Psychiatrists in Price, UT

Photo of Mandy Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mandy Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Price, UT 84501
I work with children, teens, and adults to help them with medication management. I can work with you independently or in conjunction with your therapist to help you find a medication that works for you. I focus on the whole person and not just the diagnosis. Considering medication to help with mental health concerns can be overwhelming. I am here to answer your questions and work diligently with you to find the best medication to help you and meet your needs.
I work with children, teens, and adults to help them with medication management. I can work with you independently or in conjunction with your therapist to help you find a medication that works for you. I focus on the whole person and not just the diagnosis. Considering medication to help with mental health concerns can be overwhelming. I am here to answer your questions and work diligently with you to find the best medication to help you and meet your needs.
(385) 412-8283 View (385) 412-8283
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mandy Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Mandy Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Mandy Nelson, PMHNP. I work with adolescents and adults navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and autism. Many of my patients come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—unsure how to manage their mental health or make sense of the patterns that keep showing up in their lives. I believe that healing begins with understanding. My role is to help you explore your strengths, identify your struggles, and develop a clearer sense of how your mind works. When we better understand ourselves, we can better navigate a world that often feels confusing or demanding.
Hi, I’m Mandy Nelson, PMHNP. I work with adolescents and adults navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and autism. Many of my patients come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—unsure how to manage their mental health or make sense of the patterns that keep showing up in their lives. I believe that healing begins with understanding. My role is to help you explore your strengths, identify your struggles, and develop a clearer sense of how your mind works. When we better understand ourselves, we can better navigate a world that often feels confusing or demanding.
(435) 254-3674 View (435) 254-3674

