Psychiatrists in Salt Lake City, UT

Photo of Jaricka Blundell Lau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Jaricka Blundell Lau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
I enjoy working with people who are curious, self-reflective, and open to collaboration. I value a transparent, supportive partnership and will meet you with care and honesty, wherever you're starting from. I'm especially drawn to those who want to understand the root causes of what they're experiencing, explore options beyond medication alone, and build a life that aligns with their values, energy, and purpose.
I enjoy working with people who are curious, self-reflective, and open to collaboration. I value a transparent, supportive partnership and will meet you with care and honesty, wherever you're starting from. I'm especially drawn to those who want to understand the root causes of what they're experiencing, explore options beyond medication alone, and build a life that aligns with their values, energy, and purpose.
(801) 889-2493 View (801) 889-2493
Photo of Michael Scott Cyra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Michael Scott Cyra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you not where you want to be in life because of anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction? Discover what is possible in your life by unlocking your true potential, and becoming better than your former best wellness. Understand the “next-steps” you have been missing. Turn your suffering into permanent growth and resilience. By combining medication management, talk therapy / mindset orientation, and lifestyle optimization—nutrition, exercise, and sleep, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Are you not where you want to be in life because of anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction? Discover what is possible in your life by unlocking your true potential, and becoming better than your former best wellness. Understand the “next-steps” you have been missing. Turn your suffering into permanent growth and resilience. By combining medication management, talk therapy / mindset orientation, and lifestyle optimization—nutrition, exercise, and sleep, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
(385) 503-4466 View (385) 503-4466
Photo of Beth Pembroke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Beth Pembroke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Psychiatric medications don’t have to be forever—they can be a short-term tool to help stabilize your mood and functioning while you navigate life’s challenges. As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide Medication Management with Supportive Psychotherapy. Welcoming individuals from age 16 to seniors, offering care that evolved with you.
Psychiatric medications don’t have to be forever—they can be a short-term tool to help stabilize your mood and functioning while you navigate life’s challenges. As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide Medication Management with Supportive Psychotherapy. Welcoming individuals from age 16 to seniors, offering care that evolved with you.
(801) 821-2989 View (801) 821-2989
Photo of Melissa Alm, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN
Melissa Alm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Do you find that you are struggling more and more to manage work, home, school and stability in your relationships with family and friends? It is true that these overwhelming feelings and struggles can visit anyone from time to time throughout their lives. However, if their visits have become extended stays and then they have set up permanent residence that is affecting your ability to live your life - it may be time to reach out for some additional help.
Do you find that you are struggling more and more to manage work, home, school and stability in your relationships with family and friends? It is true that these overwhelming feelings and struggles can visit anyone from time to time throughout their lives. However, if their visits have become extended stays and then they have set up permanent residence that is affecting your ability to live your life - it may be time to reach out for some additional help.
(385) 489-1384 View (385) 489-1384
Photo of Megan Kimberly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP/CNM
Megan Kimberly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP/CNM
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
At Bonneville Psychiatry, I provide compassionate mental health care for individuals ages 12 and up, addressing a wide range of psychiatric concerns. I hope to help clients who have not felt seen or heard for their unique needs. With a particular focus on women's mental health, I specialize in treating mood disorders throughout pregnancy/postpartum/menopause. Moreover, I recognize how hormonal fluctuations can influence mental health and create treatment plans that account for these factors. As a triple board-certified clinician, I offer a holistic approach that integrates physical and mental health for a balanced treatment plan.
At Bonneville Psychiatry, I provide compassionate mental health care for individuals ages 12 and up, addressing a wide range of psychiatric concerns. I hope to help clients who have not felt seen or heard for their unique needs. With a particular focus on women's mental health, I specialize in treating mood disorders throughout pregnancy/postpartum/menopause. Moreover, I recognize how hormonal fluctuations can influence mental health and create treatment plans that account for these factors. As a triple board-certified clinician, I offer a holistic approach that integrates physical and mental health for a balanced treatment plan.
(385) 695-6221 View (385) 695-6221
Photo of Jennifer Foresman - Balance Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(801) 742-8098 View (801) 742-8098
Photo of Austin Heaps, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Austin Heaps
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Dr. Heaps is a Doctorate level prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Consistent with the philosophy of Talkspace; Dr. Heaps believes that while not every client may have need of psychotropic medication; every client benefits from therapy. Dr. Heaps received his Doctorate degree from the University of Utah. While joining Talkspace Dr. Heaps also cares for our nations veterans through the VA healthcare system. Dr. Heaps works in an outpatient setting treating a challenging client population and employing different treatment systems to improve their lives
