Psychiatrists in Maricopa County, AZ
Meghan Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, PMHC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
Psychiatric medications can be life-saving scaffolding in the journey to managing your mental health. Sometimes they are a lifelong; sometimes they are a situation- or life-season- specific – but you are completely in control of that long-term plan and it will always be an ongoing discussion. I am a huge advocate of integrating non-medication tools into your toolbox– self-awareness, routine, practical life changes, sunlight, activity, community, and self-compassion (the list goes on) can be small-but-huge steps to transformation. Sometimes medication can be the step to take in order to be able to build in life management skills.
Psychiatric medications can be life-saving scaffolding in the journey to managing your mental health. Sometimes they are a lifelong; sometimes they are a situation- or life-season- specific – but you are completely in control of that long-term plan and it will always be an ongoing discussion. I am a huge advocate of integrating non-medication tools into your toolbox– self-awareness, routine, practical life changes, sunlight, activity, community, and self-compassion (the list goes on) can be small-but-huge steps to transformation. Sometimes medication can be the step to take in order to be able to build in life management skills.
I am a thorough, caring, and compassionate family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to helping you overcome challenges and achieve whole-person health and wellness. I work with people who struggle with sleep, excessive stress, professional burnout, overweight/obesity, chronic illnesses, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. My holistic and individualized approach includes conservative, conventional medication regimens, complementary/integrative therapies, and lifestyle interventions. I coordinate my care plans with those of your medical team so you stay safer and everyone is on the same page.
I am a thorough, caring, and compassionate family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to helping you overcome challenges and achieve whole-person health and wellness. I work with people who struggle with sleep, excessive stress, professional burnout, overweight/obesity, chronic illnesses, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. My holistic and individualized approach includes conservative, conventional medication regimens, complementary/integrative therapies, and lifestyle interventions. I coordinate my care plans with those of your medical team so you stay safer and everyone is on the same page.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Rebecca Burdi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85051 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring extensive experience and a compassionate approach to supporting the mental health needs of individuals across the lifespan. With a background in caring for patients of all ages, I am committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care that empowers my clients to achieve optimal mental wellness.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring extensive experience and a compassionate approach to supporting the mental health needs of individuals across the lifespan. With a background in caring for patients of all ages, I am committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care that empowers my clients to achieve optimal mental wellness.
Dr. Michaela Beaver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
You Deserve to Feel Better. Are you a family with kids who are struggling with big feelings, anxiety, or sadness? You're not alone. Millions of families face these challenges every day. I'm a psychiatric NP who specializes in integrative psychiatric care. I offer a comprehensive approach that starts with a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Then, we work together to develop a personalized care plan that includes individualized testing recommendations, health coaching, medications, and supplements. My goal is to help you and your family feel better and regain control of your lives. I'm here to help you achieve that goal.
You Deserve to Feel Better. Are you a family with kids who are struggling with big feelings, anxiety, or sadness? You're not alone. Millions of families face these challenges every day. I'm a psychiatric NP who specializes in integrative psychiatric care. I offer a comprehensive approach that starts with a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Then, we work together to develop a personalized care plan that includes individualized testing recommendations, health coaching, medications, and supplements. My goal is to help you and your family feel better and regain control of your lives. I'm here to help you achieve that goal.
Valley Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379 (Online Only)
"The most beautiful people I’ve known are those who have known trials, have known struggles, have known loss, and have found their way out of the depths."—Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. Darlene is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is dedicated to helping her patients find their way through the tough times in life, get them on the path to healing and feeling good again. Life can improve with the understanding that well-being & quality of life comes through action and engagement.
"The most beautiful people I’ve known are those who have known trials, have known struggles, have known loss, and have found their way out of the depths."—Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. Darlene is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is dedicated to helping her patients find their way through the tough times in life, get them on the path to healing and feeling good again. Life can improve with the understanding that well-being & quality of life comes through action and engagement.
