Psychiatrists in San Tan Valley, AZ
Our IOP program allows the individuals seeking recovery to live at home, it is very important that this home is a safe and supportive environment. Drug addiction is a mental illness, and can be difficult to treat when surrounded by possible triggers. However, one of the main focuses of these programs are relapse prevention and learning to use healthy coping skills to manage stress and loss.
Our IOP program allows the individuals seeking recovery to live at home, it is very important that this home is a safe and supportive environment. Drug addiction is a mental illness, and can be difficult to treat when surrounded by possible triggers. However, one of the main focuses of these programs are relapse prevention and learning to use healthy coping skills to manage stress and loss.
Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140 (Online Only)
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
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140 (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.
Maricopa Christian Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, RNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143 (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.
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143 (Online Only)
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.
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.
Lindsay Fisher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 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.
BOC Psych Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140 (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.
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 at Paradigm Psychiatry. 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 at Paradigm Psychiatry. 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.
15 Second Videos
Jade Goodloe
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Morgan Alexander
Anthony Maurice Strocks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
Anne Ngaruiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143 (Online Only)
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Lleva Groves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Queen Creek, AZ 85140
Embarking on the journey towards mental wellness requires courage, support, and a trusted ally. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am honored to walk alongside individuals as they navigate the complexities of their mental health. Rooted in a deep sense of empathy and fueled by a passion for fostering resilience, my mission is to provide comprehensive, personalized care that empowers patients to reclaim control over their lives
Embarking on the journey towards mental wellness requires courage, support, and a trusted ally. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am honored to walk alongside individuals as they navigate the complexities of their mental health. Rooted in a deep sense of empathy and fueled by a passion for fostering resilience, my mission is to provide comprehensive, personalized care that empowers patients to reclaim control over their lives
Olive Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
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 care to all of our clients.
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 care to all of our clients.
Blue Water Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Queen Creek, AZ 85140
A client-centered therapeutic approach is key. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
A client-centered therapeutic approach is key. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
Andrea Stults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
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.
Shavaun Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Queen Creek, AZ 85142 (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.
AJ Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85212 (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.
Charlotte Toms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Queen Creek, AZ 85142 (Online Only)
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis and medication management. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis and medication management. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
See more therapy options for San Tan Valley
Nearby Searches for San Tan Valley
- Apache Junction
- Arizona City
- Avondale
- Casa Grande
- Chandler
- Florence
- Fountain Hills
- Gilbert
- Mesa
- Queen Creek
- Scottsdale
- Tempe
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Tan Valley, AZ
10+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in San Tan Valley, AZ who prioritize treating:
85% | Depression |
85% | Anxiety |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
62% | ADHD |
62% | Sleep or Insomnia |
54% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | United Medical Resources (UMR) |
How Psychiatrists in San Tan Valley, AZ see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | 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.