Psychiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ

Photo of Jamie Gustafson - Jamie Gustafson; AZ Holistic Anxiety Treatment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jamie Gustafson; AZ Holistic Anxiety Treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Do you set high standards for yourself while silently struggling with self-criticism and fear of failure? Are you or someone you love feeling the toll of stress or hormonal uncertainty? I work with clients to design individualized treatment plans incorporating mind, body, and spirit for lasting results. Whether you’re a busy professional, college student, or parent overcoming anxiety and burnout, I can help you renew your energy, reconnect with yourself and close relationships, and rediscover joy. As a former Labor and Delivery and Bereavement nurse, I walk with couples from infertility & loss through mid-life & peri-menopause.
Do you set high standards for yourself while silently struggling with self-criticism and fear of failure? Are you or someone you love feeling the toll of stress or hormonal uncertainty? I work with clients to design individualized treatment plans incorporating mind, body, and spirit for lasting results. Whether you’re a busy professional, college student, or parent overcoming anxiety and burnout, I can help you renew your energy, reconnect with yourself and close relationships, and rediscover joy. As a former Labor and Delivery and Bereavement nurse, I walk with couples from infertility & loss through mid-life & peri-menopause.
(480) 613-5270 View (480) 613-5270
Photo of Marie Gronley, Psychiatrist, MD
Marie Gronley
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
As Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, I treat patients suffering from Anxiety Disorders including Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder. You may visit my website directly PsychiatristScottsdale.com
As Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, I treat patients suffering from Anxiety Disorders including Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder. You may visit my website directly PsychiatristScottsdale.com
(480) 808-9445 View (480) 808-9445
Photo of Brett Leifson - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(520) 337-9708 View (520) 337-9708
Photo of Kanani Wasilk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kanani Wasilk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
As a PMHNP with a holistic approach, I believe that true healing encompasses the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. It is my passion to empower individuals to achieve optimal mental health and well-being by integrating evidence-based practices with complementary therapies that address the root causes of their concerns. Through a collaborative and compassionate partnership, I strive to provide personalized treatment plans that promote self-awareness, resilience, and lasting recovery.
As a PMHNP with a holistic approach, I believe that true healing encompasses the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. It is my passion to empower individuals to achieve optimal mental health and well-being by integrating evidence-based practices with complementary therapies that address the root causes of their concerns. Through a collaborative and compassionate partnership, I strive to provide personalized treatment plans that promote self-awareness, resilience, and lasting recovery.
(480) 462-6334 View (480) 462-6334
Photo of April Aranda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
April Aranda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I help those searching for help with their mental health regarding depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more. I offer services for TMS and Spravato to help with depression, suicidal ideation, and OCD.
I help those searching for help with their mental health regarding depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more. I offer services for TMS and Spravato to help with depression, suicidal ideation, and OCD.
(480) 780-1476 View (480) 780-1476
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) 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 (Online Psychiatry) 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
(480) 923-7422 View (480) 923-7422
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CRNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CRNP
Online Only
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Also Accepting some insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Also Accepting some insurances.
(844) 901-1692 View (844) 901-1692
Photo of Dr. Sharron Jones-Daggett, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Dr. Sharron Jones-Daggett
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Online Only
Telehealth Psychiatrist, dedicated in assisting clients to achieve quality of life and balance by addressing their psychiatric needs; court cases also. I am certified in psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, primordial sound meditation, yoga nidra meditation, guided imagery and reiki energy work. EMDR may also be available for those with traumas. I also practice other introspective and spiritual methods in my practice, such as hypnotherapy and chakra balancing. The needs of the client are my priority. What also makes my practice unique, is that I am also a canine psychiatrist and see many furry clients.
Telehealth Psychiatrist, dedicated in assisting clients to achieve quality of life and balance by addressing their psychiatric needs; court cases also. I am certified in psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, primordial sound meditation, yoga nidra meditation, guided imagery and reiki energy work. EMDR may also be available for those with traumas. I also practice other introspective and spiritual methods in my practice, such as hypnotherapy and chakra balancing. The needs of the client are my priority. What also makes my practice unique, is that I am also a canine psychiatrist and see many furry clients.
(623) 777-7916 View (623) 777-7916
Photo of Richard T Gottlieb, Psychiatrist, MD, PsyD
Richard T Gottlieb
Psychiatrist, MD, PsyD
Online Only
