Psychiatrists in Box Elder County, UT

Photo of Dr. Thomas Rayner - Whole Mind, Psychiatrist, MD
Whole Mind
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Brigham City, UT 84302
Whole Mind is an outpatient mental health clinic focused on providing compassionate psychiatric care for mental, emotional and behavioral disorders for individuals aged 13 and above. We use state-of-the-art treatments directed and overseen by our board-certified psychiatrist, focused on improving all aspects that make up mental health including biology, psychology and lifestyle. Our passion is to help patients build a mind that is strong, resilient and WHOLE.
Whole Mind is an outpatient mental health clinic focused on providing compassionate psychiatric care for mental, emotional and behavioral disorders for individuals aged 13 and above. We use state-of-the-art treatments directed and overseen by our board-certified psychiatrist, focused on improving all aspects that make up mental health including biology, psychology and lifestyle. Our passion is to help patients build a mind that is strong, resilient and WHOLE.
(385) 503-3640 View (385) 503-3640
Photo of Rachal Green - Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brigham City, UT 84302
Families are the foundation of our communities. Our purpose is to provide a professional, family-oriented, and cohesive medical treatment team to better serve our clients, their families, and the community. We specialize in medication management of many psychiatric disorders including trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, insomnia, autism, ADHD, bipolar I & II, behaviors related to trauma/abuse/autism/ADHD and others.
Families are the foundation of our communities. Our purpose is to provide a professional, family-oriented, and cohesive medical treatment team to better serve our clients, their families, and the community. We specialize in medication management of many psychiatric disorders including trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, insomnia, autism, ADHD, bipolar I & II, behaviors related to trauma/abuse/autism/ADHD and others.
(385) 442-5209 View (385) 442-5209

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Shaina Solt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Shaina Solt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Uintah, UT 84405
I am committed to creating a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment for every individual I work with. I strive to empower my clients to feel in control of their interviews and treatment plans while providing education and guidance to support informed decisions. I truly care for the well-being of my patients.
I am committed to creating a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment for every individual I work with. I strive to empower my clients to feel in control of their interviews and treatment plans while providing education and guidance to support informed decisions. I truly care for the well-being of my patients.
(385) 526-7349 View (385) 526-7349
Photo of Misty Hinkle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Misty Hinkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I provide warm, evidence-based psychiatric care for ages 12 and up. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, OCD/panic, insomnia, autism spectrum, and eating disorders. Together, we will clarify what’s happening, choose medication only when helpful, and pair it with skills and lifestyle strategies. Care is collaborative, trauma-informed, and neurodiversity-affirming. Telehealth available, flexible scheduling, and clear plans you can trust.
I provide warm, evidence-based psychiatric care for ages 12 and up. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, OCD/panic, insomnia, autism spectrum, and eating disorders. Together, we will clarify what’s happening, choose medication only when helpful, and pair it with skills and lifestyle strategies. Care is collaborative, trauma-informed, and neurodiversity-affirming. Telehealth available, flexible scheduling, and clear plans you can trust.
(801) 783-1381 View (801) 783-1381
Photo of Paul Steven Weigle, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Paul Steven Weigle
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
My goal is to provide patients with a safe and supportive environment where they feel heard, valued, and receive the tools they need to thrive and reach their personal goals. I help individuals who have psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, panic disorder, and treatment resistant depression, among others.
My goal is to provide patients with a safe and supportive environment where they feel heard, valued, and receive the tools they need to thrive and reach their personal goals. I help individuals who have psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, panic disorder, and treatment resistant depression, among others.
(801) 742-8455 View (801) 742-8455
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Layton, UT 84041
Hola! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
Hola! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
(503) 461-5031 View (503) 461-5031
Photo of Breanna Kjar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Breanna Kjar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! My name is Bre, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Utah. I am currently offering care through telehealth. My goal as your provider is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, comfortable, and empowered. I want you to know, you are not alone. Together, we'll develop a personalized plan to help improve your mental health and overall well-being. Our goals will be realistic and attainable for you, and we will move at a pace that you feel comfortable with.
Hi! My name is Bre, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Utah. I am currently offering care through telehealth. My goal as your provider is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, comfortable, and empowered. I want you to know, you are not alone. Together, we'll develop a personalized plan to help improve your mental health and overall well-being. Our goals will be realistic and attainable for you, and we will move at a pace that you feel comfortable with.
(385) 481-3542 View (385) 481-3542
Photo of Brian Longhurst Merrill, Psychiatrist, DO
Brian Longhurst Merrill
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
As a board certified psychiatrist, I am experienced in diagnosing and managing a variety of mental health difficulties. These conditions include: depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders/social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and substance-related difficulties . These conditions are extremely disruptive to a person's ability to function in work, school, relationships, or even have the capacity to enjoy recreational pursuits. I am best matched with those that have a goal of alleviating these symptoms and being as functional as possible.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I am experienced in diagnosing and managing a variety of mental health difficulties. These conditions include: depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders/social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and substance-related difficulties . These conditions are extremely disruptive to a person's ability to function in work, school, relationships, or even have the capacity to enjoy recreational pursuits. I am best matched with those that have a goal of alleviating these symptoms and being as functional as possible.