Dr. Heaps is a Doctorate level prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Consistent with the philosophy of Talkspace; Dr. Heaps believes that while not every client may have need of psychotropic medication; every client benefits from therapy. Dr. Heaps received his Doctorate degree from the University of Utah. While joining Talkspace Dr. Heaps also cares for our nations veterans through the VA healthcare system. Dr. Heaps works in an outpatient setting treating a challenging client population and employing different treatment systems to improve their lives
Photo of Jennifer Foresman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Foresman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
(202) 946-3073 View (202) 946-3073
Photo of Charlie Health, Psychiatrist
Charlie Health
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
(385) 213-1580 View (385) 213-1580
Photo of Elisabeth Warner - High Desert Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CAS, PMHNP, BC
High Desert Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CAS, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
An experienced medical/mental health professional, I bring to our treatment relationship more than 30 yrs of exceptional patient care, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health since 1998. My practice offers diagnostic assessment, medication management & solution-focused follow up support. My goal is to positively impact your sense of health & well-being through active listening and safe, evidence-based practices. I develop therapeutic relationships which foster trust, promote shared decision making, recognize you as “the expert" on you, and prioritize individual needs & preferences as essential to collaborative treatment planning.
An experienced medical/mental health professional, I bring to our treatment relationship more than 30 yrs of exceptional patient care, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health since 1998. My practice offers diagnostic assessment, medication management & solution-focused follow up support. My goal is to positively impact your sense of health & well-being through active listening and safe, evidence-based practices. I develop therapeutic relationships which foster trust, promote shared decision making, recognize you as “the expert" on you, and prioritize individual needs & preferences as essential to collaborative treatment planning.
(385) 346-2672 View (385) 346-2672
Photo of Jordan Bowman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jordan Bowman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Now accepting new clients! Are you feeling trapped by crippling anxiety, weighed down by depression, or paralyzed by the relentless 'mind jumping' of ADHD? You’re not alone, and real change is possible. My approach goes beyond rushed prescriptions and quick fixes. I believe that true healing comes from understanding and addressing the root cause—not just masking symptoms. Together, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your preferences and needs, and achieve lasting results.
Now accepting new clients! Are you feeling trapped by crippling anxiety, weighed down by depression, or paralyzed by the relentless 'mind jumping' of ADHD? You’re not alone, and real change is possible. My approach goes beyond rushed prescriptions and quick fixes. I believe that true healing comes from understanding and addressing the root cause—not just masking symptoms. Together, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your preferences and needs, and achieve lasting results.
(385) 462-6947 View (385) 462-6947
Photo of Mandi Joy Christensen, Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, BSRT
Mandi Joy Christensen
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, BSRT
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Simply put, in my practice my patients get better. People need to feel seen and heard. They are looking for acceptance, hope and individualism. While you are in my care this will provided for each of you. Each treatment plan will be uniquely designed for you, taking into account the mind body connection to achieve individual remission. We will utilize blood work, lab/genetic testing to objectively treat both body and mind. This holistic approach also encompasses tools like therapy, mindfulness, spirituality, authenticity and connection. With the combination of the correct meds and these tools, remission can and will be achieved.
Simply put, in my practice my patients get better. People need to feel seen and heard. They are looking for acceptance, hope and individualism. While you are in my care this will provided for each of you. Each treatment plan will be uniquely designed for you, taking into account the mind body connection to achieve individual remission. We will utilize blood work, lab/genetic testing to objectively treat both body and mind. This holistic approach also encompasses tools like therapy, mindfulness, spirituality, authenticity and connection. With the combination of the correct meds and these tools, remission can and will be achieved.
(385) 438-3530 View (385) 438-3530
Photo of Dr. Melissa Mott, Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Dr. Melissa Mott
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Mott grew up in southeastern Idaho. She earned a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of California at Berkeley in 2009, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2014 from the University of Chicago. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Utah in 2018 and became board certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2019.
Dr. Mott grew up in southeastern Idaho. She earned a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of California at Berkeley in 2009, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2014 from the University of Chicago. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Utah in 2018 and became board certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 2019.
(385) 424-1136 View (385) 424-1136
Photo of Cheryl Marchant Jensen, Psychiatric Nurse, MS, APRN, PMHCNS-
Cheryl Marchant Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse, MS, APRN, PMHCNS-
