Psychiatrists in North Ogden, UT

Bryce Gosney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We want you to feel calm, confident, and capable again. With thoughtful, collaborative psychiatric care and medication management, we help children and adults with emotional regulation, resilience, and daily functioning so they can succeed at home, in school, at work, and with friends. We help our patients gain clarity with practical guidance and a steady plan forward. The goal isn’t just symptom relief—it’s helping you and your child build lasting stability and creating a home that feels grounded, hopeful, and strong.
We want you to feel calm, confident, and capable again. With thoughtful, collaborative psychiatric care and medication management, we help children and adults with emotional regulation, resilience, and daily functioning so they can succeed at home, in school, at work, and with friends. We help our patients gain clarity with practical guidance and a steady plan forward. The goal isn’t just symptom relief—it’s helping you and your child build lasting stability and creating a home that feels grounded, hopeful, and strong.
(385) 506-2112 View (385) 506-2112

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Fernanda Johnston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Fernanda Johnston “Nanda” has a wide range of experience and expertise in treating patients across the lifespan. Nanda is a dual practitioner, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (Maryville University), and a family nurse practitioner (Tennessee State University). Fernanda is a Brazilian native who speaks Portuguese and Spanish fluently and is a United States Armed Services veteran. Nanda believes in treating the individual, not just the diagnosis, by collaborating with her patients to design and implement a treatment plan tailored to their needs.
Fernanda Johnston “Nanda” has a wide range of experience and expertise in treating patients across the lifespan. Nanda is a dual practitioner, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (Maryville University), and a family nurse practitioner (Tennessee State University). Fernanda is a Brazilian native who speaks Portuguese and Spanish fluently and is a United States Armed Services veteran. Nanda believes in treating the individual, not just the diagnosis, by collaborating with her patients to design and implement a treatment plan tailored to their needs.
(725) 242-5743 View (725) 242-5743
Margaret Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Margaret Johnson, PMHNP, earned her Master’s Degree from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in 2006 and completed advanced doctoral studies in clinical psychology. She has extensive experience in outpatient, inpatient, geriatric, military, and veteran-focused psychiatry, along with certifications in CBT, DBT, integrative psychiatry, nutritional psychiatry, medical ketamine-assisted therapy, psychedelic psychiatry, and bioidentical hormone therapy. Margaret takes an integrative approach that combines mental health care with wellness, nutrition, and medication management.
Margaret Johnson, PMHNP, earned her Master’s Degree from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in 2006 and completed advanced doctoral studies in clinical psychology. She has extensive experience in outpatient, inpatient, geriatric, military, and veteran-focused psychiatry, along with certifications in CBT, DBT, integrative psychiatry, nutritional psychiatry, medical ketamine-assisted therapy, psychedelic psychiatry, and bioidentical hormone therapy. Margaret takes an integrative approach that combines mental health care with wellness, nutrition, and medication management.
(385) 365-6777 View (385) 365-6777
Anna Blonquist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC-NP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Yellow Daisy provides psychiatric medication management and holistic mental health care for adults only. Treatment focuses on adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders using an integrative approach that combines careful diagnosis, safe medication management, and long-term emotional support. Many patients begin to feel improvement once the right treatment plan is in place. Services are provided by a psychiatric nurse practitioner with in-person and telehealth appointments available in Idaho and Utah.
Yellow Daisy provides psychiatric medication management and holistic mental health care for adults only. Treatment focuses on adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and mood disorders using an integrative approach that combines careful diagnosis, safe medication management, and long-term emotional support. Many patients begin to feel improvement once the right treatment plan is in place. Services are provided by a psychiatric nurse practitioner with in-person and telehealth appointments available in Idaho and Utah.
(435) 626-4263 View (435) 626-4263
Austin Heaps
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Uintah, UT 84405
My approach emphasizes compassion, collaboration, and individualized care. I prioritize building trusting relationships where patients feel heard and understood. Combining evidence-based psychiatric care with supportive therapies, I help patients feel empowered in both recovery or maintaining mental health. I take a holistic view, considering personal, social, and lifestyle factors, and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges, set meaningful goals, and work toward lasting change.
My approach emphasizes compassion, collaboration, and individualized care. I prioritize building trusting relationships where patients feel heard and understood. Combining evidence-based psychiatric care with supportive therapies, I help patients feel empowered in both recovery or maintaining mental health. I take a holistic view, considering personal, social, and lifestyle factors, and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges, set meaningful goals, and work toward lasting change.
(385) 432-5040 View (385) 432-5040
Amanda Cherrington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am now accepting new clients, with availability within a week of booking! You may be navigating the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, the constant mind-jumping of ADHD, or the relentless cycle of OCD. Whatever you're facing, your struggles are valid, and seeking help is a courageous step. You deserve a provider who listens without judgment, collaborates on solutions that feel right for you, and truly sees you—not just your diagnosis. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, peace, and the life you deserve. Let’s take this journey, one step at a time, together.
