Psychiatrists in Ogden, UT

Sarah T Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84405
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.

Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.

I 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.

Marquesa Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84405
I am a board-certified PMHNP and I believe there is a mind/body/gut connection. Therefore I am dedicated to treating the whole person, not just a series of parts. I view my practice as multi-faceted including educator and advocate. I love that at Ampelis Health I work with a team of experts in psychiatry, positive psychology, marriage and family relations, nutrition, mindfulness, and wellness. This gives my patients access to the tools they need to overcome and manage their mental health concerns rather than just address symptoms.
I am a board-certified PMHNP and I believe there is a mind/body/gut connection. Therefore I am dedicated to treating the whole person, not just a series of parts. I view my practice as multi-faceted including educator and advocate. I love that at Ampelis Health I work with a team of experts in psychiatry, positive psychology, marriage and family relations, nutrition, mindfulness, and wellness. This gives my patients access to the tools they need to overcome and manage their mental health concerns rather than just address symptoms.

Daniel Hammond is an ANCC-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in a range of mental health settings treating patients across the lifespan. His areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD and PTSD. Daniel uses a bio/psycho/social approach to provide evidence-based, individualized care. Daniel works with clients in achieving a state of balance, equanimity and wellness through individual, proven approaches that include psychoeducation, medication management, lifestyle modification, diet/exercise, and supportive therapy utilizing motivational interviewing and the Socratic Method.
Daniel Hammond is an ANCC-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in a range of mental health settings treating patients across the lifespan. His areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD and PTSD. Daniel uses a bio/psycho/social approach to provide evidence-based, individualized care. Daniel works with clients in achieving a state of balance, equanimity and wellness through individual, proven approaches that include psychoeducation, medication management, lifestyle modification, diet/exercise, and supportive therapy utilizing motivational interviewing and the Socratic Method.

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.

Dr. Amy Parry is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am dedicated to delivering quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents and adults. I employ evidence-based guidelines, integrating my clinical experience, personal observations, and intuition. My role as a PMHNP is multifaceted, encompassing responsibilities as an educator, mental health advocate, and therapist.
Dr. Amy Parry is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am dedicated to delivering quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents and adults. I employ evidence-based guidelines, integrating my clinical experience, personal observations, and intuition. My role as a PMHNP is multifaceted, encompassing responsibilities as an educator, mental health advocate, and therapist.

At Ampelis Health I specialize in helping people overcome depression with TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) a non invasive, FDA approved treatment covered by insurance. Last year our TMS patients averaged an 87% reduction in depressive symptoms and described themselves as happier than they have ever been. It is so incredible!
I also love that at Ampelis Health I work with experts in psychiatry, positive psychology, marriage and family relations, nutrition, mindfulness, and wellness. This gives my patients access to the tools they need to overcome and manage their mental health concerns.
At Ampelis Health I specialize in helping people overcome depression with TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) a non invasive, FDA approved treatment covered by insurance. Last year our TMS patients averaged an 87% reduction in depressive symptoms and described themselves as happier than they have ever been. It is so incredible!
I also love that at Ampelis Health I work with experts in psychiatry, positive psychology, marriage and family relations, nutrition, mindfulness, and wellness. This gives my patients access to the tools they need to overcome and manage their mental health concerns.

Hi there, I’m Kat! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I am passionate about creating access to mental health care inclusive of medications from an evidenced based approach.
Hi there, I’m Kat! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I am passionate about creating access to mental health care inclusive of medications from an evidenced based approach.

Dr. Tara Rainey is passionate about mental health and dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals struggling with psychiatric disorders. She is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to her patients. Her journey into mental health care began with a strong educational foundation. She is driven by a deep sense of compassion and commitment to improving the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges and looks forward to continuing to make a difference in the lives of her patients and within the community.
Dr. Tara Rainey is passionate about mental health and dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals struggling with psychiatric disorders. She is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to her patients. Her journey into mental health care began with a strong educational foundation. She is driven by a deep sense of compassion and commitment to improving the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges and looks forward to continuing to make a difference in the lives of her patients and within the community.

