Psychiatrists in Hill Air Force Base, UT
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.
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and judgment-free environment.
I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and weight-related concerns, offering personalized treatment plans that may include medication management and therapeutic support. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on your unique goals and needs.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and judgment-free environment.
I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and weight-related concerns, offering personalized treatment plans that may include medication management and therapeutic support. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on your unique goals and needs.
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.
My ideal client is someone feeling overwhelmed or stuck but still hopeful things can improve. They may be dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or mood changes and want clarity and relief. They’re looking for a safe, judgment‑free space where they feel heard and understood. They want a partner in the process—someone warm, down‑to‑earth, and willing to bring a little humor when it helps. Most of all, they want to feel like themselves again.
My ideal client is someone feeling overwhelmed or stuck but still hopeful things can improve. They may be dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or mood changes and want clarity and relief. They’re looking for a safe, judgment‑free space where they feel heard and understood. They want a partner in the process—someone warm, down‑to‑earth, and willing to bring a little humor when it helps. Most of all, they want to feel like themselves again.
Melissa Alm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Do you find that you are struggling more and more to manage work, home, school and stability in your relationships with family and friends? It is true that these overwhelming feelings and struggles can visit anyone from time to time throughout their lives. However, if their visits have become extended stays and then they have set up permanent residence that is affecting your ability to live your life - it may be time to reach out for some additional help.
Do you find that you are struggling more and more to manage work, home, school and stability in your relationships with family and friends? It is true that these overwhelming feelings and struggles can visit anyone from time to time throughout their lives. However, if their visits have become extended stays and then they have set up permanent residence that is affecting your ability to live your life - it may be time to reach out for some additional help.
Now accepting new clients! My approach doesn't include rushed prescriptions or a "one-size-fits all" solution. 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. 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.
Centering Psychiatry is accepting new clients starting in May 2026. 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 starting in May 2026. 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.
Navigating the perinatal period—whether you're a first-time parent or growing your family—can feel overwhelming. I specialize in supporting pregnant, postpartum, and infertile women through the unique challenges this season brings, including intrusive thoughts, anxiety/OCD, depression, and struggling to feel like yourself again.
I provide both therapy and evidenced-based medication management. I am ERP-certified, offering the gold standard treatment for OCD. I especially enjoy the intersection of ADHD and anxiety. My approach is direct, compassionate, and evidence-based, helping you reclaim your peace of mind.
Navigating the perinatal period—whether you're a first-time parent or growing your family—can feel overwhelming. I specialize in supporting pregnant, postpartum, and infertile women through the unique challenges this season brings, including intrusive thoughts, anxiety/OCD, depression, and struggling to feel like yourself again.
I provide both therapy and evidenced-based medication management. I am ERP-certified, offering the gold standard treatment for OCD. I especially enjoy the intersection of ADHD and anxiety. My approach is direct, compassionate, and evidence-based, helping you reclaim your peace of mind.
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.
Dr. Mott grew up in southeastern Idaho. She earned a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of California at Berkeley in 2009, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2014 from the University of Chicago. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Utah in 2018 and became board certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2019.
Dr. Mott grew up in southeastern Idaho. She earned a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of California at Berkeley in 2009, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2014 from the University of Chicago. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Utah in 2018 and became board certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2019.
I'm Board-certified in Family Medicine, Psychiatry and a Qualified Medical Provider for Utah Medical Cannabis. I help individuals and families seeking compassionate, personalized mental health care during life’s most challenging seasons. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, burnout, trauma, and overwhelming life transitions. Many come to me feeling exhausted, disconnected, misunderstood, or unsure where to start. I create a safe, supportive space where patients feel truly heard while providing thoughtful, evidence-based, holistic care tailored to their unique needs
I'm Board-certified in Family Medicine, Psychiatry and a Qualified Medical Provider for Utah Medical Cannabis. I help individuals and families seeking compassionate, personalized mental health care during life’s most challenging seasons. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, burnout, trauma, and overwhelming life transitions. Many come to me feeling exhausted, disconnected, misunderstood, or unsure where to start. I create a safe, supportive space where patients feel truly heard while providing thoughtful, evidence-based, holistic care tailored to their unique needs
People First. You are always a person first, never your diagnosis. Let's focus on your human experience and discover what it's like to be you. I provide a positive, non-judgmental environment where you are free to be yourself. Medication management and therapy services are provided exclusively via telehealth services, at this time.
