Psychiatrists in Hill Air Force Base, UT
Alana Jacobs-Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hill Air Force Base, UT 84056 (Online Only)
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.
Canvi Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CADDRA
Verified Verified
Hill Air Force Base, UT 84056
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
Now Accepting New Patients! I want a patient that wants to find an answer. Sometimes the answer requires changing our lifestyle which includes sleeping habits, diet and exercise. Sometimes the answer is with the right medication(s). Sometimes it is with trying something "new". If you are willing to make changes, then we can explore options at Numinus that might not be available at other clinics. If you want someone who will listen and navigate your mental health journey with you, then I am happy to help and hope to see you at our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! I want a patient that wants to find an answer. Sometimes the answer requires changing our lifestyle which includes sleeping habits, diet and exercise. Sometimes the answer is with the right medication(s). Sometimes it is with trying something "new". If you are willing to make changes, then we can explore options at Numinus that might not be available at other clinics. If you want someone who will listen and navigate your mental health journey with you, then I am happy to help and hope to see you at our clinic.
I see children (4+) for Medication Management ADHD, Anger/Aggression, Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Bipolar, Aggression, behavioral issues and a variety of other issues as well. I also see Adults for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, PTSD, Hormone Replacement, Low Testosterone, Menopause, PCOS and Weight Loss.
I see children (4+) for Medication Management ADHD, Anger/Aggression, Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Bipolar, Aggression, behavioral issues and a variety of other issues as well. I also see Adults for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, PTSD, Hormone Replacement, Low Testosterone, Menopause, PCOS and Weight Loss.
Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Layton, UT 84041
Brenda Toone, APRN is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and holds a DNP from Weber State University. Earlier in her career, she attended Brigham Young University, graduating as class valedictorian with a Bachelor of Nursing. She values using shared decision making with her patients to help them meet their physical and mental health objectives. Whether you want to get back to your former self or reach new levels of success, she would love to be a part of the team that helps you reach your goals! Brenda offers compassionate psychiatric care with mental health medication management, and medical weight loss treatment.
Brenda Toone, APRN is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and holds a DNP from Weber State University. Earlier in her career, she attended Brigham Young University, graduating as class valedictorian with a Bachelor of Nursing. She values using shared decision making with her patients to help them meet their physical and mental health objectives. Whether you want to get back to your former self or reach new levels of success, she would love to be a part of the team that helps you reach your goals! Brenda offers compassionate psychiatric care with mental health medication management, and medical weight loss treatment.
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.
Sherrie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84040
Accepting New Patients! Sherrie is a board-certified PMHNP and licensed as an APRN. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Utah and completed her undergraduate studies in Microbiology and Nursing at Weber State University. She is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, the American Nurses Association (ANA), American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA), and Utah Nurse Practitioners (UNP).
Accepting New Patients! Sherrie is a board-certified PMHNP and licensed as an APRN. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Utah and completed her undergraduate studies in Microbiology and Nursing at Weber State University. She is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, the American Nurses Association (ANA), American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA), and Utah Nurse Practitioners (UNP).
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
North Salt Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Syracuse, UT 84075 (Online Only)
I believe that medications are meant to put us in control of our moods, our anxiety, and our cognition.
I believe that medications are meant to put us in control of our moods, our anxiety, and our cognition.
Melanie Nielsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kaysville, UT 84037
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Utah seeing patients through telehealth and in office appointments. My goal as a provider is to empower you to become the best version of yourself. I treat children, teens and adults with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Working together at your pace, providing a healing space for personal growth through medication management and brief psychotherapy.
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Utah seeing patients through telehealth and in office appointments. My goal as a provider is to empower you to become the best version of yourself. I treat children, teens and adults with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Working together at your pace, providing a healing space for personal growth through medication management and brief psychotherapy.
Adam Creer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025
Adam Creer is a board-certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.. He has worked in the healthcare field since 2004. He has worked as a nurse aide, nurse, nurse educator and nurse practitioner. Adam’s experience working in healthcare has led him to become an advocate for individuals with mental health disorders. He believes that primary prevention begins with mental health. He is excited to work with individuals to improve their mental health and well-being.
