Psychiatrists in Hill Air Force Base, UT
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am based in Utah and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with ages 13 and up, and specialize in anxiety, stress, and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as many other therapies to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach work well for teens, young adults, and older adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and personal struggles with health and relationships.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am based in Utah and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with ages 13 and up, and specialize in anxiety, stress, and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as many other therapies to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach work well for teens, young adults, and older adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and personal struggles with health and relationships.
Hey! Nice to meet you! I'm a triple board-certified nurse practitioner in midwifery, family practice, and psychiatry. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah in 2016 and have been providing care to individuals in the Salt Lake Valley, focusing on women's health, family practice, and psychiatric care, since then. With a deep understanding of the intricate connection between physical, mental, and reproductive health, I specialize in women's mental health. My approach to care is to help you feel seen and heard.
Hey! Nice to meet you! I'm a triple board-certified nurse practitioner in midwifery, family practice, and psychiatry. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah in 2016 and have been providing care to individuals in the Salt Lake Valley, focusing on women's health, family practice, and psychiatric care, since then. With a deep understanding of the intricate connection between physical, mental, and reproductive health, I specialize in women's mental health. My approach to care is to help you feel seen and heard.
Hello! My name is Shukairo "Shay" Baker, and I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I combine evidence-based medication management with compassionate therapeutic approaches to support individuals coping with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and substance use. I believe in a collaborative and personalized approach to mental healthcare, integrating medication management with therapeutic methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care.
Hello! My name is Shukairo "Shay" Baker, and I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I combine evidence-based medication management with compassionate therapeutic approaches to support individuals coping with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and substance use. I believe in a collaborative and personalized approach to mental healthcare, integrating medication management with therapeutic methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care.
Upon graduating from the University of Kansas and Wichita State University with a Masters in Nursing in December 1992, I embarked on a fulfilling journey dedicated to mental health care. Joining the outpatient mental health team at the wonderful George Whalen Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, I had the privilege of providing medication management and various individual and group psychotherapies for 26 years. In May 2006, earning my Doctorate from the College of Nursing at the University of Utah was a significant milestone that deepened my commitment to serving others.
Upon graduating from the University of Kansas and Wichita State University with a Masters in Nursing in December 1992, I embarked on a fulfilling journey dedicated to mental health care. Joining the outpatient mental health team at the wonderful George Whalen Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, I had the privilege of providing medication management and various individual and group psychotherapies for 26 years. In May 2006, earning my Doctorate from the College of Nursing at the University of Utah was a significant milestone that deepened my commitment to serving others.
Amy Belnap is one of the only CADDRA certified psychiatric providers in the state of Idaho; a certification for specialists working with ADHD. In addition to ADHD, she also treats those with learning or behavioral problems, mood and conduct disorders, OCD, and Autism. She uses medication and psychotherapy to help patients achieve their greatest potential. She also offers genetic testing to help identify treatment options that are the most likely to help you or your loved one.
Amy Belnap is one of the only CADDRA certified psychiatric providers in the state of Idaho; a certification for specialists working with ADHD. In addition to ADHD, she also treats those with learning or behavioral problems, mood and conduct disorders, OCD, and Autism. She uses medication and psychotherapy to help patients achieve their greatest potential. She also offers genetic testing to help identify treatment options that are the most likely to help you or your loved one.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Dr. Catherine Bledowski is board-certified in General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) by the ABPN. She received her medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and completed her residency in General Psychiatry as well as her fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Bledowski spent most of her career in large, urban academic medical centers, primarily taking care of patients with severe mental illness, as well as those with mental illness comorbid with other complex medical conditions
Dr. Catherine Bledowski is board-certified in General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) by the ABPN. She received her medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and completed her residency in General Psychiatry as well as her fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Bledowski spent most of her career in large, urban academic medical centers, primarily taking care of patients with severe mental illness, as well as those with mental illness comorbid with other complex medical conditions
Hi! My name is Tamara Rasmussen, but you can call me Tami. I'm a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in OR, WA, UT, MN, & NV. I completed my undergrad & graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, CA. I see patients 13+. I'm passionate about providing support for life challenges and specialize in issues that include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, chronic pain mental health treatment, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. Before breaking into the world of psychiatric care, I worked in cardiovascular nursing. When I'm not working, you can find me outdoors with my pitbull Coco!
Hi! My name is Tamara Rasmussen, but you can call me Tami. I'm a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in OR, WA, UT, MN, & NV. I completed my undergrad & graduate degrees at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, CA. I see patients 13+. I'm passionate about providing support for life challenges and specialize in issues that include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, chronic pain mental health treatment, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. Before breaking into the world of psychiatric care, I worked in cardiovascular nursing. When I'm not working, you can find me outdoors with my pitbull Coco!
