Psychiatrists in Clark County, NV

I am a PMHNP. I believe in meeting patients where they are, validating their experiences, and partnering with them in developing personalized treatment plans that align with their goals and values. I integrate medication management with supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and lifestyle interventions, with an emphasis on building resilience and long-term wellness. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to mental healthcare is patient-centered, holistic, and evidence-based. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, collaboration, and empowerment.
I am a PMHNP. I believe in meeting patients where they are, validating their experiences, and partnering with them in developing personalized treatment plans that align with their goals and values. I integrate medication management with supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and lifestyle interventions, with an emphasis on building resilience and long-term wellness. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to mental healthcare is patient-centered, holistic, and evidence-based. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, collaboration, and empowerment.

I am a licensed Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine. Over my nearly 21-year career in healthcare, I have dedicated my practice to supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging experiences. I am currently licensed and credentialed in California, Virginia, Washington DC, Nevada, and Iowa.
I am a licensed Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine. Over my nearly 21-year career in healthcare, I have dedicated my practice to supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging experiences. I am currently licensed and credentialed in California, Virginia, Washington DC, Nevada, and Iowa.

I am excited to get to know you. Please join me on this journey to get you back to where you'd like to be. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and re-evaluation. I ensure you are knowledgeable about your treatment plan, and that you are comfortable with the plan. We work together to find a solution that works for you.
I am excited to get to know you. Please join me on this journey to get you back to where you'd like to be. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and re-evaluation. I ensure you are knowledgeable about your treatment plan, and that you are comfortable with the plan. We work together to find a solution that works for you.

I am now seeing patients at Mighty Mental Health! Accepting NEW patients! We accept insurance! I have immediate appointments available, both in-office and telehealth for adults and children. Please visit our website at www.MightyMentalHealth.com to see the wide array of testing options and treatments we offer. We offer medication management for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Opiate Use Disorder (Suboxone and Sublocade), Bipolar, Sleeping troubles and many, many more. Please give my office a call or visit our website to register as a new patient. I accept most major health insurance plans and have a very affordable self-pay option.
I am now seeing patients at Mighty Mental Health! Accepting NEW patients! We accept insurance! I have immediate appointments available, both in-office and telehealth for adults and children. Please visit our website at www.MightyMentalHealth.com to see the wide array of testing options and treatments we offer. We offer medication management for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Opiate Use Disorder (Suboxone and Sublocade), Bipolar, Sleeping troubles and many, many more. Please give my office a call or visit our website to register as a new patient. I accept most major health insurance plans and have a very affordable self-pay option.

Hello! I'm Nkechi Nduka, and I'm thrilled to announce that I have new openings for clients at delightful minds health. I accept most major insurance providers, including Cigna, Aetna, and others. Currently, I am taking new patients. Nkechi has over 17 years combined experience as a Registered nurse and a Psychiatric nurse Practitioner.
Hello! I'm Nkechi Nduka, and I'm thrilled to announce that I have new openings for clients at delightful minds health. I accept most major insurance providers, including Cigna, Aetna, and others. Currently, I am taking new patients. Nkechi has over 17 years combined experience as a Registered nurse and a Psychiatric nurse Practitioner.

Hello! Welcome to Zenful Minds! I'm Catherine (Cathy),a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise with individuals across the lifespan, ages 5 to 99. With advanced degrees in both Nursing and Counseling (Trauma Crisis & PTSD), my practice integrates evidence-based psychiatric care with person-centered approach.
I believe in fostering compassionate, collaborative partnerships with my clients. My approach is holistic-blending traditional psychiatric interventions with mindfulness practices & lifestyle adjustments to promote overall well-being.
Hello! Welcome to Zenful Minds! I'm Catherine (Cathy),a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise with individuals across the lifespan, ages 5 to 99. With advanced degrees in both Nursing and Counseling (Trauma Crisis & PTSD), my practice integrates evidence-based psychiatric care with person-centered approach.
I believe in fostering compassionate, collaborative partnerships with my clients. My approach is holistic-blending traditional psychiatric interventions with mindfulness practices & lifestyle adjustments to promote overall well-being.

I am a nurse practitioner and owner of Azure Mind Health with over 15 years of experience, board-certified in psychiatric mental health, family practice, and certified in emergency. My ideal client seeks comprehensive, empathetic, and evidence-based healthcare for a range of mental health, chronic, or acute health concerns. They need a personalized treatment plan that considers their physical, emotional, and social well-being. They appreciate empathetic support and collaborative care, aiming to improve their quality of life. Together, we can create a tailored plan to meet their needs and achieve their health goals.
I am a nurse practitioner and owner of Azure Mind Health with over 15 years of experience, board-certified in psychiatric mental health, family practice, and certified in emergency. My ideal client seeks comprehensive, empathetic, and evidence-based healthcare for a range of mental health, chronic, or acute health concerns. They need a personalized treatment plan that considers their physical, emotional, and social well-being. They appreciate empathetic support and collaborative care, aiming to improve their quality of life. Together, we can create a tailored plan to meet their needs and achieve their health goals.

Copestone Psychiatric LLC - Warren Shadko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients (Nevada & Washington): Are you searching for a passionate psychiatric provider dedicated to guiding you on your recovery journey? I am excited to offer top-notch mental health care for adults, featuring medication management, therapy, coaching, and so much more! Our specialties include: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Panic, PTSD, OCD, and Sleep/Wake Disorders. Click our "Website" link to schedule your free, 15-minute consult so we may chat!
Accepting New Clients (Nevada & Washington): Are you searching for a passionate psychiatric provider dedicated to guiding you on your recovery journey? I am excited to offer top-notch mental health care for adults, featuring medication management, therapy, coaching, and so much more! Our specialties include: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Panic, PTSD, OCD, and Sleep/Wake Disorders. Click our "Website" link to schedule your free, 15-minute consult so we may chat!

