Psychiatrists in 89131

Photo of Janelle Welch-Oliver - Olive Branch Psychiatrics, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olive Branch Psychiatrics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89131
We believe that the broken heal the broken and that healing doesn't have to happen alone. We utilize mindfulness along with anecdotal and real-life approaches to support clients in their own work toward transformation, wholeness, and healing. Our practice style is integrative where we seek the root cause and consider medication, supplements, psychotherapy, and other healing modalities. Olive Branch Psychiatrics was born when Janelle couldn't help but see the disconnect between physical health and mental health. Amanda joined the practice with the goal to provide integrative, holistic mental health care.
We believe that the broken heal the broken and that healing doesn't have to happen alone. We utilize mindfulness along with anecdotal and real-life approaches to support clients in their own work toward transformation, wholeness, and healing. Our practice style is integrative where we seek the root cause and consider medication, supplements, psychotherapy, and other healing modalities. Olive Branch Psychiatrics was born when Janelle couldn't help but see the disconnect between physical health and mental health. Amanda joined the practice with the goal to provide integrative, holistic mental health care.
(702) 930-2806 View (702) 930-2806
Photo of Kristen Cox - Benevolent Mental Health Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benevolent Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(702) 623-4818 View (702) 623-4818
Photo of Dr. Kimbley Lau, DO, PMH-C, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kimbley Lau
Psychiatrist, DO, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Desert Blossom Psychiatry was started from the belief that humans are able to create beauty and peace in the face of hardship and pain, like flowers growing in the harsh desert. Our patients are people who are trying to make changes or navigate transitions, but perhaps aren't sure how or find that their past experiences are keeping them from moving forward. I want to provide a space to process all of that to help you move forward.
Desert Blossom Psychiatry was started from the belief that humans are able to create beauty and peace in the face of hardship and pain, like flowers growing in the harsh desert. Our patients are people who are trying to make changes or navigate transitions, but perhaps aren't sure how or find that their past experiences are keeping them from moving forward. I want to provide a space to process all of that to help you move forward.
(702) 508-7335 View (702) 508-7335
Photo of Nadia Luna - Generaciónes Mental Health Services, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Generaciónes Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
The ideal client is someone who seeks relief from mental health issues, has the goal of improved daily functioning and well-being, and wants a combination of medication management, therapy, and education to achieve these objectives. Their motivation stems from a desire for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. It's important to remember that each client's needs and goals will be unique, and the care provided by a PMHNP should always be tailored to the individual's specific circumstances and preferences.
The ideal client is someone who seeks relief from mental health issues, has the goal of improved daily functioning and well-being, and wants a combination of medication management, therapy, and education to achieve these objectives. Their motivation stems from a desire for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. It's important to remember that each client's needs and goals will be unique, and the care provided by a PMHNP should always be tailored to the individual's specific circumstances and preferences.
(702) 745-2631 View (702) 745-2631

