Psychiatrists in Springville, UT

Justice Farley, MMS, PA-C
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
As a certified psychiatric physician assistant, my passion for mental health is rooted in a genuine desire to help others feel seen, understood, and supported through life's challenges. I believe mental health is an essential part of overall wellness, and am committed to honoring each person's unique story and strengths. Whether working with someone navigating anxiety, mood changes, life transitions, or other concerns, I approach with empathy and care. Growing up in a small town in Southeast Idaho, I developed a deep appreciation for community & connection and these values continue to shape my approach to care.
As a certified psychiatric physician assistant, my passion for mental health is rooted in a genuine desire to help others feel seen, understood, and supported through life's challenges. I believe mental health is an essential part of overall wellness, and am committed to honoring each person's unique story and strengths. Whether working with someone navigating anxiety, mood changes, life transitions, or other concerns, I approach with empathy and care. Growing up in a small town in Southeast Idaho, I developed a deep appreciation for community & connection and these values continue to shape my approach to care.
(801) 457-0266 View (801) 457-0266
Cambria Felt, PA-C - Pediatric Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
Cambria Felt, who prefers to be called Cami, is a certified psychiatric physician assistant & behavioral specialist for children & adolescents with 15+ years of experience. She worked for 12 years as a nationally-certified school psychologist, providing mental health, psychoeducational assessments, and counseling services for children in pre-k through high school. She earned her Master's of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Utah. Cami previously earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University, then completed the School Psychology Ed.S. Program at University of Northern Colorado.
Cambria Felt, who prefers to be called Cami, is a certified psychiatric physician assistant & behavioral specialist for children & adolescents with 15+ years of experience. She worked for 12 years as a nationally-certified school psychologist, providing mental health, psychoeducational assessments, and counseling services for children in pre-k through high school. She earned her Master's of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Utah. Cami previously earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University, then completed the School Psychology Ed.S. Program at University of Northern Colorado.
(801) 666-2195 View (801) 666-2195
Leah Young - Mental Health PA
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
Hello! My name is Leah Trammell Young, and I'm a certified psychiatric physician assistant. I completed my BS degree in philosophy at Brigham Young University, and later pursued a Master's of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Utah. I'm also certified with the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. I truly always felt I was meant to be a companion for others on their healing and wellness journey. As a child, I saw my father working in a hospital, and became passionate about healthcare and medicine. I knew even then that healthcare was the right career for me.
Hello! My name is Leah Trammell Young, and I'm a certified psychiatric physician assistant. I completed my BS degree in philosophy at Brigham Young University, and later pursued a Master's of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Utah. I'm also certified with the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. I truly always felt I was meant to be a companion for others on their healing and wellness journey. As a child, I saw my father working in a hospital, and became passionate about healthcare and medicine. I knew even then that healthcare was the right career for me.
(801) 829-9338 View (801) 829-9338
Gary Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
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 and earn his MSN at the Yale School of Nursing. After graduating from Yale in May 2017, he returned to Utah where he enjoys being closer to his 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 individuals 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 and earn his MSN at the Yale School of Nursing. After graduating from Yale in May 2017, he returned to Utah where he enjoys being closer to his 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 individuals facing a wide variety of mental health diagnoses and needs.
(385) 666-0331 View (385) 666-0331
Angeleah Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
3 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) 477-4368 View (801) 477-4368
Forrest Yorgason, PA-C - UT Medication Management
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
Hi! I'm Forrest and I completed my undergraduate degree at Utah Valley University, earning a bachelor's degree in biology and an associate's degree in science. I chose to further my education at Midwestern University, obtaining a Master's of Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Before pursuing PA school, I gained valuable experience working as a CNA, med tech, supervisor, and eventually the memory care director at an assisted living facility. This role provided me with a strong foundation in patient care, and my passion for client & patient-centered care continues to guide my clinical work to this day.
Hi! I'm Forrest and I completed my undergraduate degree at Utah Valley University, earning a bachelor's degree in biology and an associate's degree in science. I chose to further my education at Midwestern University, obtaining a Master's of Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Before pursuing PA school, I gained valuable experience working as a CNA, med tech, supervisor, and eventually the memory care director at an assisted living facility. This role provided me with a strong foundation in patient care, and my passion for client & patient-centered care continues to guide my clinical work to this day.
(801) 761-3327 View (801) 761-3327
Derick Moody
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ
Springville, UT 84663
Over his career as a psychiatric physician assistant, Derick Moody has been exposed to a wide variety of mental conditions and is passionate about providing exceptional care to his clients. He implements an integrative & holistic approach that includes exercise programs, social relationship improvement, mindfulness & meditation, and nutrition & sleep regimes. Derick has worked in psychopharmacology for 8+ years where he's gained extensive experience treating many different psychiatric conditions. Derick's consistent involvement in psychedelic-based treatments has made him one of the most experienced psychedelic providers in Utah.
