Psychiatrists in Henderson, NV

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.

Hi there, My name is Samantha Sorgentoni, D.O. I pursued a career in psychiatry with a deep desire to help people struggling with mental health issues, and to restore their wellness and control over their lives. I believe that building an authentic relationship with my patients is crucial for providing effective treatment. When you visit my office, I will take the time to listen to your concerns and foster a safe environment for you to express your emotions without judgement. We will work together to develop treatment plans that address all aspects of your health.
Hi there, My name is Samantha Sorgentoni, D.O. I pursued a career in psychiatry with a deep desire to help people struggling with mental health issues, and to restore their wellness and control over their lives. I believe that building an authentic relationship with my patients is crucial for providing effective treatment. When you visit my office, I will take the time to listen to your concerns and foster a safe environment for you to express your emotions without judgement. We will work together to develop treatment plans that address all aspects of your health.

Welcome! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and military veteran. Our clinic focuses on medication management for adults, adolescents, and children with a variety of psychiatric conditions. I look forward to working with you! Serving the Las Vegas and surrounding areas!
Welcome! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and military veteran. Our clinic focuses on medication management for adults, adolescents, and children with a variety of psychiatric conditions. I look forward to working with you! Serving the Las Vegas and surrounding areas!

David Boyle is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, known for his deep commitment to patient care and mental health advocacy. With years of experience in psychiatric nursing, David has developed a strong understanding of the complexities of mental health conditions and the importance of personalized, empathetic care. His approach to treatment is centered on building trusting relationships with his patients, offering a safe and supportive environment for them to express their concerns. His passion for mental health care stems from his belief that everyone deserves access to quality, compassionate care.
David Boyle is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, known for his deep commitment to patient care and mental health advocacy. With years of experience in psychiatric nursing, David has developed a strong understanding of the complexities of mental health conditions and the importance of personalized, empathetic care. His approach to treatment is centered on building trusting relationships with his patients, offering a safe and supportive environment for them to express their concerns. His passion for mental health care stems from his belief that everyone deserves access to quality, compassionate care.

Sharon City Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89011
Integrated healthcare is the fusion of primary care and psychiatry. At Sharon City Health & Wellness, we understand that physical and mental health are not mutually exclusive but interdependent. We support our clients both physically and mentally to achieve optimum health. We are are primary care and psychiatry practice and we cater to anyone and every one. When we manage mental illness via medication therapy, we monitor and treat the physical ailments that occur as a result of the use of psychotropics. We are accessible every day and in every way. We offer consultation after hours and during the weekends. Give us a call today.
Integrated healthcare is the fusion of primary care and psychiatry. At Sharon City Health & Wellness, we understand that physical and mental health are not mutually exclusive but interdependent. We support our clients both physically and mentally to achieve optimum health. We are are primary care and psychiatry practice and we cater to anyone and every one. When we manage mental illness via medication therapy, we monitor and treat the physical ailments that occur as a result of the use of psychotropics. We are accessible every day and in every way. We offer consultation after hours and during the weekends. Give us a call today.

As a mental health practitioner, I would apply my clinical knowledge and nursing process to assess, diagnose and provide individualized care to patient and family using full scope of therapeutic skills including pharmacology and non pharmacology treatment. I have a strong clinical skills and ability to build a rapport with patients and families. I have committed to practice medicine using holistic approach and act as a patient advocate as needed. I always follow evidence-based
As a mental health practitioner, I would apply my clinical knowledge and nursing process to assess, diagnose and provide individualized care to patient and family using full scope of therapeutic skills including pharmacology and non pharmacology treatment. I have a strong clinical skills and ability to build a rapport with patients and families. I have committed to practice medicine using holistic approach and act as a patient advocate as needed. I always follow evidence-based

Dear Future Patient, You are here. This must mean you are curious about what it might be like to get a professional help for your mental health. If you are experiencing debilitating mental health symptoms that are interfering with your daily life, you are not alone. Depression, Anxiety, and other mental health issues are more common than you might think. Asking yourself should I see a psychiatrist is the first step in acknowledging that you may need help, and we appreciate you thinking of us for this opportunity. If you are tired of feeling the way you do and you are ready to do something about it, we are here for you.
Dear Future Patient, You are here. This must mean you are curious about what it might be like to get a professional help for your mental health. If you are experiencing debilitating mental health symptoms that are interfering with your daily life, you are not alone. Depression, Anxiety, and other mental health issues are more common than you might think. Asking yourself should I see a psychiatrist is the first step in acknowledging that you may need help, and we appreciate you thinking of us for this opportunity. If you are tired of feeling the way you do and you are ready to do something about it, we are here for you.

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.

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.

Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.

