Psychiatrists in Springville, UT

Photo of Carol Tanner, Physician Assistant, Pa-C
Carol Tanner
Physician Assistant, Pa-C
Springville, UT 84663
I've been a physician assistant for 21+ years, and specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health care. I enjoy helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, phobias, PTSD/PTSI, postpartum depression, sleep disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and grief/loss as well as learning & attention disorders. I stay current on areas of expertise and the latest mental health treatments to provide the best care possible. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, grown children & grandchildren. I also love traveling, working on family history, reading, and watching my children perform in fine arts.
I've been a physician assistant for 21+ years, and specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health care. I enjoy helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, phobias, PTSD/PTSI, postpartum depression, sleep disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and grief/loss as well as learning & attention disorders. I stay current on areas of expertise and the latest mental health treatments to provide the best care possible. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, grown children & grandchildren. I also love traveling, working on family history, reading, and watching my children perform in fine arts.
(801) 823-4010 View (801) 823-4010
Photo of Leah Young, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Leah Young
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
Leah Trammell Young completed her BS degree in philosophy at Brigham Young University. She later pursued a Master's of Physician Assistant Studies degree from the University of Utah. Leah is certified with the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. Leah always knew she wanted to be a companion for others on their healing and wellness journey. As a child seeing her father working in a hospital, she became passionate about healthcare and medicine and knew it was the right career for her.
Leah Trammell Young completed her BS degree in philosophy at Brigham Young University. She later pursued a Master's of Physician Assistant Studies degree from the University of Utah. Leah is certified with the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. Leah always knew she wanted to be a companion for others on their healing and wellness journey. As a child seeing her father working in a hospital, she became passionate about healthcare and medicine and knew it was the right career for her.
(801) 829-9338 View (801) 829-9338
Photo of Derick Moody, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ
Derick Moody
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ
Springville, UT 84663
Throughout his career, Derick Moody, PA-C has been exposed to a wide variety of mental conditions and is passionate about providing care to his patients. He implements a holistic approach to psychiatric health that includes exercise programs, social relationship improvement, mindfulness and meditation, and nutrition and sleep regimes. Derick has been working in psychiatric medication for 8+ years. Over his career, he has gained experience in dealing with various mental illnesses. Derick's consistent involvement in psychedelic-based treatments during this time has made him one of the most experienced psychedelic providers in Utah.
Throughout his career, Derick Moody, PA-C has been exposed to a wide variety of mental conditions and is passionate about providing care to his patients. He implements a holistic approach to psychiatric health that includes exercise programs, social relationship improvement, mindfulness and meditation, and nutrition and sleep regimes. Derick has been working in psychiatric medication for 8+ years. Over his career, he has gained experience in dealing with various mental illnesses. Derick's consistent involvement in psychedelic-based treatments during this time has made him one of the most experienced psychedelic providers in Utah.
(801) 810-2739 View (801) 810-2739
Photo of Michelle Rawls, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle Rawls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Springville, UT 84663
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or even thoughts of suicide? Has it become difficult to remember what it feels like to live with joy, purpose, or peace? Mental health symptoms can become so overwhelming that they overshadow hope itself, making healing seem out of reach. But recovery is possible—with the right support, guidance, and a treatment plan that truly honors your whole self. I’m Michelle, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes in getting to the root of what’s causing your pain rather than offering short-term band-aids.
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or even thoughts of suicide? Has it become difficult to remember what it feels like to live with joy, purpose, or peace? Mental health symptoms can become so overwhelming that they overshadow hope itself, making healing seem out of reach. But recovery is possible—with the right support, guidance, and a treatment plan that truly honors your whole self. I’m Michelle, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes in getting to the root of what’s causing your pain rather than offering short-term band-aids.
(801) 477-4368 View (801) 477-4368
Photo of Cambria Felt, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Cambria Felt
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
Cambria Felt, who prefers to be called Cami, is a certified physician assistant and behavioral specialist for pediatrics and adolescent youths. She earned her Master's of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Utah. Prior to becoming a PA, Cami earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University, then completed an E.Ds. in School Psychology at the University of Northern Colorado. She worked for 12 years as a nationally-certified school psychologist providing a variety of mental health and psychoeducational assessments and counseling services for children aged pre-K to high school.
