Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ

Photo of Jolly Mworia - Neema Mental Health Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Neema Mental Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
At Neema Health we foster a compassionate and supportive community dedicated to improving mental health wellness by providing accessible evidence –based services and resources to patients and families empowering them to live a fulfilling live through advocacy, education, and collaboration. Aimed at reducing stigma surrounding mental health through inclusiveness and support. We offer in-person, Telehealth and mobile psychiatry services to include evaluations, medication management, and followups.
At Neema Health we foster a compassionate and supportive community dedicated to improving mental health wellness by providing accessible evidence –based services and resources to patients and families empowering them to live a fulfilling live through advocacy, education, and collaboration. Aimed at reducing stigma surrounding mental health through inclusiveness and support. We offer in-person, Telehealth and mobile psychiatry services to include evaluations, medication management, and followups.
(480) 360-4280 View (480) 360-4280
Photo of Jason Hardman - Raise Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Raise Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
5 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Hello, my name is Jason Hardman, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I support children, teens, and adults who are facing a variety of mental health challenges, including families dealing with difficult behaviors. Whether you're navigating the complexities of adolescence, the pressures of higher education, or the transitions of adulthood, I’m here to provide guidance and support. At Raise Behavioral Health, we focus on a systemic approach that looks at the whole person, not just the symptoms, helping you or your loved one build resilience and achieve long-term success.
Hello, my name is Jason Hardman, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I support children, teens, and adults who are facing a variety of mental health challenges, including families dealing with difficult behaviors. Whether you're navigating the complexities of adolescence, the pressures of higher education, or the transitions of adulthood, I’m here to provide guidance and support. At Raise Behavioral Health, we focus on a systemic approach that looks at the whole person, not just the symptoms, helping you or your loved one build resilience and achieve long-term success.
(928) 436-0901 View (928) 436-0901
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(520) 652-4893 View (520) 652-4893
Photo of Brian Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brian Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tempe, AZ 85283
Brian Thomas is a psychiatric NP, located in Tempe, AZ, seeing clients at Thriving Mind Solutions. He has worked in mental health field and community in many diverse environments bringing clinical expertise and experience to support his clients. His commitment is evident through his dedicated efforts to foster collaborative relationships with clients. Brian specializes in creating personalized treatment plans to enhance mental health and overall well-being, catering specifically to individuals dealing with ADHD, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally, he works with individuals struggling with OCD, trauma, and more.
Brian Thomas is a psychiatric NP, located in Tempe, AZ, seeing clients at Thriving Mind Solutions. He has worked in mental health field and community in many diverse environments bringing clinical expertise and experience to support his clients. His commitment is evident through his dedicated efforts to foster collaborative relationships with clients. Brian specializes in creating personalized treatment plans to enhance mental health and overall well-being, catering specifically to individuals dealing with ADHD, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally, he works with individuals struggling with OCD, trauma, and more.
(602) 536-6838 View (602) 536-6838
Photo of Jade Goodloe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
You’re smart. Self-aware. Probably neurodivergent. Definitely anxious. You’ve read the books, tried the tools, maybe even did therapy “right.” But deep down, your body still doesn’t feel safe. You’re wired, exhausted, and constantly bracing for the next thing to go wrong — even when everything looks “fine.” I work with adults who are burnt out from survival mode. The ones who overthink everything, feel everything, and mask it well.
You’re smart. Self-aware. Probably neurodivergent. Definitely anxious. You’ve read the books, tried the tools, maybe even did therapy “right.” But deep down, your body still doesn’t feel safe. You’re wired, exhausted, and constantly bracing for the next thing to go wrong — even when everything looks “fine.” I work with adults who are burnt out from survival mode. The ones who overthink everything, feel everything, and mask it well.
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Photo of Dr. Carley Baghai - Youth-Link Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Youth-Link Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! We’re here for kids, teens, and young adults ages 7 to 25 who are navigating challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and emotional struggles tied to school, friendships, or family life. Our ideal client often feels overwhelmed, misunderstood, or uncertain about managing their emotions. They seek a space where they feel truly valued, heard, and understood. Our goal is to help each person leave feeling more at ease, empowered, and ready to work toward greater stability and confidence in themselves.