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Dallin Bawden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Dallin Bawden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Draper, UT 84020
Dr. Dallin Bawden is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Utah in 2018 and went on to complete his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric Mental Health at the University of Utah in 2024.
Dr. Dallin Bawden is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Utah in 2018 and went on to complete his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric Mental Health at the University of Utah in 2024.
(385) 481-3674 View (385) 481-3674
Photo of Faustin Chad Vigil, Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C
Faustin Chad Vigil
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C
West Jordan, UT 84088
If you’ve tried therapy or medication before and still feel stuck, I’m here to help you find a new way forward. I’m a psychiatric physician assistant who is passionate about helping adolescents and adults struggling with mental health issues. My goal is to help my patients feel happier and more motivated in their lives by addressing root causes of distress and to create a personalized plan that supports healing on every level.
If you’ve tried therapy or medication before and still feel stuck, I’m here to help you find a new way forward. I’m a psychiatric physician assistant who is passionate about helping adolescents and adults struggling with mental health issues. My goal is to help my patients feel happier and more motivated in their lives by addressing root causes of distress and to create a personalized plan that supports healing on every level.
(801) 217-9894 View (801) 217-9894
Photo of Ashley Parker Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHA, MSN, PMHNP
Ashley Parker Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHA, MSN, PMHNP
7 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
At PsychLife Mental Wellness, we specialize in caring for those experiencing symptoms of mood disorder (anxiety, bipolar, depression) as well as trauma related disorders such as PTSD. You desire a life that's filled with joy and love without being stressed about the symptoms of a mental illness and we're here to help you do just that! Come see us today so you can start living your BEST life!
At PsychLife Mental Wellness, we specialize in caring for those experiencing symptoms of mood disorder (anxiety, bipolar, depression) as well as trauma related disorders such as PTSD. You desire a life that's filled with joy and love without being stressed about the symptoms of a mental illness and we're here to help you do just that! Come see us today so you can start living your BEST life!
(254) 272-0867 View (254) 272-0867
Photo of Ligia (Gigi) J Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Ligia (Gigi) J Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) Nurse Practitioner and High Conflict Certified Consultant specializing in post-separation abuse and high-conflict divorce. Using a trauma-informed, holistic approach, I support individuals in reclaiming safety, confidence, and control during profoundly challenging life transitions. With advanced training as a Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice, combined with specialized coaching certification through One Mom’s Battle, I integrate medical knowledge with trauma-aware coaching and emotional support. My work addresses the whole person—mind and body—so healing is practical, sustainable,
I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) Nurse Practitioner and High Conflict Certified Consultant specializing in post-separation abuse and high-conflict divorce. Using a trauma-informed, holistic approach, I support individuals in reclaiming safety, confidence, and control during profoundly challenging life transitions. With advanced training as a Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice, combined with specialized coaching certification through One Mom’s Battle, I integrate medical knowledge with trauma-aware coaching and emotional support. My work addresses the whole person—mind and body—so healing is practical, sustainable,
(385) 758-5020 View (385) 758-5020
Photo of Armando Manny Slack, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Armando Manny Slack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
South Salt Lake, UT 84115
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
Photo of James Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
James Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
American Fork, UT 84003
The ultimate goal for us all is mental wellness. We seek to understand ourselves, to better ourselves and to fulfill our potential. This can be difficult at times when things like depression, intrusive thoughts, and other emotions interfere with our daily lives. The goal for Mindspace is to guide you to the realization that you can handle whatever life throws at you
The ultimate goal for us all is mental wellness. We seek to understand ourselves, to better ourselves and to fulfill our potential. This can be difficult at times when things like depression, intrusive thoughts, and other emotions interfere with our daily lives. The goal for Mindspace is to guide you to the realization that you can handle whatever life throws at you
(323) 716-1263 View (323) 716-1263
Photo of Meadow Romney Summers, Physician Assistant, PA-C, AQH
Meadow Romney Summers
Physician Assistant, PA-C, AQH
Draper, UT 84020
Hi, my name is Meadow! Many individuals come to me feeling frustrated by symptoms that impact their mood, focus, or energy, and sometimes unsure whether what they’re experiencing is psychiatric, neurologic, or both. They may be managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or sleep issues, or navigating life transitions like perimenopause or chronic pain. Many of my clients are curious about understanding their minds and bodies, open to exploring options, and motivated to feel more balanced, capable, and connected in daily life.
Hi, my name is Meadow! Many individuals come to me feeling frustrated by symptoms that impact their mood, focus, or energy, and sometimes unsure whether what they’re experiencing is psychiatric, neurologic, or both. They may be managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or sleep issues, or navigating life transitions like perimenopause or chronic pain. Many of my clients are curious about understanding their minds and bodies, open to exploring options, and motivated to feel more balanced, capable, and connected in daily life.
(385) 644-6610 View (385) 644-6610
Photo of Abby J Tomlinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN
Abby J Tomlinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN
1 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in mental health nursing prior to my current role. I am committed to providing holistic care that addresses both physical and emotional well-being. I work with a wide range of mental health conditions, including eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and bipolar disorder.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in mental health nursing prior to my current role. I am committed to providing holistic care that addresses both physical and emotional well-being. I work with a wide range of mental health conditions, including eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and bipolar disorder.
(385) 449-4600 View (385) 449-4600
Photo of Shad Wyatt Tillotson - Premier Psychiatry Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Premier Psychiatry Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
Thank you for choosing Premier Psychiatry Solutions! We are accepting most major insurances now, see list below. Open Appointments Now. Visit our website for scheduling today. We are accepting new clients over age 11. We offer a simplified approach to complex issues with kind interactions. People enjoy that we are relatable, personable, and easy to discuss all topics of concern. One could expect a conservative approach to using medicines, and we highly encourage counseling concurrently with local therapists we recommend.
Thank you for choosing Premier Psychiatry Solutions! We are accepting most major insurances now, see list below. Open Appointments Now. Visit our website for scheduling today. We are accepting new clients over age 11. We offer a simplified approach to complex issues with kind interactions. People enjoy that we are relatable, personable, and easy to discuss all topics of concern. One could expect a conservative approach to using medicines, and we highly encourage counseling concurrently with local therapists we recommend.
(385) 510-5150 View (385) 510-5150
