Psychiatrists in South Ogden, UT

Ashley Greenhalgh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, APRN
South Ogden, UT 84405
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Board-certified in Family Medicine, Psychiatry and a Qualified Medical Provider for Utah Medical Cannabis. I help individuals and families seeking compassionate, personalized mental health care during life’s most challenging seasons. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, burnout, trauma, and overwhelming life transitions. Many come to me feeling exhausted, disconnected, misunderstood, or unsure where to start. I create a safe, supportive space where patients feel truly heard while providing thoughtful, evidence-based, holistic care tailored to their unique needs
I'm Board-certified in Family Medicine, Psychiatry and a Qualified Medical Provider for Utah Medical Cannabis. I help individuals and families seeking compassionate, personalized mental health care during life’s most challenging seasons. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, burnout, trauma, and overwhelming life transitions. Many come to me feeling exhausted, disconnected, misunderstood, or unsure where to start. I create a safe, supportive space where patients feel truly heard while providing thoughtful, evidence-based, holistic care tailored to their unique needs
(385) 284-7381 View (385) 284-7381
David Housley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
South Ogden, UT 84403
My ideal clients are often high-functioning but feel overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or not like themselves. Others, they feel stuck or frustrated after treatments that haven’t fully helped. They seek clarity, relief, and a provider who truly listens. I help individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life stress through thoughtful evaluation and personalized care. Treatment may include medication management, supportive therapy, and practical strategies. My goal is to help clients feel more in control, improve daily functioning, and move forward with confidence and balance.
My ideal clients are often high-functioning but feel overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or not like themselves. Others, they feel stuck or frustrated after treatments that haven’t fully helped. They seek clarity, relief, and a provider who truly listens. I help individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life stress through thoughtful evaluation and personalized care. Treatment may include medication management, supportive therapy, and practical strategies. My goal is to help clients feel more in control, improve daily functioning, and move forward with confidence and balance.
(385) 393-1741 View (385) 393-1741
Chelsea Bauer
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My philosophy is that it’s okay to ask for help. The bar needs to be lowered on the stigma for mental health. Life can be hard, and everyone needs some help at times. I want to encourage people to not be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help, and to be open and honest with their treatment team. I am here to help anyone who is ready. I believe in getting to know people, finding out their individual story, their personal needs, and creating a treatment and medication plan together.
My philosophy is that it’s okay to ask for help. The bar needs to be lowered on the stigma for mental health. Life can be hard, and everyone needs some help at times. I want to encourage people to not be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help, and to be open and honest with their treatment team. I am here to help anyone who is ready. I believe in getting to know people, finding out their individual story, their personal needs, and creating a treatment and medication plan together.
(385) 432-6845 View (385) 432-6845

