Psychiatrists in New Mexico

View cities and counties in New Mexico
Photo of Clarissa Juarez - Healthier You, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNPBC
Healthier You, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Psychiatric Treatment w/ a focus on Complementary & Integrative Health, Functional, Nutritional & Lifestyle Practices. Our practice model works best w/ motivated people ready for a change, or dissatisfied w/ cookie cutter care. People possess an incredible ability to grow throughout all stages of the lifespan. Ethical Care is based on an authentic, and respectful relationship between the provider and patient. We are your partners in health, and support your active participation in treatment decisions that impact the quality of your life! A New Mexico company. Appointments are primarily offered online through Telemedicine.
Psychiatric Treatment w/ a focus on Complementary & Integrative Health, Functional, Nutritional & Lifestyle Practices. Our practice model works best w/ motivated people ready for a change, or dissatisfied w/ cookie cutter care. People possess an incredible ability to grow throughout all stages of the lifespan. Ethical Care is based on an authentic, and respectful relationship between the provider and patient. We are your partners in health, and support your active participation in treatment decisions that impact the quality of your life! A New Mexico company. Appointments are primarily offered online through Telemedicine.
(505) 466-5354 View (505) 466-5354
Photo of Marybeth A Pirrone - Elite Mind and Body Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-C
Elite Mind and Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-C
Mesilla Park, NM 88047
Welcome! We are now offering Spravato (Esketamine) therapy for Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD). I have worked in the field of Psychiatry/Mental Health for over 25 years. I work with all age populations from the young child to the geriatric. I have worked with psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, sexual abuse, religious trauma, LGBTQ+, and family issues. I take a humanistic and person centered approach that is tailored to the individual’s mental health and medication management needs. I utilize various treatment modalities to best suit your individual needs.
Welcome! We are now offering Spravato (Esketamine) therapy for Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD). I have worked in the field of Psychiatry/Mental Health for over 25 years. I work with all age populations from the young child to the geriatric. I have worked with psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, sexual abuse, religious trauma, LGBTQ+, and family issues. I take a humanistic and person centered approach that is tailored to the individual’s mental health and medication management needs. I utilize various treatment modalities to best suit your individual needs.
(575) 376-8982 View (575) 376-8982
Photo of Andrea Diane Zummo - Happy Human Healthcare, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, IBCLC
Happy Human Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, IBCLC
Albuquerque, NM 87109
The hardest part of getting treatment for mental health sometimes is taking the first step by looking for a provider. Congrats on taking that most important first step! Think of this first step as the first step toward having the life you want! I work in partnership with my patients to help them refine their goals and make a path to reach them. I don’t tell patients what to do, but rather I give them options and let them make their own decisions. I am uncompromising in my belief that great mental health treatment includes personality preservation and individualized care. I want you to Be You, Happy!
The hardest part of getting treatment for mental health sometimes is taking the first step by looking for a provider. Congrats on taking that most important first step! Think of this first step as the first step toward having the life you want! I work in partnership with my patients to help them refine their goals and make a path to reach them. I don’t tell patients what to do, but rather I give them options and let them make their own decisions. I am uncompromising in my belief that great mental health treatment includes personality preservation and individualized care. I want you to Be You, Happy!
(505) 391-4688 x1 View (505) 391-4688 x1
Photo of Jennifer Sims, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(505) 557-1464 View (505) 557-1464
Photo of Belinda Nkaime, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Belinda Nkaime
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with License No. 68770. I am a compassionate and caring active listener, deeply respecting human dignity. I am dedicated to maintaining safe practices, honesty, accountability, and integrity in all my professional interactions. My approach is centered on the patient, emphasizing positive reinforcement, holistic care, and a solution-oriented mindset.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with License No. 68770. I am a compassionate and caring active listener, deeply respecting human dignity. I am dedicated to maintaining safe practices, honesty, accountability, and integrity in all my professional interactions. My approach is centered on the patient, emphasizing positive reinforcement, holistic care, and a solution-oriented mindset.
(505) 657-5100 View (505) 657-5100
Photo of Abigail Banmbuh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abigail Banmbuh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My focus is depression. anxiety/sleep/psychosis, and mood disorders. My approach to mental health is being open. I'm not only invested in your mental health but in you as a person.
My focus is depression. anxiety/sleep/psychosis, and mood disorders. My approach to mental health is being open. I'm not only invested in your mental health but in you as a person.
(505) 806-1832 View (505) 806-1832
Sunrise TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Las Cruces, NM 88011
Sunrise NeuroBehavioral offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and OCD. We take most insurance. TMS and medication management is offered by Robert Olsen MD and Roberto Padilla DNP.