(435) 344-4796 View (435) 344-4796
Photo of Akash Kumar - Root Cause Psych, Psychiatrist, MD
Root Cause Psych
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Please note our website is a growing free resource about Root Cause Psychiatry: just search "root psych" and you'll see us. We offer online root cause diagnostics on top of fast and easy typical psych meds with a focus on patient advocacy and convenience. Our goal is to make the process of getting treatment painless. We strive to accept insurances and advocate for patients; for example fighting with insurance if needed. Our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way while coordinating with your therapist and medical providers.
Please note our website is a growing free resource about Root Cause Psychiatry: just search "root psych" and you'll see us. We offer online root cause diagnostics on top of fast and easy typical psych meds with a focus on patient advocacy and convenience. Our goal is to make the process of getting treatment painless. We strive to accept insurances and advocate for patients; for example fighting with insurance if needed. Our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way while coordinating with your therapist and medical providers.
(385) 853-5227 View (385) 853-5227
Photo of Jennifer Foresman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Jennifer Foresman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Online booking & immediate telehealth availability. You live in a place where mental health care feels out of reach — long waitlists, travel, or having to go out of network. You’ve been carrying the weight of anxiety, depression, or trauma, maybe trying therapy or meds before with limited results. What you want is real, lasting relief. You want to feel more present, resilient, and like yourself again. You want psychiatric care that understands your life, connects with your goals, and offers practical steps forward. With my practice, you will be greeted by friendly helpful staff who will schedule an appointment with me quickly.
Online booking & immediate telehealth availability. You live in a place where mental health care feels out of reach — long waitlists, travel, or having to go out of network. You’ve been carrying the weight of anxiety, depression, or trauma, maybe trying therapy or meds before with limited results. What you want is real, lasting relief. You want to feel more present, resilient, and like yourself again. You want psychiatric care that understands your life, connects with your goals, and offers practical steps forward. With my practice, you will be greeted by friendly helpful staff who will schedule an appointment with me quickly.
(801) 742-8098 View (801) 742-8098
Photo of Colin Riley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Colin Riley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
Colin Riley (he/him) earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice with an emphasis in Psychiatric-Mental Health in May of 2021. He was worked in mental health for the past 8 years. Colin (he/him) is dedicated to learning as much as he can about evidenced-based care for mental illness and is devoted to reducing stigma associated with having mental illness. Colin is an LGBTQ+ ally and is committed to providing affirmative and supportive care to this population. Colin believes in a Health at Every Size approach to wellness. He also is excited about upcoming and novel treatments in psychiatry, especially psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
Colin Riley (he/him) earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice with an emphasis in Psychiatric-Mental Health in May of 2021. He was worked in mental health for the past 8 years. Colin (he/him) is dedicated to learning as much as he can about evidenced-based care for mental illness and is devoted to reducing stigma associated with having mental illness. Colin is an LGBTQ+ ally and is committed to providing affirmative and supportive care to this population. Colin believes in a Health at Every Size approach to wellness. He also is excited about upcoming and novel treatments in psychiatry, especially psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
(385) 220-8130 View (385) 220-8130
Photo of Jayandra Starner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Jayandra Starner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
10 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
Welcoming, warm, friendly and safe therapy sessions or medication management provided. Book now. Are you feeling stuck or not yourself? Do you wish things were different? Do you NOT like how you are feeling? Maybe you are feeling okay but just want to be heard by someone. If you feel alone. If you do want a life that is meaningful to you based on your specific values and beliefs. Reach out. You can reach me on Headway profile as well as my website www.cleverthinkingtherapy.
Welcoming, warm, friendly and safe therapy sessions or medication management provided. Book now. Are you feeling stuck or not yourself? Do you wish things were different? Do you NOT like how you are feeling? Maybe you are feeling okay but just want to be heard by someone. If you feel alone. If you do want a life that is meaningful to you based on your specific values and beliefs. Reach out. You can reach me on Headway profile as well as my website www.cleverthinkingtherapy.
(801) 890-6710 View (801) 890-6710
Photo of Tamara Brock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Tamara Brock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Now accepting new clients! Are you struggling with the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, or the constant mind-jumping of ADHD? My approach goes beyond hurried prescriptions and quick fixes. I take the time to truly listen and create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered to open up about your struggles and goals. Together, we’ll work to uncover the root of your challenges and build a personalized plan that brings hope, healing, and clarity.
Now accepting new clients! Are you struggling with the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, or the constant mind-jumping of ADHD? My approach goes beyond hurried prescriptions and quick fixes. I take the time to truly listen and create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered to open up about your struggles and goals. Together, we’ll work to uncover the root of your challenges and build a personalized plan that brings hope, healing, and clarity.
(801) 850-9591 View (801) 850-9591
Photo of Daniel Hammond, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Daniel Hammond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Logan, UT 84341
Daniel works collaboratively with clients to realize a state of balance, equanimity, and wellness by using individualized, proven approaches that include medication management, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapy utilizing motivational interviewing and the Socratic Method.
Daniel works collaboratively with clients to realize a state of balance, equanimity, and wellness by using individualized, proven approaches that include medication management, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapy utilizing motivational interviewing and the Socratic Method.
