Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV

Photo of Valan Kam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valan Kam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110  (Online Only)
My name is Valan Kam, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Las Vegas, Nevada. I have been practicing for 5 years now as an NP and prior to that I worked as an RN in the local psychiatric hospitals and the ER setting. I have always been in mental health, because I have such a passion and love for mental health and my community. I believe in forming a trusting and therapeutic relationship with my clients and to always hear the client out because it's their treatment and they know themselves better than anyone.
My name is Valan Kam, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Las Vegas, Nevada. I have been practicing for 5 years now as an NP and prior to that I worked as an RN in the local psychiatric hospitals and the ER setting. I have always been in mental health, because I have such a passion and love for mental health and my community. I believe in forming a trusting and therapeutic relationship with my clients and to always hear the client out because it's their treatment and they know themselves better than anyone.
(323) 508-2308 View (323) 508-2308
Photo of Rodney Fox, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rodney Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Specializing in comprehensive care for the LGBTQI+ and diverse communities, my practice uniquely combines medication management with therapy. Facing challenges like anxiety, impulsivity, or emotional ups and downs? These issues, often exacerbated by societal pressures and inequalities, need a specialized approach. I focus on ADHD and anxiety, offering support that integrates medication and therapy to navigate these experiences.
Specializing in comprehensive care for the LGBTQI+ and diverse communities, my practice uniquely combines medication management with therapy. Facing challenges like anxiety, impulsivity, or emotional ups and downs? These issues, often exacerbated by societal pressures and inequalities, need a specialized approach. I focus on ADHD and anxiety, offering support that integrates medication and therapy to navigate these experiences.
(725) 237-5770 View (725) 237-5770
Photo of Terry Lynn Bartmus, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Terry Lynn Bartmus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89118
I am a nurse practitioner 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 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.
(725) 745-2714 View (725) 745-2714
Photo of Timothy Jeider - Nevada Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Nevada Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89146  (Online Only)
Nevada Mental Health’s mission is for people to experience the patience and attention we'd want for our own family. No more 5 or 10 minute visits, we take our time.
Nevada Mental Health’s mission is for people to experience the patience and attention we'd want for our own family. No more 5 or 10 minute visits, we take our time.
(702) 819-8843 View (702) 819-8843
Photo of Jessica Hubbard, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89146
Providing mental health services that give patients the time and attention that they need and deserve is my ultimate goal. I have a passion for mental health and I want to make a difference in the patients I serve.
Providing mental health services that give patients the time and attention that they need and deserve is my ultimate goal. I have a passion for mental health and I want to make a difference in the patients I serve.
(725) 999-4907 View (725) 999-4907
Photo of Jennifer McCarthy - High Sierra Behavioral Health, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
High Sierra Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89123  (Online Only)
Are you a busy adult who is tired of waiting weeks or even months to get an appointment to see your prescriber for a simple refill of psychiatric medication? Are you sick of spending hours sitting in a crowded waiting room while you are missing work or time away from your family or studies? Do you have a therapist you love but who can’t prescribe your medication?
Are you a busy adult who is tired of waiting weeks or even months to get an appointment to see your prescriber for a simple refill of psychiatric medication? Are you sick of spending hours sitting in a crowded waiting room while you are missing work or time away from your family or studies? Do you have a therapist you love but who can’t prescribe your medication?
(800) 777-1420 View (800) 777-1420
Photo of Michelle Giddings, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Giddings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
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.
(702) 930-2573 View (702) 930-2573
Photo of Rommel Cinco - Nippon Clinic, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nippon Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Las Vegas, Nevada. I hold Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Oregon Health Sciences University and Master of Science degree in Nursing from Maryville University at St. Louis, Missouri. I have worked in the nursing profession since 2000. I’m currently serving the U.S. Army Reserves. I have a passion for helping people of various backgrounds. I have experienced working with acutely ill adult clients in several correctional facilities.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Las Vegas, Nevada. I hold Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Oregon Health Sciences University and Master of Science degree in Nursing from Maryville University at St. Louis, Missouri. I have worked in the nursing profession since 2000. I’m currently serving the U.S. Army Reserves. I have a passion for helping people of various backgrounds. I have experienced working with acutely ill adult clients in several correctional facilities.
(702) 899-8470 View (702) 899-8470
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110  (Online Only)
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.
(725) 302-2942 View (725) 302-2942
Photo of David Linden, MD, Psychiatrist
David Linden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89107
My mission is to help families find solutions to life's challenges & assist in finding healthier ways to achieve a happier life. Specializing in affordable psychiatry & pain management services,I'll work with your family to do this. I also work with chronic pain patients understanding that 30-40% of chronic pain patients are also dealing with depression & the side effects of constant pain. We will discuss & work through those deep issues that may be at the core of your chronic pain.
My mission is to help families find solutions to life's challenges & assist in finding healthier ways to achieve a happier life. Specializing in affordable psychiatry & pain management services,I'll work with your family to do this. I also work with chronic pain patients understanding that 30-40% of chronic pain patients are also dealing with depression & the side effects of constant pain. We will discuss & work through those deep issues that may be at the core of your chronic pain.
(702) 919-5839 View (702) 919-5839
Photo of LaShaun Perry - Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness, MSN,  , APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, , APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Now Accepting New Patients! Our Clinic offers Therapy General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With therapy and/or medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! Our Clinic offers Therapy General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With therapy and/or medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
(702) 710-5562 View (702) 710-5562
Photo of Nelius Njuguna, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nelius Njuguna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89121  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! I'm a dedicated dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult/Geriatrics Nurse Practitioner, specializing in diagnosing and treating a range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression and substance use.