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Annette Ephroni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
6 Endorsed
Online Only
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy and perscribing. I am also trained as a Sexologist Diplomate. I sometimes offer regular psychotherapy sessions in addition to my med management sessions.
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy and perscribing. I am also trained as a Sexologist Diplomate. I sometimes offer regular psychotherapy sessions in addition to my med management sessions.
(385) 786-8691 View (385) 786-8691
Jennifer Nybo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Kaysville, UT 84037
Life is complicated, but you can gain the support and tools needed to move forward and heal. You will have a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore your experiences, feel heard and validated, and develop practical strategies for lasting change. If you are dealing with depressed mood, excessive worry, intrusive thoughts, difficulty paying attention or concentrating, sleep issues, mood dysregulation, or other mental health concerns let’s work together to find viable solutions. Care is tailored across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, and older adults.
Life is complicated, but you can gain the support and tools needed to move forward and heal. You will have a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore your experiences, feel heard and validated, and develop practical strategies for lasting change. If you are dealing with depressed mood, excessive worry, intrusive thoughts, difficulty paying attention or concentrating, sleep issues, mood dysregulation, or other mental health concerns let’s work together to find viable solutions. Care is tailored across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, and older adults.
(385) 263-6129 View (385) 263-6129
Steinia Lewis
Physician Assistant, PA
Layton, UT 84041
Steinia has 6 years of experience as a physician assistant in adult inpatient internal medicine. There, she gained wonderful experience diagnosing and treating a variety of serious medical conditions from all specialties and body systems. Steinia has always had a passion for wellness, mindfulness and a holistic approach to mental health and therefore transitioned specialties to a mental health focus. She believes in the importance of combining medications with other evidence-based practices, including creating and maintaining healthy relationships, regular exercise, and improved sleep.
Steinia has 6 years of experience as a physician assistant in adult inpatient internal medicine. There, she gained wonderful experience diagnosing and treating a variety of serious medical conditions from all specialties and body systems. Steinia has always had a passion for wellness, mindfulness and a holistic approach to mental health and therefore transitioned specialties to a mental health focus. She believes in the importance of combining medications with other evidence-based practices, including creating and maintaining healthy relationships, regular exercise, and improved sleep.
(385) 481-7258 View (385) 481-7258
Jennifer Foresman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Online booking & immediate telehealth availability. You live in a place where mental health care feels out of reach — long waitlists, travel, or having to go out of network. You’ve been carrying the weight of anxiety, depression, or trauma, maybe trying therapy or meds before with limited results. What you want is real, lasting relief. You want to feel more present, resilient, and like yourself again. You want psychiatric care that understands your life, connects with your goals, and offers practical steps forward. With my practice, you will be greeted by friendly helpful staff who will schedule an appointment with me quickly.
Online booking & immediate telehealth availability. You live in a place where mental health care feels out of reach — long waitlists, travel, or having to go out of network. You’ve been carrying the weight of anxiety, depression, or trauma, maybe trying therapy or meds before with limited results. What you want is real, lasting relief. You want to feel more present, resilient, and like yourself again. You want psychiatric care that understands your life, connects with your goals, and offers practical steps forward. With my practice, you will be greeted by friendly helpful staff who will schedule an appointment with me quickly.
(801) 742-8098 View (801) 742-8098
Taylor Beatty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now Accepting Patients in all of Utah via telehealth and in person in St. George! Life can be complicated and it only seems to be getting more so. Often when out hiking we come across multiple paths that lead to the same point. Each path is different in length and difficulty. This is how life is for us. Our paths are individual but we are all looking for the same point of happiness. My goal is to help you along your path and help move some boulders out of the way to make it easier for you to find that happiness. I have a passion for Men's Mental Health, Veteran care, Addiction, and OCD.
Now Accepting Patients in all of Utah via telehealth and in person in St. George! Life can be complicated and it only seems to be getting more so. Often when out hiking we come across multiple paths that lead to the same point. Each path is different in length and difficulty. This is how life is for us. Our paths are individual but we are all looking for the same point of happiness. My goal is to help you along your path and help move some boulders out of the way to make it easier for you to find that happiness. I have a passion for Men's Mental Health, Veteran care, Addiction, and OCD.
(435) 253-6881 View (435) 253-6881
Carrie Huntsman-Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CPN
2 Endorsed
Bountiful, UT 84010
As a nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care that recognizes the connection between physical and mental health. I believe effective treatment considers each patient's medical, psychological, cultural, spiritual, and social needs. My approach emphasizes active listening, collaboration, and shared decision-making to develop individualized, evidence-based treatment plans that align with each patient's goals. Through an integrative, holistic approach, I strive to help patients achieve lasting improvements in their health and quality of life.
As a nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care that recognizes the connection between physical and mental health. I believe effective treatment considers each patient's medical, psychological, cultural, spiritual, and social needs. My approach emphasizes active listening, collaboration, and shared decision-making to develop individualized, evidence-based treatment plans that align with each patient's goals. Through an integrative, holistic approach, I strive to help patients achieve lasting improvements in their health and quality of life.