(435) 633-9181 View (435) 633-9181
Edith Hoth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
Riverton, UT 84096
Marie Alexander-Hoth, PMHNP, helps patients in Utah find balance, healing, and hope through compassionate and evidence-based care. She provides support for children, teens, adults, and seniors, working with individuals and families through life’s challenges. At LifeStance Health, she offers individual therapy, couples counseling, family therapy, medication management, and psychological testing, tailoring treatment to meet each patient’s unique needs. Marie has extensive experience supporting patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Marie Alexander-Hoth, PMHNP, helps patients in Utah find balance, healing, and hope through compassionate and evidence-based care. She provides support for children, teens, adults, and seniors, working with individuals and families through life’s challenges. At LifeStance Health, she offers individual therapy, couples counseling, family therapy, medication management, and psychological testing, tailoring treatment to meet each patient’s unique needs. Marie has extensive experience supporting patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
(385) 360-2319 View (385) 360-2319
Photo of Makeba Matthews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Makeba Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and grounded in both empathy and clinical precision. I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel heard and empowered. I integrate evidence-based psychopharmacology with a whole-person perspective, considering emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. Theoretical Approaches I Commonly Use: I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-informed practices.
My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and grounded in both empathy and clinical precision. I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel heard and empowered. I integrate evidence-based psychopharmacology with a whole-person perspective, considering emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. Theoretical Approaches I Commonly Use: I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-informed practices.
(385) 469-0241 View (385) 469-0241
Photo of Dr. Brett Sharp, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Brett Sharp
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84040
Dr. Brett Sharp is a triple board-certified physician (pediatrics, child psychiatry & adult psychiatry) and treats many age groups including adults, children, and adolescents. He has extensive experience in treating all aspects of medical, behavioral, and developmental problems in children and adolescents. He also has extensive experience in both outpatient and inpatient adult psychiatry. He specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry while focusing on helping the patient and their family navigate developmental, neurological or personality disorders, behavioral issues, eating disorders, and complex diagnoses.
Dr. Brett Sharp is a triple board-certified physician (pediatrics, child psychiatry & adult psychiatry) and treats many age groups including adults, children, and adolescents. He has extensive experience in treating all aspects of medical, behavioral, and developmental problems in children and adolescents. He also has extensive experience in both outpatient and inpatient adult psychiatry. He specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry while focusing on helping the patient and their family navigate developmental, neurological or personality disorders, behavioral issues, eating disorders, and complex diagnoses.
(385) 557-8426 View (385) 557-8426
Photo of Misty Shields, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Misty Shields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Lehi, UT 84043
I am passionate about helping people discover their purpose and self worth so that they can show up as the best versions of themselves. I believe in the power of our brains and our thoughts and would love to explore this with you. I also know firsthand that life can be hard and that sometimes a little bit of medication can really help. I would love to be given the opportunity to work with you and help you live a life that is full of purpose, love and connection.
I am passionate about helping people discover their purpose and self worth so that they can show up as the best versions of themselves. I believe in the power of our brains and our thoughts and would love to explore this with you. I also know firsthand that life can be hard and that sometimes a little bit of medication can really help. I would love to be given the opportunity to work with you and help you live a life that is full of purpose, love and connection.
(801) 316-8504 View (801) 316-8504
Photo of Lisa Hardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Lisa Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Do these sound familiar? Feeling stressed and irritable too much of the time? Mood swings that are getting in the way? Depression and low motivation are constant companions? Maybe you've been treated by your primary care provider and are interested in seeing a specialist? The focus of my practice is women during times of hormonal transition. I use an integrative approach that may include medication-but only in addition to lab testing, nutrition for mental health, supplement options, and healthy lifestyle implementation.
Do these sound familiar? Feeling stressed and irritable too much of the time? Mood swings that are getting in the way? Depression and low motivation are constant companions? Maybe you've been treated by your primary care provider and are interested in seeing a specialist? The focus of my practice is women during times of hormonal transition. I use an integrative approach that may include medication-but only in addition to lab testing, nutrition for mental health, supplement options, and healthy lifestyle implementation.
(385) 506-2035 View (385) 506-2035
Photo of Garrett Jefferies, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Garrett Jefferies
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Bountiful, UT 84010
I believe that success in mental health is ultimately achieved through sustainable lifestyle change and that medications and therapy are often necessary tools in that process. No matter where you feel that you are with your mental health right now, there are tools to help. I specialize in helping clients reach mental stability using all tools available and then adding coaching for sustainable lifestyle changes that will ultimately help ensure long-term mental health.
I believe that success in mental health is ultimately achieved through sustainable lifestyle change and that medications and therapy are often necessary tools in that process. No matter where you feel that you are with your mental health right now, there are tools to help. I specialize in helping clients reach mental stability using all tools available and then adding coaching for sustainable lifestyle changes that will ultimately help ensure long-term mental health.
(385) 489-1816 View (385) 489-1816

See more therapy options for Box Elder County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Box Elder County, UT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Box Elder County, UT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Autism
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Box Elder County, UT see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Box Elder County?

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.