Sunrise NeuroBehavioral offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and OCD. We take most insurance. TMS and medication management is offered by Robert Olsen MD and Roberto Padilla DNP.
(575) 254-2411 View (575) 254-2411
Photo of Cecilia Isolina Kasbohm - Brighter Days, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Brighter Days
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Alamogordo, NM 88310
Brighter Days is a local clinic that serves clients ages five to adulthood. We provide medication management and diagnosing for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar I and II and all others. Our goal is to serve the local community with much needed mental health services and provide quality care with real results. We collaborate closely with local therapists to provide you with the golden standard of medication management and therapy.
Brighter Days is a local clinic that serves clients ages five to adulthood. We provide medication management and diagnosing for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar I and II and all others. Our goal is to serve the local community with much needed mental health services and provide quality care with real results. We collaborate closely with local therapists to provide you with the golden standard of medication management and therapy.
(575) 500-4391 View (575) 500-4391
Photo of Halima Goodwin - Telepsych 4 You, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CPNP-PC, PMHNP
Telepsych 4 You, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CPNP-PC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87111
Halima Goodwin, DNP, CPNP-PC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral prepared, nationally certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has served the nursing field with an emphasis in pediatric primary care and mental health for 24 years.
Halima Goodwin, DNP, CPNP-PC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral prepared, nationally certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has served the nursing field with an emphasis in pediatric primary care and mental health for 24 years.
(505) 390-8936 View (505) 390-8936
Photo of Lucia Marquez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Lucia Marquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Lucia Marquez, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in El Paso, TX. With a heart for service and over two decades of diverse medical experience, I bring a unique blend of empathy and expertise to mental health care. My journey began in Mexico as a medical doctor, which laid the foundation for my deep-seated passion for patient care. Transitioning to nursing, I graduated with high honors from the University of Texas at El Paso and have since been recognized with the prestigious Nurse Excellence Award. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I bridge language barriers to provide inclusive care.
Welcome! I'm Lucia Marquez, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in El Paso, TX. With a heart for service and over two decades of diverse medical experience, I bring a unique blend of empathy and expertise to mental health care. My journey began in Mexico as a medical doctor, which laid the foundation for my deep-seated passion for patient care. Transitioning to nursing, I graduated with high honors from the University of Texas at El Paso and have since been recognized with the prestigious Nurse Excellence Award. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I bridge language barriers to provide inclusive care.
(505) 806-1745 View (505) 806-1745
Photo of Eunice W Mwaura - Eunice Mwaura, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eunice Mwaura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm trained clinician who understands my clients at a deeper level.I specialize in treating depression,bipolar disorder, anxiety/ PTSD , psychosis & sleep problems. I not only help my patients with medications,but also support them in other areas of their life so they can achieve their full potential. I focus on providing thoughtful, unique and individualized care to my clients. In addition to medications, I also incorporate holistic approach and supportive therapy. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you in overcoming challenges. Please reach out and I'll be honored to work with you. Tha
I'm trained clinician who understands my clients at a deeper level.I specialize in treating depression,bipolar disorder, anxiety/ PTSD , psychosis & sleep problems. I not only help my patients with medications,but also support them in other areas of their life so they can achieve their full potential. I focus on providing thoughtful, unique and individualized care to my clients. In addition to medications, I also incorporate holistic approach and supportive therapy. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that will help you in overcoming challenges. Please reach out and I'll be honored to work with you. Tha
(210) 964-3846 View (210) 964-3846
Luxe Psychiatric and Wellness Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am committed in working with you to improve your mental wellness.
I am committed in working with you to improve your mental wellness.
(575) 216-7012 View (575) 216-7012
Photo of Sarah Fese Taylor - Complete Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Complete Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Albuquerque, NM 87121
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to ​multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to ​multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
(505) 421-6282 View (505) 421-6282
Photo of Tamara Joy Gardner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Tamara Joy Gardner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C
Albuquerque, NM 87108
If you struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or perinatal mood disorders, I partner with you to develop a treatment plan that supports you in building resiliency, wellness, and joy. I offer integrative psychiatry which combines prescribing of psychiatric medications along with supplements, vitamins, mindfulness, and more depending on your preferences. I offer GeneSight genetic and ZRT Laboratory hormonal testing to create plan tailored to your individual needs.