Welcome! We’re here for kids, teens, and young adults ages 7 to 25 who are navigating challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and emotional struggles tied to school, friendships, or family life. Our ideal client often feels overwhelmed, misunderstood, or uncertain about managing their emotions. They seek a space where they feel truly valued, heard, and understood. Our goal is to help each person leave feeling more at ease, empowered, and ready to work toward greater stability and confidence in themselves.
(928) 767-6417 View (928) 767-6417
Photo of Sally Herman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Sally Herman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Hello! I have been involved with nursing care for over 39 years specializing in trauma, and intensive care with an emphasis on pediatrics. I simply love my career as a nurse practitioner and don't consider it a job but a lifestyle of caring. As one who has always had the heart to see others live full and abundant lives, I furthered my acute nursing degree into the world of psychiatry having noted all the traumas around the world that required this type of education to properly implement a caring hand with evidence-based knowledge.
Hello! I have been involved with nursing care for over 39 years specializing in trauma, and intensive care with an emphasis on pediatrics. I simply love my career as a nurse practitioner and don't consider it a job but a lifestyle of caring. As one who has always had the heart to see others live full and abundant lives, I furthered my acute nursing degree into the world of psychiatry having noted all the traumas around the world that required this type of education to properly implement a caring hand with evidence-based knowledge.
(480) 418-6382 View (480) 418-6382
Photo of Karla Lamley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNPC, PMHNP
Karla Lamley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNPC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Clients who choose to work with me are motivated to make a change in their lives. The work we do together will help you to better know yourself and design a treatment plan together through, diet, nutrition, counseling and medication when needed to assist you to remember and restore your unique wholeness. We have all been blessed in this life with many gifts and challenges. It is by walking through life challenges how we often discover ourselves, and our greatest strengths.
Clients who choose to work with me are motivated to make a change in their lives. The work we do together will help you to better know yourself and design a treatment plan together through, diet, nutrition, counseling and medication when needed to assist you to remember and restore your unique wholeness. We have all been blessed in this life with many gifts and challenges. It is by walking through life challenges how we often discover ourselves, and our greatest strengths.
(928) 223-4588 View (928) 223-4588
CalmPsych, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, LAC, MA, MEd, BHT
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281
Calm Psych is an outstanding patient-centered psychiatric and therapy mental health clinic catering to individuals of all ages in Tempe and Gilbert, Arizona. The collaborative team provides comprehensive support and specialized treatment, fostering the well-being of their patients. The team is easy to reach via text messages and communicates with patients promptly. During an initial consultation, the providers learn about the patient’s goals and walk alongside them, helping them achieve overall health.
Calm Psych is an outstanding patient-centered psychiatric and therapy mental health clinic catering to individuals of all ages in Tempe and Gilbert, Arizona. The collaborative team provides comprehensive support and specialized treatment, fostering the well-being of their patients. The team is easy to reach via text messages and communicates with patients promptly. During an initial consultation, the providers learn about the patient’s goals and walk alongside them, helping them achieve overall health.
(623) 263-1255 View (623) 263-1255
Photo of Mattison Pearlman, Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Mattison Pearlman
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ
Online Only
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(520) 525-1613 View (520) 525-1613
Photo of Lora Pedrosa - Ascension Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ascension Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
At Ascension Mental Health, we recognize that mental health management is a journey filled with struggles and transformation. Like a caterpillar burdened by its limitations, many individuals face overwhelming challenges that seem insurmountable. Our philosophy embraces this struggle as a vital part of growth. Through comprehensive medication management and personalized care, we guide patients toward stability and hope, laying the groundwork for meaningful change. The struggle within the chrysalis is a reminder that progress is hard-fought but essential for true transformation.
