Psychiatrists in Herriman, UT

Photo of Amber Hawk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Amber Hawk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized mental health care to those aged 12 and up. My educational journey includes degrees from Anoka Ramsey Community College, Boise State University, and Maryville University, equipping me with the knowledge and expertise to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, PTSD, and eating disorders.
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized mental health care to those aged 12 and up. My educational journey includes degrees from Anoka Ramsey Community College, Boise State University, and Maryville University, equipping me with the knowledge and expertise to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, PTSD, and eating disorders.
(385) 458-8572 View (385) 458-8572
Photo of Debra J Hain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD , APRN, PMHNP
Debra J Hain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD , APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a caring, compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides person-centered care for individuals with mental health conditions. I take time to truly listen to discover what matters most to you and your family (when appropriate). I have many years of experience as a nurse practitioner and enjoy collaborating with clients in shared decision making. Once I determine the diagnosis(es), I provide evidence-based choices and together we develop a plan that is best for you. Everyone is unique despite having a similar diagnosis as others, I will work with you to assist you in finding the best treatment for you.
I am a caring, compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides person-centered care for individuals with mental health conditions. I take time to truly listen to discover what matters most to you and your family (when appropriate). I have many years of experience as a nurse practitioner and enjoy collaborating with clients in shared decision making. Once I determine the diagnosis(es), I provide evidence-based choices and together we develop a plan that is best for you. Everyone is unique despite having a similar diagnosis as others, I will work with you to assist you in finding the best treatment for you.
(385) 563-1193 View (385) 563-1193
Photo of Jordan Bowman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jordan Bowman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Now accepting new clients! Are you feeling trapped by crippling anxiety, weighed down by depression, or paralyzed by the relentless 'mind jumping' of ADHD? You’re not alone, and real change is possible. My approach goes beyond rushed prescriptions and quick fixes. I believe that true healing comes from understanding and addressing the root cause—not just masking symptoms. Together, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your preferences and needs, and achieve lasting results.
Now accepting new clients! Are you feeling trapped by crippling anxiety, weighed down by depression, or paralyzed by the relentless 'mind jumping' of ADHD? You’re not alone, and real change is possible. My approach goes beyond rushed prescriptions and quick fixes. I believe that true healing comes from understanding and addressing the root cause—not just masking symptoms. Together, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your preferences and needs, and achieve lasting results.
(385) 855-2618 View (385) 855-2618
Photo of Dr. Vineka Heeramun, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Vineka Heeramun
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed? Feel like you’re stuck? Disconnected, sad, down? Sleepless nights? Riddled with worry, anxiety, or panic? Feeling like you cant get going, get things done no matter how hard you try? Have You or a loved one been struggling with mood changes or psychosis? Suffered from trauma? Have you been hesitant to seek help despite your struggles? If you answered yes to any of the above, you are at right place.Now is the time to reach out. Your life does not need to be miserable, you deserve better. Let us help you, so you can achieve your goals.
Feeling overwhelmed? Feel like you’re stuck? Disconnected, sad, down? Sleepless nights? Riddled with worry, anxiety, or panic? Feeling like you cant get going, get things done no matter how hard you try? Have You or a loved one been struggling with mood changes or psychosis? Suffered from trauma? Have you been hesitant to seek help despite your struggles? If you answered yes to any of the above, you are at right place.Now is the time to reach out. Your life does not need to be miserable, you deserve better. Let us help you, so you can achieve your goals.
(801) 683-5133 View (801) 683-5133
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 Sheenali Kansagra - Crescent Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Crescent Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
We have over 10 years of experience in mental health, treating patients of all ages with conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorders. Our ideal clients seek relief from their symptoms and desire emotional stability, effective coping strategies, and a better quality of life. We provide personalized care to meet these needs.
We have over 10 years of experience in mental health, treating patients of all ages with conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorders. Our ideal clients seek relief from their symptoms and desire emotional stability, effective coping strategies, and a better quality of life. We provide personalized care to meet these needs.
(385) 526-7967 View (385) 526-7967
Photo of Hans Watson - Dynamic Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, DO
Dynamic Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
All your mental health care in one place. Whether you need medication management, therapy, TMS, Ketamine, ADHD testing, Autism testing, Weight loss (Semaglutide or Tirezepatide), vitamin infusions, gut health, NAD+ or Hormone Replacement, we can help! We accept anyone 12+ years old and take virtually all insurances. Additionally, our therapists are trained on advanced therapy in the Dynamic Psychiatry Master Training Program. Call to setup your first appointment.
All your mental health care in one place. Whether you need medication management, therapy, TMS, Ketamine, ADHD testing, Autism testing, Weight loss (Semaglutide or Tirezepatide), vitamin infusions, gut health, NAD+ or Hormone Replacement, we can help! We accept anyone 12+ years old and take virtually all insurances. Additionally, our therapists are trained on advanced therapy in the Dynamic Psychiatry Master Training Program. Call to setup your first appointment.
(385) 475-4049 View (385) 475-4049
Photo of Josh Woodland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Josh Woodland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting new clients! My approach doesn't include rushed prescriptions or a "one-size-fits all" solution. Instead, I will collaborate with you on a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My hope is that you will leave our session with a sense of relief, knowing that you have a provider who hears you, and a treatment plan that reflects deep consideration of your needs.
Now accepting new clients! My approach doesn't include rushed prescriptions or a "one-size-fits all" solution. Instead, I will collaborate with you on a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My hope is that you will leave our session with a sense of relief, knowing that you have a provider who hears you, and a treatment plan that reflects deep consideration of your needs.
(385) 758-5205 View (385) 758-5205
Photo of Steven K Elrod, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger, or PTSD? A full psychiatric evaluation and research-proven effective treatment options including medication and psychotherapy could put you back on the healthy path.
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger, or PTSD? A full psychiatric evaluation and research-proven effective treatment options including medication and psychotherapy could put you back on the healthy path.
(801) 448-0102 View (801) 448-0102

