Psychiatrists in Arizona City, AZ

Global Integrated Medical & Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PMHS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Martha Mozia is a Board Certified Child/Adolescent Psychiatry; Board Certified General Psychiatric NP, Board Certified Geriatric NP, Board Certified Family Practitioner NP,. Certificate in Alcohol/Drug Specialist and Completed her Fellowship in Addiction from UCI/UC Davis. Her current focus is integration of Behavioral Health in Primary Care, Behavioral Medical Home, and Integrated, holistic Behavioral Care of Complex patients through Telepsychiatry and Telemedicine.
Dr. Martha Mozia is a Board Certified Child/Adolescent Psychiatry; Board Certified General Psychiatric NP, Board Certified Geriatric NP, Board Certified Family Practitioner NP,. Certificate in Alcohol/Drug Specialist and Completed her Fellowship in Addiction from UCI/UC Davis. Her current focus is integration of Behavioral Health in Primary Care, Behavioral Medical Home, and Integrated, holistic Behavioral Care of Complex patients through Telepsychiatry and Telemedicine.

Tender Embrace Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Tender Embrace Wellness: Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced. Your story matters, and we are here to listen. Our dedicated team of compassionate practitioners is ready to hear your experiences, concerns, and dreams. We understand that the first step towards healing begins with a caring and attentive ear. Remember, if you're not happy, we're not satisfied.
Welcome to Tender Embrace Wellness: Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced. Your story matters, and we are here to listen. Our dedicated team of compassionate practitioners is ready to hear your experiences, concerns, and dreams. We understand that the first step towards healing begins with a caring and attentive ear. Remember, if you're not happy, we're not satisfied.

Mindfulness Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Online Only
We provide expert psychiatric care through both virtual visits in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, and in-person sessions at our Texas office. As experienced mental health providers, we deliver personalized medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health concerns. Our practice offers the perfect blend of professional expertise and compassionate care, creating a space where you'll feel understood and supported. With flexible scheduling and multiple care options, your path to mental wellness starts here. Let's work together to help you thrive and achieve lasting emotional balance.
We provide expert psychiatric care through both virtual visits in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, and in-person sessions at our Texas office. As experienced mental health providers, we deliver personalized medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health concerns. Our practice offers the perfect blend of professional expertise and compassionate care, creating a space where you'll feel understood and supported. With flexible scheduling and multiple care options, your path to mental wellness starts here. Let's work together to help you thrive and achieve lasting emotional balance.

Complexity Care Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My journey to becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) took a nontraditional route. Initially leaving school to work in construction, I later earned my GED, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. This realization led me to pursue and obtain my degree from Vanderbilt University, marking the beginning of my career in mental health.
My journey to becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) took a nontraditional route. Initially leaving school to work in construction, I later earned my GED, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. This realization led me to pursue and obtain my degree from Vanderbilt University, marking the beginning of my career in mental health.

It gets overwhelming to face day to day situations which can be anxiety provoking. Life hits us, with no age group left out of daily stressors. Adolescents dealing with identity issues, fears of "belonging" and some initial worry about a successful future. Young adults get concerned about finding the perfect life partner and dealing with relationship issues, there are anxieties about "adulting." That middle age adult worrying about continued success, the complex family dynamics and mid-life crisis and the older adults with concerns of end of life and health concerns. Everyone wishes for calm and stable mind, a balanced life.
It gets overwhelming to face day to day situations which can be anxiety provoking. Life hits us, with no age group left out of daily stressors. Adolescents dealing with identity issues, fears of "belonging" and some initial worry about a successful future. Young adults get concerned about finding the perfect life partner and dealing with relationship issues, there are anxieties about "adulting." That middle age adult worrying about continued success, the complex family dynamics and mid-life crisis and the older adults with concerns of end of life and health concerns. Everyone wishes for calm and stable mind, a balanced life.

As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the most complex parts, so congratulations on taking that step!
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the most complex parts, so congratulations on taking that step!

Jelilat Omowumi Buhari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and they often feel overwhelmed and isolated. They need a compassionate provider who truly listens and understands their unique circumstances. Their goal is to regain control over their lives and mental well-being. They want practical strategies and support to manage their symptoms and build resilience. Ultimately, they seek empowerment and the confidence to make informed decisions about their health. By fostering a trusting relationship, I aim to guide them on a journey toward healing and holistic wellness.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, and they often feel overwhelmed and isolated. They need a compassionate provider who truly listens and understands their unique circumstances. Their goal is to regain control over their lives and mental well-being. They want practical strategies and support to manage their symptoms and build resilience. Ultimately, they seek empowerment and the confidence to make informed decisions about their health. By fostering a trusting relationship, I aim to guide them on a journey toward healing and holistic wellness.