Ferdinand Labuga Briones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85381
NOW Accepting New Patients (Open Weekends & Evenings). I am a compassionate clinician who values each of my client regardless of their gender, color, race, religion, values, beliefs, disability, and economic status. We provide in-office or virtual services.
NOW Accepting New Patients (Open Weekends & Evenings). I am a compassionate clinician who values each of my client regardless of their gender, color, race, religion, values, beliefs, disability, and economic status. We provide in-office or virtual services.
Muna Iheonunekwu - Enchanted Behavioral Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, mood swings, trouble sleeping, trouble focusing, OCD, PTSD or hallucinations? Do you want to become your best self and be able to experience joy again? I am experienced in treating varying mental health disorders and would love to work with you to address your concerns.
Are you struggling with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, mood swings, trouble sleeping, trouble focusing, OCD, PTSD or hallucinations? Do you want to become your best self and be able to experience joy again? I am experienced in treating varying mental health disorders and would love to work with you to address your concerns.
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Thriving Mind Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Our patients come from all walks of life with varied backgrounds. If you have ever left a provider feeling like you haven’t been heard, you will experience a completely different level of care with Tyler. Taking the time to listen, giving you all the options available from medication to alternative interventions, are her specialties. If you have difficulty with focus, concentration, procrastination, anxiety, depression, or just need a medication evaluation, Tyler and Thriving Mind Solutions are here to help.
Our patients come from all walks of life with varied backgrounds. If you have ever left a provider feeling like you haven’t been heard, you will experience a completely different level of care with Tyler. Taking the time to listen, giving you all the options available from medication to alternative interventions, are her specialties. If you have difficulty with focus, concentration, procrastination, anxiety, depression, or just need a medication evaluation, Tyler and Thriving Mind Solutions are here to help.
Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Now Accepting New Patients! Most Major Insurances Accepted Our Clinic offers General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! Most Major Insurances Accepted Our Clinic offers General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
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Michael Reese Lawrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
My mission as a PMHNP is to provide compassionate and comprehensive care to those experiencing mental illness, while also increasing access to mental health care for all individuals. I believe in tailoring treatment plans to meet each person's unique needs, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and treatment modalities in the field. Above all, I am committed to treating every person with kindness, empathy, and respect, recognizing that mental illness can be a challenging and isolating experience. My goal is to help individuals achieve their fullest potential in all areas of their lives.
My mission as a PMHNP is to provide compassionate and comprehensive care to those experiencing mental illness, while also increasing access to mental health care for all individuals. I believe in tailoring treatment plans to meet each person's unique needs, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and treatment modalities in the field. Above all, I am committed to treating every person with kindness, empathy, and respect, recognizing that mental illness can be a challenging and isolating experience. My goal is to help individuals achieve their fullest potential in all areas of their lives.
Kofi Omane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85226 (Online Only)
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to guiding you towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. With over 9 years of experience in the field, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and ADHD. My approach is centered on understanding you as a whole person. I believe that effective mental health care goes beyond symptoms and diagnoses. By listening to your unique story, exploring your individual strengths, and collaborating on personalized treatment plans, we can take steps toward a brighter, more balanced future.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to guiding you towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. With over 9 years of experience in the field, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and ADHD. My approach is centered on understanding you as a whole person. I believe that effective mental health care goes beyond symptoms and diagnoses. By listening to your unique story, exploring your individual strengths, and collaborating on personalized treatment plans, we can take steps toward a brighter, more balanced future.