If you struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or perinatal mood disorders, I partner with you to develop a treatment plan that supports you in building resiliency, wellness, and joy. I offer integrative psychiatry which combines prescribing of psychiatric medications along with supplements, vitamins, mindfulness, and more depending on your preferences. I offer GeneSight genetic and ZRT Laboratory hormonal testing to create plan tailored to your individual needs.
(505) 405-8026 View (505) 405-8026
Photo of Marcus Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Marcus Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
*NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AND APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE WITHIN DAYS* Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
*NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AND APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE WITHIN DAYS* Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
(575) 708-6477 View (575) 708-6477
Photo of Diane DeCillis Johnston - Diane Johnston PMHNP, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Diane Johnston PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Santa Fe, NM 87506
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of experience and I work both as a psychotherapist and as a psychopharmacologist. As a Nurse Practitioner, I offer comprehensive evaluations and assessments for patients who may benefit from medication as well as psychotherapy I am a trained EMDR practitioner for individuals who have experienced traumas in their lives. In addition, I offer training in the Eastern practices of meditation and mindfulness practice. I work with adults and adolescents and I
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of experience and I work both as a psychotherapist and as a psychopharmacologist. As a Nurse Practitioner, I offer comprehensive evaluations and assessments for patients who may benefit from medication as well as psychotherapy I am a trained EMDR practitioner for individuals who have experienced traumas in their lives. In addition, I offer training in the Eastern practices of meditation and mindfulness practice. I work with adults and adolescents and I
(505) 557-2770 View (505) 557-2770
Photo of Chloe Griffith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(505) 405-7187 View (505) 405-7187
Photo of Patricia Brooks - Mental Wealth of NM, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mental Wealth of NM, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Santa Fe, NM 87501
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management as well as supportive talk therapy. My goal is to treat mental health needs with comprehensive, compassionate, and holistic care. I follow a lifestyle medicine approach which acknowledges the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I strive to build a connection with my patients and provide supportive resources which build hope and empower those I work with.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management as well as supportive talk therapy. My goal is to treat mental health needs with comprehensive, compassionate, and holistic care. I follow a lifestyle medicine approach which acknowledges the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I strive to build a connection with my patients and provide supportive resources which build hope and empower those I work with.
(505) 636-1163 View (505) 636-1163
Photo of Ann Akpaka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Ann Akpaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 14 years of experience in the healthcare industry helping individuals and families in crisis. Experienced and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing personalized and holistic mental health care. Specializing in the treatment of depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, I offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking to improve their mental well-being. With a focus on evidence-based practice and a strong commitment to my patients' needs, I strive to empower individuals to achieve their mental health goals and live a fulfilling life.
I have over 14 years of experience in the healthcare industry helping individuals and families in crisis. Experienced and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing personalized and holistic mental health care. Specializing in the treatment of depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD, I offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking to improve their mental well-being. With a focus on evidence-based practice and a strong commitment to my patients' needs, I strive to empower individuals to achieve their mental health goals and live a fulfilling life.
(469) 848-3551 View (469) 848-3551
Photo of Ferdinand Akoko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ferdinand Akoko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Dr. Ferdinand Akoko, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, and insomnia. My practice focuses on providing thoughtful medication management and collaborative care in a compassionate, nonjudgmental space.
Welcome! I’m Dr. Ferdinand Akoko, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, and insomnia. My practice focuses on providing thoughtful medication management and collaborative care in a compassionate, nonjudgmental space.
(505) 421-4103 View (505) 421-4103

See more therapy options for New Mexico

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$165

Psychiatrists in New Mexico who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
82% Bipolar Disorder
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Medication Management
68% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Aetna
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in New Mexico see their clients

58% Online Only
42% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in New Mexico?

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.