(801) 290-8896 View (801) 290-8896
Jody Neeley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Kaysville, UT 84037
I believe healing is a partnership. Medication may play a role, but the heart of my work is collaboration—listening closely, understanding your goals, and creating a treatment plan that reflects your unique needs. If you’re looking for a provider who values teamwork, transparency, and compassionate care, I’d be honored to support you on your path toward better mental health. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan; including children, teenagers, adults, and older adults. My background in health care has given me a deep understanding of how mental health needs evolve over time, and I bring that perspective into our appt.
I believe healing is a partnership. Medication may play a role, but the heart of my work is collaboration—listening closely, understanding your goals, and creating a treatment plan that reflects your unique needs. If you’re looking for a provider who values teamwork, transparency, and compassionate care, I’d be honored to support you on your path toward better mental health. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan; including children, teenagers, adults, and older adults. My background in health care has given me a deep understanding of how mental health needs evolve over time, and I bring that perspective into our appt.
(385) 438-3171 View (385) 438-3171
Sherrie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Uintah, UT 84405
Dr. Sherrie Smith brings a compassionate, deeply informed perspective to mental health care. Her passion for psychiatry began early in her career while working in the emergency department, where she witnessed firsthand how individuals with mental illness were treated within the healthcare system. Recognizing their vulnerability, she committed herself to treating the whole person, not just a diagnosis. Her approach is holistic and person-centered. She integrates thoughtful medication management with lifestyle interventions and collaborative treatment planning. Dr. Smith works with children ages 6 through adults up to age 59.
Dr. Sherrie Smith brings a compassionate, deeply informed perspective to mental health care. Her passion for psychiatry began early in her career while working in the emergency department, where she witnessed firsthand how individuals with mental illness were treated within the healthcare system. Recognizing their vulnerability, she committed herself to treating the whole person, not just a diagnosis. Her approach is holistic and person-centered. She integrates thoughtful medication management with lifestyle interventions and collaborative treatment planning. Dr. Smith works with children ages 6 through adults up to age 59.
(801) 346-1596 View (801) 346-1596
Jayandra Starner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
My approach is kind and trustworthy communication style. I enjoy having client's engage in conversation. With examples from real life. Kindness goes along way. I actively listen to understand each client's unique mental health season. Life is about thriving thru all the circumstances we find ourselves in. Finding ways to move forward in healthy directions. Sometimes medications can help with therapy. Discussing what best approach is appropriate for each client in a safe and caring environment.
My approach is kind and trustworthy communication style. I enjoy having client's engage in conversation. With examples from real life. Kindness goes along way. I actively listen to understand each client's unique mental health season. Life is about thriving thru all the circumstances we find ourselves in. Finding ways to move forward in healthy directions. Sometimes medications can help with therapy. Discussing what best approach is appropriate for each client in a safe and caring environment.
(385) 473-5461 View (385) 473-5461
Amanda Cherrington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am now accepting new clients, with availability within a week of booking! You may be navigating the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, the constant mind-jumping of ADHD, or the relentless cycle of OCD. Whatever you're facing, your struggles are valid, and seeking help is a courageous step. You deserve a provider who listens without judgment, collaborates on solutions that feel right for you, and truly sees you—not just your diagnosis. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, peace, and the life you deserve. Let’s take this journey, one step at a time, together.
I am now accepting new clients, with availability within a week of booking! You may be navigating the weight of crippling anxiety, the deep pit of depression, the constant mind-jumping of ADHD, or the relentless cycle of OCD. Whatever you're facing, your struggles are valid, and seeking help is a courageous step. You deserve a provider who listens without judgment, collaborates on solutions that feel right for you, and truly sees you—not just your diagnosis. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, peace, and the life you deserve. Let’s take this journey, one step at a time, together.
(385) 644-1179 View (385) 644-1179
Sage Meadows Mental Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Sage Meadows Mental Health is a boutique outpatient psychiatric practice offering fully remote treatment for adults (18+) across Utah. Treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, we offer extended visit times, individualized treatment, and strong therapeutic relationships built on trust and respect. A deliberately smaller caseload means I respond to messages quickly, offer urgent visits when you need them, and stay familiar with your life and treatment. Sage meadows is proudly LGBTQ+ affirming and welcomes patients from all backgrounds. You can expect a provider who honors your identity and meets you where you are.
Sage Meadows Mental Health is a boutique outpatient psychiatric practice offering fully remote treatment for adults (18+) across Utah. Treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, we offer extended visit times, individualized treatment, and strong therapeutic relationships built on trust and respect. A deliberately smaller caseload means I respond to messages quickly, offer urgent visits when you need them, and stay familiar with your life and treatment. Sage meadows is proudly LGBTQ+ affirming and welcomes patients from all backgrounds. You can expect a provider who honors your identity and meets you where you are.
(801) 876-5634 View (801) 876-5634
Angie Nergui
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Serves Area