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Wally Joseph, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Wally Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89011
Dr. Wally Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). He completed his Doctorate of Nursing Practice program at Azusa Pacific University. He is welcoming new members in person or via video appointment. He specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He focuses on medication management in combination with psycho-education. Please, visit www.essentialclinicnv.com
Dr. Wally Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). He completed his Doctorate of Nursing Practice program at Azusa Pacific University. He is welcoming new members in person or via video appointment. He specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He focuses on medication management in combination with psycho-education. Please, visit www.essentialclinicnv.com
(702) 842-1547 View (702) 842-1547
Photo of Kathryn (Kat) McNeil, DNP, FNPc, PMHNPbc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNPc, PMHNPbc
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ.
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ.
(520) 277-9250 View (520) 277-9250
Photo of Justin Jones, MD, Psychiatrist
Justin Jones
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Justin Jones is a board-certified adult psychiatrist based in Las Vegas, NV. Originally a Mississippi native, he completed undergraduate studies at the University of Mississippi. He subsequently completed medical school and post-graduate residency training at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
Justin Jones is a board-certified adult psychiatrist based in Las Vegas, NV. Originally a Mississippi native, he completed undergraduate studies at the University of Mississippi. He subsequently completed medical school and post-graduate residency training at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
(725) 241-3408 View (725) 241-3408
Photo of Leke Adedotun, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leke Adedotun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Compassionate and competent Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). As a PMHNP, I’m focused on meeting clients where they are in their mental health journey. I prioritize providing individualized care that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term wellness goals. Understanding the complexity of mental health, I offer compassionate, evidence-based support tailored to each client’s unique situation.
Compassionate and competent Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). As a PMHNP, I’m focused on meeting clients where they are in their mental health journey. I prioritize providing individualized care that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term wellness goals. Understanding the complexity of mental health, I offer compassionate, evidence-based support tailored to each client’s unique situation.
(702) 970-7112 View (702) 970-7112
Photo of Edwin Raffi, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Edwin Raffi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Edwin Raffi is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience. Dr. Raffi provides care for all adults and for all ailments including, but not limited to mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, OCD, ADD, PTSD, schizophrenia or other disorders with psychosis, substance use disorders, tic disorders, etc. In addition to general adult psychiatry, Dr. Raffi is recognized as a leading psychiatrist subspecialized in Women’s Mental Health, including issues related to menstrual cycle related mood and anxiety disorders (PMS, PMDD), pregnancy and postpartum, menopause related mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Edwin Raffi is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience. Dr. Raffi provides care for all adults and for all ailments including, but not limited to mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, OCD, ADD, PTSD, schizophrenia or other disorders with psychosis, substance use disorders, tic disorders, etc. In addition to general adult psychiatry, Dr. Raffi is recognized as a leading psychiatrist subspecialized in Women’s Mental Health, including issues related to menstrual cycle related mood and anxiety disorders (PMS, PMDD), pregnancy and postpartum, menopause related mood and anxiety disorders.
(781) 730-7776 View (781) 730-7776
Photo of Armando Javier Brito, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Armando Javier Brito
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89123
I provide compassionate, non-judgmental and patient-centered care to individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns. I understand that not every treatment option may work for everyone.
I provide compassionate, non-judgmental and patient-centered care to individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns. I understand that not every treatment option may work for everyone.
(541) 854-2933 View (541) 854-2933
Photo of Meilan L Daguman - Nippon Clinic, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nippon Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
My practice is integrated care (Both psychiatric and primary care). I have two board certifications with medical and psychiatric care. I do physical assessment, neurocognitive assessment, and lab work to diagnose patients. I spend 60 minutes interviewing patients to identify psychiatric disease. I am specialized in treating Depression, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, eating disorder, insomnia, PMS, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease related psychosis. I also do ketamine therapy for chronic drug resistance depression. If you want to receive a detail assessment, you come to the right place.
My practice is integrated care (Both psychiatric and primary care). I have two board certifications with medical and psychiatric care. I do physical assessment, neurocognitive assessment, and lab work to diagnose patients. I spend 60 minutes interviewing patients to identify psychiatric disease. I am specialized in treating Depression, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, eating disorder, insomnia, PMS, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease related psychosis. I also do ketamine therapy for chronic drug resistance depression. If you want to receive a detail assessment, you come to the right place.
(702) 827-4167 View (702) 827-4167
Photo of Ciara Richman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ciara Richman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89015
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.
(725) 527-7703 View (725) 527-7703
Photo of Ngozi Ugwu, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ngozi Ugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89106
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.
(725) 500-0361 View (725) 500-0361
Photo of Mark Gomez, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
My ideal client faces moderate to severe anxiety and depression, struggling with daily functioning and significant distress. They need a comprehensive treatment plan that includes evidence-based psychotherapy, medication management, and holistic approaches like mindfulness and lifestyle changes. Their goals are to achieve emotional stability, improve their quality of life, and develop effective coping strategies for stress and negative thoughts. They seek these outcomes to regain control, enhance relationships, and foster inner peace and resilience.