I am now accepting new clients, with availability within a week of booking! You may be navigating the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, the constant mind-jumping of ADHD, or the relentless cycle of OCD. Whatever you're facing, your struggles are valid, and seeking help is a courageous step. You deserve a provider who listens without judgment, collaborates on solutions that feel right for you, and truly sees you—not just your diagnosis. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, peace, and the life you deserve. Let’s take this journey, one step at a time, together.
(385) 644-1179 View (385) 644-1179
Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGACNP, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
Annaliesa Allred, PMHNP-BC, APRN is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), and also an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with a DNP from the University of Utah then went on to get her PMHNP post-Master’s certificate from Maryville University of St. Louis. Anna’s background is in critical care nursing and cardiology. Anna values building authentic connections with clients, and her goal is to follow evidence-based practice while working as a team with patients to create a treatment plan and meet their mental health goals.
Annaliesa Allred, PMHNP-BC, APRN is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), and also an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with a DNP from the University of Utah then went on to get her PMHNP post-Master’s certificate from Maryville University of St. Louis. Anna’s background is in critical care nursing and cardiology. Anna values building authentic connections with clients, and her goal is to follow evidence-based practice while working as a team with patients to create a treatment plan and meet their mental health goals.
(385) 231-2145 View (385) 231-2145
Armando Manny Slack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401
Hi, I am currently accepting new patients! I treat anxiety and depression, to PTSD, ASD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. I work with children, teens, to adults. The ones whom I have had success with were invested in their treatment and willing to work along with me. I feel that therapy alongside pharmacologic management has been extremely helpful for recovery, sobriety, growth and symptom management. I like to take a conservative practice with medications and try to use a "less is more," approach. I like to be cautious and careful in my medication decisions and follow clients closely.
Hi, I am currently accepting new patients! I treat anxiety and depression, to PTSD, ASD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. I work with children, teens, to adults. The ones whom I have had success with were invested in their treatment and willing to work along with me. I feel that therapy alongside pharmacologic management has been extremely helpful for recovery, sobriety, growth and symptom management. I like to take a conservative practice with medications and try to use a "less is more," approach. I like to be cautious and careful in my medication decisions and follow clients closely.
(385) 324-6203 View (385) 324-6203
Dr. Allyce K Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSCP, PMH-C
2 Endorsed
Providence, UT 84332
Are you struggling with postpartum anxiety or postpartum depression? Are you pregnant and experiencing mental health symptoms? Are you still having symptoms after seeing your midwife, obstetric provider, or therapist? I specialize in treating women in pregnancy, postpartum, and throughout the reproductive years. I often see women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, infertility, TFMR, pregnancy or infant loss, and for preconception counseling.
Are you struggling with postpartum anxiety or postpartum depression? Are you pregnant and experiencing mental health symptoms? Are you still having symptoms after seeing your midwife, obstetric provider, or therapist? I specialize in treating women in pregnancy, postpartum, and throughout the reproductive years. I often see women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, infertility, TFMR, pregnancy or infant loss, and for preconception counseling.
(385) 245-2713 View (385) 245-2713
Shaina Solt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Uintah, UT 84405
I am committed to creating a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment for every individual I work with. I strive to empower my clients to feel in control of their interviews and treatment plans while providing education and guidance to support making informed decisions. I truly care for the well-being of my patients.
I am committed to creating a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment for every individual I work with. I strive to empower my clients to feel in control of their interviews and treatment plans while providing education and guidance to support making informed decisions. I truly care for the well-being of my patients.
(385) 526-7349 View (385) 526-7349
Danielle Heaps
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP, PMHS
Online Only
I am a board certified Pediatric / Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am commited to helping kids and teenagers with mental health issues. I have over 20 years experience of caring for kids. I specialize in diagnosing and treating children ages 6 y.o.-21 y.o. suffering from emotional and behavioral disorders, including, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ODD and others. I love seeing the positive changes that occur in childrens' lives from proper diagnosis, treatment and management of emotional distress or pain.
I am a board certified Pediatric / Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am commited to helping kids and teenagers with mental health issues. I have over 20 years experience of caring for kids. I specialize in diagnosing and treating children ages 6 y.o.-21 y.o. suffering from emotional and behavioral disorders, including, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ODD and others. I love seeing the positive changes that occur in childrens' lives from proper diagnosis, treatment and management of emotional distress or pain.
(385) 526-7602 View (385) 526-7602
Andrea Beckstrom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
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.
(385) 483-2101 View (385) 483-2101
Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
Elizabeth Harrop, PMHNPBC, APRN, Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah has 5 medication providers and 5 therapists to help with any mental health issues you may be dealing with. Eating disorders, Addictions, Trauma, Military's Issues, Family or Couples issues, Grieve and Loss, Mood Disorders, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. We offer DBT group on Monday nights. WE now offer Medical Weight Loss sessions as well.