Over his career as a psychiatric physician assistant, Derick Moody has been exposed to a wide variety of mental conditions and is passionate about providing exceptional care to his clients. He implements an integrative & holistic approach that includes exercise programs, social relationship improvement, mindfulness & meditation, and nutrition & sleep regimes. Derick has worked in psychopharmacology for 8+ years where he's gained extensive experience treating many different psychiatric conditions. Derick's consistent involvement in psychedelic-based treatments has made him one of the most experienced psychedelic providers in Utah.
(801) 810-2739 View (801) 810-2739
As a psychiatric physician assistant for 21+ years, I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health care. I enjoy helping others work through issues stemming from depression, anxiety, phobias, PTSD, postpartum mental health, sleep disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and grief/loss as well as ADHD, learning & attention disorders. I stay current on the latest mental health treatments to provide the best care possible. Outside of the clinic, 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 the fine arts.
As a psychiatric physician assistant for 21+ years, I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health care. I enjoy helping others work through issues stemming from depression, anxiety, phobias, PTSD, postpartum mental health, sleep disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and grief/loss as well as ADHD, learning & attention disorders. I stay current on the latest mental health treatments to provide the best care possible. Outside of the clinic, 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 the fine arts.
(801) 823-4010 View (801) 823-4010
Abby Tomlinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Springville, UT 84663
Abby Tomlinson is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience in mental health nursing. She is committed to providing holistic, individualized care that supports both emotional and physical well-being. Abby strives to create an inclusive, welcoming environment where patients feel safe, respected, and genuinely heard throughout their mental health journey. She believes that the best outcomes are achieved when patients feel informed, actively involved in their care, and empowered to make confident treatment decisions through open communication and collaboration.
Abby Tomlinson is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience in mental health nursing. She is committed to providing holistic, individualized care that supports both emotional and physical well-being. Abby strives to create an inclusive, welcoming environment where patients feel safe, respected, and genuinely heard throughout their mental health journey. She believes that the best outcomes are achieved when patients feel informed, actively involved in their care, and empowered to make confident treatment decisions through open communication and collaboration.
(801) 477-4368 View (801) 477-4368
Ronnie Isaacson, PA-C - Medication Management
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Springville, UT 84663
Thanks for stopping by! Ronnie is a PA with 8+ years of experience in mental & behavioral health, starting at Montana State Hospital where he was 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. He earned his Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Northern Arizona University.  Fun fact: Ronnie previously worked for Idaho Fish & Game as a Conservation Officer.
Thanks for stopping by! Ronnie is a PA with 8+ years of experience in mental & behavioral health, starting at Montana State Hospital where he was 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. He earned his Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Northern Arizona University.  Fun fact: Ronnie previously worked for Idaho Fish & Game as a Conservation Officer.
(385) 412-8925 View (385) 412-8925
Kristie Allred
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Springville, UT 84663
Kristie’s approach to care is compassionate, collaborative, and individualized. She believes patients should feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their treatment. Integrating psychiatric medication management, therapeutic interventions, and evidence-based treatment options, she works with each patient to develop a personalized plan that supports resilience, recovery, and lasting wellness. She has a special passion for maternal mental health and supporting women through pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, and the transition to parenthood. She finds working with children exceptionally rewarding.
Kristie’s approach to care is compassionate, collaborative, and individualized. She believes patients should feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their treatment. Integrating psychiatric medication management, therapeutic interventions, and evidence-based treatment options, she works with each patient to develop a personalized plan that supports resilience, recovery, and lasting wellness. She has a special passion for maternal mental health and supporting women through pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, and the transition to parenthood. She finds working with children exceptionally rewarding.
(801) 477-4368 View (801) 477-4368
Shalom Smiley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Springville, UT 84663
Shalom Smiley is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for teenagers, adolescents, and adults. She believes every patient deserves to feel heard and understood, and she strives to create a welcoming, judgment-free environment where individuals can feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns and working toward meaningful, lasting change. Shalom provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment plans for anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, trauma-related disorders, eating disorders, stress-related concerns, life transitions and more.
Shalom Smiley is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for teenagers, adolescents, and adults. She believes every patient deserves to feel heard and understood, and she strives to create a welcoming, judgment-free environment where individuals can feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns and working toward meaningful, lasting change. Shalom provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment plans for anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, trauma-related disorders, eating disorders, stress-related concerns, life transitions and more.