Cambria Felt, who prefers to be called Cami, is a certified physician assistant and behavioral specialist for pediatrics and adolescent youths. She earned her Master's of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Utah. Prior to becoming a PA, Cami earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University, then completed an E.Ds. in School Psychology at the University of Northern Colorado. She worked for 12 years as a nationally-certified school psychologist providing a variety of mental health and psychoeducational assessments and counseling services for children aged pre-K to high school.
(801) 666-2195 View (801) 666-2195
Photo of Forrest Yorgason, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Forrest Yorgason
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
Forrest completed his undergraduate degree at Utah Valley University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in biology and an associate's degree in science. He furthered his education at Midwestern University, obtaining his Master's of Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Before pursuing PA school, Forrest gained valuable experience working as a CNA, med tech, supervisor, and eventually the memory care director at an assisted living facility. This role provided him with a strong foundation in patient care, and his passion for client/patient-centered care continues to guide his work today.
Forrest completed his undergraduate degree at Utah Valley University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in biology and an associate's degree in science. He furthered his education at Midwestern University, obtaining his Master's of Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Before pursuing PA school, Forrest gained valuable experience working as a CNA, med tech, supervisor, and eventually the memory care director at an assisted living facility. This role provided him with a strong foundation in patient care, and his passion for client/patient-centered care continues to guide his work today.
(801) 761-3327 View (801) 761-3327
Photo of Ronnie Isaacson, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Ronnie Isaacson
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
Ronnie earned his Master's of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Northern Arizona University.  Before attending PA school, Ronnie worked for Idaho Fish & Game as a Conservation Officer. His background in mental and behavioral health began at Montana State Hospital where he worked as a Psychiatric Technician. Ronnie also spent time at a wilderness retreat working with at-risk youth as a behavioral health paraprofessional. Here, he was moved by the opportunity to teach these teenagers and watch as they underwent positive transformations, which allowed them to regain control of their lives.
Ronnie earned his Master's of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Northern Arizona University.  Before attending PA school, Ronnie worked for Idaho Fish & Game as a Conservation Officer. His background in mental and behavioral health began at Montana State Hospital where he worked as a Psychiatric Technician. Ronnie also spent time at a wilderness retreat working with at-risk youth as a behavioral health paraprofessional. Here, he was moved by the opportunity to teach these teenagers and watch as they underwent positive transformations, which allowed them to regain control of their lives.
(385) 412-8925 View (385) 412-8925
Photo of Gary Webb, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Gary Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Springville, UT 84663
Gary Webb is a board-certified PMHNP and APRN, who began his career in mental health as an RN at Utah State Hospital. After three years, he moved to Connecticut to complete the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty program at the Yale School of Nursing. He graduated from Yale in May 2017, and has since moved back to Utah where he enjoys being closer to family and the mountains. Gary previously worked for five years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner at a behavioral health center where he gained experience working with clients facing a wide variety of mental health diagnoses and needs.
Gary Webb is a board-certified PMHNP and APRN, who began his career in mental health as an RN at Utah State Hospital. After three years, he moved to Connecticut to complete the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty program at the Yale School of Nursing. He graduated from Yale in May 2017, and has since moved back to Utah where he enjoys being closer to family and the mountains. Gary previously worked for five years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner at a behavioral health center where he gained experience working with clients facing a wide variety of mental health diagnoses and needs.
(385) 666-0331 View (385) 666-0331
Photo of Abby Tomlinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abby Tomlinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Springville, UT 84663
I am committed to providing holistic care that supports both physical and emotional well-being. I strive to create an inclusive, supportive environment and guide patients with compassion, respect, and individualized care. I value thoughtful medication management and clear communication, so patients feel informed, supported, and confident in their treatment decisions. I enjoy supporting patients as they reconnect with their true selves and learn to build a more understanding, supportive relationship with their minds.
I am committed to providing holistic care that supports both physical and emotional well-being. I strive to create an inclusive, supportive environment and guide patients with compassion, respect, and individualized care. I value thoughtful medication management and clear communication, so patients feel informed, supported, and confident in their treatment decisions. I enjoy supporting patients as they reconnect with their true selves and learn to build a more understanding, supportive relationship with their minds.
(385) 380-3662 View (385) 380-3662
Photo of Angeleah Roberts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Angeleah Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Springville, UT 84663
Waitlist for new clients
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking more of a holistic approach and incorporating mind, body, and spirit during the healing process. I treat many different conditions with the end goal of helping those who are struggling in life. I have found ketamine, especially when combined with therapy to be an amazing tool in helping those find the relief they deserve.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking more of a holistic approach and incorporating mind, body, and spirit during the healing process. I treat many different conditions with the end goal of helping those who are struggling in life. I have found ketamine, especially when combined with therapy to be an amazing tool in helping those find the relief they deserve.