At Ascension Mental Health, we recognize that mental health management is a journey filled with struggles and transformation. Like a caterpillar burdened by its limitations, many individuals face overwhelming challenges that seem insurmountable. Our philosophy embraces this struggle as a vital part of growth. Through comprehensive medication management and personalized care, we guide patients toward stability and hope, laying the groundwork for meaningful change. The struggle within the chrysalis is a reminder that progress is hard-fought but essential for true transformation.
(928) 655-6679 View (928) 655-6679
Photo of Nicole Carlson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, PMHNP
Nicole Carlson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I’m a board-certified PMHNP and licensed LCSW with a background in therapeutic interventions, combining psychiatric medication management with practical, evidence-based cognitive behavioral health and acceptance and commitment therapy techniques to help you level up your mental health. I work with intelligent, driven yet laid-back, and adventurous individuals—people who are looking for therapeutic intervention alone or are stable on their existing medications but want to fine-tune things to reach new levels of success, personal growth, or performance.
I’m a board-certified PMHNP and licensed LCSW with a background in therapeutic interventions, combining psychiatric medication management with practical, evidence-based cognitive behavioral health and acceptance and commitment therapy techniques to help you level up your mental health. I work with intelligent, driven yet laid-back, and adventurous individuals—people who are looking for therapeutic intervention alone or are stable on their existing medications but want to fine-tune things to reach new levels of success, personal growth, or performance.
(928) 588-6120 View (928) 588-6120
Photo of Michelle Gilreath, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CEN, CCRN
Michelle Gilreath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CEN, CCRN
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
I am a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for providing quality mental health care, serving all of Arizona. I am excited to extend a warm welcome to individuals seeking mental health support through the convenience of Telehealth services. I specialize in working with clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and mood disorders.
I am a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for providing quality mental health care, serving all of Arizona. I am excited to extend a warm welcome to individuals seeking mental health support through the convenience of Telehealth services. I specialize in working with clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and mood disorders.
(602) 693-0336 View (602) 693-0336
Photo of Gagan Singh, Psychiatrist, MD
Gagan Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Tempe, AZ 85282
I work with a range of patients with emotional, functional and substance use issues as long as the person is invested in finding a collaborative pathway to help.
I work with a range of patients with emotional, functional and substance use issues as long as the person is invested in finding a collaborative pathway to help.
(480) 789-9934 View (480) 789-9934
Photo of Tyler Kimsey Aman - Thriving Mind Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Thriving Mind Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Our patients come from all walks of life with varied backgrounds. If you have ever left a provider feeling like you haven’t been heard, you will experience a completely different level of care with Tyler. Taking the time to listen, giving you all the options available from medication to alternative interventions, are her specialties. If you have difficulty with focus, concentration, procrastination, anxiety, depression, or just need a medication evaluation, Tyler and Thriving Mind Solutions are here to help.
Our patients come from all walks of life with varied backgrounds. If you have ever left a provider feeling like you haven’t been heard, you will experience a completely different level of care with Tyler. Taking the time to listen, giving you all the options available from medication to alternative interventions, are her specialties. If you have difficulty with focus, concentration, procrastination, anxiety, depression, or just need a medication evaluation, Tyler and Thriving Mind Solutions are here to help.
(602) 854-9820 View (602) 854-9820
Photo of Topher Bradshaw - Alevea Mental Health, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MSPAS
Alevea Mental Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MSPAS
Tempe, AZ 85282
At Alevea Mental Health, we understand that each individual is unique, and that's why we're committed to providing personalized, integrative mental healthcare that meets you where you are. From a range of conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD to more complex psychiatric conditions, our experienced team of dedicated and compassionate providers tailor treatment plans to suit your specific needs. What sets us apart is our holistic approach that combines psychiatric medication management with evidence-based counseling services, primary care, and psychedelic therapy.
At Alevea Mental Health, we understand that each individual is unique, and that's why we're committed to providing personalized, integrative mental healthcare that meets you where you are. From a range of conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD to more complex psychiatric conditions, our experienced team of dedicated and compassionate providers tailor treatment plans to suit your specific needs. What sets us apart is our holistic approach that combines psychiatric medication management with evidence-based counseling services, primary care, and psychedelic therapy.
