Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV

Photo of Dr. Nicole Gregorio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Nicole Gregorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89117
Are you feeling overwhelmed by non-stop worry, racing thoughts, and an overpowering sense of unease? Is anxiety impacting your daily life, making it difficult to concentrate, sleep, or engage in activities you once enjoyed? If the weight of anxiety is bearing down on you, know that you're not alone. Are you experiencing a persistent low mood, a loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and making every day a bit more challenging? Perhaps you're carrying the weight of past experience. Do you feel haunted by memories that affect your present?
Are you feeling overwhelmed by non-stop worry, racing thoughts, and an overpowering sense of unease? Is anxiety impacting your daily life, making it difficult to concentrate, sleep, or engage in activities you once enjoyed? If the weight of anxiety is bearing down on you, know that you're not alone. Are you experiencing a persistent low mood, a loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and making every day a bit more challenging? Perhaps you're carrying the weight of past experience. Do you feel haunted by memories that affect your present?
(702) 830-9588 View (702) 830-9588
Chau Pham
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. With extensive experience treating a wide range of conditions - including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other complex disorders - I take a holistic approach to mental health care. Committed to providing comprehensive treatment, I incorporate the bio-psycho-social model in developing personalized treatment plans. A firm believer in the importance of early intervention, I work to create lasting, positive impacts, particularly for younger patients, setting the foundation for a brighter, healthier future.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. With extensive experience treating a wide range of conditions - including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other complex disorders - I take a holistic approach to mental health care. Committed to providing comprehensive treatment, I incorporate the bio-psycho-social model in developing personalized treatment plans. A firm believer in the importance of early intervention, I work to create lasting, positive impacts, particularly for younger patients, setting the foundation for a brighter, healthier future.
(725) 257-1537 View (725) 257-1537
Photo of John Reitano, Psychiatrist, MD
John Reitano
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Dr. John Reitano, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist trained at The Hospital of The University of Pennsylvania. He has 25 years of experience treating patients in all types of settings including private practice, community mental health, inpatient, couples, and family therapy as well as unique situations involving family businesses and the workplace.
Dr. John Reitano, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist trained at The Hospital of The University of Pennsylvania. He has 25 years of experience treating patients in all types of settings including private practice, community mental health, inpatient, couples, and family therapy as well as unique situations involving family businesses and the workplace.
(725) 696-9240 View (725) 696-9240
Photo of Rosette S Makon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, WCC, RN
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
Photo of Dr. Kimbley Lau, Psychiatrist, DO, PMH-C
Dr. Kimbley Lau
Psychiatrist, DO, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Desert Blossom Psychiatry was started from the belief that humans are able to create beauty and peace in the face of hardship and pain, like flowers growing in the harsh desert. Our patients are people who are trying to make changes or navigate transitions, but perhaps aren't sure how or find that their past experiences are keeping them from moving forward. I want to provide a space to process all of that to help you move forward.
Desert Blossom Psychiatry was started from the belief that humans are able to create beauty and peace in the face of hardship and pain, like flowers growing in the harsh desert. Our patients are people who are trying to make changes or navigate transitions, but perhaps aren't sure how or find that their past experiences are keeping them from moving forward. I want to provide a space to process all of that to help you move forward.
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Photo of Michael Kuron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, NP
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...
(725) 255-3588 View (725) 255-3588
Photo of Katie Ralston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Katie Ralston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89148
We provide a non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered on your mental health journey. Our approach is centered around you—your needs, your goals, and your unique experiences. We believe that true healing comes from collaboration, which is why our treatment plans are tailored specifically to your individual needs. Dream Psychiatry helps patients achieve better psychological well-being and quality of life.
We provide a non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered on your mental health journey. Our approach is centered around you—your needs, your goals, and your unique experiences. We believe that true healing comes from collaboration, which is why our treatment plans are tailored specifically to your individual needs. Dream Psychiatry helps patients achieve better psychological well-being and quality of life.
(702) 766-5586 View (702) 766-5586
Photo of Kristy Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC CNS
Kristy Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC CNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89146
Worthiness has no prerequisites (Brene Brown) : My practice is based upon Victor Frankl's book called Man's search for meaning. Whether you feel lonely, afraid or helpless we are here for a purpose and I am here to help you find that purpose and balance so you can live your best life. I have gone to Brene Brown"s workshops for therapists and have embraced her idealistic ways for treatment. "When we spend our lives waiting until we are perfect or bullet proof before we walk into the arena of life, we also turn our backs to the gifts and those unique contributions that only we can make." Brene Brown
