Psychiatrists in West Bountiful, UT

Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
West Bountiful, UT 84010
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and other mental health needs.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and other mental health needs.
(458) 224-5823 View (458) 224-5823

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Austin B Imus - Austin B Imus DO Mental Health, DO, Psychiatrist
Austin B Imus DO Mental Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054  (Online Only)
I have been in practice for over 30+ years. I am skilled in treating refractory depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have had extra training on the medical side of illnesses and make sure your illness is not being caused by or contributed to by a medical condition. Please call my office phone mail number 801-923-8044 to leave a message. I am currently accepting patients on a limited basis. I am currently doing Telepsychiatry only. I will need a referral from your primary care provider if you're seeking treatment for ADHD.
I have been in practice for over 30+ years. I am skilled in treating refractory depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have had extra training on the medical side of illnesses and make sure your illness is not being caused by or contributed to by a medical condition. Please call my office phone mail number 801-923-8044 to leave a message. I am currently accepting patients on a limited basis. I am currently doing Telepsychiatry only. I will need a referral from your primary care provider if you're seeking treatment for ADHD.
(801) 682-1790 View (801) 682-1790
Photo of Garrett Jefferies, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Garrett Jefferies
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bountiful, UT 84010
I believe that success in mental health is ultimately achieved through sustainable lifestyle change and that medications and therapy are often necessary tools in that process. No matter where you feel that you are with your mental health right now, there are tools to help. I specialize in helping clients reach mental stability using all tools available and then adding coaching for sustainable lifestyle changes that will ultimately help ensure long-term mental health.
I believe that success in mental health is ultimately achieved through sustainable lifestyle change and that medications and therapy are often necessary tools in that process. No matter where you feel that you are with your mental health right now, there are tools to help. I specialize in helping clients reach mental stability using all tools available and then adding coaching for sustainable lifestyle changes that will ultimately help ensure long-term mental health.
(385) 489-1816 View (385) 489-1816
Photo of Annette Ephroni, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annette Ephroni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025  (Online Only)
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy as well as regular psychotherapy clients. I works with adults and couples in regular psychotherapy. I am trained as a Sexologist Diplomate.
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy as well as regular psychotherapy clients. I works with adults and couples in regular psychotherapy. I am trained as a Sexologist Diplomate.
(385) 786-8691 View (385) 786-8691
Photo of Alana Jacobs-Davis, PhD, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alana Jacobs-Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Centerville, UT 84014  (Online Only)
Upon graduating from the University of Kansas and Wichita State University with a Masters in Nursing in December 1992, I embarked on a fulfilling journey dedicated to mental health care. Joining the outpatient mental health team at the wonderful George Whalen Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, I had the privilege of providing medication management and various individual and group psychotherapies for 26 years. In May 2006, earning my Doctorate from the College of Nursing at the University of Utah was a significant milestone that deepened my commitment to serving others.
Upon graduating from the University of Kansas and Wichita State University with a Masters in Nursing in December 1992, I embarked on a fulfilling journey dedicated to mental health care. Joining the outpatient mental health team at the wonderful George Whalen Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, I had the privilege of providing medication management and various individual and group psychotherapies for 26 years. In May 2006, earning my Doctorate from the College of Nursing at the University of Utah was a significant milestone that deepened my commitment to serving others.
(385) 213-1052 View (385) 213-1052
Photo of Carian McLean, MSN, APRN, CNM, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carian McLean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNM, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Bountiful, UT 84011
Centering Psychiatry is accepting new clients. We offer mental healthcare, including psychiatric evaluation, treatment options, and medication management. We approach assessment and care with a holistic and functional view with a goal of overall improvement in quality of life. ​ We see kids, teens and adults (ages 10 - 55), including specialized care for anyone planning pregnancy, pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding or perimenopausal. We offer assessment and treatment options for ADHD and Insomnia.
Centering Psychiatry is accepting new clients. We offer mental healthcare, including psychiatric evaluation, treatment options, and medication management. We approach assessment and care with a holistic and functional view with a goal of overall improvement in quality of life. ​ We see kids, teens and adults (ages 10 - 55), including specialized care for anyone planning pregnancy, pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding or perimenopausal. We offer assessment and treatment options for ADHD and Insomnia.
(385) 743-1995 View (385) 743-1995
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bountiful, UT 84010  (Online Only)
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(612) 324-6788 View (612) 324-6788
Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bountiful, UT 84010
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and run a CBT therapy group for insomnia.
(425) 403-2850 View (425) 403-2850
Photo of Jaqueline Schneiber Pettit, BSN, RN, NC-BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Jaqueline Schneiber Pettit
Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, RN, NC-BC
Verified Verified
Bountiful, UT 84010
After working as an oncology and emergency nurse for over 10 years, I decided to expand my practice and pursue a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Along the way, I also became a Board Certified Nurse Coach. My experience in nursing, combined with coaching, has deepened my understanding of how all aspects of our lives—physical, emotional, and social—are interconnected and impact our mental and emotional health, driving true and lasting change.
After working as an oncology and emergency nurse for over 10 years, I decided to expand my practice and pursue a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Along the way, I also became a Board Certified Nurse Coach. My experience in nursing, combined with coaching, has deepened my understanding of how all aspects of our lives—physical, emotional, and social—are interconnected and impact our mental and emotional health, driving true and lasting change.
(385) 475-3917 View (385) 475-3917
Photo of Dr. Kara Applegate - Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Farmington, UT 84025
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy: Dedicated to Your Mental Well-being. At Clear Sky, we understand the profound impact of mental health on your overall quality of life. Our experienced team of therapists and psychiatrists is committed to providing practical and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based approaches, we offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whatever your mental health concerns, let us guide you towards a brighter tomorrow.
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy: Dedicated to Your Mental Well-being. At Clear Sky, we understand the profound impact of mental health on your overall quality of life. Our experienced team of therapists and psychiatrists is committed to providing practical and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based approaches, we offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whatever your mental health concerns, let us guide you towards a brighter tomorrow.
(385) 832-7506 View (385) 832-7506
