Psychiatrists in 99515

Hello, my ideal client wants to work with me over time to feel better about themselves and their lives. The client may want to discuss medications for mental health symptoms or may want to share and process past experiences. I will meet them where they are. We will come up with a plan together. If the client is a child we may start with playing a game or coloring. I hope the client will be honest with me and learn to trust me. I've worked with people from all walks of life.
Hello, my ideal client wants to work with me over time to feel better about themselves and their lives. The client may want to discuss medications for mental health symptoms or may want to share and process past experiences. I will meet them where they are. We will come up with a plan together. If the client is a child we may start with playing a game or coloring. I hope the client will be honest with me and learn to trust me. I've worked with people from all walks of life.

My approach to mental health care is holistic, patient-centered, and collaborative. I believe in building trusting relationships with my patients, empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey. Whether through medication management, psychotherapy, or community resources, I strive to create personalized treatment plans that align with each individual’s goals and needs. I specialize in ADHD, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety and psychosis.
My approach to mental health care is holistic, patient-centered, and collaborative. I believe in building trusting relationships with my patients, empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey. Whether through medication management, psychotherapy, or community resources, I strive to create personalized treatment plans that align with each individual’s goals and needs. I specialize in ADHD, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety and psychosis.

Behavioral health conditions are not always straight forward. Because of this my focus is on empowering patient's to make decisions about how they receive care through education. This means that you, the patient, will be the primary decision maker in your own care. As a Board Certified Child and Adult psychiatrist I am particularly well versed in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Depression, and Anxiety throughout the lifespan.
Behavioral health conditions are not always straight forward. Because of this my focus is on empowering patient's to make decisions about how they receive care through education. This means that you, the patient, will be the primary decision maker in your own care. As a Board Certified Child and Adult psychiatrist I am particularly well versed in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, Depression, and Anxiety throughout the lifespan.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Zan Whitman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
Outpatient psychiatric assessment and medication management treatment for children (4+), adolescents, and adults. In person and telehealth options available.
Outpatient psychiatric assessment and medication management treatment for children (4+), adolescents, and adults. In person and telehealth options available.
Rachael Langerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
I enjoy helping patients and families navigate mental health issues and become as successful as they can be. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, ODD, OCD, Impulse-Control issues, postpartum depression, and eating disorders. I provide gender-affirming care.
I enjoy helping patients and families navigate mental health issues and become as successful as they can be. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, ODD, OCD, Impulse-Control issues, postpartum depression, and eating disorders. I provide gender-affirming care.

Hi, I'm Kelly! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I offer therapy and medication management services. I let curiosity and compassion lead me in life and I bring this to my practice style. I've grown up in Alaska and have been a nurse serving urban and remote areas ranging from Ketchikan to Kotzebue. A change in location has led me to start offering telehealth services to better serve a wide range of locations. I am an avid encourager of increased physical activity, connection to nature, and healthy self inquiry. I aim to work with you in your own self-healing to live the life that is most meaningful and authentic to you.
Hi, I'm Kelly! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I offer therapy and medication management services. I let curiosity and compassion lead me in life and I bring this to my practice style. I've grown up in Alaska and have been a nurse serving urban and remote areas ranging from Ketchikan to Kotzebue. A change in location has led me to start offering telehealth services to better serve a wide range of locations. I am an avid encourager of increased physical activity, connection to nature, and healthy self inquiry. I aim to work with you in your own self-healing to live the life that is most meaningful and authentic to you.

Services Provided Our services include a thorough evaluation which will include an initial diagnostic impression. Our office will provide you with patient education and our reccomendations for additions to your current treatment plan, and may serve as a complement to the current treatment team. We are a multidisiplinary team and utilize multiple modalities for patient care including Tele-Medicine. Face to Face Services Depending on your location in Alaska, your initial appointment may be a face to face appointment with one of our providers.
Services Provided Our services include a thorough evaluation which will include an initial diagnostic impression. Our office will provide you with patient education and our reccomendations for additions to your current treatment plan, and may serve as a complement to the current treatment team. We are a multidisiplinary team and utilize multiple modalities for patient care including Tele-Medicine. Face to Face Services Depending on your location in Alaska, your initial appointment may be a face to face appointment with one of our providers.

Dr. Toni Brent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my practice! I am Dr. Toni Brent DNP, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, quality and ethical care with 13 years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping individuals navigate and overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. I offer comprehensive psychiatric assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support for adults struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma-related conditions. I believe in a holistic view of mind, body and soul functioning together for optimal quality of life
Welcome to my practice! I am Dr. Toni Brent DNP, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, quality and ethical care with 13 years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping individuals navigate and overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. I offer comprehensive psychiatric assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support for adults struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma-related conditions. I believe in a holistic view of mind, body and soul functioning together for optimal quality of life

Jeffrey Wright Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.

Mackenzie Callis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD (after assessment by a psychologist), and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD (after assessment by a psychologist), and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.

Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.