Worthiness has no prerequisites (Brene Brown) : My practice is based upon Victor Frankl's book called Man's search for meaning. Whether you feel lonely, afraid or helpless we are here for a purpose and I am here to help you find that purpose and balance so you can live your best life. I have gone to Brene Brown"s workshops for therapists and have embraced her idealistic ways for treatment. "When we spend our lives waiting until we are perfect or bullet proof before we walk into the arena of life, we also turn our backs to the gifts and those unique contributions that only we can make." Brene Brown
(702) 766-5949 View (702) 766-5949
Photo of Meilan Daguman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Meilan Daguman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
I am a Psychiatric and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience in Las Vegas. I specialize in ADHD, binge eating disorder, addiction, bipolar disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, and other psychiatric conditions. My approach integrates mental and physical health to support overall well-being. I provide medication management and psychotherapy to help patients develop social skills, manage stress, and improve their daily lives. Additionally, I offer weight management services, combining medication and coaching to support wellness goals. My focus is on personalized, compassionate care to help patients achieve a heal
I am a Psychiatric and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience in Las Vegas. I specialize in ADHD, binge eating disorder, addiction, bipolar disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, and other psychiatric conditions. My approach integrates mental and physical health to support overall well-being. I provide medication management and psychotherapy to help patients develop social skills, manage stress, and improve their daily lives. Additionally, I offer weight management services, combining medication and coaching to support wellness goals. My focus is on personalized, compassionate care to help patients achieve a heal
(702) 899-8470 View (702) 899-8470
Photo of Nina Parikh, Psychiatrist, DO
Nina Parikh
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Hi there, it’s so nice to meet you! My private practice, Lucid Psychiatry, specializes in holistic psychiatry services for children, adolescents and young adults in Nevada. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and exceptional patient care here at Lucid.
Hi there, it’s so nice to meet you! My private practice, Lucid Psychiatry, specializes in holistic psychiatry services for children, adolescents and young adults in Nevada. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and exceptional patient care here at Lucid.
(702) 935-4564 View (702) 935-4564
Photo of Trae Stewart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Trae Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Telehealth and In Person Appointments available for those in Las Vegas area. Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders.
Telehealth and In Person Appointments available for those in Las Vegas area. Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders.
(702) 887-1601 View (702) 887-1601
Photo of Sarah Riopelle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarah Riopelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My approach to mental healthcare is centered on building strong, compassionate relationships with my patients, focusing on personalized care that addresses both the mind and the body. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders, using a holistic approach that integrates evidence-based therapies and medication management to support lasting well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My approach to mental healthcare is centered on building strong, compassionate relationships with my patients, focusing on personalized care that addresses both the mind and the body. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders, using a holistic approach that integrates evidence-based therapies and medication management to support lasting well-being.
(702) 941-8841 View (702) 941-8841
Photo of Amy Lyn Wise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARPN-BC, PMHNP-B
Amy Lyn Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARPN-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now accepting NV Medicaid Anthem & Molina Medicaid. Amy specializes in providing psychiatric care to adults are navigating the complexities of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Her ideal clients are individuals and families seeking to understand and transform their mental health through evidence-based approaches, including medication management combined with CBT and mindfulness practices. They are looking for supportive, client-centered care that respects their unique experiences and fosters growth and well-being.
Now accepting NV Medicaid Anthem & Molina Medicaid. Amy specializes in providing psychiatric care to adults are navigating the complexities of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Her ideal clients are individuals and families seeking to understand and transform their mental health through evidence-based approaches, including medication management combined with CBT and mindfulness practices. They are looking for supportive, client-centered care that respects their unique experiences and fosters growth and well-being.
(725) 241-9400 View (725) 241-9400
Photo of Andrea Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP
Andrea Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult experiencing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders. They seek clarity, stability, and empowerment through personalized care. They want a compassionate provider who understands their journey and can guide them toward achieving mental wellness.
My ideal client is an adult experiencing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders. They seek clarity, stability, and empowerment through personalized care. They want a compassionate provider who understands their journey and can guide them toward achieving mental wellness.
(702) 209-0968 View (702) 209-0968
