Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV

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 Michael Kuron, MSN, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Kuron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89107
Are you frequently finding yourself unable to stay on task? Do you struggle with concentration, making it challenging to complete your to-do list? If your grades or work performance are suffering as a result, it may be time to address these issues by...
Are you frequently finding yourself unable to stay on task? Do you struggle with concentration, making it challenging to complete your to-do list? If your grades or work performance are suffering as a result, it may be time to address these issues by...
(702) 530-2549 View (702) 530-2549
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89144  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(725) 234-3005 View (725) 234-3005
Photo of Dr. Keesha Davis - ReNewing Health & Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ReNewing Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89121
Dr. Keesha is experienced in the mental health care field, offering personalized and compassionate solutions that promote your holistic well-being. We aim to break down barriers and debunk myths surrounding mental health by fostering understanding, empathy, and support. With a dedicated team of professionals, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and support without fear of judgment or stigma. We cater our services to pediatrics, adolescents, and adults. Our goal is to remove the stigma and normalize mental health care for everyone, especially black and brown patients.
Dr. Keesha is experienced in the mental health care field, offering personalized and compassionate solutions that promote your holistic well-being. We aim to break down barriers and debunk myths surrounding mental health by fostering understanding, empathy, and support. With a dedicated team of professionals, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and support without fear of judgment or stigma. We cater our services to pediatrics, adolescents, and adults. Our goal is to remove the stigma and normalize mental health care for everyone, especially black and brown patients.
(702) 766-9868 x100 View (702) 766-9868 x100
Photo of Fernando Mendez, MD, Psychiatrist
Fernando Mendez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89129
Childhood is a wonderful time of growth and development and we cannot get these precious few years back. Seeing a child psychiatrist is much more than simply receiving a diagnosis. While giving something a name can help (e.g. obtaining services, school interventions), the real strength comes from building a team and making a plan to get your kiddo back on track.
Childhood is a wonderful time of growth and development and we cannot get these precious few years back. Seeing a child psychiatrist is much more than simply receiving a diagnosis. While giving something a name can help (e.g. obtaining services, school interventions), the real strength comes from building a team and making a plan to get your kiddo back on track.
(702) 605-7695 View (702) 605-7695
Photo of Leah Gaitho, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Gaitho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110  (Online Only)
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.
(725) 712-8268 View (725) 712-8268
Photo of Paul Okoronkwo - Freedom Psychiatry Center , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Freedom Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89103
Are you feeling worthless about your life or hopeless about your future? Are you feeling anxious and scared to be in a public place? Do you have trouble focusing much better on your task at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently Accepting new clients. We accept Anthem, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, and United health insurance. Please, check out what other are saying about us at: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling worthless about your life or hopeless about your future? Are you feeling anxious and scared to be in a public place? Do you have trouble focusing much better on your task at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently Accepting new clients. We accept Anthem, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, and United health insurance. Please, check out what other are saying about us at: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
(725) 226-4751 View (725) 226-4751
Photo of Shelley E Ameduri - Ameduri Health Services, LLC, MNS, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ameduri Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNS, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
At Ameduri Health Services, we know you are busy and we are here to help! We offer extended business hours to accommodate work, school, sports, and Saturday appointments by request. Having a bad day? We reserve same-day crisis appointments for those in need. Tried medication after medication and can't find the right one? We offer genesight testing to help guide medication treatment options. We will monitor your progress closely to ensure you are moving forward and make adjustments as needed. We use evidence based prescribing practices to help you achieve stability so that you may live your best life and engage in life with clarity.
At Ameduri Health Services, we know you are busy and we are here to help! We offer extended business hours to accommodate work, school, sports, and Saturday appointments by request. Having a bad day? We reserve same-day crisis appointments for those in need. Tried medication after medication and can't find the right one? We offer genesight testing to help guide medication treatment options. We will monitor your progress closely to ensure you are moving forward and make adjustments as needed. We use evidence based prescribing practices to help you achieve stability so that you may live your best life and engage in life with clarity.
(702) 551-2036 View (702) 551-2036
Photo of Zelluyah Gaitho - ahava mental health services, DNP, PMHNP, APN/GNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ahava mental health services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN/GNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89120
At Ahava Mental Health Services, we take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, addressing not only the symptoms of mental illness, but also the underlying causes. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the diagnosis, and we work closely with our patients to help them achieve lasting recovery. Our care and treatment plans are individualized for each client.
At Ahava Mental Health Services, we take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, addressing not only the symptoms of mental illness, but also the underlying causes. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the diagnosis, and we work closely with our patients to help them achieve lasting recovery. Our care and treatment plans are individualized for each client.
