Psychiatrists in Box Elder County, UT

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Photo of Theresa Mm Furbish - Mother Tree Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mother Tree Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Collinston, UT 84306
Mental health evaluation and medication management for mothers and children as well as breastfeeding consultation. Telehealth and home-visits available.
Mental health evaluation and medication management for mothers and children as well as breastfeeding consultation. Telehealth and home-visits available.
(435) 466-7759 View (435) 466-7759
Photo of Rachal Green - Utah Behavior Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Utah Behavior Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Dr. Thomas Rayner - Whole Mind, MD, Psychiatrist
Whole Mind
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Anna Blonquist - Yellow Daisy , BC-NP,  PMHNP, MSN, BSN, ADRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yellow Daisy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC-NP, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, ADRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As a medication prescriber I want to make sure that you have been educated about the various treatment options. These options often include non-medication treatment, nutritional supplements and prescription medications. Before prescribing any medication it is important that your questions and concerns have been addressed and that you are onboard with the plan.
As a medication prescriber I want to make sure that you have been educated about the various treatment options. These options often include non-medication treatment, nutritional supplements and prescription medications. Before prescribing any medication it is important that your questions and concerns have been addressed and that you are onboard with the plan.
(435) 626-4263 View (435) 626-4263

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Elizabeth A Harrop - Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
Elizabeth Harrop, PMHNPBC, APRN, Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah has 5 medication providers and 5 therapists to help with any mental health issues you may be dealing with. Eating disorders, Addictions, Trauma, Military's Issues, Family or Couples issues, Grieve and Loss, Mood Disorders, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. We offer DBT group on Monday nights. WE now offer Medical Weight Loss sessions as well.
Elizabeth Harrop, PMHNPBC, APRN, Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah has 5 medication providers and 5 therapists to help with any mental health issues you may be dealing with. Eating disorders, Addictions, Trauma, Military's Issues, Family or Couples issues, Grieve and Loss, Mood Disorders, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. We offer DBT group on Monday nights. WE now offer Medical Weight Loss sessions as well.
(801) 447-1537 View (801) 447-1537
Photo of Aubrey Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aubrey Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Logan, UT 84341
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with a passion for helping others navigate the complex world of mental health. I believe in fostering a safe and trusting environment where patients and their families can openly discuss their concerns. I aim for a holistic and collaborative approach as we seek for the best treatment options.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with a passion for helping others navigate the complex world of mental health. I believe in fostering a safe and trusting environment where patients and their families can openly discuss their concerns. I aim for a holistic and collaborative approach as we seek for the best treatment options.
(435) 466-2333 View (435) 466-2333
Photo of Joseph Llavina, PA, Physician Assistant
Joseph Llavina
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Draper, UT 84020
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in psychedelic assisted therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I also offer CBTi (cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. As a former firefighter and paramedic, I also love to work with first responders. In my therapeutic approach, I integrate psychedelic assisted therapy with mindfulness-based therapy, somatic inquiry, and other forms of therapy. I believe in a collaborative process and a trauma-informed approach, ensuring a safe and supportive environment where my clients can heal and thrive.
Accepting New Patients! I specialize in psychedelic assisted therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I also offer CBTi (cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. As a former firefighter and paramedic, I also love to work with first responders. In my therapeutic approach, I integrate psychedelic assisted therapy with mindfulness-based therapy, somatic inquiry, and other forms of therapy. I believe in a collaborative process and a trauma-informed approach, ensuring a safe and supportive environment where my clients can heal and thrive.
(801) 893-7796 View (801) 893-7796
Photo of Anneliesa Allred, DNP, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anneliesa Allred
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
Woods Cross, UT 84087  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Anna, I've been practicing psychiatry for 4 1/2 years and I love it! I am a nurse practitioner with training in both psychiatry and acute care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, my dog and traveling. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Anna, I've been practicing psychiatry for 4 1/2 years and I love it! I am a nurse practitioner with training in both psychiatry and acute care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, my dog and traveling. I look forward to meeting you!
(385) 481-7638 View (385) 481-7638
Photo of Hannah Banks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Banks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Hannah enjoys listening to her patients’ needs and coming up with creative, patient-centered care that is tailored to her patient using diverse treatment modalities such as medication management, therapy, lifestyle, and psychedelic therapies. Hannah loves to empower her patients and help them make decisions that will improve overall mental health and give them the tools necessary to do so.
Hannah enjoys listening to her patients’ needs and coming up with creative, patient-centered care that is tailored to her patient using diverse treatment modalities such as medication management, therapy, lifestyle, and psychedelic therapies. Hannah loves to empower her patients and help them make decisions that will improve overall mental health and give them the tools necessary to do so.
(385) 503-8619 View (385) 503-8619
Photo of Annie Groesbeck, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annie Groesbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Jordan, UT 84095
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in mental healthcare. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals and families, believing that informed patients achieve better health outcomes. During visits with me, patients can expect open communication to discuss their unique concerns and mental health goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in mental healthcare. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals and families, believing that informed patients achieve better health outcomes. During visits with me, patients can expect open communication to discuss their unique concerns and mental health goals.
(385) 481-6591 View (385) 481-6591
Photo of Bruno Silva - Healing Ketamine, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Welcome! We're glad you're exploring ketamine infusions, a cutting-edge option in the realm of mental health treatments. This therapy has shown promise in providing relief for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, offering hope and healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety. We're committed to personalized care, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and health goals. Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier future for you.
Welcome! We're glad you're exploring ketamine infusions, a cutting-edge option in the realm of mental health treatments. This therapy has shown promise in providing relief for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, offering hope and healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety. We're committed to personalized care, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and health goals. Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier future for you.