I'm Peter Njogu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My passion lies in extending exceptional psychiatric care to individuals in need. In the initial session, my approach is centered around understanding you and your treatment objectives. I prioritize person-centered care, always keeping your needs at the forefront to support your success. I allocate ample time for you to ask questions and express any worries you may have. For clients already on medications, my approach remains consistent. Our sessions are primarily focused on evaluating the effectiveness of the current medication regimen.
I'm Peter Njogu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My passion lies in extending exceptional psychiatric care to individuals in need. In the initial session, my approach is centered around understanding you and your treatment objectives. I prioritize person-centered care, always keeping your needs at the forefront to support your success. I allocate ample time for you to ask questions and express any worries you may have. For clients already on medications, my approach remains consistent. Our sessions are primarily focused on evaluating the effectiveness of the current medication regimen.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Manpreet Mann is a highly qualified and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care since 2021. She has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals struggling with mental health issues, especially during the pandemic. Ms. Mann discovered her passion for mental health care during the peak of the pandemic when she offered her services to help alleviate the symptoms of those in need.
Manpreet Mann is a highly qualified and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care since 2021. She has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals struggling with mental health issues, especially during the pandemic. Ms. Mann discovered her passion for mental health care during the peak of the pandemic when she offered her services to help alleviate the symptoms of those in need.

Looking for a supportive Utah ADHD Specialist who has ADHD? Available in-office or via telehealth. I also treat mood symptoms related to Anxiety, Depression, PMDD and PTSD. LGBTQ+ Ally. Questions/concerns about neurodivergence as it presents in males vs females? Looking for a personalized approach back to wellness where your voice is heard? Not sure about psych meds? Feeling like yoga and meditation is not enough? Together we'll explore med options and natural healing modalities including healthy lifestyles, nutrition, herbs, supplements & UT med cards.
Looking for a supportive Utah ADHD Specialist who has ADHD? Available in-office or via telehealth. I also treat mood symptoms related to Anxiety, Depression, PMDD and PTSD. LGBTQ+ Ally. Questions/concerns about neurodivergence as it presents in males vs females? Looking for a personalized approach back to wellness where your voice is heard? Not sure about psych meds? Feeling like yoga and meditation is not enough? Together we'll explore med options and natural healing modalities including healthy lifestyles, nutrition, herbs, supplements & UT med cards.

Tele Psych Meds 4 Kids: Danielle Heaps: Serving All Of Utah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP, PMHS
Verified Verified
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.

I enjoy working with children, teens and adults who are experiencing both minor and more severe mental health conditions and feel that they can benefit from the addition of medication to their treatment plan. I encourage my patients to take an active role in therapy in addition to medication management for ideal results.
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults who are experiencing both minor and more severe mental health conditions and feel that they can benefit from the addition of medication to their treatment plan. I encourage my patients to take an active role in therapy in addition to medication management for ideal results.

Canvi Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CADDRA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.

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.

I have been in practice for over 30+ years. I am skilled in treating refractory depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have had extra training on the medical side of illnesses and make sure your illness is not being caused by or contributed to by a medical condition. Please call my office phone mail number 801-923-8044 to leave a message. I am currently accepting patients on a limited basis. I am currently doing Telepsychiatry only. I will need a referral from your primary care provider if you're seeking treatment for ADHD.
I have been in practice for over 30+ years. I am skilled in treating refractory depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have had extra training on the medical side of illnesses and make sure your illness is not being caused by or contributed to by a medical condition. Please call my office phone mail number 801-923-8044 to leave a message. I am currently accepting patients on a limited basis. I am currently doing Telepsychiatry only. I will need a referral from your primary care provider if you're seeking treatment for ADHD.

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.

Brenda Toone, APRN is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and holds a DNP from Weber State University. Earlier in her career, she attended Brigham Young University, graduating as class valedictorian with a Bachelor of Nursing. She values using shared decision making with her patients to help them meet their physical and mental health objectives. Whether you want to get back to your former self or reach new levels of success, she would love to be a part of the team that helps you reach your goals! Brenda offers compassionate psychiatric care with mental health medication management, and medical weight loss treatment.
Brenda Toone, APRN is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and holds a DNP from Weber State University. Earlier in her career, she attended Brigham Young University, graduating as class valedictorian with a Bachelor of Nursing. She values using shared decision making with her patients to help them meet their physical and mental health objectives. Whether you want to get back to your former self or reach new levels of success, she would love to be a part of the team that helps you reach your goals! Brenda offers compassionate psychiatric care with mental health medication management, and medical weight loss treatment.
See more therapy options for Ogden
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ogden, UT
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Ogden, UT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | ADHD |
81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Ogden, UT see their clients
57% | Online Only | |
43% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | 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.
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.