Psychiatrists in San Tan Valley, AZ
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
Freedom Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
Are you feeling depressed or stress out about life? Are you feeling anxious or have panic attack that you are scared to go out in public? Do you have difficulty focusing on things that is affecting your work or school performance? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We treat clients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, insomnia, and many more. PLEASE, CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling depressed or stress out about life? Are you feeling anxious or have panic attack that you are scared to go out in public? Do you have difficulty focusing on things that is affecting your work or school performance? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We treat clients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, insomnia, and many more. PLEASE, CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Sylvie Mawoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat Anxiety, Depression, ADHD,Autism spectrum, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, Weight loss, Obesity, and other mental health disorders. I do telehealth services in all parts of Arizona with an accessible and personalized mental health care including prescriptive medication management, psychiatric evaluation, talk therapy and other mental health needs right at the comfort of your own home or wherever you might be via telehealth services.
I serve patients with mental health needs of all ages, and treat Anxiety, Depression, ADHD,Autism spectrum, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, Weight loss, Obesity, and other mental health disorders. I do telehealth services in all parts of Arizona with an accessible and personalized mental health care including prescriptive medication management, psychiatric evaluation, talk therapy and other mental health needs right at the comfort of your own home or wherever you might be via telehealth services.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Lindsay Fisher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
Lindsay is a compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to helping patients on their journey to emotional well-being. With a focus on building strong therapeutic relationships, Lindsay specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, postpartum mental health, panic disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as eating disorders.
Lindsay is a compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to helping patients on their journey to emotional well-being. With a focus on building strong therapeutic relationships, Lindsay specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, postpartum mental health, panic disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as eating disorders.
Danielle Orr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
My passion is to help treat those individuals with intellectual, development and behavior disabilities along with treating a variety of other mental health needs including ADHD, depression, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Autism Spectrum, sensory processing disorders. I believe that children are not just smaller adults, they will need their care to be uniquely tailored towards them and what works best. I believe to be successful, we need to work with the whole family unit to ensure long term sustainable success for both child and parents. WE are now offering ADHD testing along with cognitive assessments.
My passion is to help treat those individuals with intellectual, development and behavior disabilities along with treating a variety of other mental health needs including ADHD, depression, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Autism Spectrum, sensory processing disorders. I believe that children are not just smaller adults, they will need their care to be uniquely tailored towards them and what works best. I believe to be successful, we need to work with the whole family unit to ensure long term sustainable success for both child and parents. WE are now offering ADHD testing along with cognitive assessments.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
BOC Psych Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS IN ARIZONA. SAME-DAY PRESCRIPTIONS! You do not have to walk your journey alone. We are here to listen and care for you. We want to help you achieve total recovery and walk the road to complete healing and restoration. We offer individualized/patient-centered care across the lifespan and promise you the most rewarding experience.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS IN ARIZONA. SAME-DAY PRESCRIPTIONS! You do not have to walk your journey alone. We are here to listen and care for you. We want to help you achieve total recovery and walk the road to complete healing and restoration. We offer individualized/patient-centered care across the lifespan and promise you the most rewarding experience.
Andrea Hinton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
Hello, thank you for considering me for your mental health needs. I offer an all-inclusive, welcoming environment, which includes BIPOC as well as LGBTQ+ individuals. We all want to feel like our best selves and have a safe space in doing so. When someone is dealing with anxiety, depression, or bipolar, it can have a significant impact on all aspects of an individual's life. People want to have relief from their symptoms, to have a sense of normalcy, to feel empowered. This allows them to thrive.
Hello, thank you for considering me for your mental health needs. I offer an all-inclusive, welcoming environment, which includes BIPOC as well as LGBTQ+ individuals. We all want to feel like our best selves and have a safe space in doing so. When someone is dealing with anxiety, depression, or bipolar, it can have a significant impact on all aspects of an individual's life. People want to have relief from their symptoms, to have a sense of normalcy, to feel empowered. This allows them to thrive.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience working in healthcare. I graduated from Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing after obtaining my associate degree from Chamberlain College of Nursing. I have extensive experience in a variety of settings including Trauma Intensive Care, Detox, Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation, and Assertive Community Treatment for those with severe mental illness. Having had my own experience with addiction, I can genuinely empathize with clients seeking to overcome substance abuse.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience working in healthcare. I graduated from Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing after obtaining my associate degree from Chamberlain College of Nursing. I have extensive experience in a variety of settings including Trauma Intensive Care, Detox, Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation, and Assertive Community Treatment for those with severe mental illness. Having had my own experience with addiction, I can genuinely empathize with clients seeking to overcome substance abuse.
Dr. Alexandra Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85142
Dr. Alexandra Moore is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Moore is compassionate and uses a holistic approach to patient care. She began her training with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing through an accelerated program at St. Joseph’s Hospital campus of Grand Canyon University. Dr. Moore furthered her education with Grand Canyon University and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in nursing education as well.
Dr. Alexandra Moore is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Moore is compassionate and uses a holistic approach to patient care. She began her training with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing through an accelerated program at St. Joseph’s Hospital campus of Grand Canyon University. Dr. Moore furthered her education with Grand Canyon University and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in nursing education as well.
