Psychiatrists in Anchorage County, AK

Now accepting clients in Alaska, Washington & Texas! Call today! 907-744-1666
Rhiza Psychiatry, led by Dr. Chika Galega-Sabum, is now accepting patients aged 12 and older. Dr. Chika believes in a holistic approach to mental wellness. She works closely with her clients to develop treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and lifestyle.
Now accepting clients in Alaska, Washington & Texas! Call today! 907-744-1666
Rhiza Psychiatry, led by Dr. Chika Galega-Sabum, is now accepting patients aged 12 and older. Dr. Chika believes in a holistic approach to mental wellness. She works closely with her clients to develop treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and lifestyle.

At Open Mind Psychiatry, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with dignity and understanding. Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Doctorate prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Egemasi has over 10 years of experience in providing quality care. She believes in providing holistic, integrative, and individualized care to her clients. She is passionate about helping people with decreasing their stressors.
At Open Mind Psychiatry, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with dignity and understanding. Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Doctorate prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Egemasi has over 10 years of experience in providing quality care. She believes in providing holistic, integrative, and individualized care to her clients. She is passionate about helping people with decreasing their stressors.

Kathy has been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 22 years. She practiced in Alaska between 2003 and 2019. She found her way back to AK in 2024. She operates Alaska Adult Psychiatric Services, LLC, accepting adults, ages 18 and over with most major insurance plans, including Medicaid. In-person and telehealth appointments are available. She is passionate about responsibly serving humanity, mindful of being inclusive and celebrating diversity, in all its unique forms.
Kathy has been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 22 years. She practiced in Alaska between 2003 and 2019. She found her way back to AK in 2024. She operates Alaska Adult Psychiatric Services, LLC, accepting adults, ages 18 and over with most major insurance plans, including Medicaid. In-person and telehealth appointments are available. She is passionate about responsibly serving humanity, mindful of being inclusive and celebrating diversity, in all its unique forms.

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.

I aim to partner with clients to find individualized solutions to mental health issues and create a safe, welcoming space to do so. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, ODD, OCD, Impulse-Control issues, postpartum depression, and eating disorders.
I aim to partner with clients to find individualized solutions to mental health issues and create a safe, welcoming space to do so. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, ODD, OCD, Impulse-Control issues, postpartum depression, and eating disorders.
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.

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.

I moved to Alaska In July 2021 from Tennessee . I had been providing telehealth for two years in Alaska. I decided to move my family to open a practice to be more active in the community. I am a daughter and wife of a Veteran. I have a passion for mental health, addiction, and alternative treatments. My special interest is ADHD because I was diagnosed with this late in life and had another provider wrongly diagnosis me with PTSD. I also specialize in anxiety and bipolar along with other diagnoses. Ketamine and TMS along with other alternative treatments are a passion of mine.
I moved to Alaska In July 2021 from Tennessee . I had been providing telehealth for two years in Alaska. I decided to move my family to open a practice to be more active in the community. I am a daughter and wife of a Veteran. I have a passion for mental health, addiction, and alternative treatments. My special interest is ADHD because I was diagnosed with this late in life and had another provider wrongly diagnosis me with PTSD. I also specialize in anxiety and bipolar along with other diagnoses. Ketamine and TMS along with other alternative treatments are a passion of mine.

Welcome! I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My office, Empowerment Mental Health LLC, is located here in Anchorage, Alaska. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. I understand reaching out for help is difficult and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. I strive to genuinely listen to your concerns in an open and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to assist you to improve your mental health and help you find hope for a better future. - - -Please visit my website to complete a confidential screening form or call my office.
Welcome! I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My office, Empowerment Mental Health LLC, is located here in Anchorage, Alaska. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. I understand reaching out for help is difficult and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. I strive to genuinely listen to your concerns in an open and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to assist you to improve your mental health and help you find hope for a better future. - - -Please visit my website to complete a confidential screening form or call my office.

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.

Alaska Compass is led by Dr. Sara Kozup. She is a licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in the state of Alaska with a board certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing (PMHNP-BC). She earned a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Rush University in Chicago, IL and a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH.
Alaska Compass is led by Dr. Sara Kozup. She is a licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in the state of Alaska with a board certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing (PMHNP-BC). She earned a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Rush University in Chicago, IL and a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH.

Finding the right mental health care provider can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Hi there, I’m Josh Balint, PA-C, MSPAC, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Physician Associate with Frontier Psychiatry, and I’m here to support you with compassionate, evidence-based care. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and OCD, as well as ADHD, psychotic disorders, and personality disorders.
Finding the right mental health care provider can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Hi there, I’m Josh Balint, PA-C, MSPAC, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Physician Associate with Frontier Psychiatry, and I’m here to support you with compassionate, evidence-based care. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and OCD, as well as ADHD, psychotic disorders, and personality disorders.

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.

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.

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.

Saje Psychiatry has a remarkable history of successfully treating patients across their lifespan who are struggling with psychiatric disorders. Our practice firmly believes in adopting a holistic approach to patient care, incorporating a diverse range of treatment modalities. These modalities encompass psychotropic medications, TMS therapy, Spravato, and evidence-based alternative treatments such as nutritional supplementation and lifestyle/dietary modifications. Saje Psychiatry specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, Trauma, Addiction, and PTSD.
Saje Psychiatry has a remarkable history of successfully treating patients across their lifespan who are struggling with psychiatric disorders. Our practice firmly believes in adopting a holistic approach to patient care, incorporating a diverse range of treatment modalities. These modalities encompass psychotropic medications, TMS therapy, Spravato, and evidence-based alternative treatments such as nutritional supplementation and lifestyle/dietary modifications. Saje Psychiatry specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, Trauma, Addiction, and PTSD.

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.

As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing patient-centered care for those navigating the complexities of mental health. I am experienced in treating a wide range of mental health conditions including mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I believe in providing compassion, empathy, and evidenced-based treatment to support each patient's unique journey toward healing. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to reclaim control over their lives. Seeking help for mental health concerns can be a challenging and personal journey.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing patient-centered care for those navigating the complexities of mental health. I am experienced in treating a wide range of mental health conditions including mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I believe in providing compassion, empathy, and evidenced-based treatment to support each patient's unique journey toward healing. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to reclaim control over their lives. Seeking help for mental health concerns can be a challenging and personal journey.

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!

As a PMHNP-BC, I understand that my clients—particularly those facing the unique challenges of military life and remote living often struggle with issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. They seek compassionate, patient-centered care that empowers them to achieve optimal wellness through evidence-based treatments. My clients desire effective symptom management, improved quality of life, and holistic approaches that combine lifestyle changes with medication. They want a supportive, non-judgmental environment where they can openly discuss their concerns and work towards a healthier future.
As a PMHNP-BC, I understand that my clients—particularly those facing the unique challenges of military life and remote living often struggle with issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. They seek compassionate, patient-centered care that empowers them to achieve optimal wellness through evidence-based treatments. My clients desire effective symptom management, improved quality of life, and holistic approaches that combine lifestyle changes with medication. They want a supportive, non-judgmental environment where they can openly discuss their concerns and work towards a healthier future.
See more therapy options for Anchorage County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Anchorage County, AK
50+
Average cost per session
$270
Psychiatrists in Anchorage County, AK who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Medication Management |
80% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Aetna |
73% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
56% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Anchorage County, AK see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Anchorage County?
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.