Photo of Munachi Ezenwata, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Munachi Ezenwata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110
Munachi, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, is deeply committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. Her approach is collaborative, partnering with patients to guide their journey towards living a healthier fulfilling life. She has skills in multiple disciplines, including occupational health, primary care, pain management, psychiatry, and public health. Her treatment approach is holistic, addressing not just symptoms but also considering the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a patient's life.
Munachi, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, is deeply committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. Her approach is collaborative, partnering with patients to guide their journey towards living a healthier fulfilling life. She has skills in multiple disciplines, including occupational health, primary care, pain management, psychiatry, and public health. Her treatment approach is holistic, addressing not just symptoms but also considering the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a patient's life.
(725) 237-5718 View (725) 237-5718
Photo of Chukwuemeka DeRoy Obilor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chukwuemeka DeRoy Obilor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is DeRoy Obilor, and I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing individualized mental health care. My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication. I specialize in treating ADHD, mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorders, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.
My name is DeRoy Obilor, and I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing individualized mental health care. My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication. I specialize in treating ADHD, mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety and panic disorders, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.
(725) 525-6331 View (725) 525-6331
Photo of Dr. Martin Binyange, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, MPH
Dr. Martin Binyange
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Here at Mental Health Counseling and Wellness Center, our mission is to work with you to help provide a better physical, emotional, and mental health for good quality of life in you, your family, and community. Together we can commence on that journey. We are a Psychiatric and Counseling office that provides evidenced based diagnosis and treatment for a diversity of mental health illnesses. We provide comprehensive diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy/counseling. Addiction and substance abuse treatment are also available. Your well being is our main priority.
Here at Mental Health Counseling and Wellness Center, our mission is to work with you to help provide a better physical, emotional, and mental health for good quality of life in you, your family, and community. Together we can commence on that journey. We are a Psychiatric and Counseling office that provides evidenced based diagnosis and treatment for a diversity of mental health illnesses. We provide comprehensive diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy/counseling. Addiction and substance abuse treatment are also available. Your well being is our main priority.
(702) 978-8590 View (702) 978-8590
Photo of Reza Goravanchi, Psychiatrist, MD
Reza Goravanchi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Life is beautiful. Life is precious. Life is amazing. But life can also be stressful and tough. The trick is to learn how to face the hardships and accept them without allowing them to keep us down. I have found, that is where the struggle lies for most people. We all want to be happy and I try to help my patients achieve just that.
Life is beautiful. Life is precious. Life is amazing. But life can also be stressful and tough. The trick is to learn how to face the hardships and accept them without allowing them to keep us down. I have found, that is where the struggle lies for most people. We all want to be happy and I try to help my patients achieve just that.
(725) 208-5637 View (725) 208-5637
Photo of Kelly Koehler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Kelly Koehler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89119
Kelly Koehler is a compassionate and experienced nurse practitioner with over a decade in healthcare. After earning her Master of Science in Nursing, Kelly achieved dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Kelly has spent the past 10 years working in a critical care setting
Kelly Koehler is a compassionate and experienced nurse practitioner with over a decade in healthcare. After earning her Master of Science in Nursing, Kelly achieved dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Kelly has spent the past 10 years working in a critical care setting
(702) 276-7110 View (702) 276-7110
Photo of Nicole Entenza - Summerland Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Summerland Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89128
Our team of doctors have a lot of experience treating a variety of clients. We have found that many of our clients have more than just one diagnosis. They need specialized treatment from someone who knows how to treat each diagnosis independently as well as multiple diagnoses together. When you don't know what is wrong but are ready to start feeling like you again, this is where you start.
Our team of doctors have a lot of experience treating a variety of clients. We have found that many of our clients have more than just one diagnosis. They need specialized treatment from someone who knows how to treat each diagnosis independently as well as multiple diagnoses together. When you don't know what is wrong but are ready to start feeling like you again, this is where you start.
(725) 765-4715 View (725) 765-4715
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See more therapy options for Las Vegas

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV

200+

Average cost per session

$195

Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
84% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
69% Medication Management
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% 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.