Psychiatrists in Reno, NV

Photo of Annette Rothman, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annette Rothman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89509
My practice is focused on the diagnosis and treatment of youth with ADHD. I am accepting new patients and provide care on the weekends. I am an Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN) in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing. I have extensive experience in diagnosis and treatment of youth with various psychiatric conditions, working in both inpatient and outpatient youth psychiatric settings. My clinical interests are varied but I have a strong interest in the treatment of ADHD. I operate my practice completely on my own, intentionally keeping it small so I am able to provide a "concierge" level of care for my patients and families.
My practice is focused on the diagnosis and treatment of youth with ADHD. I am accepting new patients and provide care on the weekends. I am an Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN) in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing. I have extensive experience in diagnosis and treatment of youth with various psychiatric conditions, working in both inpatient and outpatient youth psychiatric settings. My clinical interests are varied but I have a strong interest in the treatment of ADHD. I operate my practice completely on my own, intentionally keeping it small so I am able to provide a "concierge" level of care for my patients and families.
(775) 243-2284 View (775) 243-2284
Photo of David Walsh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89501  (Online Only)
My primary area of interest is in working with individuals and families struggling with addiction, and supporting those in recovery through smart medication management and ongoing therapy. My belief in the recovery model informs my empathic yet pragmatic approach to behavioral healthcare.
My primary area of interest is in working with individuals and families struggling with addiction, and supporting those in recovery through smart medication management and ongoing therapy. My belief in the recovery model informs my empathic yet pragmatic approach to behavioral healthcare.
(775) 587-2376 View (775) 587-2376
Photo of Yvette Kaunismaki - Memor Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Memor Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89521
Memor Health believes in treating the whole person. That is why we offer multiple modalities to treat mental health. We offer medication management and psychotherapy. And we are now proud to offer rTMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), esketamine (Spravato) and Ketamine treatment. We offer all our services in a competent and compassionate environment. Please call to find out more. We are here to help.
Memor Health believes in treating the whole person. That is why we offer multiple modalities to treat mental health. We offer medication management and psychotherapy. And we are now proud to offer rTMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), esketamine (Spravato) and Ketamine treatment. We offer all our services in a competent and compassionate environment. Please call to find out more. We are here to help.
(775) 587-1940 View (775) 587-1940
Photo of Chikodili O Oji, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Chikodili O Oji
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89509  (Online Only)
My name is Chikodili Oji, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) in Houston Texas, Nevada and New Mexico. My goal is to assist individuals like you overcome life challenges and improve their overall well-being.
My name is Chikodili Oji, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) in Houston Texas, Nevada and New Mexico. My goal is to assist individuals like you overcome life challenges and improve their overall well-being.
(775) 363-7952 View (775) 363-7952
Photo of Rose Angelica Parizo - Inner Solutions Psychotherapy, LLC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inner Solutions Psychotherapy, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reno, NV 89501
Rose Parizo is a nurse practitioner who has been in the metal health field for over a decade and is now in private practice providing Medication Managment for your needs. Medication Managment will help with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other challenges. Rose provides services in both English and Spanish and I is looking forward to meeting you.
Rose Parizo is a nurse practitioner who has been in the metal health field for over a decade and is now in private practice providing Medication Managment for your needs. Medication Managment will help with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other challenges. Rose provides services in both English and Spanish and I is looking forward to meeting you.
(775) 204-8246 View (775) 204-8246
Photo of Nate Mellum - Mellum Family Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mellum Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89501
Nate Mellum is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is passionate about treating children and adolescents, but also sees adults on a limited basis. A Reno native, Nate attended University of Nevada, Reno for both his undergraduate and graduate studies where he specialized in mental health and psychiatry. He worked for five years as a registered nurse at Veteran's Affairs in Reno before deciding to focus on mental health and psychiatry. He has worked in various settings including outpatient clinics, consultation on medical floors, and a mental health crisis unit.
Nate Mellum is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is passionate about treating children and adolescents, but also sees adults on a limited basis. A Reno native, Nate attended University of Nevada, Reno for both his undergraduate and graduate studies where he specialized in mental health and psychiatry. He worked for five years as a registered nurse at Veteran's Affairs in Reno before deciding to focus on mental health and psychiatry. He has worked in various settings including outpatient clinics, consultation on medical floors, and a mental health crisis unit.
(775) 256-4309 View (775) 256-4309
Photo of Brandee Lynn Shipman - Solidarity Mental Health Services, Brandee Shipman, DNP, APRN, BS, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solidarity Mental Health Services, Brandee Shipman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, BS, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89509
I treat people across a broad spectrum of age, background, and need. I have a person centered focus, we will work together to figure out the best approach to achieve your goals. I have been a longtime resident of Northern Nevada. I am a graduate of UNR where I received my Doctorate of Nursing with a focus in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP). I opened my private practice, Solidarity Mental Health Services, near Downtown Reno, in 2021. I share my life with my husband of over 20 years and our four wonderful children who inspire me to be better.
