Psychiatrists in Albuquerque, NM

Photo of JoEllen Schimmels - Hear to Help Mental Health- New Mexico, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Hear to Help Mental Health- New Mexico
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Online Only
I'm I'm sorry, I'm not currently accepting new clients. I'm JoEllen "Ellen" Schimmels at Hear to Help Mental Health therapy and medication services. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, compassion fatigue, and military/veteran issues. As an Army veteran myself, I am committed to walking with you on your journey with support, collaboration, and inclusivity. I am a passionate, evidence-based provider looking to hear you, and listen to your needs with a safe, non-judgmental space to heal. Asking for help is hard, let me make it easy for you.
I'm I'm sorry, I'm not currently accepting new clients. I'm JoEllen "Ellen" Schimmels at Hear to Help Mental Health therapy and medication services. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, compassion fatigue, and military/veteran issues. As an Army veteran myself, I am committed to walking with you on your journey with support, collaboration, and inclusivity. I am a passionate, evidence-based provider looking to hear you, and listen to your needs with a safe, non-judgmental space to heal. Asking for help is hard, let me make it easy for you.
(505) 448-0203 View (505) 448-0203
Photo of Javed Caprietta - Psych Care Anywhere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Psych Care Anywhere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Currently offering same week appointments! I am passionate about helping those who are ready to take positive steps towards improving their lives. If you are experiencing challenges with your mental health, know that you are not alone and that there is hope for recovery. I offer online appointments in the comfort of your own home, where we can work together to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include medication management and brief therapy sessions. My goal is to provide the same high-quality care that you would receive in an in-office visit, with a focus on patient-centered and individualized treatment.
Currently offering same week appointments! I am passionate about helping those who are ready to take positive steps towards improving their lives. If you are experiencing challenges with your mental health, know that you are not alone and that there is hope for recovery. I offer online appointments in the comfort of your own home, where we can work together to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include medication management and brief therapy sessions. My goal is to provide the same high-quality care that you would receive in an in-office visit, with a focus on patient-centered and individualized treatment.
(505) 390-1362 View (505) 390-1362
Photo of Mutiat Olawunmi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mutiat Olawunmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Mutiat Olawunmi. Highly trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Doctoral Degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) offering well-developed interpersonal, acute care treatment and relationship-building skills. Promoting pleasant personalities and skills helps patients stay calm and communicative. Resourceful PMHNP with multiple state licenses including California, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Texas and Washington who is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages. Expertise in performing admission assessments and discharges and participating in crisis interventions.
Mutiat Olawunmi. Highly trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Doctoral Degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) offering well-developed interpersonal, acute care treatment and relationship-building skills. Promoting pleasant personalities and skills helps patients stay calm and communicative. Resourceful PMHNP with multiple state licenses including California, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Texas and Washington who is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages. Expertise in performing admission assessments and discharges and participating in crisis interventions.
(505) 591-8845 View (505) 591-8845
Photo of Blessing Benjamin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Blessing Benjamin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Blessing Benjamin, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 9 years of experience in mental health. I am a compassionate and knowledgeable Mental health professional dedicated to addressing the exceptional care and support needs of people with mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology; I offer comprehensive mental health care from the comfort of your own home. My approach integrates medication management, psychological testing, and supportive therapies tailored to meet your unique needs.
Welcome! I'm Blessing Benjamin, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 9 years of experience in mental health. I am a compassionate and knowledgeable Mental health professional dedicated to addressing the exceptional care and support needs of people with mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology; I offer comprehensive mental health care from the comfort of your own home. My approach integrates medication management, psychological testing, and supportive therapies tailored to meet your unique needs.
(505) 391-3616 View (505) 391-3616
Photo of Margaret Oliver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Margaret Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
(505) 421-3498 View (505) 421-3498
Photo of Helen Lancy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(505) 551-3454 View (505) 551-3454
Photo of Lisa Zavala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lisa Zavala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner in New Mexico. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. I have over 17 years of experience combined as a nurse and nurse practitioner in mental health, working in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner in New Mexico. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. I have over 17 years of experience combined as a nurse and nurse practitioner in mental health, working in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(505) 657-8191 View (505) 657-8191
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 Faith Siteiyia Sapit - Faith Mental Health and Wellness Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Faith Mental Health and Wellness Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Faith Sapit, PMHNP-BC is a Master prepared, nationally certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in New Mexico, Texas, Arizona and Minnesota. She has served the nursing field with an emphasis in both Adults and pediatric mental health care for the last 2 Years as a nurse practitioner and 10+ years as a Nurse in general.
Faith Sapit, PMHNP-BC is a Master prepared, nationally certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in New Mexico, Texas, Arizona and Minnesota. She has served the nursing field with an emphasis in both Adults and pediatric mental health care for the last 2 Years as a nurse practitioner and 10+ years as a Nurse in general.
(505) 587-5640 View (505) 587-5640
Photo of Theresa Wussow, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Theresa Wussow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am based in Rio Rancho, NM, and see patients of all ages statewide for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses via telehealth. My specialties include the treatment of symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and mood disorders.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am based in Rio Rancho, NM, and see patients of all ages statewide for the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of mental illnesses via telehealth. My specialties include the treatment of symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and mood disorders.