Hello and Welcome! I'm a dedicated dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult/Geriatrics Nurse Practitioner, specializing in diagnosing and treating a range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression and substance use.
(725) 257-4343 View (725) 257-4343
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110  (Online Only)
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.
(725) 485-8624 View (725) 485-8624
Photo of Erik W Bjorndal, DO, Psychiatrist
Erik W Bjorndal
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89128
You’re ready to reconnect with your best self, perform at your peak, and maximize your potential. You know how it feels to create and perform in your flow state: you're completely in the moment, doing what you love, at your best. In the studio, your creativity flows and finds its voice. On the field or in the ring, your practice and training are a seamless part of you. Professionally, you can see all the moving parts and orchestrate them together in the most optimal way. Yet, you’re having trouble connecting with that version of yourself. You’re getting stuck in your head and not performing at the level you know is in you.
You’re ready to reconnect with your best self, perform at your peak, and maximize your potential. You know how it feels to create and perform in your flow state: you're completely in the moment, doing what you love, at your best. In the studio, your creativity flows and finds its voice. On the field or in the ring, your practice and training are a seamless part of you. Professionally, you can see all the moving parts and orchestrate them together in the most optimal way. Yet, you’re having trouble connecting with that version of yourself. You’re getting stuck in your head and not performing at the level you know is in you.
(702) 819-8936 View (702) 819-8936
Photo of Sandra Ramsey | Spravato Treatment Provider, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Ramsey | Spravato Treatment Provider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
My practice is integrated care for adults (psychiatric medication management, psychedelic esketamine (Spravato) treatments, primary care, weight loss injection therapy and asthetics). I am board certified in medical and psychiatric care. I understand that you are coming to me at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. I will listen to your concerns without judgement and provide a safe space to help you overcome your unique challenges. I am here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood.
My practice is integrated care for adults (psychiatric medication management, psychedelic esketamine (Spravato) treatments, primary care, weight loss injection therapy and asthetics). I am board certified in medical and psychiatric care. I understand that you are coming to me at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. I will listen to your concerns without judgement and provide a safe space to help you overcome your unique challenges. I am here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood.
(702) 996-8528 View (702) 996-8528
Photo of Giovanni Villegas, DO, Psychiatrist
Giovanni Villegas
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89103
It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on improving yourself for a while, it is my mission to help you achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and overall happiness. Although my training is in general psychiatry, addiction recovery, and psychotherapy, our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on improving yourself for a while, it is my mission to help you achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and overall happiness. Although my training is in general psychiatry, addiction recovery, and psychotherapy, our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
(725) 227-9613 View (725) 227-9613
Tanner Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89103
Are you experiencing any sadness, anxiety, PTSD, mood swings, anger, stress, grief, low self-esteem, or loneliness, etc. ? If so, seek help today! We will use clinical expertise to develop an individualized care plan to meet your needs. Accepting new patients, while providing convenient services via telehealth. Call today to begin an individualized, evidence-based treatment plan to accommodate your mental health concerns. Let's get you on the path to improving your lifestyle and quality of life..
Are you experiencing any sadness, anxiety, PTSD, mood swings, anger, stress, grief, low self-esteem, or loneliness, etc. ? If so, seek help today! We will use clinical expertise to develop an individualized care plan to meet your needs. Accepting new patients, while providing convenient services via telehealth. Call today to begin an individualized, evidence-based treatment plan to accommodate your mental health concerns. Let's get you on the path to improving your lifestyle and quality of life..
(725) 208-5213 x89103 View (725) 208-5213 x89103
Photo of Nicole C Okeke, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole C Okeke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89107
I am a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatric Mental health. I also have a license as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my post graduate training from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and University of South Alabama, Mobile Alabama. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for over fourteen years. I am a caring, compassionate, and competent psychiatric nurse provider committed to providing individually appropriate health care to you and your family. My goal is to help improve your mental health as well as your overall health.
I am a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatric Mental health. I also have a license as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my post graduate training from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and University of South Alabama, Mobile Alabama. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for over fourteen years. I am a caring, compassionate, and competent psychiatric nurse provider committed to providing individually appropriate health care to you and your family. My goal is to help improve your mental health as well as your overall health.
(702) 766-3728 View (702) 766-3728
Photo of F Matthew JOHNSON, MD, Psychiatrist
F Matthew JOHNSON
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89145  (Online Only)
Patients that I see want to get better and find out why they are having problems. My practice is largely devoted to mood and thought disorders. I am a minimalist when it comes to using psychiatric medications. I am often seeing folks who are either over-medicated and/or on the wrong types of medications. The 2 letters after my surname are M and D. To me, these letters not only stand for Medical Doctor, but almost more important to me, is they stand for Medical Detective.
Patients that I see want to get better and find out why they are having problems. My practice is largely devoted to mood and thought disorders. I am a minimalist when it comes to using psychiatric medications. I am often seeing folks who are either over-medicated and/or on the wrong types of medications. The 2 letters after my surname are M and D. To me, these letters not only stand for Medical Doctor, but almost more important to me, is they stand for Medical Detective.
(844) 390-3778 View (844) 390-3778
Photo of April Sullivan - Prestige Mental Health, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prestige Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89144
My personal approach to understanding your mental health condition is what makes me different. I spend the extra time to understand and address these issues individually. To create the kind of practice I want for patients, I operate a “concierge-like” psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven one. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity and on personalized service and accessibility over volume.
My personal approach to understanding your mental health condition is what makes me different. I spend the extra time to understand and address these issues individually. To create the kind of practice I want for patients, I operate a “concierge-like” psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven one. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity and on personalized service and accessibility over volume.
(702) 887-1878 View (702) 887-1878
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
77% ADHD
74% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Las Vegas?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.