Psychiatrists in Pahrump, NV
Inspire yourself to be a better you. "Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you are going." "Healing isn't about changing who you are, it's about changing your relationship to who you are. A fundamental part of that is honoring how you feel," Susanne H. "Don't be ashamed of your story. It will inspire others." "You may have to fight a battle more than once, " Margaret Thatcher. "There is no shame in taking medication for mental illness. Do whatever works for you." "A child's mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support," Kate M.
Inspire yourself to be a better you. "Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you are going." "Healing isn't about changing who you are, it's about changing your relationship to who you are. A fundamental part of that is honoring how you feel," Susanne H. "Don't be ashamed of your story. It will inspire others." "You may have to fight a battle more than once, " Margaret Thatcher. "There is no shame in taking medication for mental illness. Do whatever works for you." "A child's mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support," Kate M.
Dr Zedek helps patients with a range of conditions including but not limited to depression, ADHD, anxiety, panic disorders, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. With his extensive knowledge in pharmacology, he effectively identifies and treats mental health disorders to help bring the patients to a higher level of functioning.
Dr Zedek helps patients with a range of conditions including but not limited to depression, ADHD, anxiety, panic disorders, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. With his extensive knowledge in pharmacology, he effectively identifies and treats mental health disorders to help bring the patients to a higher level of functioning.
Recovery Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pahrump, NV 89048
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice. I have been in the field of Mental Health for over 15 years, with an extensive experience in the treatment of mental health disorders ranging from Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Impulse Control Disorder, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, to Substance Abuse. The treatment modalities I offer include: Medication management (Pharmacotherapy) and Psychotherapy.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice. I have been in the field of Mental Health for over 15 years, with an extensive experience in the treatment of mental health disorders ranging from Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Impulse Control Disorder, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, to Substance Abuse. The treatment modalities I offer include: Medication management (Pharmacotherapy) and Psychotherapy.
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pahrump, NV 89060
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/NV
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/NV
Dr. Ashly J. Koehler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pahrump, NV 89048
I am accepting new clients. Do you need an empathetic ear to listen and address your needs? Developing and maintaining therapeutic relationships with my clients is a priority and privilege. I am doctorate prepared mental health practitioner with extensive experience in managing acute and chronic mental health conditions. I graduated with my doctorate and mental health certification from Frontier Nursing University, Kentucky.
I am accepting new clients. Do you need an empathetic ear to listen and address your needs? Developing and maintaining therapeutic relationships with my clients is a priority and privilege. I am doctorate prepared mental health practitioner with extensive experience in managing acute and chronic mental health conditions. I graduated with my doctorate and mental health certification from Frontier Nursing University, Kentucky.
Dr. Cassandra Anderson-Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, CCM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pahrump, NV 89060
I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. My experience spans from my time as a RN to my role as an APRN, during which I have provided psychiatric and mental health services across diverse settings, including inpatient units, outpatient practices, transitional living facilities, and community mental health centers. I take pride in being a culturally sensitive "people person," and I approach each client with an open, non-judgmental attitude. I understand that, as humans, we all strive to live our best lives and become the best versions of ourselves.
I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. My experience spans from my time as a RN to my role as an APRN, during which I have provided psychiatric and mental health services across diverse settings, including inpatient units, outpatient practices, transitional living facilities, and community mental health centers. I take pride in being a culturally sensitive "people person," and I approach each client with an open, non-judgmental attitude. I understand that, as humans, we all strive to live our best lives and become the best versions of ourselves.
Immediate Availability ! Ryan is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment with our patients, prioritizing the importance of listening to their concerns and exploring a variety of treatment options together. Our clinic is proud to offer a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic assessments, medication management, and brief supportive therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Immediate Availability ! Ryan is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment with our patients, prioritizing the importance of listening to their concerns and exploring a variety of treatment options together. Our clinic is proud to offer a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic assessments, medication management, and brief supportive therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
We provide the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Use Disorders exclusively through secure online video appointments. It is a scientific approach to problem drinking that uses the FDA-approved drug Naltrexone to gradually reduce your alcohol use. We will help you regain control over alcohol, which you can use to maintain abstinence or drink in moderation.
We provide the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Use Disorders exclusively through secure online video appointments. It is a scientific approach to problem drinking that uses the FDA-approved drug Naltrexone to gradually reduce your alcohol use. We will help you regain control over alcohol, which you can use to maintain abstinence or drink in moderation.
Sharlotte Tay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89134 (Online Only)
Sharlotte is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan in outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals. Her specialties include Anxiety disorders, Depression disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactive disorder, Panic disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Adjustment disorders, and more.
Sharlotte is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan in outpatient clinics and inpatient hospitals. Her specialties include Anxiety disorders, Depression disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactive disorder, Panic disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, Adjustment disorders, and more.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, CRNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89169 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Nevada for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I am experienced working with Children and Adolescents as well as Adults. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Insurances accepted.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Nevada for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I am experienced working with Children and Adolescents as well as Adults. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Insurances accepted.
