Psychiatrists in Fountain Hills, AZ

Andrea Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for young to middle-aged adults. My approach is grounded in a holistic understanding of each person’s unique needs and circumstances, combining medication management with supportive therapy to foster healing and resilience.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for young to middle-aged adults. My approach is grounded in a holistic understanding of each person’s unique needs and circumstances, combining medication management with supportive therapy to foster healing and resilience.

Hello! My name is Stephen Woodward, PMHNP-BC. I am the founder of Woodward Psychiatry, and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience treating a variety of mental health concerns in adolescents and adults, primarily ADHD, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and sleep disorders. I am open-minded and solution-oriented. My goal is that patients leave their appointments feeling like their concerns have been heard and addressed, and that they have a clear understanding of their treatment plan.
Hello! My name is Stephen Woodward, PMHNP-BC. I am the founder of Woodward Psychiatry, and a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience treating a variety of mental health concerns in adolescents and adults, primarily ADHD, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and sleep disorders. I am open-minded and solution-oriented. My goal is that patients leave their appointments feeling like their concerns have been heard and addressed, and that they have a clear understanding of their treatment plan.

Are you proactive and open to a holistic approach to mental health care? Are you dealing with chronic issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders and looking to understand the root causes rather than just treating the symptoms? Do you need comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment plans, and a blend of lifestyle changes and medication management? Are your goals to achieve long-term mental well-being, reduce symptoms, and improve your overall quality of life?
If so, I can help. I provide a holistic, evidence-based approach that addresses underlying imbalances and tailors treatment to your unique needs. Together, we'l
Are you proactive and open to a holistic approach to mental health care? Are you dealing with chronic issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders and looking to understand the root causes rather than just treating the symptoms? Do you need comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment plans, and a blend of lifestyle changes and medication management? Are your goals to achieve long-term mental well-being, reduce symptoms, and improve your overall quality of life?
If so, I can help. I provide a holistic, evidence-based approach that addresses underlying imbalances and tailors treatment to your unique needs. Together, we'l

Insight Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients (pediatric/adult). Drop the rock you are carrying. We treat all mental health struggles. We treat the symptoms, not the diagnosis, holistically. We now offer appointments on evenings and weekends. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the symptoms of mental illness and the underlying causes. This is a team approach to mental health treatment as I work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes. We are here to help you!
Accepting new patients (pediatric/adult). Drop the rock you are carrying. We treat all mental health struggles. We treat the symptoms, not the diagnosis, holistically. We now offer appointments on evenings and weekends. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the symptoms of mental illness and the underlying causes. This is a team approach to mental health treatment as I work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes. We are here to help you!

I provide medication management and therapy for many conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, alcohol use disorder, postpartum depression, and many other conditions. When we meet for our first video appointment, we'll talk about your symptoms and treatment goals and we'll carefully select medications that fit your unique needs. I see clients in several states, including IL, WA, OR, AZ, NM, MT, AK, ND, and DE, all via telehealth. I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you, and I encourage you to reach out with any questions.
I provide medication management and therapy for many conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, alcohol use disorder, postpartum depression, and many other conditions. When we meet for our first video appointment, we'll talk about your symptoms and treatment goals and we'll carefully select medications that fit your unique needs. I see clients in several states, including IL, WA, OR, AZ, NM, MT, AK, ND, and DE, all via telehealth. I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you, and I encourage you to reach out with any questions.

I am a licensed, board certified advance FNP and a PMHNP (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner). I provide medication management for individuals 6 years and older. I have about 6 years of experience in mental health nursing caring for hundreds of patients with a diverse range of mental health diagnosis in internal and family practice. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
I am a licensed, board certified advance FNP and a PMHNP (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner). I provide medication management for individuals 6 years and older. I have about 6 years of experience in mental health nursing caring for hundreds of patients with a diverse range of mental health diagnosis in internal and family practice. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.

