Psychiatrists in Tooele, UT
Dr. Brittany Bullock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tooele, UT 84074
I am a compassionate and dedicated mental health professional with a genuine passion for helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration, working closely with each client to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Recognizing that mental health is a multi-faceted issue, I also emphasize the importance of self-care, stress management, and overall wellness in my practice. I educate and support my clients in adopting healthy lifestyle habits that contribute to their mental and emotional well-being.
I am a compassionate and dedicated mental health professional with a genuine passion for helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration, working closely with each client to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Recognizing that mental health is a multi-faceted issue, I also emphasize the importance of self-care, stress management, and overall wellness in my practice. I educate and support my clients in adopting healthy lifestyle habits that contribute to their mental and emotional well-being.
We all have the ability to recover, heal, and grow. Sometimes we just need someone who sees us clearly and can offer the right treatment. By knowing your goals and the challenges you face, we can design a treatment plan to allow you to stop suffering and achieve your full potential. Treatment can be therapy, medications, often a combination of the two. Together we can get you back to living the life you want to live.
We all have the ability to recover, heal, and grow. Sometimes we just need someone who sees us clearly and can offer the right treatment. By knowing your goals and the challenges you face, we can design a treatment plan to allow you to stop suffering and achieve your full potential. Treatment can be therapy, medications, often a combination of the two. Together we can get you back to living the life you want to live.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Hello! I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner offering personalized care in private practice. With a focus on empowering individuals to overcome mental health challenges, I specialize in providing compassionate treatment for a range of concerns. Whether you're seeking support for depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use, I invite you to connect with me to begin your journey towards improved well-being.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Hello! I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner offering personalized care in private practice. With a focus on empowering individuals to overcome mental health challenges, I specialize in providing compassionate treatment for a range of concerns. Whether you're seeking support for depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use, I invite you to connect with me to begin your journey towards improved well-being.
Shad Tillotson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2016. Shad matches treatment options to symptoms rather than diagnoses. Lifestyle conditions are also reviewed to ensure the best course for changes and better mental health balance. He offers clients a comprehensive background assessment for mental health diagnoses and treatments. Shad has experience with a wide range of ages down to 12 years old and offers treatments of most categories in psychiatry.
Shad Tillotson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2016. Shad matches treatment options to symptoms rather than diagnoses. Lifestyle conditions are also reviewed to ensure the best course for changes and better mental health balance. He offers clients a comprehensive background assessment for mental health diagnoses and treatments. Shad has experience with a wide range of ages down to 12 years old and offers treatments of most categories in psychiatry.
Heather M. Dangerfield is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Utah and a Bachelor's of Nursing and Bachelor's in Psychology from Westminster College. As someone working in mental health for almost twenty years, Heather continues to have passion for treating each individual as just that, an individual with unique needs and perspectives who deserves tailored treatment instead of a one size fits all approach. Heather spends her free time spoiling her cat, reading, powerlifting, playing with Legos, and doing embroidery.
Heather M. Dangerfield is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Utah and a Bachelor's of Nursing and Bachelor's in Psychology from Westminster College. As someone working in mental health for almost twenty years, Heather continues to have passion for treating each individual as just that, an individual with unique needs and perspectives who deserves tailored treatment instead of a one size fits all approach. Heather spends her free time spoiling her cat, reading, powerlifting, playing with Legos, and doing embroidery.
Christopher Moore is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2024. He earned his Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University. Christopher believes true healing starts with relationships and communication. He strives to alleviate his patients’ suffering by tailoring a care plan that meets their individual needs. Christopher will listen to you and together you can feel empowered to take back your life and do what you want to do. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys running, eating out at restaurants, traveling, and spending time with his wife and children.