I treat people across a broad spectrum of age, background, and need. I have a person centered focus, we will work together to figure out the best approach to achieve your goals. I have been a longtime resident of Northern Nevada. I am a graduate of UNR where I received my Doctorate of Nursing with a focus in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP). I opened my private practice, Solidarity Mental Health Services, near Downtown Reno, in 2021. I share my life with my husband of over 20 years and our four wonderful children who inspire me to be better.
(775) 405-6437 View (775) 405-6437
2Be Wellness Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89521
Are you frustrated by western medicine, and would like a fresh approach to your mental health needs? At 2Be Wellness our integrative approach helps you move towards optimal mental wellbeing. What sets us apart from other clinics? At 2Be, we utilize evidence-based, non-pharmaceutical interventions to restore balance in your life and guide you to your highest quality of being.
Are you frustrated by western medicine, and would like a fresh approach to your mental health needs? At 2Be Wellness our integrative approach helps you move towards optimal mental wellbeing. What sets us apart from other clinics? At 2Be, we utilize evidence-based, non-pharmaceutical interventions to restore balance in your life and guide you to your highest quality of being.
(775) 256-4815 View (775) 256-4815
Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89511  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Nevada for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I am board-certified to treat Children, 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 today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Nevada for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I am board-certified to treat Children, 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 today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting some insurances.
(833) 313-0622 View (833) 313-0622
Photo of Jeffrey W Bayless, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeffrey W Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Reno, NV 89501  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
(775) 346-6752 View (775) 346-6752
Photo of Amanda Melone, MD, Psychiatrist
Amanda Melone
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89503  (Online Only)
Dr. Melone grew up in Reno and is privileged to serve Nevada residents. She is deeply committed to care centered around the patient and hopes to establish long lasting bonds with each of her patients. A compassion approach with a thorough review of systems allows her to make accurate diagnoses and choose a treatment method that best serves each diagnosis. Dr. Melone has worked extensively as an adult psychiatrist and a child psychiatrist. Her background is broader than most psychiatrists, and she has completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
Dr. Melone grew up in Reno and is privileged to serve Nevada residents. She is deeply committed to care centered around the patient and hopes to establish long lasting bonds with each of her patients. A compassion approach with a thorough review of systems allows her to make accurate diagnoses and choose a treatment method that best serves each diagnosis. Dr. Melone has worked extensively as an adult psychiatrist and a child psychiatrist. Her background is broader than most psychiatrists, and she has completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
(775) 242-8466 View (775) 242-8466
Photo of Brandon Burr - Adhd Aid, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adhd Aid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89509
Imagine your ideal self. What challenges are you facing? Welcome to a new beginning. Covid-19 is over, and we are accepting new patients. Say goodbye to long wait times. Whether you're a student or a professional struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or depression, help is here. Take the first step towards a brighter future today. Make an appointment, get tested, and start enjoying life again. I offer comprehensive ADHD testing for ADA accommodations. Anxiety and sleep issues can mimic ADHD, and untreated depression can present similar symptoms. Let’s uncover your true struggles and achieve your goals.
Imagine your ideal self. What challenges are you facing? Welcome to a new beginning. Covid-19 is over, and we are accepting new patients. Say goodbye to long wait times. Whether you're a student or a professional struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or depression, help is here. Take the first step towards a brighter future today. Make an appointment, get tested, and start enjoying life again. I offer comprehensive ADHD testing for ADA accommodations. Anxiety and sleep issues can mimic ADHD, and untreated depression can present similar symptoms. Let’s uncover your true struggles and achieve your goals.
(775) 347-8256 View (775) 347-8256
Photo of DENIS Gavis Williams - Intricate Mind & Body LLC, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Intricate Mind & Body LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89503
Intricate Mind & Body offers Psychiatric Care, Psychiatric Evaluations and Medication Management. Our goal is to create a warm and welcoming environment where you will feel comfortable and confident in the care we provide and the care you receive.
Intricate Mind & Body offers Psychiatric Care, Psychiatric Evaluations and Medication Management. Our goal is to create a warm and welcoming environment where you will feel comfortable and confident in the care we provide and the care you receive.
(775) 452-4407 View (775) 452-4407
Photo of Shanna Schreurs, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shanna Schreurs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reno, NV 89521
I am currently accepting new adolescent and adult patients for medication management, and adult patients for therapy. I am able to provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy, a treatment that uses eye movements to help take the distressful emotions away from past situations that are troubling and painful and has been shown to have positive effects treating problems stemming from trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, or addictions.
