Psychiatrists in Nevada

Appointments available this week! Hello, and welcome! I’m so glad you’re taking the first step toward seeking support. I'm Dr. Heather Blondin and as a psychiatrist, I’m passionate about helping people understand and manage their mental health in a way that feels empowering. Life can be overwhelming at times, and I truly believe that with the right guidance, everyone has the capacity to heal and thrive. While everyone is welcome, I particularly enjoy working with women, college students, healthcare professionals, those with chronic illnesses, and people navigating life transitions.
Appointments available this week! Hello, and welcome! I’m so glad you’re taking the first step toward seeking support. I'm Dr. Heather Blondin and as a psychiatrist, I’m passionate about helping people understand and manage their mental health in a way that feels empowering. Life can be overwhelming at times, and I truly believe that with the right guidance, everyone has the capacity to heal and thrive. While everyone is welcome, I particularly enjoy working with women, college students, healthcare professionals, those with chronic illnesses, and people navigating life transitions.

My name is Valan Kam, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Las Vegas, Nevada. I have been practicing for 5 years now as an NP and prior to that I worked as an RN in the local psychiatric hospitals and the ER setting. I have always been in mental health, because I have such a passion and love for mental health and my community. I believe in forming a trusting and therapeutic relationship with my clients and to always hear the client out because it's their treatment and they know themselves better than anyone.
My name is Valan Kam, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Las Vegas, Nevada. I have been practicing for 5 years now as an NP and prior to that I worked as an RN in the local psychiatric hospitals and the ER setting. I have always been in mental health, because I have such a passion and love for mental health and my community. I believe in forming a trusting and therapeutic relationship with my clients and to always hear the client out because it's their treatment and they know themselves better than anyone.

Welcome to Restored Mind Psychiatric Services. I am a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatric Mental health and family practice. I received my post graduate training from University of Maryland, University of South Alabama, and University of Cincinnati. I have been practicing for over twenty years. I am committed to providing culturally appropriate, and compassionate health care to you and your family with goals of improving your mental well-being and overall health.
Welcome to Restored Mind Psychiatric Services. I am a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatric Mental health and family practice. I received my post graduate training from University of Maryland, University of South Alabama, and University of Cincinnati. I have been practicing for over twenty years. I am committed to providing culturally appropriate, and compassionate health care to you and your family with goals of improving your mental well-being and overall health.

Arbor Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89117
Do you struggle with overhelming anxiety, depression, or the lingering effects of trauma that significantly impact your day-to-day life and relationships? Ever feel worn out and overwhelmed, just trying to make it through the day, wondering if there's any light at the end of the tunnel? Do you find yourself hoping that things could get better? If you're thinking life could be better, you're not alone. Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage their relationships, careers, and life in general. Neglecting your own needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues.
Do you struggle with overhelming anxiety, depression, or the lingering effects of trauma that significantly impact your day-to-day life and relationships? Ever feel worn out and overwhelmed, just trying to make it through the day, wondering if there's any light at the end of the tunnel? Do you find yourself hoping that things could get better? If you're thinking life could be better, you're not alone. Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage their relationships, careers, and life in general. Neglecting your own needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues.

We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on improving yourself for a while, it is my mission to help you achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and overall happiness. Our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on improving yourself for a while, it is my mission to help you achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and overall happiness. Our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.

Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.

Nevada Integrated Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP - C
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89169
Are you thinking of suicidal thoughts? Do you fear that something one day will happen? Are you feeling depressed, embarrassed or have anxiety? Alcohol or drug abuse. No need to worry, Nevada Integrate Health Center is here to help you overcome those barriers that come in our way! We are the hands that care!
Are you thinking of suicidal thoughts? Do you fear that something one day will happen? Are you feeling depressed, embarrassed or have anxiety? Alcohol or drug abuse. No need to worry, Nevada Integrate Health Center is here to help you overcome those barriers that come in our way! We are the hands that care!

Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.

Tami is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. She has experience working with patients ages 13-64 years old. She specializes in treating disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and mental health conditions related to chronic illness and chronic pain for OR & WA patients. Prior to psychiatry, Tami worked in cardiovascular nursing. When she is not working, Tami can be found outdoors spending time with her family and her pitbull Coco.
Tami is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. She has experience working with patients ages 13-64 years old. She specializes in treating disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and mental health conditions related to chronic illness and chronic pain for OR & WA patients. Prior to psychiatry, Tami worked in cardiovascular nursing. When she is not working, Tami can be found outdoors spending time with her family and her pitbull Coco.

“The choice to seek help for a mental health condition can be a difficult one. Depression and other mental health conditions can be very painful, confusing, and isolating, making it hard for people to recognize that they may be experiencing an illness. Patients often come to see us in a time of crisis, sometimes after years of suffering without treatment or trying multiple therapies with little success. No matter where you are along your path, we’re here to help. Hablamos Espanol. No sufra mas.
“The choice to seek help for a mental health condition can be a difficult one. Depression and other mental health conditions can be very painful, confusing, and isolating, making it hard for people to recognize that they may be experiencing an illness. Patients often come to see us in a time of crisis, sometimes after years of suffering without treatment or trying multiple therapies with little success. No matter where you are along your path, we’re here to help. Hablamos Espanol. No sufra mas.

