Psychiatrists in Ogden, UT

Tamara Brock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(385) 381-6639 View (385) 381-6639
Bryce Gosney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
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
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
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
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
Summit Psychiatry Associates
Physician Assistant, PA-C, DSc, CAQ-PSY
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401
At Summit Psychiatry Associates, we work with individuals and families across the lifespan who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and life stressors. Many of our clients are looking for collaborative, accessible care that blends medical and therapeutic approaches. Whether they’re facing new challenges or managing long-standing concerns, our clients seek clarity, stability, and support to improve their daily lives.
At Summit Psychiatry Associates, we work with individuals and families across the lifespan who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and life stressors. Many of our clients are looking for collaborative, accessible care that blends medical and therapeutic approaches. Whether they’re facing new challenges or managing long-standing concerns, our clients seek clarity, stability, and support to improve their daily lives.
(385) 323-3695 View (385) 323-3695
Nancy Raymond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84405
Hopeful Minds provides compassionate, personalized medication management for Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Border Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, DID, OCD, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Panic Disorder, Insomnia, Mood Disorders, and Psychotic Disorders. We offer comprehensive evaluations, tailored medication plans, and ongoing support to help you achieve stability and improved quality of life. Our approach is patient-centered, collaborative, and focused on your unique needs. At Hopeful Minds, you are heard, supported, and empowered on your journey to better mental health.
Hopeful Minds provides compassionate, personalized medication management for Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Border Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, DID, OCD, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Panic Disorder, Insomnia, Mood Disorders, and Psychotic Disorders. We offer comprehensive evaluations, tailored medication plans, and ongoing support to help you achieve stability and improved quality of life. Our approach is patient-centered, collaborative, and focused on your unique needs. At Hopeful Minds, you are heard, supported, and empowered on your journey to better mental health.
(801) 301-2781 View (801) 301-2781
Dr. Adeola Mustapha
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Adeola Mustapha is a board-certified psychiatrist with experience across outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health settings. She completed her psychiatry residency at Indiana University School of Medicine – Vincennes in July 2024 after earning her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. Recognized for her exceptional psychotherapy skills, Dr. Mustapha received therapy awards in both her PGY3 and PGY4 years. Her background reflects a commitment to blending strong clinical training with compassionate, patient-focused care.
Dr. Adeola Mustapha is a board-certified psychiatrist with experience across outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health settings. She completed her psychiatry residency at Indiana University School of Medicine – Vincennes in July 2024 after earning her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. Recognized for her exceptional psychotherapy skills, Dr. Mustapha received therapy awards in both her PGY3 and PGY4 years. Her background reflects a commitment to blending strong clinical training with compassionate, patient-focused care.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Annette Ephroni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
5 Endorsed
Online Only
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy and perscribing. I am also trained as a Sexologist Diplomate. I sometimes offer regular psychotherapy sessions in addition to my med management sessions.
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy and perscribing. I am also trained as a Sexologist Diplomate. I sometimes offer regular psychotherapy sessions in addition to my med management sessions.
(385) 786-8691 View (385) 786-8691
Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
Brenda Toone, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-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, FNP-BC, PMHNP-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.
(801) 515-3136 View (801) 515-3136
Sage Meadows Mental Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Sage Meadows Mental Health is a boutique outpatient psychiatric practice offering fully remote treatment for adults (18+) across Utah. Treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, we offer extended visit times, individualized treatment, and strong therapeutic relationships built on trust and respect. A deliberately smaller caseload means I respond to messages quickly, offer urgent visits when you need them, and stay familiar with your life and treatment. Sage meadows is proudly LGBTQ+ affirming and welcomes patients from all backgrounds. You can expect a provider who honors your identity and meets you where you are.
Sage Meadows Mental Health is a boutique outpatient psychiatric practice offering fully remote treatment for adults (18+) across Utah. Treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, we offer extended visit times, individualized treatment, and strong therapeutic relationships built on trust and respect. A deliberately smaller caseload means I respond to messages quickly, offer urgent visits when you need them, and stay familiar with your life and treatment. Sage meadows is proudly LGBTQ+ affirming and welcomes patients from all backgrounds. You can expect a provider who honors your identity and meets you where you are.
(801) 876-5634 View (801) 876-5634
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(385) 327-8023 View (385) 327-8023
Caterina Goldberg-Dunnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Caterina Goldberg-Dunnett, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice with psychiatric certification from the University of North Florida, graduating with honors as a commencement speaker, and her MSN (FNP) from South University with highest honors. With over a decade of experience, she cares for adult and geriatric patients with complex medical and psychiatric needs, specializing in ADHD, bipolar disorder, panic symptoms, insomnia, and cognitive disorders including dementia.
Caterina Goldberg-Dunnett, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice with psychiatric certification from the University of North Florida, graduating with honors as a commencement speaker, and her MSN (FNP) from South University with highest honors. With over a decade of experience, she cares for adult and geriatric patients with complex medical and psychiatric needs, specializing in ADHD, bipolar disorder, panic symptoms, insomnia, and cognitive disorders including dementia.
(385) 263-1670 View (385) 263-1670
Rocky Mountain Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CPNP
Online Only
I am a dual board certified Pediatric and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about child behavioral and psychiatric health. I try to combine conventional medicine with holistic approaches to empower children for better mental health. I have >15 years experience working with children in a variety of settings and feel I'm well equipped to help your child reach their full potential.
I am a dual board certified Pediatric and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about child behavioral and psychiatric health. I try to combine conventional medicine with holistic approaches to empower children for better mental health. I have >15 years experience working with children in a variety of settings and feel I'm well equipped to help your child reach their full potential.
(385) 417-3848 View (385) 417-3848
Tonya Hood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat mental health conditions using a holistic and functional approach. My goal is to help my clients restore feelings of stability and well-being by working with each client to develop a specialized plan of care for your needs. My training has offered me the ability to provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, general wellness and supportive therapy. My 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, I treat mental health conditions using a holistic and functional approach. My goal is to help my clients restore feelings of stability and well-being by working with each client to develop a specialized plan of care for your needs. My training has offered me the ability to provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, general wellness and supportive therapy. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, abuse/trauma, adjustment issues, sleep difficulties, ADHD, impulsivity, Bipolar disorder and co-occurring disorders.
(385) 393-1944 View (385) 393-1944
Ben Van Leeuwen
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(385) 832-7975 View (385) 832-7975
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
Dr. Shelley Sellinger
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Shelley Sellinger is a board certified psychiatrist in practice for 25 years. Her career has been devoted to serving both her local community as well as high risk and under served patients. As a pioneer and advocate for the use of telepsychiatry years prior to the pandemic she has presented at the American Telehealth conference as well as at grand rounds.
Dr. Shelley Sellinger is a board certified psychiatrist in practice for 25 years. Her career has been devoted to serving both her local community as well as high risk and under served patients. As a pioneer and advocate for the use of telepsychiatry years prior to the pandemic she has presented at the American Telehealth conference as well as at grand rounds.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
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
Karilyn Shelton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Online Only
I look forward to entering into a partnership with clients of all ages and stages of life to help explore treatments for mental health illnesses.
I look forward to entering into a partnership with clients of all ages and stages of life to help explore treatments for mental health illnesses.
(435) 999-2357 View (435) 999-2357

See more therapy options for Ogden

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Ogden, UT

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Ogden, UT who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
94% Depression
84% Medication Management
81% ADHD
81% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
79% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Ogden, UT see their clients

59% Online Only
41% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 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.