Psychiatrists in Bernalillo County, NM

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Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Online Only
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits and medication management. We conduct full psychiatric diagnostic assessments. We treat depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles (if needed). Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $85-109. Accepting many insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits and medication management. We conduct full psychiatric diagnostic assessments. We treat depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles (if needed). Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $85-109. Accepting many insurance plans.
(505) 300-2967 View (505) 300-2967
Photo of Alisha Fluker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, WHNP, PMH-C
Alisha Fluker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, WHNP, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, premenstrual mood changes, postpartum depression, or anxiety? I understand how these challenges can take over your life, and I'm here to support you. If you're unsure about medication or looking for a more holistic approach, we can work together to find what feels right for you. We’ll create a personalized plan that may include supplements, lifestyle changes, and nutrition, and if needed, medication. I’m here to listen, truly understand your journey, and help you thrive.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, premenstrual mood changes, postpartum depression, or anxiety? I understand how these challenges can take over your life, and I'm here to support you. If you're unsure about medication or looking for a more holistic approach, we can work together to find what feels right for you. We’ll create a personalized plan that may include supplements, lifestyle changes, and nutrition, and if needed, medication. I’m here to listen, truly understand your journey, and help you thrive.
(505) 309-4881 View (505) 309-4881
Photo of Dr. Opeyemi Ojo - Blissful Minds, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Blissful Minds, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Online Only
Opeyemi (Opey) Ojo is a dual board-certified doctorate prepared family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 9 years experience managing mental health conditions in multiple settings. Opey enjoys providing counseling and medication management of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, anger, women's mental health, and obesity, among many others. She is passionate about removing barriers to accessing quality healthcare by creating awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health. Opey believes in empowering patients with evidence- based strategies so they can live life in its fullness.
Opeyemi (Opey) Ojo is a dual board-certified doctorate prepared family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 9 years experience managing mental health conditions in multiple settings. Opey enjoys providing counseling and medication management of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, anger, women's mental health, and obesity, among many others. She is passionate about removing barriers to accessing quality healthcare by creating awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health. Opey believes in empowering patients with evidence- based strategies so they can live life in its fullness.
(505) 715-6702 View (505) 715-6702
Photo of Claudia Chaparro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Claudia Chaparro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Claudia! I am a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. Do you often feel sad, anxious, or disconnected from the world around you? Nurse Practitioner Chaparro is here to help you regain your optimal level of functioning. With extensive experience, reliability, and bilingual support, you can trust in compassionate care.
Hi there, I'm Claudia! I am a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. Do you often feel sad, anxious, or disconnected from the world around you? Nurse Practitioner Chaparro is here to help you regain your optimal level of functioning. With extensive experience, reliability, and bilingual support, you can trust in compassionate care.
(505) 391-5652 View (505) 391-5652
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 Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Sound Mynd PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Online Only
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life and unable to cope? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. You won't wait long to see me; we can even meet online (Telehealth). I strive to offer a non-judgmental and healing space for you to make the changes you want. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life and unable to cope? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. You won't wait long to see me; we can even meet online (Telehealth). I strive to offer a non-judgmental and healing space for you to make the changes you want. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
(505) 393-7673 View (505) 393-7673
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 Celeste Saunders, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Celeste Saunders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Not accepting new clients
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer various treatment options for children, adolescents, and adults. I provide mental health care in a holistic and therapeutic setting, and my approach is based on collaboration, assisting, leading, and accompanying you on a journey to better overall mental health and wellness.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer various treatment options for children, adolescents, and adults. I provide mental health care in a holistic and therapeutic setting, and my approach is based on collaboration, assisting, leading, and accompanying you on a journey to better overall mental health and wellness.
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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) 591-4656 View (505) 591-4656
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 Lovette Agatha Agbomma Ndubisi - Harmony Haven, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Harmony Haven
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87102
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; I specialize in providing comprehensive medication management to individuals navigating a range of mental health challenges. With a passion for fostering well-being, I work with clients facing anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, sleep difficulty, obsessive-compulsive disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, and Impulsive disorder.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; I specialize in providing comprehensive medication management to individuals navigating a range of mental health challenges. With a passion for fostering well-being, I work with clients facing anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, sleep difficulty, obsessive-compulsive disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, and Impulsive disorder.
(505) 657-9416 View (505) 657-9416
