to my clients’ complaints and provide best-evidence based treatment. Mental health is more than just the absence of illness; hence, I utilized a holistic approach in treating my clients.
See more therapy options for 89128
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 89128
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in 89128 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
92% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 89128 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 89128?
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.