Psychiatrists in Oro Valley, AZ

Photo of Ann Barbaro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ann Barbaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(520) 376-8661 View (520) 376-8661
Photo of Jordan Reuter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jordan Reuter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Oro Valley, AZ 85755
As a former covid ICU nurse I first handedly experienced raw trauma that I never could have envisioned when I went into healthcare eight years ago. The pandemic brought awareness to the challenges we face daily with mental illness including social isolation, grief/loss, burnout, feelings of hopelessness, and uncertainty with the future never being guaranteed. Healing begins from within through the practice of self-compassion. As an advocate for integrative mental health care, I provide empathetic and comprehensive treatment plans to individuals facing various emotional challenges.
As a former covid ICU nurse I first handedly experienced raw trauma that I never could have envisioned when I went into healthcare eight years ago. The pandemic brought awareness to the challenges we face daily with mental illness including social isolation, grief/loss, burnout, feelings of hopelessness, and uncertainty with the future never being guaranteed. Healing begins from within through the practice of self-compassion. As an advocate for integrative mental health care, I provide empathetic and comprehensive treatment plans to individuals facing various emotional challenges.
(520) 221-2306 View (520) 221-2306
Photo of Jovan Ramirez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Jovan Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
1 Endorsed
Oro Valley, AZ 85755
Let's Collaborate! Whether you're seeking relief from ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction management, or other mental health challenges, I'm here to support you on your healing journey. Together, we can explore medication management, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, active listening, and address common distortions like overestimation and catastrophizing. I am fluent in Spanish, ensuring bilingual support for those who need it.
Let's Collaborate! Whether you're seeking relief from ADHD, depression, anxiety, addiction management, or other mental health challenges, I'm here to support you on your healing journey. Together, we can explore medication management, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, active listening, and address common distortions like overestimation and catastrophizing. I am fluent in Spanish, ensuring bilingual support for those who need it.
(520) 277-9389 View (520) 277-9389
Photo of Andrew Dorsett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Andrew Dorsett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you, or someone you love, struggling with depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, trauma, anger or focus concerns? These bring a host of concerns about daily living and function that include: insomnia, over sleeping, seeing school/work performance decline, isolating, trouble worrying about many things, being impulsive/participating in risky behaviors, increase anger/irritability and other concerns that are related to the specific individual.
Are you, or someone you love, struggling with depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, trauma, anger or focus concerns? These bring a host of concerns about daily living and function that include: insomnia, over sleeping, seeing school/work performance decline, isolating, trouble worrying about many things, being impulsive/participating in risky behaviors, increase anger/irritability and other concerns that are related to the specific individual.
(520) 650-6183 View (520) 650-6183
Photo of Margaret N Kyakuwa - Dativa body and mind healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Dativa body and mind healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
Margaret N Kyakuwa empathetic and experienced Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in multiple states dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services and offering personalized and compassionate care to individuals and families, specializing in both physical and mental well-being. Trust in my expertise to guide you on your journey to optimal health and wellness."
Margaret N Kyakuwa empathetic and experienced Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in multiple states dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services and offering personalized and compassionate care to individuals and families, specializing in both physical and mental well-being. Trust in my expertise to guide you on your journey to optimal health and wellness."
(520) 900-0220 View (520) 900-0220
Photo of Maua Swai - Select Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Select Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Flexible appointments! I am Maua Swai, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring forth a blend of clinical expertise, deep empathy, and an unwavering commitment to guide you towards a brighter and more balanced mental health journey. I have a profound passion for empowering individuals to regain control over their mental health. With an extensive background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I have honed a comprehensive skill set to address an array of mental health conditions through medication management and supportive therapy.
Flexible appointments! I am Maua Swai, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring forth a blend of clinical expertise, deep empathy, and an unwavering commitment to guide you towards a brighter and more balanced mental health journey. I have a profound passion for empowering individuals to regain control over their mental health. With an extensive background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I have honed a comprehensive skill set to address an array of mental health conditions through medication management and supportive therapy.
(520) 317-7421 View (520) 317-7421
Photo of Dr. Ruth Anne Felton - Brain and Body Connections, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Brain and Body Connections, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Most psychiatric patients come into the office with mental health problems and require a professional to listen to their issues and assist them in meeting their needs. I first listen attentively to the patient to understand the reasons for their concerns. Then, I perform an Initial Psychiatric Evaluation based on the patient's information. After this assessment, I create an individualized treatment plan and set goals based on the patient's needs, with their input. I believe in collaborating with my patients. I bring over 25 years of nursing experience in acute and chronic psychiatric care for adolescents and adults.
Most psychiatric patients come into the office with mental health problems and require a professional to listen to their issues and assist them in meeting their needs. I first listen attentively to the patient to understand the reasons for their concerns. Then, I perform an Initial Psychiatric Evaluation based on the patient's information. After this assessment, I create an individualized treatment plan and set goals based on the patient's needs, with their input. I believe in collaborating with my patients. I bring over 25 years of nursing experience in acute and chronic psychiatric care for adolescents and adults.
