Psychiatrists in Henderson, NV
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.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I prescribe medications in addition to offering mental health counseling. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I was a nurse for nearly a decade, focusing on critical care and psychiatry. I fell in love with the psychiatric field as I started to recognize that mental health plays a fundamental role in patients’ overall well-being.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I prescribe medications in addition to offering mental health counseling. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I was a nurse for nearly a decade, focusing on critical care and psychiatry. I fell in love with the psychiatric field as I started to recognize that mental health plays a fundamental role in patients’ overall well-being.
***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!
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.
Greetings, I am dual-certified in family and psychiatric mental health care as a Nurse Practitioner. I believe in treating my patients with respect and compassion. I have practiced for over six years in a variety of settings, including internal medicine, family medicine, and mental health. I enjoy working with diverse people from a variety of cultures, and I specialize in working with people of color to provide a safe space to focus on complete mental health.
Greetings, I am dual-certified in family and psychiatric mental health care as a Nurse Practitioner. I believe in treating my patients with respect and compassion. I have practiced for over six years in a variety of settings, including internal medicine, family medicine, and mental health. I enjoy working with diverse people from a variety of cultures, and I specialize in working with people of color to provide a safe space to focus on complete mental health.
Immediate Availability ! Ryan is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment with our patients, prioritizing the importance of listening to their concerns and exploring a variety of treatment options together. Our clinic is proud to offer a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic assessments, medication management, and brief supportive therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Immediate Availability ! Ryan is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment with our patients, prioritizing the importance of listening to their concerns and exploring a variety of treatment options together. Our clinic is proud to offer a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic assessments, medication management, and brief supportive therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
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.
The ideal client has motivation to give them the energy and focus to truly work with and on the problems that bring them for care. The ability to discuss life issues and symptoms is key to understanding and change. While treating anxiety and depression, a great goal is a focus on achieving more in life rather than simply the removal of symptoms. 7th Path Self Hypnosis training is included as part of sessions as a means of self work to be done between sessions, which is a unique form of insight generating self hypnosis.
The ideal client has motivation to give them the energy and focus to truly work with and on the problems that bring them for care. The ability to discuss life issues and symptoms is key to understanding and change. While treating anxiety and depression, a great goal is a focus on achieving more in life rather than simply the removal of symptoms. 7th Path Self Hypnosis training is included as part of sessions as a means of self work to be done between sessions, which is a unique form of insight generating self hypnosis.
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.
Now accepting new clients! My approach doesn't include rushed prescriptions or a "one-size-fits all" solution. I will collaborate with you on a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My hope is that you will leave our session with a sense of relief, knowing that you have a provider who hears you, and a treatment plan that reflects deep consideration of your needs.
Now accepting new clients! My approach doesn't include rushed prescriptions or a "one-size-fits all" solution. I will collaborate with you on a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My hope is that you will leave our session with a sense of relief, knowing that you have a provider who hears you, and a treatment plan that reflects deep consideration of your needs.
Online, holistic, Telepsychiatry visits for Children, Adolescents and Adults in the states of Nevada, New Mexico, California and Montana. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. While comfortable with treating all psychiatric disorders, my specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, PTSD, binge/emotional eating, and insomnia. I also use the the Sinclair method for alcohol cessation and am well versed in mild cognitive impairment and the Bredesen protocol for brain health. Additionally, I often discuss relationships, life transitions, emotional challenges among oth
Online, holistic, Telepsychiatry visits for Children, Adolescents and Adults in the states of Nevada, New Mexico, California and Montana. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. While comfortable with treating all psychiatric disorders, my specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, PTSD, binge/emotional eating, and insomnia. I also use the the Sinclair method for alcohol cessation and am well versed in mild cognitive impairment and the Bredesen protocol for brain health. Additionally, I often discuss relationships, life transitions, emotional challenges among oth
Dr. Wally Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). He completed his Doctorate of Nursing Practice program at Azusa Pacific University. He is welcoming new members in person or via video appointment. He specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He focuses on medication management in combination with psycho-education. Please, visit www.essentialclinicnv.com
Dr. Wally Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). He completed his Doctorate of Nursing Practice program at Azusa Pacific University. He is welcoming new members in person or via video appointment. He specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He focuses on medication management in combination with psycho-education. Please, visit www.essentialclinicnv.com
I have been in practice for over sixteen years treating Child, Adolescents and Adult in both the outpatient and inpatient setting. Being Board Certified in both Child and Adolescents and General Psychiatry allows for me to have deeper understanding of where we come shapes who we are. Every experience a person has matters and each individual needs to be appreciated from their perspective to help them reach the goals they set for themselves.