Olurounke Remi Johnson (DNP, APN, FNP, PMHNP-BC) is dual Board Certified. She is qualified to diagnose and treat disorders in patients of all age groups. Some of her practice specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorders, Insomnia, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and many more. Olurounke style of practice is an evidence-based practice with a focus on a holistic approach in which she includes medication management, the benefit of psychotherapy, exercise, stress management, and lifestyle modification.
Olurounke Remi Johnson (DNP, APN, FNP, PMHNP-BC) is dual Board Certified. She is qualified to diagnose and treat disorders in patients of all age groups. Some of her practice specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorders, Insomnia, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and many more. Olurounke style of practice is an evidence-based practice with a focus on a holistic approach in which she includes medication management, the benefit of psychotherapy, exercise, stress management, and lifestyle modification.

Complete Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.

Ramses Uriel Vargas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer Psychiatric Evaluations, psychiatric medication management, and psychotherapy (MI/CBT).
My focus is to start with a holistic non-pharmacological approach to care. I prefer to use the safest and most cost effective treatments first, followed by psychotropics as clinically indicated. In many cases, psychotropic medication may greatly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. I also use motivational interviewing to ensure I provide patient specific care with an underpinning in evidence-based practice. I have worked with several clients throughout the lifespan and know that Psychiatry is my calling. See you soon!
I offer Psychiatric Evaluations, psychiatric medication management, and psychotherapy (MI/CBT).
My focus is to start with a holistic non-pharmacological approach to care. I prefer to use the safest and most cost effective treatments first, followed by psychotropics as clinically indicated. In many cases, psychotropic medication may greatly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. I also use motivational interviewing to ensure I provide patient specific care with an underpinning in evidence-based practice. I have worked with several clients throughout the lifespan and know that Psychiatry is my calling. See you soon!
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Victory Health Solution LLC (Virtual Appts ONLY)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, CNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Attention:Same day prescriptions. we offer only telepsychiatry services. Afraid of over dose call me for Naloxone Now ! Addiction,Opiod use, CALL for your Naltrexone now. No more addiction. Your local pharmacy may be able to give you Vivitrol. TRIWEST/ TRICARE welcome. Please note we do not offer in-person services at this time. We treat opioid, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, cleptomaniac, ADHD and depression. We treat all other mental health disorders. Please click on our website link to make your appointment. We accept cash at $90 / Month if you do not have insurance.
Attention:Same day prescriptions. we offer only telepsychiatry services. Afraid of over dose call me for Naloxone Now ! Addiction,Opiod use, CALL for your Naltrexone now. No more addiction. Your local pharmacy may be able to give you Vivitrol. TRIWEST/ TRICARE welcome. Please note we do not offer in-person services at this time. We treat opioid, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, cleptomaniac, ADHD and depression. We treat all other mental health disorders. Please click on our website link to make your appointment. We accept cash at $90 / Month if you do not have insurance.

Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.

Olive Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, we aspire to cultivate an environment in which mental health is regarded as a fundamental priority and access to quality mental health care is available to everyone. We maintain that mental health holds equal significance to physical health, and we are dedicated to dismantling the obstacles that hinder individuals from obtaining the necessary care. Our organization provides a comprehensive array of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team comprises licensed mental health professionals who are committed to wellness.
At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, we aspire to cultivate an environment in which mental health is regarded as a fundamental priority and access to quality mental health care is available to everyone. We maintain that mental health holds equal significance to physical health, and we are dedicated to dismantling the obstacles that hinder individuals from obtaining the necessary care. Our organization provides a comprehensive array of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team comprises licensed mental health professionals who are committed to wellness.

Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Seeking support for your mental health is a powerful step, and I’m committed to providing a safe, inclusive space where everyone feels seen and valued. My practice warmly welcomes individuals from all backgrounds.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder can affect every part of life—but you don’t have to face it alone. Is your child struggling with aggression or concentration? I can help. My goal is to help you find relief, regain a sense of balance, and feel empowered in your journey toward healing. Together, we’ll create a path that allows you to not just cope, but truly thrive.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Seeking support for your mental health is a powerful step, and I’m committed to providing a safe, inclusive space where everyone feels seen and valued. My practice warmly welcomes individuals from all backgrounds.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder can affect every part of life—but you don’t have to face it alone. Is your child struggling with aggression or concentration? I can help. My goal is to help you find relief, regain a sense of balance, and feel empowered in your journey toward healing. Together, we’ll create a path that allows you to not just cope, but truly thrive.

Shavaun Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Shavaun Johnson, DNP is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Light at the End PLLC, serving all of the Valley as well as the surrounding rural communities in Phoenix. Having worked in behavioral/mental health for over 10 years in various settings/roles including corrections, inpatient care, outpatient care, community mental health, residential care, and acute treatment she is passionate about advocating for mental health and vulnerable populations.
Shavaun Johnson, DNP is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Light at the End PLLC, serving all of the Valley as well as the surrounding rural communities in Phoenix. Having worked in behavioral/mental health for over 10 years in various settings/roles including corrections, inpatient care, outpatient care, community mental health, residential care, and acute treatment she is passionate about advocating for mental health and vulnerable populations.