Christopher Moore is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2024. He earned his Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University. Christopher believes true healing starts with relationships and communication. He strives to alleviate his patients’ suffering by tailoring a care plan that meets their individual needs. Christopher will listen to you and together you can feel empowered to take back your life and do what you want to do. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys running, eating out at restaurants, traveling, and spending time with his wife and children.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
My clients are from all walks of life, from individuals dealing with emotional issues from past trauma or relationship problems, to people with diagnosed mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), and personality disorders. I work with teens and adults, professionals (including other mental health professionals), and am a gender-affirming LGBTQ+ allied physician. I am passionate about food and nutrition as medicine, and a focus on the gut microbiome for healthy mental and physical wellbeing. lFor new patient requests, please visit www.pendletonmedicalgroup.com
My clients are from all walks of life, from individuals dealing with emotional issues from past trauma or relationship problems, to people with diagnosed mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), and personality disorders. I work with teens and adults, professionals (including other mental health professionals), and am a gender-affirming LGBTQ+ allied physician. I am passionate about food and nutrition as medicine, and a focus on the gut microbiome for healthy mental and physical wellbeing. lFor new patient requests, please visit www.pendletonmedicalgroup.com
Online Psychiatrists
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner Mrs. Hood treats psychiatric conditions using a holistic approach. Her goal is to restore feelings of stability and well-being by working with each client to develop a specialized plan of care. Her training has offered her the ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Her areas of focus include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, abuse/trauma, adjustment issues, sleep difficulties, ADHD, impulsivity, Bipolar disorder and co-occurring disorders.
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner Mrs. Hood treats psychiatric conditions using a holistic approach. Her goal is to restore feelings of stability and well-being by working with each client to develop a specialized plan of care. Her training has offered her the ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Her areas of focus include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, abuse/trauma, adjustment issues, sleep difficulties, ADHD, impulsivity, Bipolar disorder and co-occurring disorders.
Accepting New Patients! Scott’s life experiences, educational background, and professional work have helped him see the great need there is for professional quality mental health care. He hopes to fill the need for mental health treatment and support. Scott prioritizes a global perspective, practical application of psychiatric treatments, and in-depth analysis through listening and observation. His approach is greatly informed by continually researching and practicing the most current and evidenced-based methods. Scott is dedicated to offering all his education, knowledge, and experience to aid each patient.
Accepting New Patients! Scott’s life experiences, educational background, and professional work have helped him see the great need there is for professional quality mental health care. He hopes to fill the need for mental health treatment and support. Scott prioritizes a global perspective, practical application of psychiatric treatments, and in-depth analysis through listening and observation. His approach is greatly informed by continually researching and practicing the most current and evidenced-based methods. Scott is dedicated to offering all his education, knowledge, and experience to aid each patient.
Lillian Farris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
Hello, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health. I completed a post-doctorate residency at the SLC VA and have a certificate for object relations therapy. I am dedicated to my clients and I believe in treating each person as a whole. I realize that each individual is different and unique so I make sure to consider all psychosocial factors for both medication management and therapy. ****Currently accepting self pay and now accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield, UUHP Healthy Preferred or Healthy Premier plans, and HMHI-BHN***
Hello, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health. I completed a post-doctorate residency at the SLC VA and have a certificate for object relations therapy. I am dedicated to my clients and I believe in treating each person as a whole. I realize that each individual is different and unique so I make sure to consider all psychosocial factors for both medication management and therapy. ****Currently accepting self pay and now accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield, UUHP Healthy Preferred or Healthy Premier plans, and HMHI-BHN***
I seek to provide a safe and comfortable environment where my patients can share their concerns and feel heard. Each individual has gone through their own personal life experience and I strive to listen in an effort to understand what treatment options are best for them. Everyone has their own goals and I want to be a resource to help them accomplish those goals.
I seek to provide a safe and comfortable environment where my patients can share their concerns and feel heard. Each individual has gone through their own personal life experience and I strive to listen in an effort to understand what treatment options are best for them. Everyone has their own goals and I want to be a resource to help them accomplish those goals.
Our patients are individuals of all ages and backgrounds seeking care for a variety of mental health illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety, and substance use disorder. Our goal is to find the best treatment that will help patients to live happy, healthy, and productive lives. Allow us to help you find the best treatment that is evidence-based, integrative, and holistic. Together an individualized plan will be created to meet your specific mental health needs.
Our patients are individuals of all ages and backgrounds seeking care for a variety of mental health illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety, and substance use disorder. Our goal is to find the best treatment that will help patients to live happy, healthy, and productive lives. Allow us to help you find the best treatment that is evidence-based, integrative, and holistic. Together an individualized plan will be created to meet your specific mental health needs.
Dr. Scott Salomone, MD (he/him) completed his Psychiatric Residency training with distinction in Spanish Language and Healthcare Disparities at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona where he was additionally the Chief Resident of outpatient psychiatry. r. Salomone has found joy in the meaningful connections built in outpatient practice whether providing medication management, therapeutic services, or both with his patients. With a foundation of medical training, he strives to understand the complex physiology underlying mental health disorders and the medications, therapies, and other modalities used to treat them.