I have been in practice for over sixteen years treating Child, Adolescents and Adult in both the outpatient and inpatient setting. Being Board Certified in both Child and Adolescents and General Psychiatry allows for me to have deeper understanding of where we come shapes who we are. Every experience a person has matters and each individual needs to be appreciated from their perspective to help them reach the goals they set for themselves.
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.
You may be feeling frustrated that your symptoms don’t fit neatly into a single diagnosis, or that medications you’ve tried haven’t fully helped. Many of my patients come to me after years of managing mood instability, intrusive or obsessive thoughts, anxiety that hasn’t responded to standard treatment, or cognitive and emotional changes tied to medical or neurologic conditions. You’re looking for thoughtful care that takes the whole picture into account — not quick fixes or trial-and-error prescribing — and a psychiatrist who is comfortable working with complexity.
You may be feeling frustrated that your symptoms don’t fit neatly into a single diagnosis, or that medications you’ve tried haven’t fully helped. Many of my patients come to me after years of managing mood instability, intrusive or obsessive thoughts, anxiety that hasn’t responded to standard treatment, or cognitive and emotional changes tied to medical or neurologic conditions. You’re looking for thoughtful care that takes the whole picture into account — not quick fixes or trial-and-error prescribing — and a psychiatrist who is comfortable working with complexity.
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!
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner 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 a person. 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 and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner 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 a person. 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.
Hope Psychiatric Consultants PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Henderson, NV 89074
From the moment I enrolled in Jacksonville State University where I eventually earned both my master’s and Doctor of Nursing with a specialty in Adult Gerontology Acute Care to my travels to the University of Texas where I earned my specialty in Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As the proud owner of Hope Psychiatric Consultants. The “Hope” in Hope Psychiatric Consultants happily stands for “Handing Out Positive Energy.” I ideated and implemented this telehealth psych platform to give those in need the medical attention and listening ear they need for their mental health.
From the moment I enrolled in Jacksonville State University where I eventually earned both my master’s and Doctor of Nursing with a specialty in Adult Gerontology Acute Care to my travels to the University of Texas where I earned my specialty in Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As the proud owner of Hope Psychiatric Consultants. The “Hope” in Hope Psychiatric Consultants happily stands for “Handing Out Positive Energy.” I ideated and implemented this telehealth psych platform to give those in need the medical attention and listening ear they need for their mental health.
My name is Dr. Magdalena Malloy and I'm a board-certified Doctor of Nursing practice and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with licenses in Nevada, Illinois, and Hawaii. I got my training at Eastern Kentucky University, Winston Salem State University, Duke University Medical Center, a variety of hospital and outpatient settings. I'll help you not only to reduce feeling of stress and depression but also achieve your personal goals. I've been providing mental health care for children, adults, and elderly with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, attention deficit and many other psychiatric disorders.
My name is Dr. Magdalena Malloy and I'm a board-certified Doctor of Nursing practice and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with licenses in Nevada, Illinois, and Hawaii. I got my training at Eastern Kentucky University, Winston Salem State University, Duke University Medical Center, a variety of hospital and outpatient settings. I'll help you not only to reduce feeling of stress and depression but also achieve your personal goals. I've been providing mental health care for children, adults, and elderly with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, attention deficit and many other psychiatric disorders.
Have you been afflicted with anxiety, depression, and mood swings for as long as you can remember? Do you forget what it feels like to be normal? Do you no longer find joy in anything you do? Do you feel alone and isolated? Are you a busy professional running on an empty tank? Do you have parenting guilt because of your mental health? It does not have to be this way. You do not need to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs just to survive. There is a better way. There is a scientific way. It works and has worked for so many of my patients. If you are ready to reconnect with the real you and with life, we are a good match.
Have you been afflicted with anxiety, depression, and mood swings for as long as you can remember? Do you forget what it feels like to be normal? Do you no longer find joy in anything you do? Do you feel alone and isolated? Are you a busy professional running on an empty tank? Do you have parenting guilt because of your mental health? It does not have to be this way. You do not need to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs just to survive. There is a better way. There is a scientific way. It works and has worked for so many of my patients. If you are ready to reconnect with the real you and with life, we are a good match.
See more therapy options for Henderson
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Henderson, NV
90+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Henderson, NV who prioritize treating:
| 95% | Anxiety |
| 91% | Depression |
| 87% | ADHD |
| 84% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 73% | Medication Management |
| 72% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 95% | Aetna |
| 92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Henderson, NV see their clients
| 67% | In Person and Online | |
| 33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 65% | Female | |
| 35% | 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.