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am skilled at combining the art of nursing with evidence-based science of advanced nursing care. My experience and training allow me to provide holistic care across the lifespan. I am respectful, kind, and compassionate to my clients and their families. My goal would be to balance psychopharmacology with psychotherapy and complementary treatments integrating client input to achieve the most effective treatment plan. At SanCreek Mental Health and Wellness, we focus on achieving wellness by utilizing a blend of medication, therapy, and complementary health to achieve overall wellness and balance.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am skilled at combining the art of nursing with evidence-based science of advanced nursing care. My experience and training allow me to provide holistic care across the lifespan. I am respectful, kind, and compassionate to my clients and their families. My goal would be to balance psychopharmacology with psychotherapy and complementary treatments integrating client input to achieve the most effective treatment plan. At SanCreek Mental Health and Wellness, we focus on achieving wellness by utilizing a blend of medication, therapy, and complementary health to achieve overall wellness and balance.

Arizona Inner Peace Clinic for Women PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, WHNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Arizona Inner Peace Clinic PLLC My name is Cheryl Ross and I am a dedicated psychiatric and women’s health nurse practitioner, who is committed to providing compassionate and effective mental healthcare for women during challenging stages of life. I specialize in medication management for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, role change anxiety, premenstrual mood changes, peri-menopausal mood changes, post-partum depression, grief and sleep disorders. Our visits will take place from my private office to the comfort of your home via a secure virtual platform. I offer convenient hours.
Welcome to Arizona Inner Peace Clinic PLLC My name is Cheryl Ross and I am a dedicated psychiatric and women’s health nurse practitioner, who is committed to providing compassionate and effective mental healthcare for women during challenging stages of life. I specialize in medication management for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, role change anxiety, premenstrual mood changes, peri-menopausal mood changes, post-partum depression, grief and sleep disorders. Our visits will take place from my private office to the comfort of your home via a secure virtual platform. I offer convenient hours.

Emmanuel Timothy Onyeani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, MSN, MBA
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I started my career in Psychiatry in 2005, in the United Kingdom, as an Associate mental health practitioner at the NHS/University of Southampton. I have a Bachelor of Nursing from Georgia Southern University and a Masters of Mental health nurse practitioner from Walden University. I am Doctor of Nursing Student at Walden University. I am ANCC board certified and can treat patients with mental health condition across the lifespan. Whatever challenges you are experiencing in mental health we can help or point you in right direction. From addiction to severe issues, we can help .
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I started my career in Psychiatry in 2005, in the United Kingdom, as an Associate mental health practitioner at the NHS/University of Southampton. I have a Bachelor of Nursing from Georgia Southern University and a Masters of Mental health nurse practitioner from Walden University. I am Doctor of Nursing Student at Walden University. I am ANCC board certified and can treat patients with mental health condition across the lifespan. Whatever challenges you are experiencing in mental health we can help or point you in right direction. From addiction to severe issues, we can help .

Are you dealing with feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or stress intolerance? Do you ever wonder if there is more going on than just poor focus and concentration? If this sounds like you, then I may be a great fit for you on your journey to mental wellness. If work is leading to you feeling overwhelmed with emotions of dread, talk to me about ways to address stress tolerance. If the loss of a loved on is causing complicated grief, ask me about healthy coping mechanisms. I am here to help you with a holistic approach to mental wellness.
Are you dealing with feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or stress intolerance? Do you ever wonder if there is more going on than just poor focus and concentration? If this sounds like you, then I may be a great fit for you on your journey to mental wellness. If work is leading to you feeling overwhelmed with emotions of dread, talk to me about ways to address stress tolerance. If the loss of a loved on is causing complicated grief, ask me about healthy coping mechanisms. I am here to help you with a holistic approach to mental wellness.

Ashleigh McDonnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation & BED Disorder Treatment in Mesa, AZ A boutique psychiatric practice supporting patients’ mental health through diagnosis, medication management and compassionate ongoing therapy via discreet telehealth or in-person appointments. On Alma School and the 60 in Mesa Arizona.
Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation & BED Disorder Treatment in Mesa, AZ A boutique psychiatric practice supporting patients’ mental health through diagnosis, medication management and compassionate ongoing therapy via discreet telehealth or in-person appointments. On Alma School and the 60 in Mesa Arizona.
See more therapy options for Arizona City
Nearby Searches for Arizona City
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Arizona City, AZ
10+
Average cost per session
$187
Psychiatrists in Arizona City, AZ who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
90% | Depression |
90% | Medication Management |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Stress |
60% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Arizona City, AZ see their clients
70% | Online Only | |
30% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Arizona City?
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.