Psychiatrists in Peoria, AZ

Photo of Lolade Ogunleye - Cana Psychiatric Health, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cana Psychiatric Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who offers various mental health services including medication management. The brain is an organ where specialized treatment and medications may be needed to help restore physiological balance and correct functioning. Keeping all aspects of each individual in mind, I prescribe medications and supportive therapy when needed so together, we can address the whole person. Therapy can be an effective tool in restoring the soul, which has a direct impact on the well-being of our mind, will, and emotional state.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who offers various mental health services including medication management. The brain is an organ where specialized treatment and medications may be needed to help restore physiological balance and correct functioning. Keeping all aspects of each individual in mind, I prescribe medications and supportive therapy when needed so together, we can address the whole person. Therapy can be an effective tool in restoring the soul, which has a direct impact on the well-being of our mind, will, and emotional state.
(480) 573-6643 View (480) 573-6643
Photo of Todd Robert Shorten - Platinum Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Platinum Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life is difficult. Finding a prescribing mental health professional who understands your needs shouldn't be. At Platinum Psychiatry, we are committed to helping you have the experience that you deserve. We are an outpatient clinic that serves men and women ages 6 and up, who struggle with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and more. We have a team approach to treating mental illness. We will work with you to understand your symptoms and to improve your quality of life. In a field full of confusion, stigma, and poor customer service, we offer a new way of experiencing mental health services.
Life is difficult. Finding a prescribing mental health professional who understands your needs shouldn't be. At Platinum Psychiatry, we are committed to helping you have the experience that you deserve. We are an outpatient clinic that serves men and women ages 6 and up, who struggle with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and more. We have a team approach to treating mental illness. We will work with you to understand your symptoms and to improve your quality of life. In a field full of confusion, stigma, and poor customer service, we offer a new way of experiencing mental health services.
(602) 726-2317 View (602) 726-2317
Photo of Patience Ronke Akhimien, P, R, A, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patience Ronke Akhimien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, R, A
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85381
My name is Patience Akhimien DNP, a certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Midwife, Registered Nurse-Certified inpatient obstetrics. Certified RTS (Relief Through Sharing).
My name is Patience Akhimien DNP, a certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Midwife, Registered Nurse-Certified inpatient obstetrics. Certified RTS (Relief Through Sharing).
(623) 263-0673 View (623) 263-0673
Photo of Vanessa Moe - White Peak Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
White Peak Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Vanessa has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years. She has extensive experience and knowledge treating adults with chronic mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorders, bipolar and PTSD. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has treated those with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders. Her well rounded experience provides her with the ability to identify and treat different mental health conditions with evidence-based treatment options.
Vanessa has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years. She has extensive experience and knowledge treating adults with chronic mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorders, bipolar and PTSD. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has treated those with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders. Her well rounded experience provides her with the ability to identify and treat different mental health conditions with evidence-based treatment options.
(623) 526-2865 View (623) 526-2865
Photo of Ferdinand Labuga Briones, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ferdinand Labuga Briones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85381
NOW Accepting New Patients (Open Weekends & Evenings). I am a compassionate clinician who values each of my client regardless of their gender, color, race, religion, values, beliefs, disability, and economic status. We provide in-office or virtual services.
NOW Accepting New Patients (Open Weekends & Evenings). I am a compassionate clinician who values each of my client regardless of their gender, color, race, religion, values, beliefs, disability, and economic status. We provide in-office or virtual services.
