Psychiatrists in Somerton, AZ

Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350  (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.
(928) 599-4853 View (928) 599-4853
Photo of Sidonie Ngankeu, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sidonie Ngankeu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerton, AZ 85350  (Online Only)
Our Ideal client is an individual whom is in need of help. They have been of service in the community and need support. We are speaking generally of First Responders, Teachers, Veterans, Medical Professionals, Laborers. In this difficult & challenging time you have options, Please consider Serenity Health Cares.
Our Ideal client is an individual whom is in need of help. They have been of service in the community and need support. We are speaking generally of First Responders, Teachers, Veterans, Medical Professionals, Laborers. In this difficult & challenging time you have options, Please consider Serenity Health Cares.
(928) 916-6043 View (928) 916-6043
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(928) 414-8611 View (928) 414-8611
Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, & ADHD. Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(928) 396-2505 View (928) 396-2505
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(928) 414-8612 View (928) 414-8612
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(928) 981-2598 View (928) 981-2598
Photo of Uros Koprivica, PA-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PA-C
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(928) 378-3809 View (928) 378-3809
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(928) 962-6887 View (928) 962-6887
Photo of Francisca Onyemize, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
(928) 396-1902 View (928) 396-1902
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerton, AZ 85350
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.
(928) 968-7306 View (928) 968-7306