(702) 602-6049 View (702) 602-6049
Photo of Eme Ukot - AB Holistic Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
AB Holistic Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89115
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
(702) 935-1383 View (702) 935-1383
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
Photo of Reimund Serafica, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reimund Serafica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110  (Online Only)
My name is Reimund Serafica, I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. My expertise lies in adult mental health, particularly in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stressor-related disorders, attention deficit disorders, schizophrenia, and psychotic disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health, integrating both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic methods to address the diverse needs of my patients.
My name is Reimund Serafica, I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. My expertise lies in adult mental health, particularly in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stressor-related disorders, attention deficit disorders, schizophrenia, and psychotic disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health, integrating both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic methods to address the diverse needs of my patients.
(323) 508-2308 View (323) 508-2308
Photo of Jacob Mearse, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacob Mearse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110  (Online Only)
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.
(725) 527-8807 View (725) 527-8807
Photo of Onyekachi Emereuwaonu, PMHNP, APRN-CN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Onyekachi Emereuwaonu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89146
Onyekachi is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her nursing career when her last baby was five years old and in kindergarten as an Associate Degree Nurse working at a Post-partum unit in 2007. She eventually returned to school for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Grand Canyon University and Master of Science in Nursing at Maryville University while working as a Nurse Leader in the Neuro unit of another hospital in the metropolitan area of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Onyekachi is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her nursing career when her last baby was five years old and in kindergarten as an Associate Degree Nurse working at a Post-partum unit in 2007. She eventually returned to school for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Grand Canyon University and Master of Science in Nursing at Maryville University while working as a Nurse Leader in the Neuro unit of another hospital in the metropolitan area of Las Vegas, Nevada.
(725) 900-9787 View (725) 900-9787
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 Edwige Hermine Fandio Ngankou, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edwige Hermine Fandio Ngankou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89146
If you are tired of ER visits due to panic attacks, feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed, have racing thoughts, have nightmares or trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing. Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated with no empathy as a person when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered. I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
If you are tired of ER visits due to panic attacks, feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed, have racing thoughts, have nightmares or trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing. Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated with no empathy as a person when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered. I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
(725) 900-0470 View (725) 900-0470
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
Photo of Mark Gomez, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
My ideal client faces moderate to severe anxiety and depression, struggling with daily functioning and significant distress. They need a comprehensive treatment plan that includes evidence-based psychotherapy, medication management, and holistic approaches like mindfulness and lifestyle changes. Their goals are to achieve emotional stability, improve their quality of life, and develop effective coping strategies for stress and negative thoughts. They seek these outcomes to regain control, enhance relationships, and foster inner peace and resilience.
My ideal client faces moderate to severe anxiety and depression, struggling with daily functioning and significant distress. They need a comprehensive treatment plan that includes evidence-based psychotherapy, medication management, and holistic approaches like mindfulness and lifestyle changes. Their goals are to achieve emotional stability, improve their quality of life, and develop effective coping strategies for stress and negative thoughts. They seek these outcomes to regain control, enhance relationships, and foster inner peace and resilience.
(725) 900-7614 View (725) 900-7614
Photo of Ngozi Ugwu, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ngozi Ugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Mental health is a balance between our emotions (feeling), Cognition (thinking) and Behavior (how we act). It is very important to maintain a balance to experience a quality life. We are all going through a very tough time and have been affected one way or the other. The good news is, there is help out there, so you do not have to feel alone or hopeless. Call our office today to get help with your emotions, thoughts and unstable behavior.
Mental health is a balance between our emotions (feeling), Cognition (thinking) and Behavior (how we act). It is very important to maintain a balance to experience a quality life. We are all going through a very tough time and have been affected one way or the other. The good news is, there is help out there, so you do not have to feel alone or hopeless. Call our office today to get help with your emotions, thoughts and unstable behavior.
(725) 500-0361 View (725) 500-0361
Photo of Rosette S Makon, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, WCC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rosette S Makon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, WCC, RN
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89121
I believe, "A healthy person is a disabled on probation." With this being said, I treat my patients with respect by utilizing a holistic patient-centered approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. Although certified to provide psychiatric care across the life span, I prefer to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management to patients 12+ of age. I offer to assist you with effective and affordable treatments. I perform periodic evaluations with blood/urine tests for disease monitoring. I am there when needed.
I believe, "A healthy person is a disabled on probation." With this being said, I treat my patients with respect by utilizing a holistic patient-centered approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. Although certified to provide psychiatric care across the life span, I prefer to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management to patients 12+ of age. I offer to assist you with effective and affordable treatments. I perform periodic evaluations with blood/urine tests for disease monitoring. I am there when needed.
(702) 935-5333 View (702) 935-5333
1
...

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.