(801) 477-4368 View (801) 477-4368
Hannah Banks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
2 Endorsed
Springville, UT 84663
Waitlist for new clients
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, and helps promote a multi tool system for overall better mental and physical health. Hannah loves to empower her patients and help them make decisions that will improve overall mental health and wellbeing 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, and helps promote a multi tool system for overall better mental and physical health. Hannah loves to empower her patients and help them make decisions that will improve overall mental health and wellbeing and give them the tools necessary to do so.
(801) 477-4368 View (801) 477-4368
Stephanie Cardozo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
13 Endorsed
Serves Area
My practice helps individuals willing to put in the consistency to create significant lifestyle changes by doing the work to break old patterns and grow new ones. With the right tools, hard work, and consistency, true change is possible. As a PMHNP, I treat patients across the lifespan in individual and group settings. I specialize in patients looking for ongoing therapy to change the trajectory of their lives, mental health for chronically ill individuals, and deprescribing psychiatric medications.
My practice helps individuals willing to put in the consistency to create significant lifestyle changes by doing the work to break old patterns and grow new ones. With the right tools, hard work, and consistency, true change is possible. As a PMHNP, I treat patients across the lifespan in individual and group settings. I specialize in patients looking for ongoing therapy to change the trajectory of their lives, mental health for chronically ill individuals, and deprescribing psychiatric medications.
(801) 477-7786 View (801) 477-7786
Karl Tucker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
New clients welcome, with same-week appointments often available. When your own mind feels like an obstacle rather than an ally, daily life can start to feel unmanageable. Deciding to seek support takes courage, and having a provider who truly listens can change the course of your care. I work with both teens and adults facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and PTSD, with a particular focus on medication management.
New clients welcome, with same-week appointments often available. When your own mind feels like an obstacle rather than an ally, daily life can start to feel unmanageable. Deciding to seek support takes courage, and having a provider who truly listens can change the course of your care. I work with both teens and adults facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and PTSD, with a particular focus on medication management.
(801) 609-2448 View (801) 609-2448
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
Todd Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
4 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
Aimee Cooper Hopkin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Women are not just smaller versions of men, and our mental health care shouldn’t be built as if we are. Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, postpartum changes, breastfeeding, perimenopause, menopause, sleep, stress, and physical health can all affect how we feel—and sometimes even how well our medications work. Those things deserve to be part of the conversation. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, PMDD and other cycle-related mood changes, pregnancy and postpartum mental health, and perimenopause and menopause.
Women are not just smaller versions of men, and our mental health care shouldn’t be built as if we are. Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, postpartum changes, breastfeeding, perimenopause, menopause, sleep, stress, and physical health can all affect how we feel—and sometimes even how well our medications work. Those things deserve to be part of the conversation. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, PMDD and other cycle-related mood changes, pregnancy and postpartum mental health, and perimenopause and menopause.
(385) 526-5381 View (385) 526-5381

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Advanced Behavioral Concepts, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Online Only
Be seen THIS week! Did you know there is a new medication that can improve severe depression in two weeks? With years of expertise in medication management, we will work with you to make your plan of care, it will be both thorough and individualized. Our goal is to provide medication management addressing mental health needs as well. We treat patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance/Alcohol Abuse treatment and more. We have both evening or weekend appointments to get you in quickly, please call for available time slots!
Be seen THIS week! Did you know there is a new medication that can improve severe depression in two weeks? With years of expertise in medication management, we will work with you to make your plan of care, it will be both thorough and individualized. Our goal is to provide medication management addressing mental health needs as well. We treat patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance/Alcohol Abuse treatment and more. We have both evening or weekend appointments to get you in quickly, please call for available time slots!
(435) 626-4010 View (435) 626-4010
Joni Lybbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Draper, UT 84020
Navigating the perinatal period—whether you're a first-time parent or growing your family—can feel overwhelming. I specialize in supporting pregnant, postpartum, and infertile women with challenges including intrusive thoughts, anxiety/OCD, depression, and struggling to feel like yourself again. I provide evidence-based medication management. I am ERP-certified, and this training informs my work with OCD, though I am not currently taking therapy clients or offering ERP sessions. I especially enjoy the intersection of ADHD and anxiety. My approach is direct, compassionate, and evidence-based, helping you reclaim your peace of mind.
Navigating the perinatal period—whether you're a first-time parent or growing your family—can feel overwhelming. I specialize in supporting pregnant, postpartum, and infertile women with challenges including intrusive thoughts, anxiety/OCD, depression, and struggling to feel like yourself again. I provide evidence-based medication management. I am ERP-certified, and this training informs my work with OCD, though I am not currently taking therapy clients or offering ERP sessions. I especially enjoy the intersection of ADHD and anxiety. My approach is direct, compassionate, and evidence-based, helping you reclaim your peace of mind.
(801) 823-4501 View (801) 823-4501

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
94% Depression
94% ADHD
94% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Medication Management
83% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% SelectHealth
89% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Springville, 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 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.