(281) 560-3255 View (281) 560-3255
Photo of Promise Iteinjoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Promise Iteinjoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or disconnected from the life you want? You don’t have to go through it alone. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management to support your mental health journey. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Arizona, I see clients virtually and prescribe medications when appropriate. I help with depression, anxiety, mood swings, sleep issues, substance use concerns, and more. My approach is nonjudgmental and empathetic, honoring your unique story while working collaboratively to find relief and build hope. Let’s work together to help you
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or disconnected from the life you want? You don’t have to go through it alone. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management to support your mental health journey. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Arizona, I see clients virtually and prescribe medications when appropriate. I help with depression, anxiety, mood swings, sleep issues, substance use concerns, and more. My approach is nonjudgmental and empathetic, honoring your unique story while working collaboratively to find relief and build hope. Let’s work together to help you
(520) 595-4352 View (520) 595-4352
Photo of Kailey Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kailey Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
My name is Kailey Miller and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have 12 years of experience working within the mental health and substance use field. I have worked in various settings including inpatient, residential, and clinics with different populations.
My name is Kailey Miller and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have 12 years of experience working within the mental health and substance use field. I have worked in various settings including inpatient, residential, and clinics with different populations.
(520) 525-1543 View (520) 525-1543
Photo of Judy Olepere - AJ Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC, APRN
AJ Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting New Patients. "Telemedicine appointments only". Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or even mood instability or struggling with addiction? Do you feel that life is so hard, and you are constantly dealing with sadness? Do you just want to be happy again? I am here to walk with you in this journey. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where you feel safe, accepted and understood.
Now accepting New Patients. "Telemedicine appointments only". Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or even mood instability or struggling with addiction? Do you feel that life is so hard, and you are constantly dealing with sadness? Do you just want to be happy again? I am here to walk with you in this journey. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where you feel safe, accepted and understood.
(520) 636-5223 View (520) 636-5223
Photo of Dr. Jackson Njeru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Dr. Jackson Njeru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a doctoral prepared licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who brings extensive experience in treating diverse mental health conditions.
I am a doctoral prepared licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who brings extensive experience in treating diverse mental health conditions.
(520) 650-5657 View (520) 650-5657
Photo of Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia - Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C, APRN
Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C, APRN
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Arizona & Connecticut. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Arizona & Connecticut. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
(520) 201-2456 View (520) 201-2456
Gouni Aicha Bouraima
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Many of the individuals I work with feel overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted from trying to manage their mental health on their own. They may be living with anxiety, depression, mood instability, or trauma that affects their daily lives and relationships. They’re seeking clarity, balance, and a sense of peace—but more than anything, they want to feel like themselves again.
Many of the individuals I work with feel overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted from trying to manage their mental health on their own. They may be living with anxiety, depression, mood instability, or trauma that affects their daily lives and relationships. They’re seeking clarity, balance, and a sense of peace—but more than anything, they want to feel like themselves again.
(520) 280-0201 View (520) 280-0201
Photo of Naomi Mendoza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Naomi Mendoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Having a hard time finding a reliable, empathetic provider!? We offer the array of psychiatric services and the convenience of telehealth! Anxiety, Depression, ADHD symptoms- we are here to help!
Having a hard time finding a reliable, empathetic provider!? We offer the array of psychiatric services and the convenience of telehealth! Anxiety, Depression, ADHD symptoms- we are here to help!
(262) 923-3228 View (262) 923-3228
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(520) 602-9422 View (520) 602-9422
Photo of Allison Lelania Long, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Allison Lelania Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Oro Valley, AZ 85755
I'm a a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Psychiatric Nursing Practice. My unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy and patient empowerment sets the foundation for my practice, where I collaborate closely with you to build a therapeutic relationship that facilitate healing and personal growth.
I'm a a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Psychiatric Nursing Practice. My unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy and patient empowerment sets the foundation for my practice, where I collaborate closely with you to build a therapeutic relationship that facilitate healing and personal growth.
(561) 710-7827 View (561) 710-7827
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(520) 602-8246 View (520) 602-8246
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(520) 779-2776 View (520) 779-2776
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(520) 487-3644 View (520) 487-3644
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(520) 636-7699 View (520) 636-7699

See more therapy options for Oro Valley

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Oro Valley, AZ

30+

Average cost per session

$185

Psychiatrists in Oro Valley, AZ who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
91% ADHD
91% Bipolar Disorder
82% Trauma and PTSD
76% Medication Management
73% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
96% Cigna and Evernorth
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Oro Valley, AZ see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Oro Valley?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.