Mindspark Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Online, holistic, Telepsychiatry visits for Children, Adolescents and Adults in the states of Nevada, New Mexico, California and Montana. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. While comfortable with treating all psychiatric disorders, my specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, PTSD, binge/emotional eating, and insomnia. I also use the the Sinclair method for alcohol cessation and am well versed in mild cognitive impairment and the Bredesen protocol for brain health. Additionally, I often discuss relationships, life transitions, emotional challenges among oth
Online, holistic, Telepsychiatry visits for Children, Adolescents and Adults in the states of Nevada, New Mexico, California and Montana. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. While comfortable with treating all psychiatric disorders, my specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, PTSD, binge/emotional eating, and insomnia. I also use the the Sinclair method for alcohol cessation and am well versed in mild cognitive impairment and the Bredesen protocol for brain health. Additionally, I often discuss relationships, life transitions, emotional challenges among oth
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Ada Ezeanolue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
“As a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring over eight years of rich experience to the table. My journey in this field has been driven by a singular vision: to provide empathetic, individualized care to each patient, treating them with the same consideration and respect I would seek for myself. My approach to mental health care goes beyond mere treatment; it’s about forging a bond of trust and understanding with my patients. I believe that mental wellness is a critical aspect of overall health, and my goal is to create a nurturing and safe environment.
“As a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring over eight years of rich experience to the table. My journey in this field has been driven by a singular vision: to provide empathetic, individualized care to each patient, treating them with the same consideration and respect I would seek for myself. My approach to mental health care goes beyond mere treatment; it’s about forging a bond of trust and understanding with my patients. I believe that mental wellness is a critical aspect of overall health, and my goal is to create a nurturing and safe environment.

Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Nevada. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Nevada. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.

Sarah A Yao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89146
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I specialize in managing the mental health needs of patients aged 6 and up. Over the years, I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient mental health managing the emotional and mental health needs of a variety of patients. I had the privilege of managing the mental health needs of our veterans at the Las Vegas VA Hospital for about a decade. In my transition to private practice, I provide care for children, teens as well as adults in outpatient services at Meadows Psychiatry.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I specialize in managing the mental health needs of patients aged 6 and up. Over the years, I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient mental health managing the emotional and mental health needs of a variety of patients. I had the privilege of managing the mental health needs of our veterans at the Las Vegas VA Hospital for about a decade. In my transition to private practice, I provide care for children, teens as well as adults in outpatient services at Meadows Psychiatry.

Hey! I'm Liz and I'm a PA-C committed to providing high-quality mental health care to patients of all ages with 10 years of experience in the field. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I earned my MSW degree in 2017 at the University of Michigan and my Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Eastern Michigan in 2021. I worked as a therapist prior to PA school and was hired directly out of school to work in psychiatry. A lot of my sessions will include some therapy:)
You can find me at Access Psychiatric Associates :)
Hey! I'm Liz and I'm a PA-C committed to providing high-quality mental health care to patients of all ages with 10 years of experience in the field. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I earned my MSW degree in 2017 at the University of Michigan and my Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Eastern Michigan in 2021. I worked as a therapist prior to PA school and was hired directly out of school to work in psychiatry. A lot of my sessions will include some therapy:)
You can find me at Access Psychiatric Associates :)

Dr. Cassandra Anderson-Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, CCM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89102
I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. My experience spans from my time as a RN to my role as an APRN, during which I have provided psychiatric and mental health services across diverse settings, including inpatient units, outpatient practices, transitional living facilities, and community mental health centers. I take pride in being a culturally sensitive "people person," and I approach each client with an open, non-judgmental attitude. I understand that, as humans, we all strive to live our best lives and become the best versions of ourselves.
I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. My experience spans from my time as a RN to my role as an APRN, during which I have provided psychiatric and mental health services across diverse settings, including inpatient units, outpatient practices, transitional living facilities, and community mental health centers. I take pride in being a culturally sensitive "people person," and I approach each client with an open, non-judgmental attitude. I understand that, as humans, we all strive to live our best lives and become the best versions of ourselves.

Nevada Psych Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
I am Ofelia Esguerra, A Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 3 years experience at Desert Parkway Behavioral and Healthcare Hospital treating patients with mental health disorders (ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia ) and substance abuse addiction.
I am Ofelia Esguerra, A Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 3 years experience at Desert Parkway Behavioral and Healthcare Hospital treating patients with mental health disorders (ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia ) and substance abuse addiction.

Hi! My name is Melanie Sharpley and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Serving under-represented patients in the Las Vegas area is my passion and improving mental health care access to all communities has always been my top priority. I prefer to use a more personable and humanistic approach to mental healthcare, taking into consideration the entire presentation of the patient.
Hi! My name is Melanie Sharpley and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Serving under-represented patients in the Las Vegas area is my passion and improving mental health care access to all communities has always been my top priority. I prefer to use a more personable and humanistic approach to mental healthcare, taking into consideration the entire presentation of the patient.

Now accepting NV Medicaid Anthem & Molina Medicaid. Amy specializes in providing psychiatric care to adults are navigating the complexities of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Her ideal clients are individuals and families seeking to understand and transform their mental health through evidence-based approaches, including medication management combined with CBT and mindfulness practices. They are looking for supportive, client-centered care that respects their unique experiences and fosters growth and well-being.
Now accepting NV Medicaid Anthem & Molina Medicaid. Amy specializes in providing psychiatric care to adults are navigating the complexities of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Her ideal clients are individuals and families seeking to understand and transform their mental health through evidence-based approaches, including medication management combined with CBT and mindfulness practices. They are looking for supportive, client-centered care that respects their unique experiences and fosters growth and well-being.

Prestige Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89144
My personal approach to understanding your mental health condition is what makes me different. I spend the extra time to understand and address these issues individually. To create the kind of practice I want for patients, I operate a “concierge-like” psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven one. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity and on personalized service and accessibility over volume.
My personal approach to understanding your mental health condition is what makes me different. I spend the extra time to understand and address these issues individually. To create the kind of practice I want for patients, I operate a “concierge-like” psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven one. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity and on personalized service and accessibility over volume.
See more therapy options for Nevada
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Nevada who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | ADHD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Medication Management |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Nevada see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Nevada?
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.