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with 37 years of clinical experience. I try my best to help my patients feel and function better, plus understand how their backstories help to create both their psychological strengths and their emotional difficulties. We humans live complicated and often very stressful lives. The solutions we originally used to cope with our special problems in childhood often follow us into adulthood and may contribute to the development of problems in our adult lives, even though we may not consciously see the connection. Learning new and better solutions can help us live happier and healthier lives.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with 37 years of clinical experience. I try my best to help my patients feel and function better, plus understand how their backstories help to create both their psychological strengths and their emotional difficulties. We humans live complicated and often very stressful lives. The solutions we originally used to cope with our special problems in childhood often follow us into adulthood and may contribute to the development of problems in our adult lives, even though we may not consciously see the connection. Learning new and better solutions can help us live happier and healthier lives.
(480) 933-2340 View (480) 933-2340
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(623) 462-2504 View (623) 462-2504
Photo of Smink Achila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Smink Achila is Board certified Nurse practitioner with years of experience in dealing with mental health issues. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or any other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Please, allow him the chance to be part of your journey towards gaining your optimum level of functioning despite what life throws at you. He specializes in treating both adolescents, adults and geriatric clients with issues with mental health. let's start the journey.
Smink Achila is Board certified Nurse practitioner with years of experience in dealing with mental health issues. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or any other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Please, allow him the chance to be part of your journey towards gaining your optimum level of functioning despite what life throws at you. He specializes in treating both adolescents, adults and geriatric clients with issues with mental health. let's start the journey.
(602) 598-5091 View (602) 598-5091
Photo of Michael James DePalma - Dr. DePalma Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. DePalma Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Please go to onepsychiatry dot com to schedule appointments and for more information about my practice. I use a combination of methods tailored to each individual patient. Methods used range from medication management to psychotherapy to mindfulness based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and drawing from a broad background in psychopharmacology, molecular biology and combining this psychotherapy training. I am a non-judgmental provider that will use every tool in my arsenal to help you . To schedule an appointment or to get more information, see our website onepsychiatry,com.
Please go to onepsychiatry dot com to schedule appointments and for more information about my practice. I use a combination of methods tailored to each individual patient. Methods used range from medication management to psychotherapy to mindfulness based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and drawing from a broad background in psychopharmacology, molecular biology and combining this psychotherapy training. I am a non-judgmental provider that will use every tool in my arsenal to help you . To schedule an appointment or to get more information, see our website onepsychiatry,com.
(623) 257-7264 View (623) 257-7264
Photo of Yanique Dias, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Yanique Dias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client may be living with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or trauma, struggling with low motivation, difficulty focusing or completing tasks, emotional numbness, persistent worry, or hypervigilance. You may feel withdrawn, hopeless, irritable, or unable to function as you once did. Vulnerability can feel unsafe, and emotions may feel too heavy to face alone. You’re seeking a space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal, regulate your emotions, and reconnect with your sense of self and purpose.
My ideal client may be living with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or trauma, struggling with low motivation, difficulty focusing or completing tasks, emotional numbness, persistent worry, or hypervigilance. You may feel withdrawn, hopeless, irritable, or unable to function as you once did. Vulnerability can feel unsafe, and emotions may feel too heavy to face alone. You’re seeking a space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal, regulate your emotions, and reconnect with your sense of self and purpose.
(480) 864-4063 View (480) 864-4063
Photo of Kim Salinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA MSN, PMHNP, FNP AHN
Kim Salinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA MSN, PMHNP, FNP AHN
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Holistic & Integrative Psychiatry for creative, unique and neurodiverse individuals. ​I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. Emphasizing positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Focus on now and future forward (no dredging up the past). Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
Holistic & Integrative Psychiatry for creative, unique and neurodiverse individuals. ​I offer the best aspects of conventional, alternative & integrative psych to help you optimize mental health and overall well-being. Prescription psychiatric medications are used and natural alternatives, based on your preferences. Please note that I do not prescribe controlled substances, which includes stimulants for attention issues. Emphasizing positivity, self acceptance, celebration of uniqueness and optimizing your individual potential. Focus on now and future forward (no dredging up the past). Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental care.
(520) 457-6986 View (520) 457-6986
Photo of Matthew Montgomery, Psychiatrist, MD
Matthew Montgomery