My ideal client faces moderate to severe anxiety and depression, struggling with daily functioning and significant distress. They need a comprehensive treatment plan that includes evidence-based psychotherapy, medication management, and holistic approaches like mindfulness and lifestyle changes. Their goals are to achieve emotional stability, improve their quality of life, and develop effective coping strategies for stress and negative thoughts. They seek these outcomes to regain control, enhance relationships, and foster inner peace and resilience.
(725) 900-7614 View (725) 900-7614
Photo of Rosette S Makon, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, WCC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rosette S Makon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, WCC, RN
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89121
I believe, "A healthy person is a disabled on probation." With this being said, I treat my patients with respect by utilizing a holistic patient-centered approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. Although certified to provide psychiatric care across the life span, I prefer to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management to patients 12+ of age. I offer to assist you with effective and affordable treatments. I perform periodic evaluations with blood/urine tests for disease monitoring. I am there when needed.
I believe, "A healthy person is a disabled on probation." With this being said, I treat my patients with respect by utilizing a holistic patient-centered approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. Although certified to provide psychiatric care across the life span, I prefer to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management to patients 12+ of age. I offer to assist you with effective and affordable treatments. I perform periodic evaluations with blood/urine tests for disease monitoring. I am there when needed.
(702) 935-5333 View (702) 935-5333
Photo of Dr. Nicole Gregorio, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Nicole Gregorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89117
Are you feeling overwhelmed by non-stop worry, racing thoughts, and an overpowering sense of unease? Is anxiety impacting your daily life, making it difficult to concentrate, sleep, or engage in activities you once enjoyed? If the weight of anxiety is bearing down on you, know that you're not alone. Are you experiencing a persistent low mood, a loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and making every day a bit more challenging? Perhaps you're carrying the weight of past experience. Do you feel haunted by memories that affect your present?
Are you feeling overwhelmed by non-stop worry, racing thoughts, and an overpowering sense of unease? Is anxiety impacting your daily life, making it difficult to concentrate, sleep, or engage in activities you once enjoyed? If the weight of anxiety is bearing down on you, know that you're not alone. Are you experiencing a persistent low mood, a loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and making every day a bit more challenging? Perhaps you're carrying the weight of past experience. Do you feel haunted by memories that affect your present?
(702) 830-9588 View (702) 830-9588
Photo of Harvey Allan Del Rosario, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harvey Allan Del Rosario
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with five years of experience in behavioral/mental health. Being empathetic with my patients is one of the key factors in helping you with your mental health needs such as therapy modalities and medication management. I will work with you every step of the way and together we will formulate a unique treatment plan to cater and help you with your mental health needs. I help people with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance use disorders, etc.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with five years of experience in behavioral/mental health. Being empathetic with my patients is one of the key factors in helping you with your mental health needs such as therapy modalities and medication management. I will work with you every step of the way and together we will formulate a unique treatment plan to cater and help you with your mental health needs. I help people with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance use disorders, etc.
(725) 525-6539 View (725) 525-6539
Photo of Erin Jenkins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a licensed Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine. Over my nearly 21-year career in healthcare, I have dedicated my practice to supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging experiences. I am currently licensed and credentialed in California, Virginia, Washington DC, Nevada, and Iowa.
I am a licensed Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine. Over my nearly 21-year career in healthcare, I have dedicated my practice to supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging experiences. I am currently licensed and credentialed in California, Virginia, Washington DC, Nevada, and Iowa.
(702) 850-6590 View (702) 850-6590
Photo of Brandi Stiff - Shift Psychiatry, DNP, APRNFNP, PMHNP, CNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shift Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNFNP, PMHNP, CNP, BC
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89052
My personal goal is to shift the stigma of mental health. Provide services to rethink how we treat and manage mental health. My current practice is in Oklahoma I like to state I work to put myself out of business; meaning I want to see people get to their best self . The outcomes in my practice have been positive, let me assist you in a treatment plan where you are empowered in your care.
My personal goal is to shift the stigma of mental health. Provide services to rethink how we treat and manage mental health. My current practice is in Oklahoma I like to state I work to put myself out of business; meaning I want to see people get to their best self . The outcomes in my practice have been positive, let me assist you in a treatment plan where you are empowered in your care.
(702) 779-7092 View (702) 779-7092
Photo of Jordan Carley - Balanced Life Behavioral Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Balanced Life Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89103
I am passionate about working with clients and listening to their unique journeys that have led them to seek help at Balanced Life Behavioral Health. My mission is to help people experience optimal behavioral health balance through not only medication management but with skilled support to enhance their quality of life. I strive to ensure that each client has sufficient time during our appointment sessions to address their issues, needs, and goals. I aspire to assist clients in exploring all treatment options to find a balanced solution for their behavioral health needs.
I am passionate about working with clients and listening to their unique journeys that have led them to seek help at Balanced Life Behavioral Health. My mission is to help people experience optimal behavioral health balance through not only medication management but with skilled support to enhance their quality of life. I strive to ensure that each client has sufficient time during our appointment sessions to address their issues, needs, and goals. I aspire to assist clients in exploring all treatment options to find a balanced solution for their behavioral health needs.
(702) 276-7155 View (702) 276-7155

See more therapy options for 89131

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 89131

< 10

Psychiatrists in 89131 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Coping Skills
50% ADHD

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
75% Medicaid

How Psychiatrists in 89131 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 89131?

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.