Behavior Innovation
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85382 (Online Only)
Behavior Innovation is a safe space for you to talk about your mental health. Somewhere that you can turn to for help when you’re struggling. Visits are conducted 100% through video which allows you to schedule an appointment when it’s convenient for you to talk and you will receive medication management and compassionate care from a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Behavior Innovation is a safe space for you to talk about your mental health. Somewhere that you can turn to for help when you’re struggling. Visits are conducted 100% through video which allows you to schedule an appointment when it’s convenient for you to talk and you will receive medication management and compassionate care from a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have worked in the healthcare field for 13 years. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Cedarville University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. I started my career at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital in 2008 and have always had a passion for working with children and adolescents. Throughout my career, I came to realize the overwhelming need for quality mental health care for our youth, and this really sparked my interest in helping people of all ages who struggle with mental health.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have worked in the healthcare field for 13 years. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Cedarville University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. I started my career at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital in 2008 and have always had a passion for working with children and adolescents. Throughout my career, I came to realize the overwhelming need for quality mental health care for our youth, and this really sparked my interest in helping people of all ages who struggle with mental health.
Olivia Russ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85008 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in treating individuals facing depression, PTSD, anxiety, family and relationship issues, and general life changes and challenges, my professional journey is driven by a profound commitment to fostering healing and resilience in the face of adversity. Each day, I am humbled by the opportunity to walk alongside my patients on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in treating individuals facing depression, PTSD, anxiety, family and relationship issues, and general life changes and challenges, my professional journey is driven by a profound commitment to fostering healing and resilience in the face of adversity. Each day, I am humbled by the opportunity to walk alongside my patients on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being.
Kamani Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I want to help those who are attempting to tackle their mental health while navigating life the best way they know how. Everyone seeks an understanding of their emotions and symptoms, aiming to regain motivation and reconnect with their lives. You deserve not just relief but empowerment through education on mental health and a supportive clinician to navigate your challenges.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I want to help those who are attempting to tackle their mental health while navigating life the best way they know how. Everyone seeks an understanding of their emotions and symptoms, aiming to regain motivation and reconnect with their lives. You deserve not just relief but empowerment through education on mental health and a supportive clinician to navigate your challenges.
Pinky P Villamor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85086 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt that the life you envisioned is too far out of reach? Life can be very difficult at times. Certain aspects of life such as family, personal relationships, school, or work can be overwhelmingly challenging. They can get you to the point where you feel empty, hopeless, and even anxious. Discussing those emotions with a trained professional can be lifesaving. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adult and child psychiatry. My passion is to accompany and help you attain your mental health goals.
Have you ever felt that the life you envisioned is too far out of reach? Life can be very difficult at times. Certain aspects of life such as family, personal relationships, school, or work can be overwhelmingly challenging. They can get you to the point where you feel empty, hopeless, and even anxious. Discussing those emotions with a trained professional can be lifesaving. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adult and child psychiatry. My passion is to accompany and help you attain your mental health goals.
We have provided general psychiatric services in the greater Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler and Paradise Valley area for the last 25 years. We do thorough evaluations, genetic testing and personalized prescribing as well as therapy to clients 18 years and older. Areas of expertise are Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Substance abuse, Post-partum Depression, Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder.
We have provided general psychiatric services in the greater Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler and Paradise Valley area for the last 25 years. We do thorough evaluations, genetic testing and personalized prescribing as well as therapy to clients 18 years and older. Areas of expertise are Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Substance abuse, Post-partum Depression, Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder.
Carter Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I help clients find relief through therapy and wholistic treatment plans that can include medication management. Together we will gently dig beneath the surface of pain and distress, and begin to work towards a deep wholeness and healing. We work together to find the roots of pain and distress, and then provide help and healing to those parts that need care. I practice by the mantra "Be curious, not judgmental."
I help clients find relief through therapy and wholistic treatment plans that can include medication management. Together we will gently dig beneath the surface of pain and distress, and begin to work towards a deep wholeness and healing. We work together to find the roots of pain and distress, and then provide help and healing to those parts that need care. I practice by the mantra "Be curious, not judgmental."
See more therapy options for Maricopa County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Maricopa County, AZ
800+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Maricopa County, AZ who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | ADHD |
74% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Maricopa County, AZ see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
27% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Maricopa County?
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.