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Anne Major Willardson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Anne Major Willardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Thank you for visiting my profile. After seeing the life-changing impact of medication on my spouse and child with ADHD, I shifted my career to psychiatric care. I combine active listening, medication management, and therapy to offer effective, personalized treatment. Many clients have shared that I am the first provider who truly understands their struggles and is genuinely invested in their success. This holistic approach provides the support needed to help clients achieve their goals and transform their lives.
Thank you for visiting my profile. After seeing the life-changing impact of medication on my spouse and child with ADHD, I shifted my career to psychiatric care. I combine active listening, medication management, and therapy to offer effective, personalized treatment. Many clients have shared that I am the first provider who truly understands their struggles and is genuinely invested in their success. This holistic approach provides the support needed to help clients achieve their goals and transform their lives.
(385) 503-8763 View (385) 503-8763
Photo of Rachal Green - Utah Behavior Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Utah Behavior Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taylorsville, UT 84123
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 x2 View (385) 442-5209 x2
Photo of Kristen Dawson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Kristen Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
My clients come to me for a relaxed, judgment-free space where they can get comfortable talking about hard things. We'll work together to figure out your mental health symptoms and find the treatment plan that is best for you, but I often find people are looking for more than just to feel better. I want to help you clarify your big-picture goals, improve your relationships, increase your confidence, and move toward the version of your life that feels most authentic. I work primarily with teens and young adults, especially those navigating big life transitions while healing from trauma or managing chronic mental health conditions.
My clients come to me for a relaxed, judgment-free space where they can get comfortable talking about hard things. We'll work together to figure out your mental health symptoms and find the treatment plan that is best for you, but I often find people are looking for more than just to feel better. I want to help you clarify your big-picture goals, improve your relationships, increase your confidence, and move toward the version of your life that feels most authentic. I work primarily with teens and young adults, especially those navigating big life transitions while healing from trauma or managing chronic mental health conditions.
(385) 324-3956 View (385) 324-3956
Photo of Cheryl Marchant Jensen, Psychiatric Nurse, MS, APRN, PMHCNS-
Cheryl Marchant Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse, MS, APRN, PMHCNS-
Online Only
It's normal to feel anxious about seeking help. Relief often comes after reaching out. Its hard to bear any burden alone! I understand that you have come to this site in search of help from someone who is willing to listen fully and to work with you to achieve your mental health goals. Together we will identify your concerns and develop a plan to effectively treat them. You deserve to be heard, to have support, direction and, to be healthy and happy! I have over 30 years experience and, I am licensed to prescribe medications and to provide psychotherapy.
It's normal to feel anxious about seeking help. Relief often comes after reaching out. Its hard to bear any burden alone! I understand that you have come to this site in search of help from someone who is willing to listen fully and to work with you to achieve your mental health goals. Together we will identify your concerns and develop a plan to effectively treat them. You deserve to be heard, to have support, direction and, to be healthy and happy! I have over 30 years experience and, I am licensed to prescribe medications and to provide psychotherapy.
(801) 701-2087 View (801) 701-2087
Photo of Landon Moyers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Landon Moyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
Dr. Moyers is a graduate of the University of Utah's top-ranked Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Psychiatry and Mental Health where he was an R. Harold Burton Fellow. He has worked in all levels of psychiatric care over the last 12 years. His experience began as a psychiatric technician working with pediatric and adolescent patients, as a nurse with young adults in addiction recovery, and then as a charge nurse at the Utah State Hospital pediatric unit. Doctorate-level internships were completed at Polizzi Clinic, the Utah State Hospital, the VA Hospital, and West Ridge Academy.