Can be seen in as early as 2-3 WEEKS for 1st TIME appointments! Welcome to Mental Health Today, a haven of holistic mental healthcare in the comfort of telehealth, where I offer a unique blend of modern medicine and ancient wisdom. I will help lead you on a journey of self-discovery, blending psychotherapy, expert medication management, and mindful practices. With an emphasis on comprehensive care addressing depression, bipolar, anxiety, and life's challenges, I will empower you to move towards a harmonious, vibrant, and fulfilling life. Please go to mentalhealthtodayak.com to book your appointment!
Can be seen in as early as 2-3 WEEKS for 1st TIME appointments! Welcome to Mental Health Today, a haven of holistic mental healthcare in the comfort of telehealth, where I offer a unique blend of modern medicine and ancient wisdom. I will help lead you on a journey of self-discovery, blending psychotherapy, expert medication management, and mindful practices. With an emphasis on comprehensive care addressing depression, bipolar, anxiety, and life's challenges, I will empower you to move towards a harmonious, vibrant, and fulfilling life. Please go to mentalhealthtodayak.com to book your appointment!

Ana is a doctorally-prepared PMHNP and FNP and mindfulness meditation teacher. She specializes in mindfulness-based and psychedelic-assisted therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and nature-based wilderness retreats to help people discover their soul purpose and make the most of this one precious life. She is the founder of Insight AK and is the host of the top-rated Rebel Buddhist podcast. Ana is an undeniable multi-passionate and consummate learner, with a degree in Clinical Psychology and multiple graduate degrees from UCSC, UCSF and Johns Hopkins University. She is also a Master Certified Life Coach.
Ana is a doctorally-prepared PMHNP and FNP and mindfulness meditation teacher. She specializes in mindfulness-based and psychedelic-assisted therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and nature-based wilderness retreats to help people discover their soul purpose and make the most of this one precious life. She is the founder of Insight AK and is the host of the top-rated Rebel Buddhist podcast. Ana is an undeniable multi-passionate and consummate learner, with a degree in Clinical Psychology and multiple graduate degrees from UCSC, UCSF and Johns Hopkins University. She is also a Master Certified Life Coach.

Working at Border Counseling Services, LLC Dr. Alcorn is a board-eligible psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, children, and adolescents. Dr. Alcorn brings a high level of excellence to our practice with his experienced psychiatric care. Dr. Alcorn uses a highly professional approach to the care of his patients while maintaining a sense of sincere compassion and caring that allows his patients to feel comfortable and heard.
Working at Border Counseling Services, LLC Dr. Alcorn is a board-eligible psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, children, and adolescents. Dr. Alcorn brings a high level of excellence to our practice with his experienced psychiatric care. Dr. Alcorn uses a highly professional approach to the care of his patients while maintaining a sense of sincere compassion and caring that allows his patients to feel comfortable and heard.

Alisha Fluker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, WHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with depression, premenstrual mood symptoms, postpartum depression, or anxiety? Does it feel like these challenges are taking over your life? You might be hesitant to start medication or looking for a more holistic approach. I get it, and I’m here to help! My approach is integrative, meaning we’ll create a plan that may include supplements, lifestyle changes, nutrition, and, if needed, prescribed medications. I’ll work with you to build a personalized plan that is right for you. Because I believe in a team approach, I also collaborate with your therapist to make sure we’re all working toward the same goal.
Are you struggling with depression, premenstrual mood symptoms, postpartum depression, or anxiety? Does it feel like these challenges are taking over your life? You might be hesitant to start medication or looking for a more holistic approach. I get it, and I’m here to help! My approach is integrative, meaning we’ll create a plan that may include supplements, lifestyle changes, nutrition, and, if needed, prescribed medications. I’ll work with you to build a personalized plan that is right for you. Because I believe in a team approach, I also collaborate with your therapist to make sure we’re all working toward the same goal.

My personal and professional experiences have allowed me to understand each patient at an individual level. I grew up and obtained my medical degree abroad, then came to Boston and received my adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School programs. I then worked in Alaska, Lebanon and Boston, MA. My work experience has included inpatient, outpatient, child, adult, Telehealth, urban, and rural psychiatry. Despite differences in diagnoses and presentations, we all share the human experience. Outside of work, my wife and I stay busy raising our three girls. As a family, we like to hike, camp and spend time outdoors.
My personal and professional experiences have allowed me to understand each patient at an individual level. I grew up and obtained my medical degree abroad, then came to Boston and received my adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School programs. I then worked in Alaska, Lebanon and Boston, MA. My work experience has included inpatient, outpatient, child, adult, Telehealth, urban, and rural psychiatry. Despite differences in diagnoses and presentations, we all share the human experience. Outside of work, my wife and I stay busy raising our three girls. As a family, we like to hike, camp and spend time outdoors.

Matthew Goldenberg D.O. is double Board Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and is a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO). Dr. Goldenberg is an expert in the evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders and is an addiction specialist for adults in his private practice in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Goldenberg is a trusted aviation and HIMS trained psychiatrist and has extensive clinical and academic experience evaluating and treating healthcare providers.
Matthew Goldenberg D.O. is double Board Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and is a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO). Dr. Goldenberg is an expert in the evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders and is an addiction specialist for adults in his private practice in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Goldenberg is a trusted aviation and HIMS trained psychiatrist and has extensive clinical and academic experience evaluating and treating healthcare providers.

Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.

VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurances.

Hello, I am Jason de Luisa, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC and holistic medicine practitioner. I am passionate about combining Western Medicine with holistic approaches to help people live happier, healthier, and fuller lives.
Hello, I am Jason de Luisa, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC and holistic medicine practitioner. I am passionate about combining Western Medicine with holistic approaches to help people live happier, healthier, and fuller lives.
See more therapy options for 99515
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 99515
< 10
Psychiatrists in 99515 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Emotional Disturbance |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | Moda Health |
How Psychiatrists in 99515 see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 99515?
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.