(385) 526-2109 View (385) 526-2109
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Layton, UT 84041
Hello! 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 other mental health needs.
Hello! 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 other mental health needs.
(503) 461-5031 x2 View (503) 461-5031 x2
Photo of Anna Blonquist, PMHNP, BC-NP, MSN, BSN, ADRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna Blonquist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC-NP, MSN, BSN, ADRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hyde Park, UT 84318
You have taken a major step to set an appointment, I commend you because I know it’s not an easy thing to do. I am often told by patients that they hesitated to make an appointment out of fear. Patients often discuss being very nervous about their upcoming appointment. Your first session may evoke certain emotions, this is totally normal. During the appointment you will be asked about the reason for coming in. You may cry, feel awkward, or experience various kinds of emotions while discussing your concerns, but know that it is ok.
You have taken a major step to set an appointment, I commend you because I know it’s not an easy thing to do. I am often told by patients that they hesitated to make an appointment out of fear. Patients often discuss being very nervous about their upcoming appointment. Your first session may evoke certain emotions, this is totally normal. During the appointment you will be asked about the reason for coming in. You may cry, feel awkward, or experience various kinds of emotions while discussing your concerns, but know that it is ok.
(208) 218-8098 View (208) 218-8098
Photo of Alyssa Anne Lee, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alyssa Anne Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043  (Online Only)
Alyssa is nationally board certified in psychiatry, skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. Her expertise is in child and adolescent psychiatry, but she has training across the lifespan. Alyssa enjoys an integrative approach and doesn’t believe that “one size fits all.” She is aware of social, economic, family, biological, behavioral, and community factors that play into treating each individual. Many modalities are available in treatment of psychiatric disorders and she is committed to finding the best combination for her patients and families.
Alyssa is nationally board certified in psychiatry, skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. Her expertise is in child and adolescent psychiatry, but she has training across the lifespan. Alyssa enjoys an integrative approach and doesn’t believe that “one size fits all.” She is aware of social, economic, family, biological, behavioral, and community factors that play into treating each individual. Many modalities are available in treatment of psychiatric disorders and she is committed to finding the best combination for her patients and families.
(801) 876-5708 View (801) 876-5708
Photo of Erika Bales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(385) 327-8023 View (385) 327-8023
Photo of Rebecca Lucille - Cultivating Clarity, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cultivating Clarity
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oh, the comfort —the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person —having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all right out, just as they are, chaff and grain together; certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then with the breath of kindness blow the rest away. —author Dinah María Mulock Craik
Oh, the comfort —the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person —having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all right out, just as they are, chaff and grain together; certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then with the breath of kindness blow the rest away. —author Dinah María Mulock Craik
(385) 474-4319 View (385) 474-4319
Photo of Jennifer Stone, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Stone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kaysville, UT 84037
I enjoy working with a diverse range of populations, from childhood through older adulthood. She has a special interest in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. Her clinical experience and personal insights have deepened her appreciation for the unique challenges and needs of these groups. She finds great fulfillment in supporting young individuals through their mental health challenges and guiding them toward improved well-being. Her approach is centered on understanding and supporting the complex emotional and psychological needs of these age groups
I enjoy working with a diverse range of populations, from childhood through older adulthood. She has a special interest in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. Her clinical experience and personal insights have deepened her appreciation for the unique challenges and needs of these groups. She finds great fulfillment in supporting young individuals through their mental health challenges and guiding them toward improved well-being. Her approach is centered on understanding and supporting the complex emotional and psychological needs of these age groups
(385) 832-6011 View (385) 832-6011
Photo of Jane Coats, DNP, APRN, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jane Coats
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84107
Evidence-based treatment modalities guide best practice. A combination of unconditional positive regard, targeted therapies, and expertise in medication management inform treatment planning in collaboration with the patient and provider.
Evidence-based treatment modalities guide best practice. A combination of unconditional positive regard, targeted therapies, and expertise in medication management inform treatment planning in collaboration with the patient and provider.
(385) 483-5436 View (385) 483-5436
Photo of Samantha Allan, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Allan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Samantha Allan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who embodies clinical expertise while connecting with patients with warmth and empathy. She is an ethical healthcare provider with the ability to stay calm, and intervene during the most difficult tasks. She has a proven ability to build positive relationships with patients, family members, physicians, and other medical professionals. Samantha is an effective motivator, communicator, and advocate. She has an inherent ability to manage all personalities, defuse stressful situations, proactively resolve issues, and meet and achieve challenging goals and objectives.
Samantha Allan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who embodies clinical expertise while connecting with patients with warmth and empathy. She is an ethical healthcare provider with the ability to stay calm, and intervene during the most difficult tasks. She has a proven ability to build positive relationships with patients, family members, physicians, and other medical professionals. Samantha is an effective motivator, communicator, and advocate. She has an inherent ability to manage all personalities, defuse stressful situations, proactively resolve issues, and meet and achieve challenging goals and objectives.
(801) 823-4269 View (801) 823-4269
Photo of Shawn Warren, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Warren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kaysville, UT 84037
I seek to provide a safe and comfortable environment where my patients can share their concerns and feel heard. Each individual has gone through their own personal life experience and I strive to listen in an effort to understand what treatment options are best for them. Everyone has their own goals and I want to be a resource to help them accomplish those goals.
I seek to provide a safe and comfortable environment where my patients can share their concerns and feel heard. Each individual has gone through their own personal life experience and I strive to listen in an effort to understand what treatment options are best for them. Everyone has their own goals and I want to be a resource to help them accomplish those goals.
(385) 483-3253 View (385) 483-3253

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:

75% Anxiety
75% ADHD
50% Depression
50% Medication Management
25% Child
25% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
25% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

4 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

50% Female
50% 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.