Immediate Availability! Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. We would love to help you understand how to address your concerns. We provide a safe environment that allows you to discuss your problems without feeling shame or judgement. Your help is just an email or phone call away!
Immediate Availability! Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. We would love to help you understand how to address your concerns. We provide a safe environment that allows you to discuss your problems without feeling shame or judgement. Your help is just an email or phone call away!

Have you thought about genetic testing for your mental health? An ideal client may have depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric conditions that may have worsened overtime or you simply want to save time and get a modernized approach to your mental healthcare. I would like to help! I am a doctorate prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience in helping children, adults, and seniors reach their mental health goals.
Have you thought about genetic testing for your mental health? An ideal client may have depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychiatric conditions that may have worsened overtime or you simply want to save time and get a modernized approach to your mental healthcare. I would like to help! I am a doctorate prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience in helping children, adults, and seniors reach their mental health goals.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with 6 years of experience in nursing and 4 years of experience in critical care medicine. I was drawn to the field of psychiatry due to a deep passion for providing holistic, compassionate care that addresses both the mental and physical well-being of patients. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University and a post-graduate certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with 6 years of experience in nursing and 4 years of experience in critical care medicine. I was drawn to the field of psychiatry due to a deep passion for providing holistic, compassionate care that addresses both the mental and physical well-being of patients. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University and a post-graduate certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Hi there! My name is Dr. Jake Mearse. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing in Nevada. I take a "whole person care" approach to mental healthcare, recognizing that mind and body are deeply connected. I practice a very client-centered model of care. My no. 1 rule of healthcare is that no one knows you better than you do! What you need from me may be very different than someone else with the same diagnosis. By listening and truly getting to know you, I aim to provide care that best fits your individual needs.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Jake Mearse. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner practicing in Nevada. I take a "whole person care" approach to mental healthcare, recognizing that mind and body are deeply connected. I practice a very client-centered model of care. My no. 1 rule of healthcare is that no one knows you better than you do! What you need from me may be very different than someone else with the same diagnosis. By listening and truly getting to know you, I aim to provide care that best fits your individual needs.

Hi there, I’m Dalin. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I'm here to support people through all the different stages of life.
I started my career as the lead nursing supervisor at an inpatient psychiatric facility, where I discovered the essential role of trust and communication in the healing journey. With over eight years of experience in the psychiatric field, I have been fortunate to work with a diverse array of patients, including adolescents, adults, and seniors, as well as those dealing with substance abuse.
Hi there, I’m Dalin. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I'm here to support people through all the different stages of life.
I started my career as the lead nursing supervisor at an inpatient psychiatric facility, where I discovered the essential role of trust and communication in the healing journey. With over eight years of experience in the psychiatric field, I have been fortunate to work with a diverse array of patients, including adolescents, adults, and seniors, as well as those dealing with substance abuse.

Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/NV
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/NV

Full-service psychiatric practice offering consultations, evaluations, medication management, outpatient detox, biofeedback, and brief CBT for anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, psychosis, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, conduct disorders, and a host of other disorders. Also offers Botox treatment for chronic migraines, Ketamine for treatment-resistant depression, and Suboxone for opioid replacement therapy. Ages 5 to 100+. Most insurances accepted. Las Vegas and Henderson locations
Full-service psychiatric practice offering consultations, evaluations, medication management, outpatient detox, biofeedback, and brief CBT for anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, psychosis, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, conduct disorders, and a host of other disorders. Also offers Botox treatment for chronic migraines, Ketamine for treatment-resistant depression, and Suboxone for opioid replacement therapy. Ages 5 to 100+. Most insurances accepted. Las Vegas and Henderson locations

As a doctorate prepared board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Lori completed her doctorate in nursing practice at Walden University and her graduate degrees at both Purdue University and Texas Tech University. Due to being double board certified and working in both Internal medicine and Psychiatry, Lori is well rounded to provide care to a diverse population. She has a large amount of experience in testing and treating psychiatric disorders throughout the lifespan. I like an open communication style where the patient has their choice in the treatment being provided.
As a doctorate prepared board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Lori completed her doctorate in nursing practice at Walden University and her graduate degrees at both Purdue University and Texas Tech University. Due to being double board certified and working in both Internal medicine and Psychiatry, Lori is well rounded to provide care to a diverse population. She has a large amount of experience in testing and treating psychiatric disorders throughout the lifespan. I like an open communication style where the patient has their choice in the treatment being provided.

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

My name is DeRoy Obilor, and I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing individualized mental health care. My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication. I specialize in treating ADHD, mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorders, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.
My name is DeRoy Obilor, and I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing individualized mental health care. My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication. I specialize in treating ADHD, mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorders, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.
See more therapy options for Henderson
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Henderson, NV
80+
Average cost per session
$197
Psychiatrists in Henderson, NV who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | ADHD |
87% | Depression |
77% | Medication Management |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | Aetna |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Henderson, NV see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Henderson?
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.