My name is Rita Perez; I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently serving patients in Nevada via telehealth. I work with patients ages 12 and up, and my focus is on anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder. My approach is comprehensive, focusing on each individual as a whole person: mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. As a psychiatric provider, I aim to help individuals work through the complexities of their emotions and life’s challenges.
My name is Rita Perez; I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) currently serving patients in Nevada via telehealth. I work with patients ages 12 and up, and my focus is on anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder. My approach is comprehensive, focusing on each individual as a whole person: mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. As a psychiatric provider, I aim to help individuals work through the complexities of their emotions and life’s challenges.

Michelle Giddings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89107
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating clients with medical/mental health disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for child, adolescent, and adults. My approach to treatment is driven by my belief that every client is a unique individual; thus, treatment plans are specifically developed for each client.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating clients with medical/mental health disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for child, adolescent, and adults. My approach to treatment is driven by my belief that every client is a unique individual; thus, treatment plans are specifically developed for each client.

I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, Reno and Las Vegas. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California and Nevada.
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, Reno and Las Vegas. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California and Nevada.

Christian Louis Domingo Coronel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Christian Coronel is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He is able to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and more. He is passionate about helping others overcome the struggles and challenges they face regarding their mental health. He also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-pharmacological treatment option for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
Christian Coronel is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He is able to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and more. He is passionate about helping others overcome the struggles and challenges they face regarding their mental health. He also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-pharmacological treatment option for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

Book with me now by clicking on my website. I specialize in supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or challenging life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed by mood swings, racing thoughts, hallucinations, or a sense of disconnection, struggling to find stability or hope. Whether you're navigating the complexities of a mental health condition, seeking balance after a life change, or longing for clarity, I’m here to partner with you on your journey toward healing.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I specialize in supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or challenging life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed by mood swings, racing thoughts, hallucinations, or a sense of disconnection, struggling to find stability or hope. Whether you're navigating the complexities of a mental health condition, seeking balance after a life change, or longing for clarity, I’m here to partner with you on your journey toward healing.

Life can be overwhelming at times, and if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood changes, you're not alone. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered on your mental health journey. Whether you're facing daily challenges or seeking guidance during tough times, I’m here to help you move forward with confidence.
Life can be overwhelming at times, and if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood changes, you're not alone. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered on your mental health journey. Whether you're facing daily challenges or seeking guidance during tough times, I’m here to help you move forward with confidence.

YourStory Psychiatry was founded on the belief that the most important stories are the ones we tell about ourselves. Unfortunately when it comes to mental health, these stories are often filled with shame, fear, and confusion - but it doesn’t have to be like this. At YourStory Psychiatry, we pride ourselves on our holistic, strength-based, and culturally sensitive approach to mental health. By combining psychotherapy with conservative medication management, Dr. Ponce de Leon will help you change your story to one of hope and resilience.
YourStory Psychiatry was founded on the belief that the most important stories are the ones we tell about ourselves. Unfortunately when it comes to mental health, these stories are often filled with shame, fear, and confusion - but it doesn’t have to be like this. At YourStory Psychiatry, we pride ourselves on our holistic, strength-based, and culturally sensitive approach to mental health. By combining psychotherapy with conservative medication management, Dr. Ponce de Leon will help you change your story to one of hope and resilience.

Hi there, I’m Leah! For me, mental health is all about helping individuals get in touch with their true self. I have spent the past 4 years working as a provider to do just that. When I'm not practicing, I'm at home with my family and our dog-German shepherd, cooking, or just try to relax-meditation and or hiking. I enjoy quietness. My approach I set clear goals for myself and my clients and treat every session as an opportunity to make progress. I approach treatment with an eclectic assortment of approaches and tools to individualize our work together to meet your needs best.
Hi there, I’m Leah! For me, mental health is all about helping individuals get in touch with their true self. I have spent the past 4 years working as a provider to do just that. When I'm not practicing, I'm at home with my family and our dog-German shepherd, cooking, or just try to relax-meditation and or hiking. I enjoy quietness. My approach I set clear goals for myself and my clients and treat every session as an opportunity to make progress. I approach treatment with an eclectic assortment of approaches and tools to individualize our work together to meet your needs best.

At Rejuven Health, we know health challenges impact both body and mind. You may be struggling with chronic conditions, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or stress. Perhaps you're seeking better overall wellness or support for mental health concerns. You want comprehensive, compassionate care from a provider who listens and works with you to achieve lasting health.
You need a provider who can address both physical and mental health in one place. You want a personalized approach that considers your lifestyle, not just quick fixes.
At Rejuven Health, we know health challenges impact both body and mind. You may be struggling with chronic conditions, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or stress. Perhaps you're seeking better overall wellness or support for mental health concerns. You want comprehensive, compassionate care from a provider who listens and works with you to achieve lasting health.
You need a provider who can address both physical and mental health in one place. You want a personalized approach that considers your lifestyle, not just quick fixes.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.

Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.

Dr. Zelluyah Gaitho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN/GNP
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89120
At Ahava Mental Health Services, we take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, addressing not only the symptoms of mental illness, but also the underlying causes. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the diagnosis, and we work closely with our patients to help them achieve lasting recovery. Our care and treatment plans are individualized for each client.
At Ahava Mental Health Services, we take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, addressing not only the symptoms of mental illness, but also the underlying causes. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the diagnosis, and we work closely with our patients to help them achieve lasting recovery. Our care and treatment plans are individualized for each client.
See more therapy options for Clark County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Clark County, NV
300+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Clark County, NV who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Clark County, NV see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Clark 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.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.