Psychiatrists in 89134

Photo of Sharlotte Tay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Sharlotte Tay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Online Only
Sharlotte is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan in outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals. Her specialties include Anxiety disorders, Depression disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactive disorder, Panic disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Adjustment disorders, and more.
Sharlotte is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan in outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals. Her specialties include Anxiety disorders, Depression disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactive disorder, Panic disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Adjustment disorders, and more.
(702) 829-5315 View (702) 829-5315
Photo of Kathryn Molczan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Kathryn Molczan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you tired of feeling irritated, sad, anxious, or just generally overwhelmed? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way but you are ready for a change. You are ready to experience happiness and live your life without a cloud of negative feelings. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, or the effects of past trauma, you do not have to do this alone. I am here to help.
Are you tired of feeling irritated, sad, anxious, or just generally overwhelmed? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way but you are ready for a change. You are ready to experience happiness and live your life without a cloud of negative feelings. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, or the effects of past trauma, you do not have to do this alone. I am here to help.
(878) 217-0851 View (878) 217-0851
Photo of Michelle Giddings, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Michelle Giddings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating clients with medical/mental health disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for child, adolescent, and adults. My approach to treatment is driven by my belief that every client is a unique individual; thus, treatment plans are specifically developed for each client.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating clients with medical/mental health disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for child, adolescent, and adults. My approach to treatment is driven by my belief that every client is a unique individual; thus, treatment plans are specifically developed for each client.
(702) 930-2573 View (702) 930-2573