Upon graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah Valley University, Collin was accepted at Weber State to pursue a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies. While it was here that he solidified his interests in the mental health field, Collin’s desire to work in psychiatry stemmed from his early work experience at Provo Canyon Behavioral Hospital, an inpatient facility in Utah. Colin's experience working with individuals in acute crises and distress allowed him the confidence to manage a wide array of mental health conditions and provide avenues for patients navigating difficult circumstances.
Upon graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah Valley University, Collin was accepted at Weber State to pursue a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies. While it was here that he solidified his interests in the mental health field, Collin’s desire to work in psychiatry stemmed from his early work experience at Provo Canyon Behavioral Hospital, an inpatient facility in Utah. Colin's experience working with individuals in acute crises and distress allowed him the confidence to manage a wide array of mental health conditions and provide avenues for patients navigating difficult circumstances.
I am a compassionate, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Utah, dedicated to supporting mental well-being and specializing in ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders across all stages of life. Outside of my professional work, I draw strength and clarity from nature, hiking Utah’s breathtaking landscapes helps me reconnect with myself and appreciate the beauty of the world around me. I also embrace the practice of meditation, valuing its ability to foster inner peace, mindfulness, and balance, qualities I believe are essential for lasting mental wellness.
I am a compassionate, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Utah, dedicated to supporting mental well-being and specializing in ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders across all stages of life. Outside of my professional work, I draw strength and clarity from nature, hiking Utah’s breathtaking landscapes helps me reconnect with myself and appreciate the beauty of the world around me. I also embrace the practice of meditation, valuing its ability to foster inner peace, mindfulness, and balance, qualities I believe are essential for lasting mental wellness.
Now accepting new clients! As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my passion lies in empowering individuals to reclaim their mental well-being and lead fulfilling lives. I recognize seeking help for mental health can be challenging, so my mission is to create a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space where people feel encouraged to share their experiences and take steps toward healing. Through active listening, empathy, and collaboration, I work closely with each patient to foster a trusting relationship. I aim to provide clear information and empower patients to be active participants in their care.
Now accepting new clients! As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my passion lies in empowering individuals to reclaim their mental well-being and lead fulfilling lives. I recognize seeking help for mental health can be challenging, so my mission is to create a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space where people feel encouraged to share their experiences and take steps toward healing. Through active listening, empathy, and collaboration, I work closely with each patient to foster a trusting relationship. I aim to provide clear information and empower patients to be active participants in their care.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
Centering Psychiatry is accepting new clients. We offer mental healthcare, including psychiatric evaluation, treatment options, and medication management. We approach assessment and care with a holistic and functional view with a goal of overall improvement in quality of life. We see kids, teens and adults (ages 10 - 55), including specialized care for anyone planning pregnancy, pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding or perimenopausal. We offer assessment and treatment options for ADHD and Insomnia.
Centering Psychiatry is accepting new clients. We offer mental healthcare, including psychiatric evaluation, treatment options, and medication management. We approach assessment and care with a holistic and functional view with a goal of overall improvement in quality of life. We see kids, teens and adults (ages 10 - 55), including specialized care for anyone planning pregnancy, pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding or perimenopausal. We offer assessment and treatment options for ADHD and Insomnia.
Damaris Chukwura, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health care. She began her nursing career in 2007 and has been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2014. Damaris has worked in a wide range of settings including inpatient hospitals, residential treatment centers, partial and intensive outpatient programs, correctional psychiatry, and substance abuse treatment. Her clinical experience spans various conditions such as ADHD, eating disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and treatment-resistant depression.
Damaris Chukwura, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health care. She began her nursing career in 2007 and has been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2014. Damaris has worked in a wide range of settings including inpatient hospitals, residential treatment centers, partial and intensive outpatient programs, correctional psychiatry, and substance abuse treatment. Her clinical experience spans various conditions such as ADHD, eating disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and treatment-resistant depression.
Misty’s ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed or emotionally off-balance—struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or PMDD. They may feel unheard or frustrated with past treatments. What they want is clarity, healing, and real tools to feel like themselves again. Misty helps them uncover what’s going on, set meaningful goals, and create a treatment plan that aligns with their values. Her clients want to feel better—and they’re ready to work toward that with compassionate, expert support.
Misty’s ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed or emotionally off-balance—struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or PMDD. They may feel unheard or frustrated with past treatments. What they want is clarity, healing, and real tools to feel like themselves again. Misty helps them uncover what’s going on, set meaningful goals, and create a treatment plan that aligns with their values. Her clients want to feel better—and they’re ready to work toward that with compassionate, expert support.