I am currently accepting new adolescent and adult patients for medication management, and adult patients for therapy. I am able to provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy, a treatment that uses eye movements to help take the distressful emotions away from past situations that are troubling and painful and has been shown to have positive effects treating problems stemming from trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, or addictions.
(775) 442-6692 View (775) 442-6692
Photo of Adewale Busari, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adewale Busari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reno, NV 89501  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), I'm here to help you with your mental health needs. I offer exclusively online services, making it easier for you to access care from the comfort of your home or wherever you may be. With my years of experience and advanced training in psychiatric nursing, I'm equipped to provide effective and compassionate care to patients of all ages, sexualities, and backgrounds. I believe in a personalized approach to treatment that addresses your individual needs and concerns.
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), I'm here to help you with your mental health needs. I offer exclusively online services, making it easier for you to access care from the comfort of your home or wherever you may be. With my years of experience and advanced training in psychiatric nursing, I'm equipped to provide effective and compassionate care to patients of all ages, sexualities, and backgrounds. I believe in a personalized approach to treatment that addresses your individual needs and concerns.
(775) 318-5924 View (775) 318-5924
Photo of Aubrey Klaich, MD, Psychiatrist
Aubrey Klaich
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reno, NV 89502  (Online Only)
My passion lies in working with teens and young adults navigating the challenges of anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. I also help those going through life transitions, feeling overwhelmed by performance-related or everyday stressors, struggling with their emotional experience, or seeking a better understanding of themselves and/or their relationships. My integrative approach to treatment may combine a variety of techniques and modalities including psychotherapy, medication management, neutraceutical supplementation, mind-body techniques, and lifestyle coaching (nutrition, sleep, exercise).
My passion lies in working with teens and young adults navigating the challenges of anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. I also help those going through life transitions, feeling overwhelmed by performance-related or everyday stressors, struggling with their emotional experience, or seeking a better understanding of themselves and/or their relationships. My integrative approach to treatment may combine a variety of techniques and modalities including psychotherapy, medication management, neutraceutical supplementation, mind-body techniques, and lifestyle coaching (nutrition, sleep, exercise).
(775) 416-9547 View (775) 416-9547
Photo of Faisal A Suba, MD, Psychiatrist
Faisal A Suba
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89509
Dr. Suba completed his residency training in Psychiatry from the University of Nevada School of Medicine where he served as Chief resident of his program. He is board certified by the American board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Suba is currently on faculty with the UNLV School of Medicine where he received the faculty of the year award in 2013, 2014, and 2016 from the Department of Psychiatry. He is adjunct faculty at Touro University in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dr. Suba has previously served as President of the Las Vegas branch of Nevada Psychiatric Association. Currently he serves as Medical Director of MonteVista hospital.
Dr. Suba completed his residency training in Psychiatry from the University of Nevada School of Medicine where he served as Chief resident of his program. He is board certified by the American board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Suba is currently on faculty with the UNLV School of Medicine where he received the faculty of the year award in 2013, 2014, and 2016 from the Department of Psychiatry. He is adjunct faculty at Touro University in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dr. Suba has previously served as President of the Las Vegas branch of Nevada Psychiatric Association. Currently he serves as Medical Director of MonteVista hospital.
(702) 919-7516 View (702) 919-7516
Photo of Behavioral Health Solutions, Psychiatrist
Behavioral Health Solutions
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89511  (Online Only)
***IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY*** Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. We would love to help you understand how to address your concerns. We provide a safe environment that allows you to discuss your problems without feeling shame or judgement. Your help is just an email or phone call away!
***IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY*** Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. We would love to help you understand how to address your concerns. We provide a safe environment that allows you to discuss your problems without feeling shame or judgement. Your help is just an email or phone call away!
(725) 226-3505 View (725) 226-3505
Photo of Thomas A. Gonda Jr, MD, MFT, Psychiatrist
Thomas A. Gonda Jr
Psychiatrist, MD, MFT
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89501
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, Reno and Las Vegas. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California and Nevada.
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, Reno and Las Vegas. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California and Nevada.
(775) 389-8631 View (775) 389-8631
Photo of Anton Fisher - TeleMind, DO, Psychiatrist
TeleMind
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89503
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
At TeleMind, we specialize in delivering virtual mental health services tailored for individuals with demanding schedules. Our approach is designed to accommodate those whose daily commitments or lifestyle constraints make it challenging to travel to a doctor's office. Say goodbye to lengthy commutes, inconvenient office hours, and waiting room delays. With TeleMind, you have the flexibility to choose your specialist, schedule appointments at your convenience, and even reschedule to fit your availability. Experience the comfort of attending sessions from your home, workplace, or even while on the go.
(855) 835-3696 View (855) 835-3696
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Reno, NV

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Reno, NV who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
88% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
76% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Reno, NV see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

61% Female
39% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Reno?

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.