(801) 618-4987 View (801) 618-4987
Photo of Hannah Banks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Banks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Springville, UT 84663
Hannah enjoys listening to her patients’ needs and coming up with creative, patient-centered care that is tailored to her patient using diverse treatment modalities such as medication management, therapy, lifestyle, and psychedelic therapies. Hannah also offers functional psychiatry alternatives such as genetic testing and supplement therapy. Hannah loves to empower her patients and help them make decisions that will improve overall mental health and give them the tools necessary to do so.
Hannah enjoys listening to her patients’ needs and coming up with creative, patient-centered care that is tailored to her patient using diverse treatment modalities such as medication management, therapy, lifestyle, and psychedelic therapies. Hannah also offers functional psychiatry alternatives such as genetic testing and supplement therapy. Hannah loves to empower her patients and help them make decisions that will improve overall mental health and give them the tools necessary to do so.
(385) 462-7606 View (385) 462-7606
Photo of Karl Tucker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Karl Tucker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Open and seeing patients. No Wait! We take most commercial insurances. Karl Tucker believes that good mental health requires a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of life, including exercise programs, mindfulness and meditation, social relationship improvement, nutrition, and sleep regimes.
Open and seeing patients. No Wait! We take most commercial insurances. Karl Tucker believes that good mental health requires a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of life, including exercise programs, mindfulness and meditation, social relationship improvement, nutrition, and sleep regimes.
(801) 609-2448 View (801) 609-2448
Photo of Ruby Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ruby Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am trained to provide advanced specialty medical care through psychopharmacology. My experience includes treating depression, anxiety, trauma, attention deficit disorder, among other conditions. For those that prefer to address their issues from home, telehealth is available. I strive to approach clients with a culturally humble, inquisitive, and compassionate demeanor. I also work closely with other licensed helping professionals to provide my clients with the best integrative care. Please note that my only intention is to help you be aware of medication options.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am trained to provide advanced specialty medical care through psychopharmacology. My experience includes treating depression, anxiety, trauma, attention deficit disorder, among other conditions. For those that prefer to address their issues from home, telehealth is available. I strive to approach clients with a culturally humble, inquisitive, and compassionate demeanor. I also work closely with other licensed helping professionals to provide my clients with the best integrative care. Please note that my only intention is to help you be aware of medication options.
(385) 492-6920 View (385) 492-6920
Photo of Aimee Cooper Hopkin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aimee Cooper Hopkin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am an experienced healthcare professional with a deep passion for mental health, driven by both personal experiences and those of my loved ones. My focus is on providing compassionate, holistic care to women facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, perinatal mood disorders, PMDD and more.
I am an experienced healthcare professional with a deep passion for mental health, driven by both personal experiences and those of my loved ones. My focus is on providing compassionate, holistic care to women facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, perinatal mood disorders, PMDD and more.
(385) 526-5381 View (385) 526-5381
Photo of Todd Allen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Todd Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Todd is a dedicated and empathetic mental health specialist with a passion for helping individuals find balance, recovery, and happiness in their lives. He has extensive experience in the field, having started his career as a psychiatric nurse and later serving as manager of Utah Valley Hospital's inpatient psychiatry department. He received a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Utah and post-graduate certification in Psychiatric-Mental Health from the University of South Alabama. He is also an assistant professor at Roseman University of Health Sciences.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Todd is a dedicated and empathetic mental health specialist with a passion for helping individuals find balance, recovery, and happiness in their lives. He has extensive experience in the field, having started his career as a psychiatric nurse and later serving as manager of Utah Valley Hospital's inpatient psychiatry department. He received a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Utah and post-graduate certification in Psychiatric-Mental Health from the University of South Alabama. He is also an assistant professor at Roseman University of Health Sciences.
(385) 449-3164 View (385) 449-3164

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Julie Bauserman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Julie Bauserman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
American Fork, UT 84003
Dr. Bauserman earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health in May of 2024, building on a career dedicated to supporting health and well-being. Starting as a registered nurse in 2009, her work has spanned neurology, where she became a palliative care nurse, and public health, where she helped create a harm reduction program and peer recovery support group; and she proudly serves as a chief nurse in the National Guard. Dr. Bauserman has worked in both outpatient and day treatment settings, particularly with youth who have experienced trauma, as well as individuals & families with complex mental health challenges.