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Whether you’re seeking a psychiatric evaluation or medication management, I’m passionate about helping patients in a warm, supportive, and caring environment. I’m an experienced psychiatric provider who works with adults and teenagers with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and other mental health issues.
Whether you’re seeking a psychiatric evaluation or medication management, I’m passionate about helping patients in a warm, supportive, and caring environment. I’m an experienced psychiatric provider who works with adults and teenagers with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and other mental health issues.
Anthony Maurice Strocks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Feeling like you're under a constant cloud, struggling to find a bit of sunshine? You're not alone. Many of us move through life carrying a weight only we can see, silently questioning if anyone else could truly understand. Recognizing and seeking help for these feelings is a brave step. Imagine for a moment the possibility of lightening this load, allowing your true self to shine through once again. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion using a client-centered approach. We focus on creating a partnership where you feel seen and understood.
Feeling like you're under a constant cloud, struggling to find a bit of sunshine? You're not alone. Many of us move through life carrying a weight only we can see, silently questioning if anyone else could truly understand. Recognizing and seeking help for these feelings is a brave step. Imagine for a moment the possibility of lightening this load, allowing your true self to shine through once again. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion using a client-centered approach. We focus on creating a partnership where you feel seen and understood.
We strive to provide Arizona with the quality of care we would expect for our own family who were in need of treatment. We feel strongly that the path to mental health does not start by identifying an individual diagnosis, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the individual as a person. As Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrists trained in medical school, residency and several fellowships we are positioned to confidently evaluate and treat all ages. We specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Depression, Disruptive behaviors, Insomnia, OCD, Schizophrenia, Substance or behavioral addiction and many more.
We strive to provide Arizona with the quality of care we would expect for our own family who were in need of treatment. We feel strongly that the path to mental health does not start by identifying an individual diagnosis, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the individual as a person. As Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrists trained in medical school, residency and several fellowships we are positioned to confidently evaluate and treat all ages. We specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Depression, Disruptive behaviors, Insomnia, OCD, Schizophrenia, Substance or behavioral addiction and many more.
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85233
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
As a mental health nurse practitioner, I understand that my ideal clients often grapple with anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders. They seek a compassionate partner in their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My unique blend of clinical expertise and personal experience allows me to connect deeply with clients, fostering a safe space where they can explore their feelings and aspirations. Together, we will work towards achieving their goals of improved mental well-being and enhanced quality of life.
As a mental health nurse practitioner, I understand that my ideal clients often grapple with anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders. They seek a compassionate partner in their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My unique blend of clinical expertise and personal experience allows me to connect deeply with clients, fostering a safe space where they can explore their feelings and aspirations. Together, we will work towards achieving their goals of improved mental well-being and enhanced quality of life.
With 3 decades of experience as a registered nurse with six of those years spent caring for varied population with mental, behavioral and substance use disorders, I have a versatile skills in making a great impact in the lives of individuals, groups and families with mental health challenges. The knowledge I gained from earning an advanced degree in conjunction with my wealth of experience, accord me with capabilities to use evidence-based assessment tools to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and systematically in collaboration with you reduce and overtime eliminate them with medications and psychotherapy.
With 3 decades of experience as a registered nurse with six of those years spent caring for varied population with mental, behavioral and substance use disorders, I have a versatile skills in making a great impact in the lives of individuals, groups and families with mental health challenges. The knowledge I gained from earning an advanced degree in conjunction with my wealth of experience, accord me with capabilities to use evidence-based assessment tools to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and systematically in collaboration with you reduce and overtime eliminate them with medications and psychotherapy.
Olive Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Primary Care and Psych Dual Provider Suboxone, Sublucade same day prescription.At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, our vision is to create a world where mental health is a top priority and everyone has access to quality mental health care. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. We offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate
Primary Care and Psych Dual Provider Suboxone, Sublucade same day prescription.At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, our vision is to create a world where mental health is a top priority and everyone has access to quality mental health care. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. We offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate
Shavaun Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Shavaun Johnson, DNP is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Light at the End PLLC, serving all of the Valley as well as the surrounding rural communities in Phoenix. Having worked in behavioral/mental health for over 10 years in various settings/roles including corrections, inpatient care, outpatient care, community mental health, residential care, and acute treatment she is passionate about advocating for mental health and vulnerable populations.
Shavaun Johnson, DNP is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Light at the End PLLC, serving all of the Valley as well as the surrounding rural communities in Phoenix. Having worked in behavioral/mental health for over 10 years in various settings/roles including corrections, inpatient care, outpatient care, community mental health, residential care, and acute treatment she is passionate about advocating for mental health and vulnerable populations.
See more therapy options for San Tan Valley
Nearby Searches for San Tan Valley
- Apache Junction
- Arizona City
- Avondale
- Casa Grande
- Chandler
- Fountain Hills
- Gilbert
- Mesa
- Paradise Valley
- Queen Creek
- Scottsdale
- Tempe
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Tan Valley, AZ
10+
Average cost per session
$230
Psychiatrists in San Tan Valley, AZ who prioritize treating:
92% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Sleep or Insomnia |
54% | ADHD |
54% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
90% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in San Tan Valley, AZ see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
36% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Tan 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.
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.