(623) 253-7958 View (623) 253-7958
Photo of Carolyn Tellez - Behavior Innovation, MSN, RN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Behavior Innovation
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Behavior Innovation is a safe space for you to talk about your mental health. Somewhere that you can turn to for help when you’re struggling. Visits are conducted 100% through video which allows you to schedule an appointment when it’s convenient for you to talk and you will receive medication management and compassionate care from a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Behavior Innovation is a safe space for you to talk about your mental health. Somewhere that you can turn to for help when you’re struggling. Visits are conducted 100% through video which allows you to schedule an appointment when it’s convenient for you to talk and you will receive medication management and compassionate care from a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
(928) 693-4759 View (928) 693-4759
Photo of Annie Paige - Paige Psychiatric Group LLC, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paige Psychiatric Group LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85382
Our holistic approach combine psychiatric medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes to help you achieve optimal mental wellness. Our services are designed to address a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and more. We understand the challenges that come with managing mental health conditions, and we strive to create a supportive and empathetic environment for our patients. Our mission is to empower you with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Our holistic approach combine psychiatric medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes to help you achieve optimal mental wellness. Our services are designed to address a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and more. We understand the challenges that come with managing mental health conditions, and we strive to create a supportive and empathetic environment for our patients. Our mission is to empower you with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(623) 294-8627 View (623) 294-8627
Photo of Bonnie S. Voges, MS, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bonnie S. Voges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85382
Life sometimes lets us down and we feel pressured to keep going. We forget to give ourselves the same consideration that we give others and it leaves us depleted and lonely. Anxiety and depressive symptoms slide into our everyday thoughts and responses and we feel isolated. Medication cannot solve every problem, however, it can build a bridge back to better mental health and give you the breathing space to start responding to external stressors instead of letting them erode and wear you down even more. It's time to focus on you and your needs.
Life sometimes lets us down and we feel pressured to keep going. We forget to give ourselves the same consideration that we give others and it leaves us depleted and lonely. Anxiety and depressive symptoms slide into our everyday thoughts and responses and we feel isolated. Medication cannot solve every problem, however, it can build a bridge back to better mental health and give you the breathing space to start responding to external stressors instead of letting them erode and wear you down even more. It's time to focus on you and your needs.
(623) 352-1921 View (623) 352-1921
Photo of Rosa Norris - Generational Wellness, PLLC, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Generational Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85345
We are faced with uncertain times today, and these times can be especially hard if you are already navigating life. Let us partner together to get you back to enjoying life. Together we can help you sharpen your skills by adding a compassionate and focused plan based on your needs and wellness desires.
We are faced with uncertain times today, and these times can be especially hard if you are already navigating life. Let us partner together to get you back to enjoying life. Together we can help you sharpen your skills by adding a compassionate and focused plan based on your needs and wellness desires.
(623) 235-8877 View (623) 235-8877
Photo of Amber Fessette - Platinum Psychiatry, MSN, AP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Platinum Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life is difficult. Finding a prescribing mental health professional who understands your needs shouldn't be. At Platinum Psychiatry, we are committed to helping you have the experience that you deserve. We are an outpatient clinic that serves men and women ages 6 and up, who struggle with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and more. We have a team approach to treating mental illness. We will work with you to understand your symptoms and to improve your quality of life. In a field full of confusion, stigma, and poor customer service, we offer a new way of experiencing mental health services.
Life is difficult. Finding a prescribing mental health professional who understands your needs shouldn't be. At Platinum Psychiatry, we are committed to helping you have the experience that you deserve. We are an outpatient clinic that serves men and women ages 6 and up, who struggle with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and more. We have a team approach to treating mental illness. We will work with you to understand your symptoms and to improve your quality of life. In a field full of confusion, stigma, and poor customer service, we offer a new way of experiencing mental health services.
(623) 283-2445 View (623) 283-2445
Photo of Latoya Murphy - Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness, LLC, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85383
Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness is currently accepting new patients. Latoya C. Murphy is a Doctoral prepared, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years of experience in the medical field. She will provide general psychiatric services for children age 6 and up, adult, and geriatrics patients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, trauma, drug and alcohol abuse.
Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness is currently accepting new patients. Latoya C. Murphy is a Doctoral prepared, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years of experience in the medical field. She will provide general psychiatric services for children age 6 and up, adult, and geriatrics patients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, trauma, drug and alcohol abuse.