Dr. Scott Salomone, MD (he/him) completed his Psychiatric Residency training with distinction in Spanish Language and Healthcare Disparities at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona where he was additionally the Chief Resident of outpatient psychiatry. r. Salomone has found joy in the meaningful connections built in outpatient practice whether providing medication management, therapeutic services, or both with his patients. With a foundation of medical training, he strives to understand the complex physiology underlying mental health disorders and the medications, therapies, and other modalities used to treat them.
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.
Virtual Consultation. I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of care. Platform: We will be conducting the appointment via Google Meet. You'll need a stable internet connection and access to a computer or mobile device with a webcam and microphone. If you haven't used Google Meet before, please try it out in advance. If you encounter any technical difficulties, please reach out to me for assistance. Privacy and Confidentiality: Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. The confidentiality of our session depends on the the security of your internet connection and the privacy of your surroundings.
Virtual Consultation. I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of care. Platform: We will be conducting the appointment via Google Meet. You'll need a stable internet connection and access to a computer or mobile device with a webcam and microphone. If you haven't used Google Meet before, please try it out in advance. If you encounter any technical difficulties, please reach out to me for assistance. Privacy and Confidentiality: Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. The confidentiality of our session depends on the the security of your internet connection and the privacy of your surroundings.
Now Accepting New Patients! Jaden began their healthcare journey in 2013 as an EMT in the Neuro ICU, dedicating over a decade to Psychiatric-Mental Health and Critical Care. After earning a BSN from the University of Utah, they gained experience in the Huntsman Oncology ICU and the Huntsman Mental Health Institute. This diverse background led Jaden to pursue an MSN, specializing as a PMHNP, from Northern Kentucky University. Combining advanced training, clinical experience, and empathy, Jaden offers personalized, evidence-based care and holistic treatment plans for comprehensive mental health support.
Now Accepting New Patients! Jaden began their healthcare journey in 2013 as an EMT in the Neuro ICU, dedicating over a decade to Psychiatric-Mental Health and Critical Care. After earning a BSN from the University of Utah, they gained experience in the Huntsman Oncology ICU and the Huntsman Mental Health Institute. This diverse background led Jaden to pursue an MSN, specializing as a PMHNP, from Northern Kentucky University. Combining advanced training, clinical experience, and empathy, Jaden offers personalized, evidence-based care and holistic treatment plans for comprehensive mental health support.
Annie Groesbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Jordan, UT 84095
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in mental healthcare. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals and families, believing that informed patients achieve better health outcomes. During visits with me, patients can expect open communication to discuss their unique concerns and mental health goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in mental healthcare. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals and families, believing that informed patients achieve better health outcomes. During visits with me, patients can expect open communication to discuss their unique concerns and mental health goals.
Welcome! We're glad you're exploring ketamine infusions, a cutting-edge option in the realm of mental health treatments. This therapy has shown promise in providing relief for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, offering hope and healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety. We're committed to personalized care, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and health goals. Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier future for you.
Welcome! We're glad you're exploring ketamine infusions, a cutting-edge option in the realm of mental health treatments. This therapy has shown promise in providing relief for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, offering hope and healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety. We're committed to personalized care, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and health goals. Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier future for you.
Michael Scott Cyra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84121 (Online Only)
Are you not where you want to be in life because of anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction? Discover what is possible in your life by unlocking your true potential, and becoming better than your former best wellness. Understand the “next-steps” you have been missing. Turn your suffering into permanent growth and resilience. By combining medication management, talk therapy / mindset orientation, and lifestyle optimization—nutrition, exercise, and sleep, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Are you not where you want to be in life because of anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction? Discover what is possible in your life by unlocking your true potential, and becoming better than your former best wellness. Understand the “next-steps” you have been missing. Turn your suffering into permanent growth and resilience. By combining medication management, talk therapy / mindset orientation, and lifestyle optimization—nutrition, exercise, and sleep, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Jennifer Foresman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
See more therapy options for Tooele
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Tooele, UT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Tooele, UT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | University of Utah Health Plans |
80% | Aetna |
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Tooele, UT see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Tooele?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.