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nelson Jong Kwowi - Regency Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Regency Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Nelson Kwowi, PMHNP- Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients with mental health conditions. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Arlington and worked at JPS Hospital’s Department of Emergency Psychiatry for 5+ years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Nelson has worked with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, Schizophrenia, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing compassionate and supportive care.
Nelson Kwowi, PMHNP- Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients with mental health conditions. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Arlington and worked at JPS Hospital’s Department of Emergency Psychiatry for 5+ years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Nelson has worked with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, Schizophrenia, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing compassionate and supportive care.
(702) 903-4621 View (702) 903-4621
Photo of Julia Wrona, Physician Assistant
Julia Wrona
Physician Assistant
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. My training is in general psychiatry, addiction recovery, and psychotherapy, however, 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. My training is in general psychiatry, addiction recovery, and psychotherapy, however, our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
(725) 900-3781 View (725) 900-3781
Photo of Nina Parikh, Psychiatrist, DO
Nina Parikh
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
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 Brian Noonan - SinclairMethod, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
SinclairMethod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Serves Area
We provide the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Use Disorders exclusively through secure online video appointments. It is a scientific approach to problem drinking that uses the FDA-approved drug Naltrexone to gradually reduce your alcohol use. We will help you regain control over alcohol, which you can use to maintain abstinence or drink in moderation.
We provide the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Use Disorders exclusively through secure online video appointments. It is a scientific approach to problem drinking that uses the FDA-approved drug Naltrexone to gradually reduce your alcohol use. We will help you regain control over alcohol, which you can use to maintain abstinence or drink in moderation.
(215) 437-0414 View (215) 437-0414
Photo of Ugoezi Bridget Agu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Ugoezi Bridget Agu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Las Vegas, NV 89107
Welcome to Restored Mind Psychiatric Services. I am a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatric Mental health and family practice. I received my post graduate training from University of Maryland, University of South Alabama, and University of Cincinnati. I have been practicing for over twenty years. I am committed to providing culturally appropriate, and compassionate health care to you and your family with goals of improving your mental well-being and overall health.
Welcome to Restored Mind Psychiatric Services. I am a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatric Mental health and family practice. I received my post graduate training from University of Maryland, University of South Alabama, and University of Cincinnati. I have been practicing for over twenty years. I am committed to providing culturally appropriate, and compassionate health care to you and your family with goals of improving your mental well-being and overall health.
(702) 829-6689 View (702) 829-6689
Photo of Marjory Frederic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Marjory Frederic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping individuals manage and overcome challenges related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders. I provide a range of services, including comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to gain a deep understanding of your mental health needs, medication management to optimize your treatment, and brief psychotherapy to address emotional and behavioral concerns. My approach is holistic and tailored to each person, ensuring that your care plan aligns with your specific goals and circumstances.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping individuals manage and overcome challenges related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders. I provide a range of services, including comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to gain a deep understanding of your mental health needs, medication management to optimize your treatment, and brief psychotherapy to address emotional and behavioral concerns. My approach is holistic and tailored to each person, ensuring that your care plan aligns with your specific goals and circumstances.
(725) 237-5281 View (725) 237-5281
Photo of Harvey Allan Del Rosario, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Harvey Allan Del Rosario
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Henderson, NV 89052
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with sixteen years of nursing experience and 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 sixteen years of nursing experience and 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) 241-0821 View (725) 241-0821
Photo of Ansy Paul John, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP- BC
Ansy Paul John
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP- BC
2 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89074
As a mental health practitioner, I would apply my clinical knowledge and nursing process to assess, diagnose and provide individualized care to patient and family using full scope of therapeutic skills including pharmacology and non pharmacology treatment. I have a strong clinical skills and ability to build a rapport with patients and families. I have committed to practice medicine using holistic approach and act as a patient advocate as needed. I always follow evidence-based
As a mental health practitioner, I would apply my clinical knowledge and nursing process to assess, diagnose and provide individualized care to patient and family using full scope of therapeutic skills including pharmacology and non pharmacology treatment. I have a strong clinical skills and ability to build a rapport with patients and families. I have committed to practice medicine using holistic approach and act as a patient advocate as needed. I always follow evidence-based
(725) 226-8177 View (725) 226-8177
Photo of Teliya Zyambo - Vital Minds Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
Vital Minds Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Teliya Zyambo is the Founder of Vital Minds Psychiatry, aiming to provide her patients' mental peace and cognitive care services. Teliya Zyambo is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Serving ages across the lifespan).
Teliya Zyambo is the Founder of Vital Minds Psychiatry, aiming to provide her patients' mental peace and cognitive care services. Teliya Zyambo is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Serving ages across the lifespan).
(407) 565-7174 View (407) 565-7174
Photo of Genisa Ogden - Mine your Mind LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Mine your Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Las Vegas, NV 89120
Feeling lost and empty does not need to be hopeless when you meet me. I give you the strength to reinvent your concepts and visions of the lost devalued you and the world as you known and see it from the point of giving into the chaotic disappointing as you know realities…
Feeling lost and empty does not need to be hopeless when you meet me. I give you the strength to reinvent your concepts and visions of the lost devalued you and the world as you known and see it from the point of giving into the chaotic disappointing as you know realities…
(281) 816-3154 View (281) 816-3154
Photo of Sandra Ramsey | Spravato Treatment Provider, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Sandra Ramsey | Spravato Treatment Provider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Las Vegas, NV 89119
My practice is integrated care for adults (psychiatric medication management, psychedelic esketamine (Spravato) treatments, primary care, weight loss injection therapy and asthetics). I am board certified in medical and psychiatric care. I understand that you are coming to me at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. I will listen to your concerns without judgement and provide a safe space to help you overcome your unique challenges. I am here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood.
My practice is integrated care for adults (psychiatric medication management, psychedelic esketamine (Spravato) treatments, primary care, weight loss injection therapy and asthetics). I am board certified in medical and psychiatric care. I understand that you are coming to me at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. I will listen to your concerns without judgement and provide a safe space to help you overcome your unique challenges. I am here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood.
(702) 996-8528 View (702) 996-8528
Photo of Stephanie Otoo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Stephanie Otoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Las Vegas, NV 89148
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing individualized care that addresses the unique needs of each patient. My holistic and compassionate approach to medicine ensures that we consider not just the symptoms, but the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. As a PMHNP, medication management is one of my key specialties. I work closely with patients to evaluate their needs, monitor their progress, and adjust medications as necessary. My goal is to ensure that you receive the most effective treatment while minimizing side effects, ultimately enhancing your overall well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing individualized care that addresses the unique needs of each patient. My holistic and compassionate approach to medicine ensures that we consider not just the symptoms, but the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. As a PMHNP, medication management is one of my key specialties. I work closely with patients to evaluate their needs, monitor their progress, and adjust medications as necessary. My goal is to ensure that you receive the most effective treatment while minimizing side effects, ultimately enhancing your overall well-being.
(702) 915-7001 View (702) 915-7001
Photo of Irene Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Irene Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89146
Imagine your child grappling with intense mood swings, defiance, or emotional turmoil, feeling unheard and misunderstood. As a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner and clinic owner, I dedicate my expertise to assisting teenagers with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Dysthymic Disorder (DMDD) in finding stability and hope. My team and I provide prompt appointments, offering compassionate and expert care through a combination of psychiatry and talk therapy. Your child’s well-being is my utmost priority, because every young person deserves the opportunity to flourish and feel understood.
Imagine your child grappling with intense mood swings, defiance, or emotional turmoil, feeling unheard and misunderstood. As a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner and clinic owner, I dedicate my expertise to assisting teenagers with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Dysthymic Disorder (DMDD) in finding stability and hope. My team and I provide prompt appointments, offering compassionate and expert care through a combination of psychiatry and talk therapy. Your child’s well-being is my utmost priority, because every young person deserves the opportunity to flourish and feel understood.
(725) 356-6552 View (725) 356-6552
Photo of Gina Ameri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gina Ameri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Gina Ameri, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). With extensive experience in mental health care, I treat individuals across the lifespan, from ages 8 to 65, managing a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more. I provide virtual telehealth sessions that are rooted in evidence-based practices, always prioritizing patient safety and comfort. My approach is collaborative, personalized, and holistic. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood, and free to explore their needs without judgment.
My name is Gina Ameri, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). With extensive experience in mental health care, I treat individuals across the lifespan, from ages 8 to 65, managing a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more. I provide virtual telehealth sessions that are rooted in evidence-based practices, always prioritizing patient safety and comfort. My approach is collaborative, personalized, and holistic. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood, and free to explore their needs without judgment.
(725) 252-3227 View (725) 252-3227
Photo of Thomas A. Gonda Jr, Psychiatrist, MD, MFT
Thomas A. Gonda Jr
Psychiatrist, MD, MFT
Henderson, NV 89014
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, Reno and Las Vegas. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California and Nevada.
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, Reno and Las Vegas. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California and Nevada.
(510) 221-6740 View (510) 221-6740
Photo of Mary Addelid Bayot, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mary Addelid Bayot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a warm, holistic approach to mental health care, integrating evidence-based practices with compassion and curiosity. I have experience working with adolescents and adults to navigate ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar and mood disorders, and emotional dysregulation, helping patients move toward clarity, balance, and resilience.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a warm, holistic approach to mental health care, integrating evidence-based practices with compassion and curiosity. I have experience working with adolescents and adults to navigate ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar and mood disorders, and emotional dysregulation, helping patients move toward clarity, balance, and resilience.
(702) 904-8560 View (702) 904-8560
Photo of Rohzan Altre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rohzan Altre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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

See more therapy options for 89134

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 89134

< 10

Psychiatrists in 89134 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 89134 see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 89134?

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.