As a medical doctor trained in the specialty of psychiatry I am able to diagnose and treat a broad range of psychiatric disorders in adults. But as a mental health professional I like to see myself as a specialist in the promotion of what fundamentally makes life a wonderful and fulfilling experience-being mentally healthy! We do not treat any type of dual diagnosis (substance abuse along with a mental health condition)
As a medical doctor trained in the specialty of psychiatry I am able to diagnose and treat a broad range of psychiatric disorders in adults. But as a mental health professional I like to see myself as a specialist in the promotion of what fundamentally makes life a wonderful and fulfilling experience-being mentally healthy! We do not treat any type of dual diagnosis (substance abuse along with a mental health condition)

I will take the time to listen in a nonjudgmental manner, and I will seek to understand you as a person, not just the specific problem that led you to call. After a thorough initial consultation, I will share with you my impression and recommendations. If you wish to proceed, together we will decide on a course of treatment that's right for you. Privacy and confidentiality are fully respected. I offer individual psychotherapy, as well as medication management if indicated and if desired. If you need specialized treatment that I cannot provide, I will tell you so and help you find it.
I will take the time to listen in a nonjudgmental manner, and I will seek to understand you as a person, not just the specific problem that led you to call. After a thorough initial consultation, I will share with you my impression and recommendations. If you wish to proceed, together we will decide on a course of treatment that's right for you. Privacy and confidentiality are fully respected. I offer individual psychotherapy, as well as medication management if indicated and if desired. If you need specialized treatment that I cannot provide, I will tell you so and help you find it.

Dr. Diana Havill is a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive training in treating a broad spectrum of adult psychiatric conditions. In addition to private practice she has worked in community mental health, treatment of the seriously mentally ill, and consultation liaison psychiatry. Dr. Havill specializes in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, and other mental health disorders.
Dr. Diana Havill is a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive training in treating a broad spectrum of adult psychiatric conditions. In addition to private practice she has worked in community mental health, treatment of the seriously mentally ill, and consultation liaison psychiatry. Dr. Havill specializes in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, and other mental health disorders.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Licensed in AZ, OR, and WA! Christina Wellman, DNP, PMHNP-BC, earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Louisiana in Lafayette and graduated with her doctorate in nursing practice at the University of Arizona. Christina completed her Doctorate Quality Improvement Project titled, “Standardized Suicide Screening with the Suicide Behavior Questionnaire in Integrated Health.” Christina has been practicing in mental health for over 10 years, serving both the pediatric and adult population.
Licensed in AZ, OR, and WA! Christina Wellman, DNP, PMHNP-BC, earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Louisiana in Lafayette and graduated with her doctorate in nursing practice at the University of Arizona. Christina completed her Doctorate Quality Improvement Project titled, “Standardized Suicide Screening with the Suicide Behavior Questionnaire in Integrated Health.” Christina has been practicing in mental health for over 10 years, serving both the pediatric and adult population.

Need URGENT psychiatric care? Book a Free 10 minutes Consultation Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Book a Free 10 minutes Consultation Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available.

I work with a range of patients with emotional, functional and substance use issues as long as the person is invested in finding a collaborative pathway to help.
I work with a range of patients with emotional, functional and substance use issues as long as the person is invested in finding a collaborative pathway to help.

Advanced Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner in the State of Arizona. For over fifteen years, I have worked in the healthcare field. I received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, a Masters of Science Family Practice degree from Frontier Nursing University and a post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health certificate from Wilkes University. I incorporate my training from these specialties to provide a holistic approach in order to help my clients achieve the best outcomes possible.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner in the State of Arizona. For over fifteen years, I have worked in the healthcare field. I received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, a Masters of Science Family Practice degree from Frontier Nursing University and a post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health certificate from Wilkes University. I incorporate my training from these specialties to provide a holistic approach in order to help my clients achieve the best outcomes possible.

Irene Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, IBCLC
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85248
Waitlist for new clients
Talking about Mental Health openly is a new concept. As the light is shed on mental health in general, there is another population that is struggling. This is the Perinatal population. Pregnancy is a wonderful time for some, while others struggle with anxiety and depression. Others do great during the pregnancy but struggle postpartum. Do you feel you need medication management? We can build a collaborative relationship and discuss the risks and benefits of all available treatments. Medication is an option, not a requirement.
Talking about Mental Health openly is a new concept. As the light is shed on mental health in general, there is another population that is struggling. This is the Perinatal population. Pregnancy is a wonderful time for some, while others struggle with anxiety and depression. Others do great during the pregnancy but struggle postpartum. Do you feel you need medication management? We can build a collaborative relationship and discuss the risks and benefits of all available treatments. Medication is an option, not a requirement.