(505) 591-4730 View (505) 591-4730
Photo of Lovette Ndubisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lovette Ndubisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am Lovette. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate and eager to assist my clients with their mental health challenges. My purpose is to guide my clients to find treatment options that align with their values and help them function at their optimal capacity.
Hello, I am Lovette. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate and eager to assist my clients with their mental health challenges. My purpose is to guide my clients to find treatment options that align with their values and help them function at their optimal capacity.
(505) 391-5755 View (505) 391-5755
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.
Photo of Sharon R Carver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Sharon R Carver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Appointments available within 7 days! If you're struggling with the weight of depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, or substance abuse, and you've sought advice without finding the right answers, know that I'm here for you. I will bring an unbiased approach, blending traditional therapeutic techniques with careful medication management to create a personalized plan just for you. Let's embark on this journey together, overcoming challenges and shaping a path toward a brighter, more fulfilling life.
Appointments available within 7 days! If you're struggling with the weight of depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, or substance abuse, and you've sought advice without finding the right answers, know that I'm here for you. I will bring an unbiased approach, blending traditional therapeutic techniques with careful medication management to create a personalized plan just for you. Let's embark on this journey together, overcoming challenges and shaping a path toward a brighter, more fulfilling life.
(505) 257-1101 x102 View (505) 257-1101 x102
Photo of Allison Sikorsky - At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
Albuquerque, NM 87109
100% Online Visit. Schedule ONLINE: AtYourServicePsychiatry.com You finally decide it's time to get some help. You don't have time to take out of your day for a visit. With AtYourServicePsychiatry.com, we offer video visits from your computer or phone with prescription medications sent electronically to your pharmacy. Telepsychiatry is an easier way to get care from the privacy of your home. Online ADHD Care, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder.
100% Online Visit. Schedule ONLINE: AtYourServicePsychiatry.com You finally decide it's time to get some help. You don't have time to take out of your day for a visit. With AtYourServicePsychiatry.com, we offer video visits from your computer or phone with prescription medications sent electronically to your pharmacy. Telepsychiatry is an easier way to get care from the privacy of your home. Online ADHD Care, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder.
Photo of Nichole Baucan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nichole Baucan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that integrates both evidence-based treatments and holistic approaches. I prioritize building strong, trusting relationships with people, empowering them to actively participate in their care and make informed decisions about their mental health. By focusing on the whole person—considering biological, psychological, and social factors—I aim to help people achieve sustainable recovery and long-term wellness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that integrates both evidence-based treatments and holistic approaches. I prioritize building strong, trusting relationships with people, empowering them to actively participate in their care and make informed decisions about their mental health. By focusing on the whole person—considering biological, psychological, and social factors—I aim to help people achieve sustainable recovery and long-term wellness.
(505) 557-1405 View (505) 557-1405
Photo of Uchechi Dibia, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Uchechi Dibia
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Uchechi Sharon Dibia, PMHNP-BC Licenses: Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for patients across the lifespan. My approach is personalized, blending therapy, medication management, and active collaboration to address each patient’s unique needs. I am committed to creating a supportive, judgment-free space where patients feel heard, empowered, and in control of their mental health journey.
Hi there, I'm Uchechi Sharon Dibia, PMHNP-BC Licenses: Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for patients across the lifespan. My approach is personalized, blending therapy, medication management, and active collaboration to address each patient’s unique needs. I am committed to creating a supportive, judgment-free space where patients feel heard, empowered, and in control of their mental health journey.
(505) 391-4555 View (505) 391-4555
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 Yvonne Amune, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN
Yvonne Amune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87102
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
(505) 560-0301 View (505) 560-0301
Photo of Lovette Ndubisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lovette Ndubisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Lovette Ndubisi. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I have three decades of experience as a registered nurse, with six of those years spent caring for varied populations with mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders. I have significant skill in making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals, groups, and families with mental health challenges.
My name is Lovette Ndubisi. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I have three decades of experience as a registered nurse, with six of those years spent caring for varied populations with mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders. I have significant skill in making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals, groups, and families with mental health challenges.
(505) 657-2452 View (505) 657-2452
Photo of Ashley Benally-Ross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Benally-Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to mental health care. My educational background includes a BSN, RN, and MSN. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders. In my practice, I utilize both traditional and integrative approaches to provide comprehensive care. My goal is to provide medication management and supportive therapy with a balanced approach that respects and incorporates the diverse needs and preferences of my clients.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to mental health care. My educational background includes a BSN, RN, and MSN. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders. In my practice, I utilize both traditional and integrative approaches to provide comprehensive care. My goal is to provide medication management and supportive therapy with a balanced approach that respects and incorporates the diverse needs and preferences of my clients.
(505) 658-6814 View (505) 658-6814
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See more therapy options for Albuquerque

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Albuquerque, NM

100+

Average cost per session

$160

Psychiatrists in Albuquerque, NM who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% ADHD
68% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Albuquerque, NM see their clients

64% Online Only
36% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Albuquerque?

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.