Online Psychiatrists
Olive Branch Psychiatrics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89131
I believe that the broken heal the broken and that healing does not have to happen alone. I utilize mindfulness along with anecdotal and real-life approaches to support clients in their own work toward transformation, wholeness, and healing. My practice style is integrative where I seek the root cause and consider medication, supplements, psychotherapy, and other healing modalities. After several years of practicing adult medicine, I furthered my training to be a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Olive Branch Psychiatrics was born when I couldn't help but see the disconnect between physical health and mental health.
I believe that the broken heal the broken and that healing does not have to happen alone. I utilize mindfulness along with anecdotal and real-life approaches to support clients in their own work toward transformation, wholeness, and healing. My practice style is integrative where I seek the root cause and consider medication, supplements, psychotherapy, and other healing modalities. After several years of practicing adult medicine, I furthered my training to be a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Olive Branch Psychiatrics was born when I couldn't help but see the disconnect between physical health and mental health.
Hi there, My name is Samantha Sorgentoni, D.O. I pursued a career in psychiatry with a deep desire to help people struggling with mental health issues, and to restore their wellness and control over their lives. I believe that building an authentic relationship with my patients is crucial for providing effective treatment. When you visit my office, I will take the time to listen to your concerns and foster a safe environment for you to express your emotions without judgement. We will work together to develop treatment plans that address all aspects of your health.
Hi there, My name is Samantha Sorgentoni, D.O. I pursued a career in psychiatry with a deep desire to help people struggling with mental health issues, and to restore their wellness and control over their lives. I believe that building an authentic relationship with my patients is crucial for providing effective treatment. When you visit my office, I will take the time to listen to your concerns and foster a safe environment for you to express your emotions without judgement. We will work together to develop treatment plans that address all aspects of your health.
Regency Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
North Las Vegas, NV 89081 (Online Only)
Nelson Kwowi, PMHNP- Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients with mental health conditions. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Arlington and worked at JPS Hospital’s Department of Emergency Psychiatry for 5+ years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Nelson has worked with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, Schizophrenia, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing compassionate and supportive care.
Nelson Kwowi, PMHNP- Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatry to serve pediatric, adolescent, and adult clients with mental health conditions. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Arlington and worked at JPS Hospital’s Department of Emergency Psychiatry for 5+ years. He then completed his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Nelson has worked with clients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, Schizophrenia, and addiction disorders. He focuses on providing compassionate and supportive care.
Shift Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNFNP, PMHNP, CNP, BC
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89052
My personal goal is to shift the stigma of mental health. Provide services to rethink how we treat and manage mental health. My current practice is in Oklahoma I like to state I work to put myself out of business; meaning I want to see people get to their best self . The outcomes in my practice have been positive, let me assist you in a treatment plan where you are empowered in your care.
My personal goal is to shift the stigma of mental health. Provide services to rethink how we treat and manage mental health. My current practice is in Oklahoma I like to state I work to put myself out of business; meaning I want to see people get to their best self . The outcomes in my practice have been positive, let me assist you in a treatment plan where you are empowered in your care.
Courtney Bolick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, RN
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89121 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Nevada. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Nevada. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89123 (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.
Shantel Escobar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89101 (Online Only)
Please visit my website at www.healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.
Please visit my website at www.healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.
Dr. Wally Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henderson, NV 89011
Dr. Wally Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). He completed his Doctorate of Nursing Practice program at Azusa Pacific University. He is welcoming new members in person or via video appointment. He specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He focuses on medication management in combination with psycho-education. Please, visit www.essentialclinicnv.com
Dr. Wally Joseph is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). He completed his Doctorate of Nursing Practice program at Azusa Pacific University. He is welcoming new members in person or via video appointment. He specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. He focuses on medication management in combination with psycho-education. Please, visit www.essentialclinicnv.com
Mercy O Oyerinde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89117 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Mercy, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Do you feel like you are struggling with your mental health lately? Do not suffer in silence! Let's work through this hurdle together and experience a genuine approach to mental health care through clinical treatment and psychotherapy.
Hi there, I'm Mercy, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Do you feel like you are struggling with your mental health lately? Do not suffer in silence! Let's work through this hurdle together and experience a genuine approach to mental health care through clinical treatment and psychotherapy.
Mind Matters PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Dive into a space where mental wellness is paramount and every story is cherished. At Mind Matters PLLC, your journey to health and understanding is our shared mission. Together, let’s chart a path to a brighter, more balanced tomorrow. Mind Matters PLLC was founded to enhance mental health access for Nevada's rural, urban, and underserved populations. Our compassionate team is a testament to excellence and advocacy in patient care. Committed to therapeutic communication and active listening, we wholeheartedly serve children to senior individuals.
Dive into a space where mental wellness is paramount and every story is cherished. At Mind Matters PLLC, your journey to health and understanding is our shared mission. Together, let’s chart a path to a brighter, more balanced tomorrow. Mind Matters PLLC was founded to enhance mental health access for Nevada's rural, urban, and underserved populations. Our compassionate team is a testament to excellence and advocacy in patient care. Committed to therapeutic communication and active listening, we wholeheartedly serve children to senior individuals.
See more therapy options for Pahrump
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pahrump, NV
< 10
Psychiatrists in Pahrump, NV who prioritize treating:
86% | Anxiety |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Depression |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Substance Use |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in Pahrump, NV see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pahrump?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.