Online Only
It's normal to feel anxious about seeking help. Relief often comes after reaching out. Its hard to bear any burden alone! I understand that you have come to this site in search of help from someone who is willing to listen fully and to work with you to achieve your mental health goals. Together we will identify your concerns and develop a plan to effectively treat them. You deserve to be heard, to have support, direction and, to be healthy and happy! I have over 30 years experience and, I am licensed to prescribe medications and to provide psychotherapy.
It's normal to feel anxious about seeking help. Relief often comes after reaching out. Its hard to bear any burden alone! I understand that you have come to this site in search of help from someone who is willing to listen fully and to work with you to achieve your mental health goals. Together we will identify your concerns and develop a plan to effectively treat them. You deserve to be heard, to have support, direction and, to be healthy and happy! I have over 30 years experience and, I am licensed to prescribe medications and to provide psychotherapy.
(801) 701-2087 View (801) 701-2087
Photo of Brigitte Rose Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Brigitte Rose Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
Are you struggling with your mental health and have not found the right treatment or don’t know where to start? Are you suffering with sleep, anxiety, depression and other issues that continue to bring your quality of life down? Have you been seeking answers and at every turn seem to find no relief? Book an appointment and let’s find out how we can make this a thing of the past so you can move forward leading your best possible life!
Are you struggling with your mental health and have not found the right treatment or don’t know where to start? Are you suffering with sleep, anxiety, depression and other issues that continue to bring your quality of life down? Have you been seeking answers and at every turn seem to find no relief? Book an appointment and let’s find out how we can make this a thing of the past so you can move forward leading your best possible life!
(385) 469-3254 View (385) 469-3254
Photo of Tamara Brock - Tamara Brock, Psychiatric Medication , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Tamara Brock, Psychiatric Medication
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) 503-5157 View (385) 503-5157
Photo of Rachel Montague, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rachel Montague
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Are you someone who has personally experienced cancer, is caregiving for someone with cancer, or a healthcare worker supporting patients? Are you also struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, sleep troubles, life transitions, relationship strain, or coping with a chronic illness? Having a mental health team who understands the uniqueness of cancer survivorship, the critical role of care partners, and the beauty of community is invaluable.
Are you someone who has personally experienced cancer, is caregiving for someone with cancer, or a healthcare worker supporting patients? Are you also struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, sleep troubles, life transitions, relationship strain, or coping with a chronic illness? Having a mental health team who understands the uniqueness of cancer survivorship, the critical role of care partners, and the beauty of community is invaluable.
(385) 220-7718 View (385) 220-7718
Photo of Dr. Matthew Koller, Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Dr. Matthew Koller
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Matthew Koller is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is joining the Talkiatry team as a staff psychiatrist after completion of his psychiatry residency. Dr. Koller believes that a person must be known before they are treated, and he works with patients to understand their goals of care while prioritizing a collaborative treatment approach. His practice focuses on medication management, however he allows space for supportive therapy and other therapeutic modalities within sessions. He may include a therapist in the treatment plan for optimal care.
Dr. Matthew Koller is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is joining the Talkiatry team as a staff psychiatrist after completion of his psychiatry residency. Dr. Koller believes that a person must be known before they are treated, and he works with patients to understand their goals of care while prioritizing a collaborative treatment approach. His practice focuses on medication management, however he allows space for supportive therapy and other therapeutic modalities within sessions. He may include a therapist in the treatment plan for optimal care.
(385) 374-1309 View (385) 374-1309
Photo of Erika Bales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
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
Photo of Rebecca Lucille - Cultivating Clarity, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Cultivating Clarity
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Oh, the comfort —the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person —having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all right out, just as they are, chaff and grain together; certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then with the breath of kindness blow the rest away. —author Dinah María Mulock Craik
Oh, the comfort —the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person —having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all right out, just as they are, chaff and grain together; certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then with the breath of kindness blow the rest away. —author Dinah María Mulock Craik
(385) 474-4319 View (385) 474-4319

See more therapy options for Salt Lake City

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Salt Lake City, UT

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Salt Lake City, UT who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
79% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
76% ADHD
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Salt Lake City, UT see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Salt Lake City?

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.