(623) 304-0703 View (623) 304-0703
Photo of Cali Yepiz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cali Yepiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85381
Cali began her journey in healthcare in 2004, working in all levels of care including rural hospitals and emergency departments. Working her way up the ladder in healthcare starting with her CNA in 2004, then LPN, RN, BSN, MSN, and Post Masters PMHMP. She found her true calling, in behavioral health, when she began working in state hospitals in 2010. She has worked in crisis services for voluntary and involuntary commitments, substance abuse, subacute inpatient behavioral health, and outpatient behavioral health for the lifespan. She has dedicated her professional life to the pursuit of helping those with mental illness.
Cali began her journey in healthcare in 2004, working in all levels of care including rural hospitals and emergency departments. Working her way up the ladder in healthcare starting with her CNA in 2004, then LPN, RN, BSN, MSN, and Post Masters PMHMP. She found her true calling, in behavioral health, when she began working in state hospitals in 2010. She has worked in crisis services for voluntary and involuntary commitments, substance abuse, subacute inpatient behavioral health, and outpatient behavioral health for the lifespan. She has dedicated her professional life to the pursuit of helping those with mental illness.
(623) 294-9301 View (623) 294-9301
Photo of Miriam Ofili - BlessingsHealthcareLLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BlessingsHealthcareLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety and feelings of sadness, who may feel un-motivation to get up in the morning to perform an everyday activity, feel a sense of purposelessness/hopelessness in their personal lives or work, feel fear towards others, or fear their own emotions. You may have grown up in a dysfunctional environment that have altered your attachment style and world view of self and others. Rediscover yourself and get your life back! We work together to help you find ways to enjoy activities that make you happy. I use evidenced based approach to help you discover tools to help you thrive.
I enjoy working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety and feelings of sadness, who may feel un-motivation to get up in the morning to perform an everyday activity, feel a sense of purposelessness/hopelessness in their personal lives or work, feel fear towards others, or fear their own emotions. You may have grown up in a dysfunctional environment that have altered your attachment style and world view of self and others. Rediscover yourself and get your life back! We work together to help you find ways to enjoy activities that make you happy. I use evidenced based approach to help you discover tools to help you thrive.
(424) 417-1247 View (424) 417-1247
Photo of Jessica Cummings, NP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Cummings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85382
How many times have you felt unheard as a patient, especially when it comes to your mental wellness? Have you been offered medications that either don’t seem to be benefiting you or are you looking for other options? In medicine, for every ill, there is a pill. For every pill, there is a potential side effect. Sometimes it’s about the skills, not just the pills. With over 20 years in healthcare, the desire to treat patients better as a “whole” along with the COVID pandemic of 2020, I nearly walked away from providing care entirely. Essentially, I was fed up. My focus shifted to treating the mental health of patients & families.
How many times have you felt unheard as a patient, especially when it comes to your mental wellness? Have you been offered medications that either don’t seem to be benefiting you or are you looking for other options? In medicine, for every ill, there is a pill. For every pill, there is a potential side effect. Sometimes it’s about the skills, not just the pills. With over 20 years in healthcare, the desire to treat patients better as a “whole” along with the COVID pandemic of 2020, I nearly walked away from providing care entirely. Essentially, I was fed up. My focus shifted to treating the mental health of patients & families.
(623) 288-5191 View (623) 288-5191
Photo of Ashley Cyronak - Carative Psychiatry, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Carative Psychiatry! We are a telehealth company providing support to Arizona patients at this time. Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling.
Welcome to Carative Psychiatry! We are a telehealth company providing support to Arizona patients at this time. Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling.
(520) 720-3790 View (520) 720-3790
Photo of Jane Lao - Maricopa Christian Psychiatry, MSN, RNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maricopa Christian Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients. Mrs. Jane Lao is a Dual-Certified Nurse Practitioner who specializes in both Family medicine and Psychiatry. She has a passion for empowering patients to advocate for their best physical and mental health. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or attention difficulty, we can help you. Get the care you need from the comfort of your home. Maricopa Christian Psychiatry (MCP) is a mental health clinic that provide services across Arizona. MCP team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and a therapist offers compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidence-based psychiatric services.