Dr. Moyers is a graduate of the University of Utah's top-ranked Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Psychiatry and Mental Health where he was an R. Harold Burton Fellow. He has worked in all levels of psychiatric care over the last 12 years. His experience began as a psychiatric technician working with pediatric and adolescent patients, as a nurse with young adults in addiction recovery, and then as a charge nurse at the Utah State Hospital pediatric unit. Doctorate-level internships were completed at Polizzi Clinic, the Utah State Hospital, the VA Hospital, and West Ridge Academy.
(385) 323-8549 View (385) 323-8549
Photo of Elisabeth Warner - High Desert Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CAS, PMHNP, BC
High Desert Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CAS, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
An experienced medical/mental health professional, I bring to our treatment relationship more than 30 yrs of exceptional patient care, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health since 1998. My practice offers diagnostic assessment, medication management & solution-focused follow up support. My goal is to positively impact your sense of health & well-being through active listening and safe, evidence-based practices. I develop therapeutic relationships which foster trust, promote shared decision making, recognize you as “the expert" on you, and prioritize individual needs & preferences as essential to collaborative treatment planning.
An experienced medical/mental health professional, I bring to our treatment relationship more than 30 yrs of exceptional patient care, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health since 1998. My practice offers diagnostic assessment, medication management & solution-focused follow up support. My goal is to positively impact your sense of health & well-being through active listening and safe, evidence-based practices. I develop therapeutic relationships which foster trust, promote shared decision making, recognize you as “the expert" on you, and prioritize individual needs & preferences as essential to collaborative treatment planning.
(385) 346-2672 View (385) 346-2672
Photo of Dan Inouye, Psychiatrist, MD
Dan Inouye
Psychiatrist, MD
Draper, UT 84020
I am an accessible adult psychiatrist. I am seeing patients through telepsychiatry at this time. I can be reached at 801-592-2002.
I am an accessible adult psychiatrist. I am seeing patients through telepsychiatry at this time. I can be reached at 801-592-2002.
(801) 683-5279 View (801) 683-5279
Photo of Vanessa Martinez-Quezada, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ, -psych
Vanessa Martinez-Quezada
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ, -psych
Murray, UT 84107
Patient-centered care is important to me. Mental health can be complex and often requires a team effort, with psychotherapy being a big component. This is why I am doing a Dmsc program focusing on Motivational interviewing and Cognitive behavioral therapy.
Patient-centered care is important to me. Mental health can be complex and often requires a team effort, with psychotherapy being a big component. This is why I am doing a Dmsc program focusing on Motivational interviewing and Cognitive behavioral therapy.
(385) 406-2984 View (385) 406-2984
Photo of Charlie Health, Psychiatrist
Charlie Health
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
(385) 213-1580 View (385) 213-1580
Photo of Rebecca Lucille - Cultivating Clarity, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Cultivating Clarity
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
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 Tara Rainey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tara Rainey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Tara Rainey is passionate about mental health and dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals struggling with psychiatric disorders. She is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to her patients. Her journey into mental health care began with a strong educational foundation. She is driven by a deep sense of compassion and commitment to improving the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges and looks forward to continuing to make a difference in the lives of her patients and within the community.
Dr. Tara Rainey is passionate about mental health and dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals struggling with psychiatric disorders. She is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to her patients. Her journey into mental health care began with a strong educational foundation. She is driven by a deep sense of compassion and commitment to improving the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges and looks forward to continuing to make a difference in the lives of her patients and within the community.
(385) 899-2426 View (385) 899-2426

See more therapy options for Herriman

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Herriman, UT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Herriman, UT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Bipolar Disorder
89% Anxiety
89% ADHD
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Medication Management
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
88% SelectHealth

How Psychiatrists in Herriman, UT see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Herriman?

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.