Photo of Sheenali Kansagra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sheenali Kansagra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Riverton, UT 84065
Hi, I’m Sheenali, and I’m passionate about helping people feel better and live more fulfilling lives. With over 10 years of experience providing psychiatric care and mental health support, I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorders. I understand how overwhelming it can feel when your thoughts or emotions seem out of control, and I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to help you gain clarity, build resilience, and take meaningful steps for lasting well-being.
Hi, I’m Sheenali, and I’m passionate about helping people feel better and live more fulfilling lives. With over 10 years of experience providing psychiatric care and mental health support, I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorders. I understand how overwhelming it can feel when your thoughts or emotions seem out of control, and I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to help you gain clarity, build resilience, and take meaningful steps for lasting well-being.
(385) 526-7967 View (385) 526-7967
Photo of Dr. Britney Palombo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Dr. Britney Palombo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Orem, UT 84057
Dr. Palombo is skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, as well as individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She uses a collaborative approach to treatment, exploring the psychological, biological, behavioral, and social factors contributing to each individuals circumstance. She specializes in children and adolescents but has been managing outpatient psychiatric care for all ages as well as providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2017. She has had extensive training in TMS and utilizes cutting edge evidence-based research to provide not only effective but personalized treatment options.
Dr. Palombo is skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, as well as individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She uses a collaborative approach to treatment, exploring the psychological, biological, behavioral, and social factors contributing to each individuals circumstance. She specializes in children and adolescents but has been managing outpatient psychiatric care for all ages as well as providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2017. She has had extensive training in TMS and utilizes cutting edge evidence-based research to provide not only effective but personalized treatment options.
(801) 905-8428 View (801) 905-8428
Photo of Lillian Farris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Lillian Farris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84117
Hello, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health. I completed a post-doctorate residency at the SLC VA and have a certificate for object relations therapy. I am dedicated to my clients and I believe in treating each person as a whole. I realize that each individual is different and unique so I make sure to consider all psychosocial factors for both medication management and therapy. ****Currently accepting self pay and now accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield, UUHP Healthy Preferred or Healthy Premier plans, and HMHI-BHN***
Hello, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health. I completed a post-doctorate residency at the SLC VA and have a certificate for object relations therapy. I am dedicated to my clients and I believe in treating each person as a whole. I realize that each individual is different and unique so I make sure to consider all psychosocial factors for both medication management and therapy. ****Currently accepting self pay and now accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield, UUHP Healthy Preferred or Healthy Premier plans, and HMHI-BHN***
(801) 876-4071 View (801) 876-4071
Photo of Christopher Reed Moore, Physician Assistant, PMHNP, APRN
Christopher Reed Moore
Physician Assistant, PMHNP, APRN
Murray, UT 84107
I believe true healing begins with strong relationships and open communication. I specialize in Psychiatric Medication Management and can help find solutions to your needs.
I believe true healing begins with strong relationships and open communication. I specialize in Psychiatric Medication Management and can help find solutions to your needs.
(385) 396-7537 View (385) 396-7537
Photo of Alex Mageno, Psychiatrist, MD
Alex Mageno
Psychiatrist, MD
Provo, UT 84604
I am a holistic and root-cause oriented psychiatrist, comfortable working with all ages and stages of life with additional specialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry, nutritional psychiatry, and integrative psychiatry. I trained at various locations including University of California, Riverside and Stanford University and am board certified in general psychiatry. I am a medical director with Whole Mind, a psychiatric clinic in Utah. We provide state-of-the-art treatments such as Spravato and Transcranial magnetic Stimulation (TMS), as well as medication management, therapy, and coaching.
I am a holistic and root-cause oriented psychiatrist, comfortable working with all ages and stages of life with additional specialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry, nutritional psychiatry, and integrative psychiatry. I trained at various locations including University of California, Riverside and Stanford University and am board certified in general psychiatry. I am a medical director with Whole Mind, a psychiatric clinic in Utah. We provide state-of-the-art treatments such as Spravato and Transcranial magnetic Stimulation (TMS), as well as medication management, therapy, and coaching.
(385) 503-3640 View (385) 503-3640
Photo of Jeremy Ratliff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jeremy Ratliff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
He is dual-certified, doctoral-prepared, and board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. He has experience across the lifespan in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients of all ages, with an emphasis on community mental health care since 2017. His areas of treatment include depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, anxiety and panic attacks, ADHD, PTSD, eating disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.
He is dual-certified, doctoral-prepared, and board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. He has experience across the lifespan in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients of all ages, with an emphasis on community mental health care since 2017. His areas of treatment include depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, anxiety and panic attacks, ADHD, PTSD, eating disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.
(385) 481-5458 View (385) 481-5458
Photo of Celeste Setters, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, APRN
Celeste Setters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, APRN
Lehi, UT 84043
My name is Dr. Celeste Setters. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive training treating children, adolescents, and adults in multiple practice settings. My approach is aimed to treat the person as a whole and promote optimal life-long health.
My name is Dr. Celeste Setters. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive training treating children, adolescents, and adults in multiple practice settings. My approach is aimed to treat the person as a whole and promote optimal life-long health.
(385) 287-0555 View (385) 287-0555
Photo of Dr. Amy K Parry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNPBC
Dr. Amy K Parry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNPBC
Online Only
Dr. Parry is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She maintains a comprehensive focus to care, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing mental health medications if indicated for adolescents and adults. She possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.
Dr. Parry is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She maintains a comprehensive focus to care, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing mental health medications if indicated for adolescents and adults. She possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.
(801) 516-3214 View (801) 516-3214

See more therapy options for Price

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Price, UT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Price, UT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
50% ADHD
50% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Price, UT see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Price?

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.