Photo of Mercy Itesa - Pine Psychiatric Care Services LLC- New Mexico, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Pine Psychiatric Care Services LLC- New Mexico
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
23 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Accepting New Patients! Mercy is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is experience in working with individuals across the life span, struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and other symptoms or diagnosis. Currently, we are accepting new patients within a week, and we are flexible. We take pride in listening to our patients and providing evaluation, individualized medication management, and treatment plan. We are dedicated to exceptional and professional patient care. Please contact us, we look forward to working with you. Licensed In New Mexico.
Now Accepting New Patients! Mercy is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is experience in working with individuals across the life span, struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and other symptoms or diagnosis. Currently, we are accepting new patients within a week, and we are flexible. We take pride in listening to our patients and providing evaluation, individualized medication management, and treatment plan. We are dedicated to exceptional and professional patient care. Please contact us, we look forward to working with you. Licensed In New Mexico.
(505) 405-7677 View (505) 405-7677
Photo of Desiree R Provencio - Sandia Vista Psychiatric-Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Sandia Vista Psychiatric-Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Albuquerque, NM 87120
Not accepting new clients
Desiree Provencio is a doctoral prepared board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner born and raised in Northern New Mexico. She came from humble beginnings and is dedicated to serving the mental health needs of the local community. Dr. Provencio has over 10 years of experience working in the field of psychiatry. She has a wide range of psychiatric experience working with children and adolescents, individuals with developmental disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, and adults with all mental health needs.
Desiree Provencio is a doctoral prepared board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner born and raised in Northern New Mexico. She came from humble beginnings and is dedicated to serving the mental health needs of the local community. Dr. Provencio has over 10 years of experience working in the field of psychiatry. She has a wide range of psychiatric experience working with children and adolescents, individuals with developmental disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, and adults with all mental health needs.
(505) 421-7954 View (505) 421-7954
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 Yejide Oludare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Yejide Oludare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a Board-Certified PMHNP with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and over 20 years of clinical experience. I provide telehealth services to patients of all ages, offering diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and mood disorders. My approach combines therapy and medication management in a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard and understood.
I’m a Board-Certified PMHNP with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and over 20 years of clinical experience. I provide telehealth services to patients of all ages, offering diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and mood disorders. My approach combines therapy and medication management in a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard and understood.
(505) 657-5590 View (505) 657-5590
Photo of Tonya Rezmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Tonya Rezmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Tonya is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018. She received her bachelor’s degree and Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Michigan-Flint. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, Addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Tonya is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018. She received her bachelor’s degree and Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Michigan-Flint. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, Addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(505) 397-6161 View (505) 397-6161
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
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
Photo of Regina Iyawe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Regina Iyawe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Many of the individuals I work with—teens, adults, and veterans—are navigating life’s toughest moments: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or overwhelming transitions. They’re not just looking for a quick solution—they want to be truly seen, heard, and supported.
Many of the individuals I work with—teens, adults, and veterans—are navigating life’s toughest moments: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or overwhelming transitions. They’re not just looking for a quick solution—they want to be truly seen, heard, and supported.
(903) 287-5516 x121444 View (903) 287-5516 x121444
Photo of Elena Crespin - High Desert Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
High Desert Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87120
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Elena Crespin is a Doctoral-level, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides quality mental health care. Dr. Crespin is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for adolescents, and adults. Elena completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice at New Mexico State University after being a Registered Nurse for 15 years. Over her course of nursing practice, she has had the privilege of working in many areas, including psychiatry, post-surgical care, gastroenterology, primary care, long term care and addiction medicine. She enjoys working with a variety of age groups.
Dr. Elena Crespin is a Doctoral-level, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides quality mental health care. Dr. Crespin is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for adolescents, and adults. Elena completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice at New Mexico State University after being a Registered Nurse for 15 years. Over her course of nursing practice, she has had the privilege of working in many areas, including psychiatry, post-surgical care, gastroenterology, primary care, long term care and addiction medicine. She enjoys working with a variety of age groups.
(505) 560-2864 View (505) 560-2864

See more therapy options for Bernalillo County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bernalillo County, NM

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Bernalillo County, NM who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
85% Bipolar Disorder
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% ADHD
69% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bernalillo County, NM see their clients

63% Online Only
37% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bernalillo County?

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.