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Josefina Phillips, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Josefina Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
Dr. Phillips is a trusted and reliable nurse practitioner of Psychiatric practice serving the community mental health needs since 2015 as a Family Nurse Practitioner and 2019 as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Dr. Phillips is a trusted and reliable nurse practitioner of Psychiatric practice serving the community mental health needs since 2015 as a Family Nurse Practitioner and 2019 as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(928) 563-4845 View (928) 563-4845
Photo of Latisha Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latisha Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364
Latisha Anderson, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, ANCC Board Certified. Practicing in the Specialty Mental Health for the past decade to facilitate delivery of safe evidence-based patient care and to decrease the health disparity of care amongst this population with a holistic approach. I attempt to deliver multicultural compassionate holistic care while allowing patient autonomy for effective outcomes and success rates.
Latisha Anderson, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, ANCC Board Certified. Practicing in the Specialty Mental Health for the past decade to facilitate delivery of safe evidence-based patient care and to decrease the health disparity of care amongst this population with a holistic approach. I attempt to deliver multicultural compassionate holistic care while allowing patient autonomy for effective outcomes and success rates.
(928) 857-8283 View (928) 857-8283
Photo of Joseph Kimani, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Kimani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Joseph Kimani, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CEO and Founder of Restorative-Psych Wellness Center. I am ANCC Board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and is licensed in Arizona and New Jersey. I specialize in family psychiatry and addiction treatment. My believe is that mental health is real, and no one should carry the stigma associated with mental illness. There is treatment for every mental health ailment that exist; never suffer alone, come and seek help, there is hope, and at Restorative Psych Wellness Center, Optimal care is our passion.
My name is Dr. Joseph Kimani, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CEO and Founder of Restorative-Psych Wellness Center. I am ANCC Board certified as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and is licensed in Arizona and New Jersey. I specialize in family psychiatry and addiction treatment. My believe is that mental health is real, and no one should carry the stigma associated with mental illness. There is treatment for every mental health ailment that exist; never suffer alone, come and seek help, there is hope, and at Restorative Psych Wellness Center, Optimal care is our passion.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Carolyne Mburu-Gerena, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyne Mburu-Gerena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Carolyne Mburu-Gerena, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and patient-centered, emphasizing the integration of medication management with psychotherapy. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma, aiming to support your overall well-being and mental health recovery. In my practice, I adopt an integrative approach to mental healthcare, drawing from various theoretical frameworks based on each individual's unique needs and preferences.
Hello, I am Carolyne Mburu-Gerena, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and patient-centered, emphasizing the integration of medication management with psychotherapy. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma, aiming to support your overall well-being and mental health recovery. In my practice, I adopt an integrative approach to mental healthcare, drawing from various theoretical frameworks based on each individual's unique needs and preferences.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Elizabeth Adeshola, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Adeshola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
Elizabeth Adeshola is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with several years of experience working with patients with mental health illnesses. She utilizes client centered, compassionate and evidence-based practices approaches to treat patients with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar d/o, PTSD, OCD, psychosis, and schizophrenia. Elizabeth Adeshola utilizes client centered, compassionate and evidence-based practices approaches to treat patients.
Elizabeth Adeshola is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with several years of experience working with patients with mental health illnesses. She utilizes client centered, compassionate and evidence-based practices approaches to treat patients with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar d/o, PTSD, OCD, psychosis, and schizophrenia. Elizabeth Adeshola utilizes client centered, compassionate and evidence-based practices approaches to treat patients.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Victor Moga, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victor Moga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Victor Moga, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, and I am committed to making a difference in the psychiatric health of the persons I treat. As I interact with my clients, it is essential for me to integrate clinical expertise with respect, patience, and kindness. I am intentional about making my clients welcomed, understood, accepted, and supported. I practice shared decision making when developing a treatment plan. Fundamentally, I strive to build my relationship with my clients on a foundation of trust.
Hello, I am Victor Moga, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, and I am committed to making a difference in the psychiatric health of the persons I treat. As I interact with my clients, it is essential for me to integrate clinical expertise with respect, patience, and kindness. I am intentional about making my clients welcomed, understood, accepted, and supported. I practice shared decision making when developing a treatment plan. Fundamentally, I strive to build my relationship with my clients on a foundation of trust.
(928) 228-4178 View (928) 228-4178
Photo of Kirk Tjalas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kirk Tjalas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
My name is Kirk Tjalas. I am a board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I believe everyone is more than a diagnosis which is just a cluster of symptoms at a given time I believe each person has greatness inside them and this is found between order and chaos. It’s living in the middle a well-balanced life of body mind and spirit; I believe that everyone wants to be seen and heard but doesn’t realize that they are enough and are more than enough. Seeds of greatness have to be called out. They have to be cultivated and watered Each one of us almost always knows what to do but we get our way.
My name is Kirk Tjalas. I am a board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I believe everyone is more than a diagnosis which is just a cluster of symptoms at a given time I believe each person has greatness inside them and this is found between order and chaos. It’s living in the middle a well-balanced life of body mind and spirit; I believe that everyone wants to be seen and heard but doesn’t realize that they are enough and are more than enough. Seeds of greatness have to be called out. They have to be cultivated and watered Each one of us almost always knows what to do but we get our way.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Tamara Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with dual board certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Practice. I am also a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. My background includes over 19 years of experience working in private practice and community health centers with focuses in mental health, primary care, and wellness providing care to individuals age 18 and up.
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with dual board certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Practice. I am also a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. My background includes over 19 years of experience working in private practice and community health centers with focuses in mental health, primary care, and wellness providing care to individuals age 18 and up.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Dorothy Igwe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dorothy Igwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
Dorothy Igwe received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in 2017 from the University of Arizona. She is double certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees patients across the lifespan. She has over seven years’ experience as a nurse practitioner and over two decades nursing experience. Dorothy's approach to mental health care centers on providing a patient-centered care, meeting patients where they are in their journey to manage their day-to-day emotional stress.
Dorothy Igwe received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in 2017 from the University of Arizona. She is double certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees patients across the lifespan. She has over seven years’ experience as a nurse practitioner and over two decades nursing experience. Dorothy's approach to mental health care centers on providing a patient-centered care, meeting patients where they are in their journey to manage their day-to-day emotional stress.
(928) 224-3265 View (928) 224-3265
Photo of Torry Zupke, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Torry Zupke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Yuma, AZ 85364  (Online Only)
My name is Torry Zupke, PMHNP-BC. I believe it is important to work openly my patients and other health care professionals such as primary care physicians, case managers and therapists in a collaborative approach. I believe an individual's mental well-being is an important aspect of their overall health.
My name is Torry Zupke, PMHNP-BC. I believe it is important to work openly my patients and other health care professionals such as primary care physicians, case managers and therapists in a collaborative approach. I believe an individual's mental well-being is an important aspect of their overall health.
(928) 235-9436 View (928) 235-9436

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Somerton, AZ

10+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Somerton, AZ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
90% ADHD
90% Bipolar Disorder
80% Addiction
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Somerton, AZ see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Somerton?

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.