Dr. Bauserman earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health in May of 2024, building on a career dedicated to supporting health and well-being. Starting as a registered nurse in 2009, her work has spanned neurology, where she became a palliative care nurse, and public health, where she helped create a harm reduction program and peer recovery support group; and she proudly serves as a chief nurse in the National Guard. Dr. Bauserman has worked in both outpatient and day treatment settings, particularly with youth who have experienced trauma, as well as individuals & families with complex mental health challenges.
(801) 760-4450 View (801) 760-4450
Photo of Kevin Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Kevin Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeing clients in Utah, New Hampshire, and Virginia with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, over 20 years of medical, military (retired 2024) experience, and certificates in ADHD and Autism. I am also a father of two Autistic teenagers. My experiences have led me to be accepting of all people, no matter where they are in their journey. I believe in a holistic approach to care, empowering clients to face mental health challenges with resilience and hope. My personal experiences as a father, along with my work as a provider, have shown me how essential it is to be a dedicated teammate.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeing clients in Utah, New Hampshire, and Virginia with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, over 20 years of medical, military (retired 2024) experience, and certificates in ADHD and Autism. I am also a father of two Autistic teenagers. My experiences have led me to be accepting of all people, no matter where they are in their journey. I believe in a holistic approach to care, empowering clients to face mental health challenges with resilience and hope. My personal experiences as a father, along with my work as a provider, have shown me how essential it is to be a dedicated teammate.
(385) 475-2782 View (385) 475-2782
Photo of Misty Hinkle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Misty Hinkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Misty’s ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed or emotionally off-balance—struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or PMDD. They may feel unheard or frustrated with past treatments. What they want is clarity, healing, and real tools to feel like themselves again. Misty helps them uncover what’s going on, set meaningful goals, and create a treatment plan that aligns with their values. Her clients want to feel better—and they’re ready to work toward that with compassionate, expert support.
Misty’s ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed or emotionally off-balance—struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or PMDD. They may feel unheard or frustrated with past treatments. What they want is clarity, healing, and real tools to feel like themselves again. Misty helps them uncover what’s going on, set meaningful goals, and create a treatment plan that aligns with their values. Her clients want to feel better—and they’re ready to work toward that with compassionate, expert support.
(385) 245-2946 View (385) 245-2946
Photo of Satin M Condos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Satin M Condos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Mapleton, UT 84664
My name is Satin Condos, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what you want to accomplish in improving symptoms or distress in your life to keep a balance that improves your overall well-being. This often starts by building trust between us and getting comfortable with what it means to have a rapport with a PMHNP. Over time, we’ll work together to set goals and track your progress. I provide both therapy and medication management services.
My name is Satin Condos, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what you want to accomplish in improving symptoms or distress in your life to keep a balance that improves your overall well-being. This often starts by building trust between us and getting comfortable with what it means to have a rapport with a PMHNP. Over time, we’ll work together to set goals and track your progress. I provide both therapy and medication management services.
(435) 246-0490 View (435) 246-0490
Photo of Thomas Mifflin, Physician Assistant, PA
Thomas Mifflin
Physician Assistant, PA
Draper, UT 84020
Over the past few years, Thomas has been able to perform thousands of ketamine assisted therapy sessions and continues to refine his interactive approach to maximize benefits. Ketamine is usually administered in a medical model without therapy during the ketamine experience. In contrast to this model, Thomas has a passion for one-on-one guided ketamine therapy sessions with a more individualized approach. When ketamine is used in this guided therapy approach, it allows patients to discover root causes and the limiting beliefs and perspectives driving their mental health challenges.
Over the past few years, Thomas has been able to perform thousands of ketamine assisted therapy sessions and continues to refine his interactive approach to maximize benefits. Ketamine is usually administered in a medical model without therapy during the ketamine experience. In contrast to this model, Thomas has a passion for one-on-one guided ketamine therapy sessions with a more individualized approach. When ketamine is used in this guided therapy approach, it allows patients to discover root causes and the limiting beliefs and perspectives driving their mental health challenges.
(385) 432-8195 View (385) 432-8195

See more therapy options for Springville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Springville, UT

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Springville, UT who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
93% Trauma and PTSD
93% Medication Management
87% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
93% EMI Health

How Psychiatrists in Springville, UT see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Springville?

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.