I have openings this week for new clients anywhere in Utah. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering online medication management for depression and anxiety, with evening and Saturday appointments. I understand that reaching out for help can be one of the hardest steps to take. That's why I create a safe, supportive space where you can talk openly, without fear of stigma or judgment. My approach is personalized, evidence-based, and centered on your goals.
I have openings this week for new clients anywhere in Utah. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering online medication management for depression and anxiety, with evening and Saturday appointments. I understand that reaching out for help can be one of the hardest steps to take. That's why I create a safe, supportive space where you can talk openly, without fear of stigma or judgment. My approach is personalized, evidence-based, and centered on your goals.
(385) 323-8328 View (385) 323-8328
Rebecca L Feller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Farmington, UT 84025
Dr. Rebecca Feller graduated from the University of Utah with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and is a board certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her undergraduate nursing degrees from Weber State University and Western Governors University. Dr. Feller has over 20 years experience working in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings.
Dr. Rebecca Feller graduated from the University of Utah with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and is a board certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her undergraduate nursing degrees from Weber State University and Western Governors University. Dr. Feller has over 20 years experience working in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings.
(385) 247-2293 View (385) 247-2293
Desiree Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Virtual Walk In visits available. No appointment needed. Symptoms don't wait, your care shouldn't either. Call or message to inquire! If you’ve been told your case is “too difficult” or feel like nothing has truly worked, you’re in the right place. At Different Mental Health Program, you’ll receive care from one of the nation’s leading mental health providers specializing in complex and treatment-resistant cases. We offer the most advanced and personalized treatment options at-home, rapid-acting antidepressant treatments designed to bring relief safely and quickly.
Virtual Walk In visits available. No appointment needed. Symptoms don't wait, your care shouldn't either. Call or message to inquire! If you’ve been told your case is “too difficult” or feel like nothing has truly worked, you’re in the right place. At Different Mental Health Program, you’ll receive care from one of the nation’s leading mental health providers specializing in complex and treatment-resistant cases. We offer the most advanced and personalized treatment options at-home, rapid-acting antidepressant treatments designed to bring relief safely and quickly.
(844) 325-4647 View (844) 325-4647
Aslynn Romano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
UPDATE: Accepting diagnostic evaluations for autism and consultation clients! Medication Management currently on wait list status. At Neurospace: Affirming Psychiatry & Counseling, I provide medication management, formal evaluations for autism spectrum disorder, and counseling to Neurodivergent individuals & those wondering if they are Autistic. Virtual appointments available to clients in NH, MA, CT & NY. As a Neurodivergent & LGTBQIA+ professional, I try to validate/normalize our shared human experiences while using evidence-based measures and psychoeducation to support my patient in their individual self-actualization journey.
UPDATE: Accepting diagnostic evaluations for autism and consultation clients! Medication Management currently on wait list status. At Neurospace: Affirming Psychiatry & Counseling, I provide medication management, formal evaluations for autism spectrum disorder, and counseling to Neurodivergent individuals & those wondering if they are Autistic. Virtual appointments available to clients in NH, MA, CT & NY. As a Neurodivergent & LGTBQIA+ professional, I try to validate/normalize our shared human experiences while using evidence-based measures and psychoeducation to support my patient in their individual self-actualization journey.
(603) 691-3834 View (603) 691-3834
Janice Bang Eckman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
I believe in the power of self-empowerment, and support patients by meeting them where they are, then focus on collaboration, shared decision making, and education. I support my patients in ultimately finding their path, what works for them, by exploring their goals and needs.
I believe in the power of self-empowerment, and support patients by meeting them where they are, then focus on collaboration, shared decision making, and education. I support my patients in ultimately finding their path, what works for them, by exploring their goals and needs.
(385) 644-1480 View (385) 644-1480
Alyssa Anne Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Alyssa is nationally board certified in psychiatry, skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. Her expertise is in child and adolescent psychiatry, but she has training across the lifespan. Alyssa enjoys an integrative approach and doesn’t believe that “one size fits all.” She is aware of social, economic, family, biological, behavioral, and community factors that play into treating each individual. Many modalities are available in treatment of psychiatric disorders and she is committed to finding the best combination for her patients and families.
Alyssa is nationally board certified in psychiatry, skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. Her expertise is in child and adolescent psychiatry, but she has training across the lifespan. Alyssa enjoys an integrative approach and doesn’t believe that “one size fits all.” She is aware of social, economic, family, biological, behavioral, and community factors that play into treating each individual. Many modalities are available in treatment of psychiatric disorders and she is committed to finding the best combination for her patients and families.
(801) 876-5708 View (801) 876-5708

See more therapy options for South Ogden

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in South Ogden, UT

< 10

Psychiatrists in South Ogden, UT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Suicidal Ideation
100% Medication Management
67% Anxiety
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in South Ogden, UT see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in South Ogden?

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

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

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

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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