People First. You are always a person first, never your diagnosis. Let's focus on your human experience and discover what it's like to be you. I provide a positive, non-judgmental environment where you are free to be yourself. Medication management and therapy services are provided exclusively via telehealth services, at this time.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Dr. Heaps is a Doctorate level prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Consistent with the philosophy of Talkspace; Dr. Heaps believes that while not every client may have need of psychotropic medication; every client benefits from therapy. Dr. Heaps received his Doctorate degree from the University of Utah. While joining Talkspace Dr. Heaps also cares for our nations veterans through the VA healthcare system. Dr. Heaps works in an outpatient setting treating a challenging client population and employing different treatment systems to improve their lives
Dr. Heaps is a Doctorate level prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Consistent with the philosophy of Talkspace; Dr. Heaps believes that while not every client may have need of psychotropic medication; every client benefits from therapy. Dr. Heaps received his Doctorate degree from the University of Utah. While joining Talkspace Dr. Heaps also cares for our nations veterans through the VA healthcare system. Dr. Heaps works in an outpatient setting treating a challenging client population and employing different treatment systems to improve their lives
Dr. Marianne Haines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC, PCNS-BC, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Haines has over 25 years of clinical experience, the majority of which has been spent treating children and families. She is nationally board-certified in Neonatology, Pediatrics, and Psychiatry specialties. In both clinical and residential treatment settings, Dr. Haines has worked extensively with individuals suffering from a variety of traumas and mental health disorders. She specializes in Child, Adolescent and Family Psychiatry and provides diagnosis, medication management, psychotherapy, as well as collaboration with other psychiatrists, therapists, and healthcare providers to optimize the patient's treatment plan.
Dr. Haines has over 25 years of clinical experience, the majority of which has been spent treating children and families. She is nationally board-certified in Neonatology, Pediatrics, and Psychiatry specialties. In both clinical and residential treatment settings, Dr. Haines has worked extensively with individuals suffering from a variety of traumas and mental health disorders. She specializes in Child, Adolescent and Family Psychiatry and provides diagnosis, medication management, psychotherapy, as well as collaboration with other psychiatrists, therapists, and healthcare providers to optimize the patient's treatment plan.
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.
Same Week Appointments for Utah,Virginia, and now Washington state! I specialize in working with high-functioning adults and adolescents (8+) navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, burnout, mood concerns, trauma-related symptoms, and life transitions. Many of my clients are professionals, students, or individuals who appear successful on the outside while privately struggling with focus, overwhelm, emotional exhaustion, or persistent stress. My approach combines thoughtful psychiatric medication management with collaborative, patient-centered care designed to support long-term wellness—not just symptom reduction.
Same Week Appointments for Utah,Virginia, and now Washington state! I specialize in working with high-functioning adults and adolescents (8+) navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, burnout, mood concerns, trauma-related symptoms, and life transitions. Many of my clients are professionals, students, or individuals who appear successful on the outside while privately struggling with focus, overwhelm, emotional exhaustion, or persistent stress. My approach combines thoughtful psychiatric medication management with collaborative, patient-centered care designed to support long-term wellness—not just symptom reduction.
I am here to help you determine if medication is needed as part of your treatment. There are many pathways to healing and medication can be one small part of this journey. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
I am here to help you determine if medication is needed as part of your treatment. There are many pathways to healing and medication can be one small part of this journey. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
I am a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering comprehensive psychiatric care through Functional Medicine and Integrative Psychiatry for children, teens and adults. My approach goes beyond symptom relief. I incorporate lab testing for genetics, nutritional status, gut health, inflammation, and metabolic markers. My treatment plans blend medications as needed or desired, supplements, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. I specialize in ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders, chronic illness, PANS/PANDAS and soon autism evaluations and care. We are now located within The EFT Clinic in Lehi and Bountiful
I am a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering comprehensive psychiatric care through Functional Medicine and Integrative Psychiatry for children, teens and adults. My approach goes beyond symptom relief. I incorporate lab testing for genetics, nutritional status, gut health, inflammation, and metabolic markers. My treatment plans blend medications as needed or desired, supplements, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. I specialize in ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders, chronic illness, PANS/PANDAS and soon autism evaluations and care. We are now located within The EFT Clinic in Lehi and Bountiful
See more therapy options for Hill Air Force Base
Nearby Searches for Hill Air Force Base
- Bountiful
- Centerville
- Clearfield
- Farmington
- Kaysville
- Layton
- Millcreek
- North Salt Lake
- Ogden
- Salt Lake City
- Syracuse
- West Bountiful
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% | Addiction |
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | ADHD |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 100% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 100% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
34 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 100% | Humana |
How Psychiatrists in Hill Air Force Base, UT see their clients
| 100% | 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.

