Psychiatrists in Tucson, AZ

Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.

I prioritize approaching each person with humanity and respect, creating a space where they are encouraged to be their authentic self. My goal is to provide you with thorough, personalized, collaborative, evidence-based psychiatric care that helps you thrive in your life. This typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation, medical workup, narrowing of diagnoses and discussion of treatment goals that might be best suited to you. I believe in taking a whole-person approach, looking at ways to optimize your lifestyle through nutrition, exercise and mindfulness.
I prioritize approaching each person with humanity and respect, creating a space where they are encouraged to be their authentic self. My goal is to provide you with thorough, personalized, collaborative, evidence-based psychiatric care that helps you thrive in your life. This typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation, medical workup, narrowing of diagnoses and discussion of treatment goals that might be best suited to you. I believe in taking a whole-person approach, looking at ways to optimize your lifestyle through nutrition, exercise and mindfulness.

I am a board cert psychiatrist w/ 28 yrs of experience, incl: 3 yr residency in internal medicine (board cert, 2000) and exposure to alt approaches/diverse populations (Native American, holistic eating disorder facility, students, inner-city crisis work) who loves to learn/listen (courses: EMDR-basic, dissoc, addictions, personality, chronic illness, attachment; DBT; CBT; mindfulness, lifestyle, communication, evid-based non-pharm). I apply all of this when I assess and assist you to capitalize on strengths, gain resilience, dive deep into psyche/your past/struggles, process trauma, learn skills, broaden perspective and agency.
I am a board cert psychiatrist w/ 28 yrs of experience, incl: 3 yr residency in internal medicine (board cert, 2000) and exposure to alt approaches/diverse populations (Native American, holistic eating disorder facility, students, inner-city crisis work) who loves to learn/listen (courses: EMDR-basic, dissoc, addictions, personality, chronic illness, attachment; DBT; CBT; mindfulness, lifestyle, communication, evid-based non-pharm). I apply all of this when I assess and assist you to capitalize on strengths, gain resilience, dive deep into psyche/your past/struggles, process trauma, learn skills, broaden perspective and agency.

I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.

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.
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'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 24 years of experience in nursing. I believe in treating people holistically, and work from multiple perspectives combining my medical training with additional therapeutic tools. When I meet with you initially, we will work together to stabilize your symptoms, which will allow you to build a foundation for a more enriched life, because feeling good matters!
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 24 years of experience in nursing. I believe in treating people holistically, and work from multiple perspectives combining my medical training with additional therapeutic tools. When I meet with you initially, we will work together to stabilize your symptoms, which will allow you to build a foundation for a more enriched life, because feeling good matters!

Christiana L Bille
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Christiana Bille, DNP- PMHNP-BC Board-Certified PMHNP. I’m Christiana Bille, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 18+ years of diverse experience in healthcare. My private practice in Tucson, Arizona, offers a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health. I do both medication management and talk therapy to support you and your family's mental health. As a practitioner, I work across a range of settings, gaining a wealth of experience that I incorporate into my practice. My goal is to provide personalized, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
Christiana Bille, DNP- PMHNP-BC Board-Certified PMHNP. I’m Christiana Bille, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 18+ years of diverse experience in healthcare. My private practice in Tucson, Arizona, offers a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health. I do both medication management and talk therapy to support you and your family's mental health. As a practitioner, I work across a range of settings, gaining a wealth of experience that I incorporate into my practice. My goal is to provide personalized, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.

Virtual appointments available. Taking new patients ages 15+. Dr. Betsy Myers is a Psychiatrist and Therapist based in Tucson, AZ. She provides patient-centered mental health care, including psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Myers is trained to evaluate from a holistic mindset exploring biological (body), psychological (mind), and social impacts of each individual to determine their best treatment options. Dr. Myers’ goals are to assist you in improving your mental health symptoms and overall function. Dr. Myers specializes in trauma, PTSD, OCD, esketamine therapy, and the menopausal period.
Virtual appointments available. Taking new patients ages 15+. Dr. Betsy Myers is a Psychiatrist and Therapist based in Tucson, AZ. She provides patient-centered mental health care, including psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Myers is trained to evaluate from a holistic mindset exploring biological (body), psychological (mind), and social impacts of each individual to determine their best treatment options. Dr. Myers’ goals are to assist you in improving your mental health symptoms and overall function. Dr. Myers specializes in trauma, PTSD, OCD, esketamine therapy, and the menopausal period.

Is mental health issue a challenge and preventing you from feeling and doing your best? Let me help you. I am a practicing board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experiences in geriatric psychiatry, adult psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, mental and drug rehabilitation. I am also a board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) and worked as a FNP in correctional and hospital settings. Additionally, I have long years of RN experience in various specialties. My professional experiences allow me to deliver a caring and a more comprehensive approach in psychiatry.
Is mental health issue a challenge and preventing you from feeling and doing your best? Let me help you. I am a practicing board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experiences in geriatric psychiatry, adult psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, mental and drug rehabilitation. I am also a board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) and worked as a FNP in correctional and hospital settings. Additionally, I have long years of RN experience in various specialties. My professional experiences allow me to deliver a caring and a more comprehensive approach in psychiatry.