(480) 531-7677 View (480) 531-7677
Photo of Dr. Dorothy Igwe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Dr. Dorothy Igwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNPBC, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Dr. Igwe uses an integrated mind-body approach to identify the physical symptoms that can lead to mental health issues and vice versa. She is double certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees patients across the lifespan. She has over 27 years of nursing experience. She is experienced in psychiatric evaluation and medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, psychosis, and substance abuse treatment. As a family nurse practitioner, Dr. Igwe also evaluates and manages patients in various acute and chronic medical conditions.
Dr. Igwe uses an integrated mind-body approach to identify the physical symptoms that can lead to mental health issues and vice versa. She is double certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees patients across the lifespan. She has over 27 years of nursing experience. She is experienced in psychiatric evaluation and medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, psychosis, and substance abuse treatment. As a family nurse practitioner, Dr. Igwe also evaluates and manages patients in various acute and chronic medical conditions.
(480) 462-7969 View (480) 462-7969
Photo of Kelly Edwards, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelly Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tempe, AZ 85283
I have expertise in Peripartum, Women’s Health, Pediatric, Adolescent, and LGBTQIA+ populations. Still, I enjoy seeing all ages, sexual identities, and genders over 6. I want nothing more than to be there for my patients, whether they are in a crisis or are well-controlled with their current mental health plan of care. My goal for every patient is to be heard, given all evidence-based options, and make the ultimate decision in their care plan once given all the possibilities. I also want my patients to feel like they are never judged and free to be their authentic selves.
I have expertise in Peripartum, Women’s Health, Pediatric, Adolescent, and LGBTQIA+ populations. Still, I enjoy seeing all ages, sexual identities, and genders over 6. I want nothing more than to be there for my patients, whether they are in a crisis or are well-controlled with their current mental health plan of care. My goal for every patient is to be heard, given all evidence-based options, and make the ultimate decision in their care plan once given all the possibilities. I also want my patients to feel like they are never judged and free to be their authentic selves.
(520) 502-2535 View (520) 502-2535
Photo of Katie Callahan, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Katie Callahan
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Tempe, AZ 85282
Known for her ability to make patients feel heard and understood, Katie creates a welcoming and supportive environment for all. She is deeply committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to help her patients achieve mental wellness and an improved quality of life. Katie is currently accepting both new and existing patients at Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry for psychiatric evaluation and medication management. In addition to in-person appointments, she also offers telemedicine. To schedule an appointment with Katie, call the office or use the online booking form today or call 480-378-6323. Appointments available in 48 hours!
Known for her ability to make patients feel heard and understood, Katie creates a welcoming and supportive environment for all. She is deeply committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to help her patients achieve mental wellness and an improved quality of life. Katie is currently accepting both new and existing patients at Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry for psychiatric evaluation and medication management. In addition to in-person appointments, she also offers telemedicine. To schedule an appointment with Katie, call the office or use the online booking form today or call 480-378-6323. Appointments available in 48 hours!
(480) 372-9161 View (480) 372-9161
Photo of Sarah Jennings, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sarah Jennings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have always had a passion for helping people obtain better mental healthcare. I like to collaborate with my patients to ensure that they can make educated decisions about their mental health treatment options. I currently specialize in serving adolescents and adults with mental health disorders or concerns. I look forward to meeting you at Iridescent Counseling's peaceful office space. Tele-med is available as well.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have always had a passion for helping people obtain better mental healthcare. I like to collaborate with my patients to ensure that they can make educated decisions about their mental health treatment options. I currently specialize in serving adolescents and adults with mental health disorders or concerns. I look forward to meeting you at Iridescent Counseling's peaceful office space. Tele-med is available as well.
(480) 914-3387 View (480) 914-3387

See more therapy options for Tempe

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ

100+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
88% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Medication Management
73% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
94% Aetna
90% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Tempe?

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.