Accepting new patients. Mrs. Jane Lao is a Dual-Certified Nurse Practitioner who specializes in both Family medicine and Psychiatry. She has a passion for empowering patients to advocate for their best physical and mental health. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or attention difficulty, we can help you. Get the care you need from the comfort of your home. Maricopa Christian Psychiatry (MCP) is a mental health clinic that provide services across Arizona. MCP team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and a therapist offers compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidence-based psychiatric services.
(928) 382-3914 View (928) 382-3914
Photo of Latoya Murphy - Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness, LLC, DNP, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85382
Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness is currently accepting new patients. Latoya C. Murphy is a Doctoral prepared, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18yrs of experience in the medical field. She will provide general psychiatric services for adolescent’s, adult, and geriatrics patients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, trauma, drug, and alcohol abuse.
Rising Sun HealthCare & Wellness is currently accepting new patients. Latoya C. Murphy is a Doctoral prepared, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18yrs of experience in the medical field. She will provide general psychiatric services for adolescent’s, adult, and geriatrics patients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, trauma, drug, and alcohol abuse.
(623) 526-8406 View (623) 526-8406
Photo of Dr. Christy Olloh - Maricopa Christian Psychiatry, DNP, MSN, RNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maricopa Christian Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, RNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Christy Olloh is a Family Psych-Mental Nurse Practitioner who is very passionate about mental health care. She provides non-judgmental, unrushed care to her patients and their families. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or attention difficulty, we can help you. Get the care you need from the comfort of your home. Maricopa Christian Psychiatry (MCP)is a mental health clinic that provide services across Arizona and other states. MCP team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and therapist offers compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidenced-based psychiatric services.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Christy Olloh is a Family Psych-Mental Nurse Practitioner who is very passionate about mental health care. She provides non-judgmental, unrushed care to her patients and their families. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or attention difficulty, we can help you. Get the care you need from the comfort of your home. Maricopa Christian Psychiatry (MCP)is a mental health clinic that provide services across Arizona and other states. MCP team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and therapist offers compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidenced-based psychiatric services.
(480) 462-7241 View (480) 462-7241
Photo of Amy M Porter, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy M Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Connect Mental Health and Wellness, we are dedicated to supporting each client with a blend of professionalism, loyalty, and warmth. Serving clients from age 6 onwards, our team passionately works to resolve a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether managing mood disorders, relationship conflicts, or life transitions, we approach each situation with encouragement and unwavering support, focusing on enhancing your overall well-being.
At Connect Mental Health and Wellness, we are dedicated to supporting each client with a blend of professionalism, loyalty, and warmth. Serving clients from age 6 onwards, our team passionately works to resolve a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether managing mood disorders, relationship conflicts, or life transitions, we approach each situation with encouragement and unwavering support, focusing on enhancing your overall well-being.
(623) 343-3365 View (623) 343-3365
Photo of Hany S Ashamalla - Notre Dame Behavioral Health, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Notre Dame Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
In this delicate specialty, I care about my patients' Medical and Psychiatric needs the same way I would care about my Family Members. I have been practicing Medicine and have helped thousands of patients, for the last 20 years, at Inpatient Psychiatric units, Medical floors, and ICU and critical patients Consultations, in addition to Outpatient setting, changing their Quality of life, Productivity, and Potential Success.
In this delicate specialty, I care about my patients' Medical and Psychiatric needs the same way I would care about my Family Members. I have been practicing Medicine and have helped thousands of patients, for the last 20 years, at Inpatient Psychiatric units, Medical floors, and ICU and critical patients Consultations, in addition to Outpatient setting, changing their Quality of life, Productivity, and Potential Success.
(623) 745-8489 View (623) 745-8489
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Peoria, AZ

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Peoria, AZ who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
98% ADHD
93% Bipolar Disorder
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Medication Management
73% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Peoria, AZ see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Peoria?

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.