Jessie Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients with availability within the week! My ideal client is someone seeking medication due to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. They seek to openly discuss their challenges and explore effective strategies for managing their symptoms. Their goals include regaining stability, improving emotional well-being, and developing coping mechanisms that empower them to lead fulfilling lives. Ultimately, they want a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and helps them feel more in control of their mental health journey.
Accepting new patients with availability within the week! My ideal client is someone seeking medication due to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. They seek to openly discuss their challenges and explore effective strategies for managing their symptoms. Their goals include regaining stability, improving emotional well-being, and developing coping mechanisms that empower them to lead fulfilling lives. Ultimately, they want a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and helps them feel more in control of their mental health journey.
Dr. Loretta Rose Kramer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MC/MS, Dnp, LPC, PMH-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85716
I strive to build a warm, collaborative relationship with those I serve.
Call today and together we can decide how to support your mental health needs.
Serve Children, Teens, Adults, Men, Women w/Pregnancy/Postpartum.
I have 28 years' work experience in behavior health.
Experience as a therapist and RN in local hospital.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner:
Focus on assessment, med management with all ages from 3 - 90.
Personal Experience:
raised 3 children, one with autism, married, widowed, worked and went to school, raised by military family. I have life, personal, and work exerience.
Grief/Loss is a given in life!
I strive to build a warm, collaborative relationship with those I serve.
Call today and together we can decide how to support your mental health needs.
Serve Children, Teens, Adults, Men, Women w/Pregnancy/Postpartum.
I have 28 years' work experience in behavior health.
Experience as a therapist and RN in local hospital.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner:
Focus on assessment, med management with all ages from 3 - 90.
Personal Experience:
raised 3 children, one with autism, married, widowed, worked and went to school, raised by military family. I have life, personal, and work exerience.
Grief/Loss is a given in life!
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Stephen Streitfeld, M.D. is board certified in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He treats every patient as a unique individual in assessing their mental health issues and needs. His practice is focused on treating patients with the latest and best available psychiatric treatment options available combining compassion with excellent clinical skills in a safe, confidential treatment environment. Patients are provided with an individualized comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan that allows then to evaluate their treatment options allowing them to make the best informed decision regarding their care.
Stephen Streitfeld, M.D. is board certified in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He treats every patient as a unique individual in assessing their mental health issues and needs. His practice is focused on treating patients with the latest and best available psychiatric treatment options available combining compassion with excellent clinical skills in a safe, confidential treatment environment. Patients are provided with an individualized comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan that allows then to evaluate their treatment options allowing them to make the best informed decision regarding their care.

I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner located in Tucson, Arizona. I believe that everyone can benefit from exploring their mental health, address past traumas, gain the tools to feel your best and learn how to handle difficult situations. Whether you have a current mental health diagnosis or you are experiencing sadness, anxiety, difficulty focusing, poor sleep, or lack of motivation for the first time, or are now ready to address these issues, I would like to help you with a combination of medication management as well as psychotherapy.
I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner located in Tucson, Arizona. I believe that everyone can benefit from exploring their mental health, address past traumas, gain the tools to feel your best and learn how to handle difficult situations. Whether you have a current mental health diagnosis or you are experiencing sadness, anxiety, difficulty focusing, poor sleep, or lack of motivation for the first time, or are now ready to address these issues, I would like to help you with a combination of medication management as well as psychotherapy.

Dr. Kioko is a mental health provider with 9 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and 22 years as a bedside Registered Nurse in different clinical settings including psychiatric units, medical-surgical, Neuro, oncology, Cardiac, and orthopedic units. This diverse experience has given me the tools and expertise to provide mental health care to patients in a holistic manner. My care focuses on diversity and inclusion to improve the health and promote thewellbeing of the individual, family, and community as a whole. Services offered include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy service
Dr. Kioko is a mental health provider with 9 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and 22 years as a bedside Registered Nurse in different clinical settings including psychiatric units, medical-surgical, Neuro, oncology, Cardiac, and orthopedic units. This diverse experience has given me the tools and expertise to provide mental health care to patients in a holistic manner. My care focuses on diversity and inclusion to improve the health and promote thewellbeing of the individual, family, and community as a whole. Services offered include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy service

As a triple-board certified psychiatrist, I bring extensive experience across diverse treatment areas to provide comprehensive care. My services include psychiatric evaluations, tailored pharmacologic management, and psychotherapy. Additionally, I offer one-time psychiatric evaluations for medical/work/court clearance. I am committed to supporting you on your mental health journey and look forward to helping you achieve your goals.
As a triple-board certified psychiatrist, I bring extensive experience across diverse treatment areas to provide comprehensive care. My services include psychiatric evaluations, tailored pharmacologic management, and psychotherapy. Additionally, I offer one-time psychiatric evaluations for medical/work/court clearance. I am committed to supporting you on your mental health journey and look forward to helping you achieve your goals.

Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!

Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85705
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.

Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!

Mildred Dutton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a PMHNP based in Arizona and I prescribe evidence-based medication treatment for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions including PTSD and Bipolar Disorder. My approach is holistic, incorporating both medication prescriptions and therapeutic techniques. My philosophy is to offer personalized care tailored to each individual's needs. I believe in empowering clients through education and collaborative treatment planning. If you are looking for a prescriber for your mental health journey, please send email/contact me to schedule a session.
I am a PMHNP based in Arizona and I prescribe evidence-based medication treatment for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions including PTSD and Bipolar Disorder. My approach is holistic, incorporating both medication prescriptions and therapeutic techniques. My philosophy is to offer personalized care tailored to each individual's needs. I believe in empowering clients through education and collaborative treatment planning. If you are looking for a prescriber for your mental health journey, please send email/contact me to schedule a session.

We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is our absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on becoming your best self, it is our mission to help you achieve mental clarity and inner peace.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is our absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on becoming your best self, it is our mission to help you achieve mental clarity and inner peace.
See more therapy options for Tucson
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Tucson, AZ
200+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Tucson, AZ who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | ADHD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Tucson, AZ see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Tucson?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.