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Matthew Montgomery, M.D. is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His work with complex psychiatric patients in numerous practice settings makes him uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat a broad range of patients. Dr. Montgomery's approach includes a thorough diagnostic assessment which allows for a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan. While he enjoys working with a variety of patients, he has notable experience working with treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (including PTSD and OCD), and ADHD. His practice includes work with the LGBTQ community.
Matthew Montgomery, M.D. is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His work with complex psychiatric patients in numerous practice settings makes him uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat a broad range of patients. Dr. Montgomery's approach includes a thorough diagnostic assessment which allows for a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan. While he enjoys working with a variety of patients, he has notable experience working with treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (including PTSD and OCD), and ADHD. His practice includes work with the LGBTQ community.
(480) 745-2769 View (480) 745-2769
Photo of Frances Spink, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Frances Spink
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
My ideal clients are adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use disorders who feel trapped in cycles of symptoms despite previous treatment attempts. They're seeking not just medication management but a comprehensive approach that addresses both biological and psychological factors. They want lasting stability and improved quality of life through evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs.
My ideal clients are adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use disorders who feel trapped in cycles of symptoms despite previous treatment attempts. They're seeking not just medication management but a comprehensive approach that addresses both biological and psychological factors. They want lasting stability and improved quality of life through evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs.
(602) 800-4699 View (602) 800-4699
Photo of Amanda Long, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Amanda Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Are you struggling with managing your mental health or that of a loved one? Perhaps you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges that affect your daily functioning. You want compassionate, culturally-sensitive care from a professional who understands the complex interplay between medications and therapy. You're seeking someone who can provide both in-person and telehealth options, and who has experience working with diverse populations across all age groups.
Are you struggling with managing your mental health or that of a loved one? Perhaps you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges that affect your daily functioning. You want compassionate, culturally-sensitive care from a professional who understands the complex interplay between medications and therapy. You're seeking someone who can provide both in-person and telehealth options, and who has experience working with diverse populations across all age groups.
(602) 884-8508 View (602) 884-8508
Photo of Karen Floyd, Psychiatrist, DO
Karen Floyd
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Karen Floyd is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with expertise in treating various mental health issues, including anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and perinatal mental health. She has experience evaluating the physical and psychological aspects of mental health conditions and works with patients to gain a better understanding of the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to their struggles.
Dr. Karen Floyd is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with expertise in treating various mental health issues, including anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and perinatal mental health. She has experience evaluating the physical and psychological aspects of mental health conditions and works with patients to gain a better understanding of the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to their struggles.
(602) 894-9040 View (602) 894-9040
Photo of Rebecca Blakesley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Rebecca Blakesley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
My journey into psychiatry was sparked by a deep-seated curiosity about the complexities of the human psyche and a desire to alleviate the suffering that often accompanies mental illness. I understand psychiatric medications (such as antidepressants and stimulants) is just one avenue of treatment. I engage patients in a shared exploration of the available treatment options, providing comprehensive education about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of each approach. Together, we weigh the evidence and collaboratively decide on a course of action that is tailored to their unique needs, values and lifestyle.
My journey into psychiatry was sparked by a deep-seated curiosity about the complexities of the human psyche and a desire to alleviate the suffering that often accompanies mental illness. I understand psychiatric medications (such as antidepressants and stimulants) is just one avenue of treatment. I engage patients in a shared exploration of the available treatment options, providing comprehensive education about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of each approach. Together, we weigh the evidence and collaboratively decide on a course of action that is tailored to their unique needs, values and lifestyle.
(602) 800-4699 View (602) 800-4699
Photo of Michael Lee Sandridge, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Michael Lee Sandridge
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I evaluate, diagnose, and treat individuals to help them understand and address their mental health challenges.
I evaluate, diagnose, and treat individuals to help them understand and address their mental health challenges.
(480) 905-8755 View (480) 905-8755

See more therapy options for Scottsdale

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ

200+

Average cost per session

$197

Psychiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% ADHD
80% Bipolar Disorder
76% Medication Management
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Scottsdale?

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.