Adam Creer is a board-certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.. He has worked in the healthcare field since 2004. He has worked as a nurse aide, nurse, nurse educator and nurse practitioner. Adam’s experience working in healthcare has led him to become an advocate for individuals with mental health disorders. He believes that primary prevention begins with mental health. He is excited to work with individuals to improve their mental health and well-being.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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.
Regan Harwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I was an elementary school teacher for 20 years, so I have extensive experience with children. I also have 8 years of inpatient psychiatric experience with adults,adolescents, and geriatric patients,so my experience is all-encompassing. I am also well versed in children with oppositional defiant disorder and DMDD amd have used Matthew's protocol with patients with these conditions.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I was an elementary school teacher for 20 years, so I have extensive experience with children. I also have 8 years of inpatient psychiatric experience with adults,adolescents, and geriatric patients,so my experience is all-encompassing. I am also well versed in children with oppositional defiant disorder and DMDD amd have used Matthew's protocol with patients with these conditions.
Andrea Beckstrom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kaysville, UT 84037
Everyone at some point in their life goes through difficult times. However, if you have been struggling with anxiety or mood issues for more than a few weeks or loved ones have noticed a change and feel you need help, you might benefit from an evaluation. I look at and consider the whole picture including the client's the mental health, physical health and social and environmental factors. I love people, understanding their story, learning who they are and their goal for the future. I have a passion for helping as many as possible from those who are looking for why they just don't feel right to those who are greatly suffering.
Everyone at some point in their life goes through difficult times. However, if you have been struggling with anxiety or mood issues for more than a few weeks or loved ones have noticed a change and feel you need help, you might benefit from an evaluation. I look at and consider the whole picture including the client's the mental health, physical health and social and environmental factors. I love people, understanding their story, learning who they are and their goal for the future. I have a passion for helping as many as possible from those who are looking for why they just don't feel right to those who are greatly suffering.
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy: Dedicated to Your Mental Well-being. At Clear Sky, we understand the profound impact of mental health on your overall quality of life. Our experienced team of therapists and psychiatrists is committed to providing practical and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based approaches, we offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whatever your mental health concerns, let us guide you towards a brighter tomorrow.
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy: Dedicated to Your Mental Well-being. At Clear Sky, we understand the profound impact of mental health on your overall quality of life. Our experienced team of therapists and psychiatrists is committed to providing practical and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based approaches, we offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whatever your mental health concerns, let us guide you towards a brighter tomorrow.
Braun Tueller
Physician Assistant, DMSc, CAQ-Psy, PA-C
Verified Verified
Layton, UT 84040 (Online Only)
My treatment philosophy in psychiatry is one based on tenants of courtesy, integrity, perseverence, compassion, and honesty. My goal is always to use the least amount of medication, with the greatest benefit possible. I believe in working directly with the patient to create individual treatment plans designed to help the person become as healthy, happy, and functional as possible.
My treatment philosophy in psychiatry is one based on tenants of courtesy, integrity, perseverence, compassion, and honesty. My goal is always to use the least amount of medication, with the greatest benefit possible. I believe in working directly with the patient to create individual treatment plans designed to help the person become as healthy, happy, and functional as possible.
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
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner Mrs. Hood treats psychiatric conditions using a holistic approach. Her goal is to restore feelings of stability and well-being by working with each client to develop a specialized plan of care. Her training has offered her the ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Her areas of focus include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, abuse/trauma, adjustment issues, sleep difficulties, ADHD, impulsivity, Bipolar disorder and co-occurring disorders.
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner Mrs. Hood treats psychiatric conditions using a holistic approach. Her goal is to restore feelings of stability and well-being by working with each client to develop a specialized plan of care. Her training has offered her the ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Her areas of focus include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, abuse/trauma, adjustment issues, sleep difficulties, ADHD, impulsivity, Bipolar disorder and co-occurring disorders.
Sarah T Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84405
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
See more therapy options for Hill Air Force Base
Nearby Searches for Hill Air Force Base
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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% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
19 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Hill Air Force Base, UT see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
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.