At Core Self, we believe that true mental health transformation begins with addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our Core Self approach is a comprehensive, integrative treatment that combines medication management, Spravato (esketamine) therapy, and psychotherapy to create a personalized path to healing. Our holistic approach ensures that your care is not only effective but compassionate, addressing the root causes of mental health challenges and supporting you in reclaiming your Core Self—empowered, balanced, and whole.
At Core Self, we believe that true mental health transformation begins with addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our Core Self approach is a comprehensive, integrative treatment that combines medication management, Spravato (esketamine) therapy, and psychotherapy to create a personalized path to healing. Our holistic approach ensures that your care is not only effective but compassionate, addressing the root causes of mental health challenges and supporting you in reclaiming your Core Self—empowered, balanced, and whole.

My ideal clients are individuals who are seeking a comprehensive, holistic approach to their mental health care. They typically come to me with complex mental health challenges. These clients are often at a point where they're ready for a change. They've tried other treatments or providers but haven't found the relief they're seeking. They're open to innovative approaches and are willing to actively participate in their treatment process.
My ideal clients are individuals who are seeking a comprehensive, holistic approach to their mental health care. They typically come to me with complex mental health challenges. These clients are often at a point where they're ready for a change. They've tried other treatments or providers but haven't found the relief they're seeking. They're open to innovative approaches and are willing to actively participate in their treatment process.

I am passionate about helping other people improve their health and have dedicated my nursing career toward continually achieving this goal. I am honored to have been a registered nurse for 17 years, with most of that time spent in a major metropolitan hospital responding to medical emergencies as part of the facility’s Rapid Response Team. After gaining a wealth of experience performing rapid assessments and thus improving the physiological and mental health needs of patients in crisis, it made sense for me to evolve and find a niche that focused solely on psychiatric-mental health nursing.
I am passionate about helping other people improve their health and have dedicated my nursing career toward continually achieving this goal. I am honored to have been a registered nurse for 17 years, with most of that time spent in a major metropolitan hospital responding to medical emergencies as part of the facility’s Rapid Response Team. After gaining a wealth of experience performing rapid assessments and thus improving the physiological and mental health needs of patients in crisis, it made sense for me to evolve and find a niche that focused solely on psychiatric-mental health nursing.

Dr. Kevin Lu is a board certified adult psychiatrist. In addition to medication management, he integrates elements of psychotherapy, psychoeducation, lifestyle changes, and relationship skills into his approach. He enjoys working with a variety of individuals and conditions, with particular experience with veterans, immigrants, and university students. He has a friendly and casual style, and prioritizes strong therapeutic relationships in his work.
Dr. Kevin Lu is a board certified adult psychiatrist. In addition to medication management, he integrates elements of psychotherapy, psychoeducation, lifestyle changes, and relationship skills into his approach. He enjoys working with a variety of individuals and conditions, with particular experience with veterans, immigrants, and university students. He has a friendly and casual style, and prioritizes strong therapeutic relationships in his work.

LeAnn Bauernfeind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN, BC
8 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare, specializing in the mental health care of adults, children, and adolescents. Guided by a strong dedication to easing emotional and psychological suffering, I found my purpose in the field of psychiatry. My practice integrates compassionate communication, evidence-based psychopharmacology, holistic approaches, Ketamine Therapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). For those interested in non-pharmaceutical options, I also offer homeopathic alternatives tailored to individual needs.
I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare, specializing in the mental health care of adults, children, and adolescents. Guided by a strong dedication to easing emotional and psychological suffering, I found my purpose in the field of psychiatry. My practice integrates compassionate communication, evidence-based psychopharmacology, holistic approaches, Ketamine Therapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). For those interested in non-pharmaceutical options, I also offer homeopathic alternatives tailored to individual needs.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of healthcare experience. I have experience with a range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and mood disorders, perinatal disorders, sleep and insomnia disorders, as well as many more. My personal experience with mental health struggles in both myself and family members has given me a greater understanding and empathy for those seeking help.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of healthcare experience. I have experience with a range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and mood disorders, perinatal disorders, sleep and insomnia disorders, as well as many more. My personal experience with mental health struggles in both myself and family members has given me a greater understanding and empathy for those seeking help.
See more therapy options for Fountain Hills
Nearby Searches for Fountain Hills
- Apache Junction
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- Chandler
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- Glendale
- Mesa
- Paradise Valley
- Phoenix
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fountain Hills, AZ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Fountain Hills, AZ who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
89% | Medication Management |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Sleep or Insomnia |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Fountain Hills, AZ see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fountain Hills?
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.