Are you someone who has personally experienced cancer, is caregiving for someone with cancer, or a healthcare worker supporting patients? Are you also struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, loss of meaning, sleep troubles, life transitions, relationship strain, or coping with a chronic illness? Having a mental health team who understands the uniqueness of cancer survivorship, the critical role of care partners, and the beauty of community is invaluable.
Are you someone who has personally experienced cancer, is caregiving for someone with cancer, or a healthcare worker supporting patients? Are you also struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, loss of meaning, sleep troubles, life transitions, relationship strain, or coping with a chronic illness? Having a mental health team who understands the uniqueness of cancer survivorship, the critical role of care partners, and the beauty of community is invaluable.
Perhaps you're feeling stuck, burdened by persistent struggles with your mental health, seeking relief that has so far eluded you. You may have experienced periods when you have felt easily overwhelmed or struggle with lingering hopelessness, making daily life feel increasingly challenging. You long for genuine improvement, searching for compassionate and comprehensive care that can help restore your sense of joy, clarity, and overall vitality. You deserve personalized, effective solutions designed specifically to empower you toward lasting wellness and fulfillment.
Perhaps you're feeling stuck, burdened by persistent struggles with your mental health, seeking relief that has so far eluded you. You may have experienced periods when you have felt easily overwhelmed or struggle with lingering hopelessness, making daily life feel increasingly challenging. You long for genuine improvement, searching for compassionate and comprehensive care that can help restore your sense of joy, clarity, and overall vitality. You deserve personalized, effective solutions designed specifically to empower you toward lasting wellness and fulfillment.
Dr. Brett Sharp is a triple board-certified (pediatrics, child psychiatry and adult psychiatry) physician with experience treating 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 (pediatrics, child psychiatry and adult psychiatry) physician with experience treating 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.
I'm Peter Njogu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My passion lies in extending exceptional psychiatric care to individuals in need. In the initial session, my approach is centered around understanding you and your treatment objectives. I prioritize person-centered care, always keeping your needs at the forefront to support your success. I allocate ample time for you to ask questions and express any worries you may have. For clients already on medications, my approach remains consistent. Our sessions are primarily focused on evaluating the effectiveness of the current medication regimen.
I'm Peter Njogu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My passion lies in extending exceptional psychiatric care to individuals in need. In the initial session, my approach is centered around understanding you and your treatment objectives. I prioritize person-centered care, always keeping your needs at the forefront to support your success. I allocate ample time for you to ask questions and express any worries you may have. For clients already on medications, my approach remains consistent. Our sessions are primarily focused on evaluating the effectiveness of the current medication regimen.
Michael treats a variety of psychiatric conditions through medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy, including mood, anxiety, personality disorders, attention and concentration challenges, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma, and more. As an active member of several psychedelic medicine organizations, Michael is particularly invested in the role of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies as a means of offering lasting mental health improvements.
Michael treats a variety of psychiatric conditions through medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy, including mood, anxiety, personality disorders, attention and concentration challenges, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma, and more. As an active member of several psychedelic medicine organizations, Michael is particularly invested in the role of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies as a means of offering lasting mental health improvements.
I am Dr. Veronica Forchu. I earned my Doctorate of Nursing Practice from UMass Global California with a specialty in Psychiatry and Mental Health Across the Lifespan. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Chamberlain College of Nursing Ohio. I have experience in case management, serving patients of different age groups in home health, palliative care, and hospice, and managing anxiety, depression, dementia, psychotic episodes, and pain at end-of-life. I bring with me over 10 years of experience working with patients and providing emotional support to their families and loved ones dealing with loss & grief.
I am Dr. Veronica Forchu. I earned my Doctorate of Nursing Practice from UMass Global California with a specialty in Psychiatry and Mental Health Across the Lifespan. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Chamberlain College of Nursing Ohio. I have experience in case management, serving patients of different age groups in home health, palliative care, and hospice, and managing anxiety, depression, dementia, psychotic episodes, and pain at end-of-life. I bring with me over 10 years of experience working with patients and providing emotional support to their families and loved ones dealing with loss & grief.
See more therapy options for Hill Air Force Base
Nearby Searches for Hill Air Force Base
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- North Salt Lake
- Ogden
- Salt Lake City
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hill Air Force Base, UT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hill Air Force Base, UT who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | ADHD |
| 100% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 100% | Stress |
| 80% | Addiction |
| 80% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
20 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 100% | Government Employees Health Association (GEHA) |
How Psychiatrists in Hill Air Force Base, UT see their clients
| 80% | Online Only | |
| 20% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hill Air Force Base?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.