Elizabeth Harrop, PMHNPBC, APRN, Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah has 5 medication providers and 5 therapists to help with any mental health issues you may be dealing with. Eating disorders, Addictions, Trauma, Military's Issues, Family or Couples issues, Grieve and Loss, Mood Disorders, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. We offer DBT group on Monday nights. WE now offer Medical Weight Loss sessions as well.
(801) 447-1537 View (801) 447-1537
David Housley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bountiful, UT 84010
My ideal clients are often high-functioning but feel overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or not like themselves. Others, they feel stuck or frustrated after treatments that haven’t fully helped. They seek clarity, relief, and a provider who truly listens. I help individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life stress through thoughtful evaluation and personalized care. Treatment may include medication management, supportive therapy, and practical strategies. My goal is to help clients feel more in control, improve daily functioning, and move forward with confidence and balance.
My ideal clients are often high-functioning but feel overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or not like themselves. Others, they feel stuck or frustrated after treatments that haven’t fully helped. They seek clarity, relief, and a provider who truly listens. I help individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life stress through thoughtful evaluation and personalized care. Treatment may include medication management, supportive therapy, and practical strategies. My goal is to help clients feel more in control, improve daily functioning, and move forward with confidence and balance.
(385) 393-1741 View (385) 393-1741
Ben Saxey - Psychiatry/Medication Management
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Layton, UT 84040
As a psychiatric physician assistant, I work with individuals who are seeking answers and ready to make changes—whether that means adjusting sleep, diet, or exercise, finding the right medication, or exploring new and innovative treatment options. I help individuals who are looking for options that go beyond traditional treatment and care methods. I focus on combining evidence-based mental health care with cutting-edge treatments not always available in other clinics.
As a psychiatric physician assistant, I work with individuals who are seeking answers and ready to make changes—whether that means adjusting sleep, diet, or exercise, finding the right medication, or exploring new and innovative treatment options. I help individuals who are looking for options that go beyond traditional treatment and care methods. I focus on combining evidence-based mental health care with cutting-edge treatments not always available in other clinics.
(801) 784-6201 View (801) 784-6201
Wendy Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bountiful, UT 84010
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
(801) 316-8026 View (801) 316-8026
Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
Layton, UT 84041
Shauna Cheshire, PMHNP-BC, APRN is an Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN) and is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She graduated with a doctorate degree in nursing practice from the University of Utah, specializing in mental health. Shauna provides mental health care for adolescents and adults. She is especially interested in caring for patients who have mental or emotional health needs before, during, or after the birth of a baby. She has been a nurse for over 25 years and spent most of her career as a labor and delivery nurse, childbirth educator, and a nurse in maternal-fetal medicine.
Shauna Cheshire, PMHNP-BC, APRN is an Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN) and is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She graduated with a doctorate degree in nursing practice from the University of Utah, specializing in mental health. Shauna provides mental health care for adolescents and adults. She is especially interested in caring for patients who have mental or emotional health needs before, during, or after the birth of a baby. She has been a nurse for over 25 years and spent most of her career as a labor and delivery nurse, childbirth educator, and a nurse in maternal-fetal medicine.
(385) 449-4426 View (385) 449-4426
Justin M Woodruff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C, APRN
3 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a holistic approach to medication management that honors your whole self—mind, body, and spirit. I believe you're the expert on your own experience, and my role is to collaborate with you in finding the right balance that supports your goals and values.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a holistic approach to medication management that honors your whole self—mind, body, and spirit. I believe you're the expert on your own experience, and my role is to collaborate with you in finding the right balance that supports your goals and values.
(435) 500-6917 View (435) 500-6917
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hola! 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 run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
Hola! 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 run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
(503) 461-5031 View (503) 461-5031
Rebecca L Feller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Farmington, UT 84025
Dr. Rebecca Feller graduated from the University of Utah with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and is a board certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her undergraduate nursing degrees from Weber State University and Western Governors University. Dr. Feller has over 20 years experience working in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings.
Dr. Rebecca Feller graduated from the University of Utah with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and is a board certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her undergraduate nursing degrees from Weber State University and Western Governors University. Dr. Feller has over 20 years experience working in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings.
(385) 247-2293 View (385) 247-2293

See more therapy options for North Ogden

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in North Ogden, UT

< 10

Psychiatrists in North Ogden, UT who prioritize treating:

100% Child
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Suicidal Ideation

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in North Ogden, UT see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in North Ogden?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.