Photo of Sarah T Porter, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah T Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
(801) 335-5242 View (801) 335-5242
Photo of Armando (Manny) Slack, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Armando (Manny) Slack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84104
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults who are experiencing both minor and more severe mental health conditions and feel that they can benefit from the addition of medication to their treatment plan. I encourage my patients to take an active role in therapy in addition to medication management for ideal results.
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults who are experiencing both minor and more severe mental health conditions and feel that they can benefit from the addition of medication to their treatment plan. I encourage my patients to take an active role in therapy in addition to medication management for ideal results.
(385) 334-5181 View (385) 334-5181
Photo of Anneliesa Allred, DNP, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anneliesa Allred
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
Woods Cross, UT 84087  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Anna, I've been practicing psychiatry for 4 1/2 years and I love it! I am a nurse practitioner with training in both psychiatry and acute care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, my dog and traveling. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Anna, I've been practicing psychiatry for 4 1/2 years and I love it! I am a nurse practitioner with training in both psychiatry and acute care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, my dog and traveling. I look forward to meeting you!
(385) 481-7638 View (385) 481-7638
Photo of Spencer Lowe, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Spencer Lowe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bountiful, UT 84010
Dr. Spencer Lowe graduated from the University of Utah with a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree and is board certified as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Educator. Spencer is a member of the Utah Air National Guard with 18 years of service. Spencer has a passion for working with clients to improve their mental health surrounding depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders to optimize health and wellness.
Dr. Spencer Lowe graduated from the University of Utah with a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree and is board certified as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Educator. Spencer is a member of the Utah Air National Guard with 18 years of service. Spencer has a passion for working with clients to improve their mental health surrounding depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders to optimize health and wellness.
(801) 683-9340 View (801) 683-9340
Photo of Charlie Health, Psychiatrist
Charlie Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84101  (Online Only)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
(385) 213-1580 View (385) 213-1580
Photo of Adam Creer, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam Creer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025
Adam Creer is a board-certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.. He has worked in the healthcare field since 2004. He has worked as a nurse aide, nurse, nurse educator and nurse practitioner. Adam’s experience working in healthcare has led him to become an advocate for individuals with mental health disorders. He believes that primary prevention begins with mental health. He is excited to work with individuals to improve their mental health and well-being.
Adam Creer is a board-certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.. He has worked in the healthcare field since 2004. He has worked as a nurse aide, nurse, nurse educator and nurse practitioner. Adam’s experience working in healthcare has led him to become an advocate for individuals with mental health disorders. He believes that primary prevention begins with mental health. He is excited to work with individuals to improve their mental health and well-being.
(385) 786-6546 View (385) 786-6546
Photo of Hannah Meier, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Meier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Welcome to Deep Roots Mental Health. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental well-bring. I strive to create a warm and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their challenges and discover their inner strengths. I work with individuals on medication management, therapy, or a combination of both.
Welcome to Deep Roots Mental Health. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental well-bring. I strive to create a warm and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their challenges and discover their inner strengths. I work with individuals on medication management, therapy, or a combination of both.
(307) 323-4523 View (307) 323-4523
Photo of Dr. Dallas Bowles, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Dallas Bowles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
Accepting new patients with HMHI-BHN, Aetna, BlueCross/ BlueShield, or self-pay! I specialize in treating adults, and offer a range of mental health services, including diagnostic evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication prescription. I believe in holistic treatment for mental health issues and use the bio-psycho-social model. I want to help you progress on your path to supporting your well-being. I focus on depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD.
Accepting new patients with HMHI-BHN, Aetna, BlueCross/ BlueShield, or self-pay! I specialize in treating adults, and offer a range of mental health services, including diagnostic evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication prescription. I believe in holistic treatment for mental health issues and use the bio-psycho-social model. I want to help you progress on your path to supporting your well-being. I focus on depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD.
(435) 447-4435 View (435) 447-4435
Photo of Libby Lynn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Libby Lynn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
“Why don’t I feel like myself?” “Where did this come from?” – these are common things I hear from patients, and I want to help you solve your puzzle. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of healthcare experience under my belt, I have devoted a significant portion of my professional career to blending the art of healing with the science of medicine. My practice style is not just about treating symptoms; it's about nurturing holistic wellness from within.
“Why don’t I feel like myself?” “Where did this come from?” – these are common things I hear from patients, and I want to help you solve your puzzle. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of healthcare experience under my belt, I have devoted a significant portion of my professional career to blending the art of healing with the science of medicine. My practice style is not just about treating symptoms; it's about nurturing holistic wellness from within.
(208) 858-5280 View (208) 858-5280
Photo of Brock Haskell, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Brock Haskell
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
Is your quality of life being negatively affected by a mental health disorder? Mental health disorders can affect relationships, work, hobbies, school, and other important areas of functioning. There is hope to get relief from these symptoms. Patients experience improved quality of life through medication management on a daily basis. We are able to get patients in quickly. We see all ages and work with many mental health disorders.
Is your quality of life being negatively affected by a mental health disorder? Mental health disorders can affect relationships, work, hobbies, school, and other important areas of functioning. There is hope to get relief from these symptoms. Patients experience improved quality of life through medication management on a daily basis. We are able to get patients in quickly. We see all ages and work with many mental health disorders.
(385) 442-7348 View (385) 442-7348

See more therapy options for West Bountiful

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in West Bountiful, UT

< 10

Psychiatrists in West Bountiful, UT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in West Bountiful, UT see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in West Bountiful?

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.